Korg calls phase8 an acoustic synthesizer, meaning the sound starts in the physical world and is then shaped by electronics. Eight voices are on tap. Envelope control, sequencing, analogue wavefolding and modulation that follows pitch make up the toolkit, and this is the Launch Edition.
Eight voices, eight programs
Polyphony runs to eight notes, and eight program slots hold the settings you arrive at. That is enough for chords rather than single lines. Store a set and move on.
Shaping the sound
Beyond the raw voice, envelope shaping controls how a note develops, while the sequencer puts those notes in motion. Analogue wavefolding adds harmonic content the further you push it. Modulation depth can track pitch, so behaviour changes as you move up and down the range.
What comes in the box
Alongside the mains adaptor and printed guides, Korg packs five additional resonators and a hex key. Swapping parts is clearly part of the plan. Keep the spares somewhere safe.
Connections
MIDI runs over TRS type A in and out, while USB-C covers both USB-MIDI and firmware updates. Sync in and out sit alongside a control voltage input rated for plus or minus 5 V. Audio leaves on a line output, with a separate headphone socket.
On the desk
Footprint is 231 x 236.5 mm with a height of 46 mm, and the unit weighs 1.71 kg. Power comes from a DC 12 V adaptor drawing 4.8 W. It will share a table with a laptop comfortably.
Specifications
| Input / Output | MIDI TRS-A In/Out USB-C (for USB-MIDI and firmware) Sync In/Out Line Audio Out Headphone Out CV In (+/- 5V) |
|---|---|
| Programs | 8 |
| Power supply | AC Adaptor (DC 12V) |
| Power consumption | 4.8W |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 231 x 236.5 x 46mm |
| Weight | 1.71kg |
| Included items | AC Adaptor Hex Key Quick Start Guide Precautions Sheet 5 Additional Resonators |
Specifications from Korg. Appearance and specifications are subject to change without notice.
