Korg Mono/Poly Features and Characteristics

The Korg Mono/Poly (MP-4), released in 1981, is a paraphonic analog synthesizer known for its unique blend of monophonic and polyphonic capabilities, bridging the gap between the two. Below are its key features and characteristics:

• Four Voltage-Controlled Oscillators (VCOs): The Mono/Poly features four VCOs, each with adjustable octave, volume, and detuning (relative to VCO 1). Waveforms include triangle, sawtooth, pulse, and pulse-width modulation (PWM). This allows for rich, layered sounds in monophonic mode or up to four-voice paraphonic play in polyphonic mode, though it shares a single filter and amplifier.
• Paraphonic Design: It can function as a four-voice paraphonic synth (where each oscillator can play a different note but shares a single filter and amplifier) or a monophonic synth with all four oscillators stacked for thick, powerful sounds.
• Key Assign Modes: The synth offers multiple modes for oscillator assignment:
• • Unison: All four VCOs play together for a rich monophonic sound.
  • Poly: Assigns one VCO per note for up to four-note polyphony.
  • Chord Memory: Allows programming and recalling chords with a single key press.
  • Unison/Share: Combines oscillators creatively for varied timbres.
• Effects Section: Features oscillator sync and cross-modulation (X-Mod), enabling complex timbres like FM-style sounds. These can be configured in single or double modes, with modulation sources including the filter envelope or LFOs.
• Arpeggiator: Includes a versatile arpeggiator with latch, octave range, and note order settings. In Poly mode, it cycles through oscillators, creating unique, evolving sequences with different waveforms or tunings per note.
• Modulation Generators (LFOs): Two LFOs (called Modulation Generators) provide flexible modulation. MG1 offers four waveforms and can modulate multiple parameters via the mod wheel, while MG2 (triangle wave) is dedicated to PWM and arpeggiator tempo.
• Filter and Envelopes: Equipped with a resonant 12dB/octave VCF (using SSM2044 chips) and two envelope generators (one for the filter, one for the VCA). The filter retains low-end even at high resonance, unlike some Moog-style filters.
• Additional Features: Includes a white noise generator, portamento, CV/Gate inputs, and assignable pitch/mod wheels for controlling pitch, filter cutoff, or LFO intensity.
• Sound Character: Known for its warm, versatile Korg sound, capable of thick basses, edgy leads, experimental textures, and pseudo-algorithmic arpeggios. Its oscillator sync and cross-modulation make it particularly suited for unique, evolving sounds.
  
  CHD midi kit Main Features | The interface works in one direction only – it only receives MIDI data. Instrument’s keyboard, knobs, sliders and switches are not transmitted as a MIDI data.Controls the Mono/Poly’s keyboard (VCOs) and arpeggiator clock from MIDI. The instrument’s tone parameters (control elements on panel) are not MIDI controllable.All working modes of the instrument keyboard (i.e. Hold, Poly, Mono, Unison, Chord) and controllers on instrument panel remain fully workable with installed interface.The instrument’s keyboard is controlled manually and by MIDI Note On/Off commands simultaneously (in parallel manner).Easy user control of the interface parameters via MIDI CCs (as well as SysEx for experts):» 44 MIDI Notes (3 2/3 octaves) range» Transpose function (over whole range of MIDI Notes)» Four modes of MIDI Notes priority can be chosen» The instrument’s VCOs can be detuned by MIDI Pitch Bend (in semitone steps only) in range 0 to ±24 semitones» The instrument’s arpeggiator can be synchronized with MIDI Clock» Hold pedal – CC #64 (works with MIDI Notes)» User selectable MIDI Channel for communicationOriginal features of the instrument are not changed and the instrument can be used the same way as before the interface installation.Very easy installation without the instrument circuits modification.The interface recognizes MIDI commands:Note On/OffPitch BendStandard CCs (Hold, ASO, ANO, RAC)Own CCs (# 16-19)Common MIDI Synchronization – MIDI ClockCommon System ResetSystem Exclusive Messages

Music Producers and Artists Who Used the Korg Mono/Poly

The Korg Mono/Poly has been used by a variety of artists across genres, particularly for its distinctive arpeggiated sequences, lush pads, and experimental sounds. Notable users include:

• MGMT: Used the Mono/Poly to create the iconic flute-like lead synth sound in their hit song "Electric Feel" (2007). A video shows Andrew VanWyngarden playing the Mono/Poly during the song’s recording.
• Portishead: Adrian Utley used the Mono/Poly in live performances, notably for the track "Chase the Tear" (2009), as seen in a 2011 TV performance on Jimmy Fallon.
• Tycho: Employed the Mono/Poly extensively on their album Dive (2011), with the opening sound of the title track being a prominent example.
• Steve Rachmad: A techno producer who utilized the Mono/Poly’s chord memory and arpeggiator for numerous techno tracks, showcasing its ability to create complex, sequenced sounds.
• SURVIVE: Used the Mono/Poly for the soundtrack of Stranger Things, contributing to its creepy, psychedelic, and retro vibe.
• Vince Clarke: Associated with Depeche Mode and other projects, used the Mono/Poly in early setups, though specific tracks are not detailed.
• Tears for Fears: Reportedly used the Mono/Poly on their debut album The Hurting (1983) for its distinctive synth textures.
• Hardfloor, Tangerine Dream, The Orb, 808 State, Juno Reactor, Megaton Matt Haines, Freddy Fresh, The Chemical Brothers: These artists are noted for using the Mono/Poly for its versatile sound design in electronic music, though specific songs are not always documented.

Songs Featuring the Korg Mono/Poly

The Mono/Poly’s distinctive sound can be heard in several iconic tracks, particularly for its arpeggiated sequences, leads, and basslines:

• MGMT – "Electric Feel" (2007): The flute-like lead synth sound was crafted using the Mono/Poly, a defining element of this psychedelic pop hit.
• Portishead – "Chase the Tear" (2009): Features the Mono/Poly in live performances, contributing to the track’s atmospheric and haunting synth lines.
• Tycho – "Dive" (2011): The opening sound of the title track prominently features the Mono/Poly, showcasing its warm, arpeggiated textures.
• Stranger Things Soundtrack (2016): SURVIVE used the Mono/Poly to create eerie, retro synth sounds for the show’s iconic score, particularly in tracks with darkwave and psychedelic elements.
  This synth is used by Hardfloor, Tangerine Dream, The Orb, 808 State, Juno Reactor, Megaton Matt Haines, Freddy Fresh, and the Chemical Brothers.
  
  Please check the power requirements for this device and the specifications of your power supply. If you need to use this item in a 117-240 V environment, which will allow you to use this item safely and with good performance in your country.
  
  IMPORT TAX

・Import duties, taxes, and other charges which are not included in the item price or shipping charges are the buyer’s responsibility.

・Please check with your country’s customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.

Power Supply : AC100V 50/60Hz

more video on DB Studio TV yotube channel