KORG have just released the 61-key SE model of their wave sequencing synth the Wavestate, it will also come in a limited-edition Platinum finish for those so aesthetically inclined. The Wavestate builds on Korg’s very cool wave sequencing design from the 1990s. As a keyboardist myself learning of a 61-note model for the Wavestate immediately piqued my interest as it means being able to explore a full-size keyboard and perform more dynamically than the 25-key predecessor. Wow does it play well — the made-in-Japan natural-touch keybed with after-touch really makes this synth appealing to keyboardists. Being able to control a wider key range of the wave sequences more immediately is helpful for such a deep and complex synth like the Wavestate. The power of the instrument is vastly increased with Korg almost doubling the polyphony and number of stereo voices from its predecessor. Great to see Korg listening to feedback and implementing some great new features that really open up the power of the Wavestate.
Here’s what KORG is saying:
wavestate SE is the powerful evolution of KORG’s legendary WAVESTATION, taking Wave Sequencing to a new level. Designed in California and built in Japan, wavestate SE includes a premium 61-note keyboard with aftertouch, in an all-metal chassis. Built for a new era of musicians, composers, and producers, wavestate SE features hundreds of dynamic sounds, extensive hands-on control, and 120 notes of polyphony to inspire new levels of creativity.
KORG’s legendary WAVESTATION introduced the world to Wave Sequencing, transforming raw samples into sounds that no-one had ever heard before. The flagship OASYS and KRONOS keyboards developed Wave Sequencing even further, expanding on its unique palette of lush, evolving pads and driving rhythms.
In 2020, the acclaimed wavestate took Wave Sequencing to the next level. Featuring the radically re-imagined Wave Sequencing 2.0, the wavestate delivers astonishing, ever-changing sounds with extensive hands-on control. Far from a nostalgic reissue, the wavestate was designed from the ground up for a new generation of musicians, producers, and composers, taking cues from sources as diverse as modular synths, groove boxes, and algorithmic composition. The wavestate also introduced another ground-breaking concept: wavestate native software (*sold separately, wavestate users can purchase at a discount) makes it available inside your DAW, with full compatibility and without compromise. It’s perfect for moving seamlessly between software and hardware workflows.
Now, KORG is delighted to present the flagship wavestate SE. Made in Japan, the wavestate SE features KORG’s premium 61-note natural-touch keyboard with aftertouch, for the same superb feel as KORG’s high-end workstations. The metal body is sleek and strong, ready for gigs and studio alike. Metal knobs have just the right weight for easy tweaking. Under the hood, it also features an astounding 120 stereo voices of polyphony–almost twice as many as the original wavestate. The wavestate SE comes with hundreds of sounds updated for aftertouch control. It’s also completely compatible with sounds and samples for both the original wavestate and wavestate native software, including many excellent third-party libraries.
- 61-note natural-feel keyboard with aftertouch
- Hundreds of updated sounds
- Elegant, road-worthy metal construction
- Exclusive hard case included
- Premium Japanese manufacturing
- Limited Platinum edition
- Wave Sequencing 2.0
- Extensive modulation with hands-on control
- Gigabytes of samples – and import up to 4GB of your own
- Modeled filters, including MS-20 and Polysix
- 120 stereo voices
- 4 Layers with Vector control
- 14 simultaneous effects
- Set Lists and Smooth Sound Transitions
- Randomization
- Free Editor/Librarian and Sample Builder software for Mac and Windows
- Designed by KORG R&D in California
- Special crossgrade to wavestate native software
KORG has also introduced the new wavestate mkII, with improved polyphony (96 stereo voices) and a fresh look. It’s completely compatible with sounds and samples for both the original wavestate, wavestate SE and wavestate native software, including many excellent third-party libraries.
Updated sounds and software keep it fresh (and these are available for the original wavestate, too). The compact form-factor, with 37 full-size keys, still transports easily and fits neatly into any stage, studio, or desktop setup.
Expect to see these new models in stores by the end of July
