Korg have announced the release of the Wavestate MkII and Wavestate SE. The former is an enhanced version of the popular Wavestate synthesizer that benefits from new sounds and software, whilst the latter is a completely new 61-key instrument that boasts hundreds of built-in dynamic sounds, extensive hands-on control and 120-note polyphony.
Wavestate SE
A unique Vector Joystick on the Wavestate SE offers a range of expressive performance capabilities. The new Wavestate SE is housed in an all-metal chassis and features a 61-note keybed with aftertouch. As with the original Wavestate, a wealth of hands-on control is provided, with the instrument’s front panel offering direct access to its filters, envelopes, LFOs, effects sections and more.
Users are able to customise a set of parameter controls for each patch thanks to eight programmable Mod knobs, and plenty of expressive control is available courtesy of the the SE’s pitch-bend and mod wheels, as well as the unique Vector Joystick.
Samples & Wave Sequencing 2.0
A large onboard sample library offers a huge collection of built-in sounds created by Korg’s renowned voicing team, who collaborated with Belgian artist Airwave, and three of the key sound designers who were involved in the creation of the original Wavestation synthesizer: John Bowen, John “Skippy” Lehmkuhl (Plugin Guru), and Peter “Ski” Schwartz.
The company’s Wave Sequencing 2.0 technology then offers a comprehensive approach to sound design by separating the timing, sequence of samples and the melody, allowing each to be manipulated independently. New characteristics have also been added which include shapes, gate times and step sequencer values, each of which are presented as ‘Lanes’ that can be assigned with a different number of steps, and their own start, end and loop points.
Effects & Layers
The Wavestate SE is equipped with a wide range of built-in effects and modulation capabilities.The instrument is also packed with built-in effects, with master reverb and parametric EQ sections joined by a selection of common processors such as compressors, EQs, choruses, flangers, phasers and stereo delays. There are also some slightly more unusual offerings that include a wave shaper and reverse/multi-band modulated delays, as well as a collection of modelling effects such as Vox guitar amps and wah pedals, a multi-head tape echo and a variety of classic guitar pedals.
The Wavestate SE then allows up to four Programs to be layered, each with access to their own three dedicated effects and an arpeggiator. Users can then mix the individual voices of the four layers using the instrument’s Vector Envelope and Joystick features, as well as modulating any of the other parameters across all layers.
There is also a dedicated button on the front panel marked with a dice icon, which can be used to randomise either an entire sound, or section of the instrument, in order to create interesting new patches or variations on existing sounds for inspiration.
Connectivity
The instrument is equipped with balanced stereo outputs and a headphone output, all present on quarter-inch TRS sockets, whilst MIDI connectivity is provided both over USB, and on traditional five-pin DIN sockets. The USB connection can also be used to communicate with Korg’s Wavestate SE Editor/Librarian and Sample Builder applications to allow for programming using a Windows or Mac computer. Power is delivered by an external DC power supply.
The Wavestate SE also comes supplied with a custom hard case that includes space for cables and pedals.
Limited Platinum Edition
To celebrate the release of the Wavestate SE, a epecial edition model with a striking platinum finish will also be available in limited numbers.
Wavestate MkII
Alongside the launch of the Wavestate SE, korg will also be releasing a new and updated version of the original Wavestate [reviewed here in SOS March 2020]. The instrument will retain the 37-key form factor of its predecessor, but will offer an updated collection of sounds and an overhauled software system. Polyphony will also see an increase, with the MkII boasting 96 stereo voices in place of the original’s 64.
Pricing & Availability
The Wavestate SE and Wavestate MkII are currently available in Japan, with worldwide shipping expected to commence over the coming months. Pricing details are as follows:
- Wavestate SE: £1899
- Wavestate SE Platinum: £2099
- Wavestate MkII: £699
Prices include VAT.
