OVERVIEW
The X50 synthesizer is the latest entry into Korg's smaller keyboard line, built on the same platform as Korg's (much more expensive)Triton series. It employs the acclaimed HI synthesis system for generating all its internal sounds and comes loaded with the over 1000 sounds and programs, flexible effects options, arpeggiators and more.

FEATURES
Korg made its name on being the industry standard for synthesizers, and the X50 lives up to that legacy with a wide range of sounds. It features a huge, impressive battery of built in sounds, with many options for controlling them. It comes pre-loaded with over 1000 built in sounds and programs, some of them Korg "classics" and some created specifically for the microX, with a special emphasis on dance sounds and ethnic timbres. In "combination mode" you are able to combine up to 8 different programs – with 384 combinations already pre-loaded. There are also 89 different effects to choose from, with real time modulation and tempo control available for most of them. A powerful dual polyphonic arpeggiators provide even more possibilities, with 250 pre-loaded patterns ranging from realistic phrases to distinctive flourishes. Korg makes it easy to use this wide array of sounds with great navigation, and quick ways of finding + previewing sounds. For controlling your sound, you also have 4 assignable knobs, 2 switches and "pitch bend" & "mod" wheels. For outputs USB port for directly connecting to your computer and using with software. They also include Editor software for reworking the microX's sounds from your computer- use as a standalone program or as a plug-in with your existing software.

OUR OPINION
With Korg's advanced sound generators, effects and keyboard technology all functioning together, the X50 makes a great choice for a stand alone or studio synthesizer. While the X50 features 61 full sized, velocity-sensitive keys, it's still small & light weight enough to make it portable and an easy choice for both live & studio use

- 61 velocity sensitive, full-sized keys
- high-quality sounds delivered by the HI synthesis system used on the TRITON series
- 512 programs based on a new 64MB ROM, covering a wide range of styles
- combination mode allows you to combine up to eight programs for complex + unique sounds. 384 preloaded combinations are provided
- 89 effects provided, up to 4 can be used simultaneously
- powerful dual polyphonic arpeggiators provide a wide range of possibilities, ranging from realistic phrases to distinctive flourishes
- four-channel audio output allows sophisticated sound-creating and mixing techniques
- multi sets provide easy setup and instant recall of 16-part multi-timbral groupings for use with your external DAW software
- USB connector allows direct MIDI connection to your computer
- Editor and Editor Plug-in software are included for seamless editing of microX sounds from within your DAW software
- dimensions: 38.39" (W) x 10.12" (D) x 3.15" (H)
- weight: 9.5 pounds

reviewed by the mgmnt