Korg phase8 (Launch Edition)

The term "acoustic synthesizer" may sound contradictory, but the Korg phase8 proves otherwise. This is a true 8-voice acoustic synthesizer that moves away from the classic debate between analog and digital. Combining electromechanical sound generation with an advanced haptic sound-generation system, the phase8 bridges the gap between natural resonance and modern synthesis techniques. The result is an instrument that responds instantly to touch, movement and physical interaction, with a lively sound response that is in constant motion.

Individual electromechanical voices and interchangeable, tunable steel resonators create a sound world in which envelope shaping, analog wavefolding, polymetric sequencing and pitch-based modulation come together. Each resonator forms its own sound source with a unique response, making the phase8 behave like a living instrument rather than a traditional synthesizer. Interaction feels intuitive and physical, with a direct link between action and sound.

Launch Edition: exclusive creative expansion
This Launch Edition takes the phase8 another level higher. Temporarily, pre-sale copies come with three special resonators with unique shapes, specially designed for additional tactile control and sound variation. Available exclusively with the Launch Edition, these resonators offer additional options for shaping texture, dynamics and timbre. While supplies last, they are a valuable addition to the instrument.

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Innovative haptic sound generation
To develop the phase8, the design team in Berlin deliberately took a different approach from traditional synth architecture. Each of the eight positions contains an electromechanical voice with an interchangeable, tunable steel resonator. A total of 13 chromatically tuned resonators are included. The way you address the resonator - with your hands, a stick, a mallet or other object - directly affects the sound. From subtle strokes and short taps to wide strums and powerful strokes, each interaction produces a different timbre, enhanced by acoustic feedback and physical resonance.

Modulation, sequencing and tone shaping
The haptic foundation is extended by extensive synth functionality. With envelope shaping, you determine the duration and dynamics for each voice, ranging from short percussive sounds to long, floating drones. The built-in polymetric sequencer supports both step programming and live sequencing, including per-voice skip-steps for added rhythmic variety. Eight memory locations are available for storing and recalling sequences. Three modulation modes - tremolo, audio-rate modulation and pitch-dependent modulation - provide additional depth. Pitch-based harmonic quantization provides expressive sound distortion and controlled pitch manipulation.

Space, dynamics and control
The phase8 was designed with great attention to spatial response and dynamics. With the AIR slider, you adjust acoustic response in real time by amplifying or attenuating resonance. Trigger delays and per-resonator velocity settings give precise control over attack and timing. All parameter changes can be automated and recorded, keeping movement and expression reproducible.

Connections and Integration
In addition to physical tone generation, the phase8 is fully prepared for integration into modern setups. The instrument features 3.5mm MIDI and Sync connections, a ±5V CV input and a USB-C port for firmware updates and two-way MIDI communication. Headphone and master outputs allow direct audio integration in studio and live environments.

Korg phase8 features:

• acoustic synthesizer with 8 electromechanical voices
• haptic sound generation with interchangeable and tunable steel resonators
• 8-voice polyphony via physically vibrating sound sources
• 13 supplied resonators and Allen wrench for easy changing and tuning
• polymetric sequencer with 8 memory locations, skip-steps and per-voice velocity
• three modulation modes: tremolo, audio-rate FX and pitch-dependent modulation with harmonic quantization
• AIR control for global adjustment of acoustic response
• per-voice envelope shaping for precise control over time and tone
• comprehensive controls including Shift, Envelope, Depth, Rate and AIR
• automation and recording of real-time parameter changes
• external and internal tempo synchronization with trigger-delay capabilities
• CV, Sync, MIDI and USB-C deployable simultaneously

Korg phase8 specifications:

• Acoustic Synthesizer - Launch Edition
• synthesis: hybrid acoustic
• Controllers: 8 interchangeable/tunable steel resonators, AIR slider
• 8 notes polyphony
• 8 presets / programs
• trigger delay effect
• polymetric, 8 slot sequencer
• 1× 6.35 mm jack audio output
• 1× 3.5 mm TRS (rear) headphone jack
• MIDI I/O: 2× 3.5 mm (in, out), USB
• 1× 3.5mm CV in, 2× 3.5mm Sync (in, out)
• USB: USB-C (MIDI, firmware)
• power supply: 12 V adapter (included)
• height: 4.6 cm, width: approx. 23 cm, depth: approx. 23.6 cm
• weight: 0.78 kg
• manufacturer number: PHASE8LE

Included: Allen wrench, documentation, five additional resonators (semitones) + 3 additional resonators* (Launch Edition only)