Welcome to my new Korg Multi/Poly and Korg Modwave tutorial. In this tutorial, I am going to look at ratcheting sequencing as popularized by the Berlin School of electronic music, including Tangerine Dream.

Ratcheting sequencing is a technique used in music production, particularly with modular synthesizers, to add more complexity and interest to repetitive sequences. The technique involves retriggering individual steps in a sequence multiple times at a faster rate, creating a rolling or trilling effect.

The Multi/Poly’s (and Modwave’s) motion sequencer is ideal for this technique, especially using the shape lane to retrigger steps within a sequence.

In the video, I show how to create ratcheting sequences and how you can use the mod controls with probability to add control over the subdivisions.

I also then go on to show how you can layer multiple sounds to complete the Tangerine Dream sound on the Multi/Poly.

The performance I created during the video is available as a free download.

Mastering Ratcheting Sequencing with Korg Multi/Poly - Berlin School Download

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Welcome to this week’s podcast, where Garry and I are joined by musician and DJ Kelly Myers to talk about his passion for synths, drum machines, and music.

Kelly has an interesting collection of electronic music gear, including the classic Roland TB-303. He shares how he got into music, talks about his gear collection, and explains why he uses both modern and classic synthesizers.

Links from this week’s show:

• earlandmajors.com

• Exploring the Large Magellanic Cloud: My New Synth Album

Thanks to my Patreon supporters. https://www.patreon.com/c/IanDixon

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

In the latest build of Windows 11 for Windows Insiders on the Canary Channel, Microsoft has introduced the new Windows MIDI Services public preview.

This preview includes MIDI 2.0 support, ARM64 support, improved USB MIDI for MIDI 1.0, multi-client support, MIDI diagnostic tools, and much more. This is an exciting development for Windows, and it’s great that Windows Insiders can try it out.

For more information on MIDI 2.0 in Windows 11, check out my interview with Microsoft’s Pete Brown, recorded at the end of last year.

Highlights of the new MIDI service:

• Full support for the MIDI 2.0 standard, including high-speed data transmission, higher-fidelity messages, increased resolution for controller values, and full in-service MIDI 2.0 endpoint discovery and protocol negotiation.
• Faster transports, leading to improved timing and reduced jitter.
• Enhanced USB MIDI driver with full support for both MIDI 1.0 and MIDI 2.0.
• Multi-client support, allowing multiple apps to use a device simultaneously.
• In-service scheduling of outgoing timestamped messages and timestamped incoming messages for apps using the new Windows MIDI Services App SDK.
• Built-in loopback and app-to-app MIDI support.
• Automatic translation between MIDI 1.0 and MIDI 2.0 based on API, application, and device needs.
• More device metadata available to applications.
• Improved device add/update/remove notifications.
• Backward compatibility with the WinMM (MME) MIDI 1.0 API (and future support for WinRT MIDI 1.0), enabling applications to leverage new features without changes and access MIDI 2.0 devices at a MIDI 1.0 feature level.
• Open-source: The MIDI Service, all its transports, tools, tests, and SDK are MIT-licensed open-source projects developed in collaboration with hardware and software partners worldwide.

Check out Microsoft’s blog post for all the details.

This is my new album, Large Magellanic Cloud. The Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) is a dwarf galaxy and a satellite of the Milky Way. Located around 163,000 light-years away, the LMC is one of the closest galaxies to the Milky Way.

Inspired by the LMC, I created an atmospheric synth album that takes you on a journey across this distant galaxy.

Each track is built around a performance from the Korg Wavestate (which I’ve made available as a free download), with additional sounds from the Korg Modwave, Multi/Poly, and Uno Drum.

I hope you enjoy this synth-powered journey across the Large Magellanic Cloud!

Listen now on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, Youtube Music

Track List

• Tarantula Nebula – Part 1
• Cluster R136 (solar2)
• Supernovae 1987A (solar3)
• Black Hole MNC X-1 (solo4)
• Carbon Star (solar5)
• Tidal Interactions (solarSong)
• The White Ox (solar6)
• Remnants of SN 1987A (Solar8)
• Tarantula Nebula – Part2 (Solar7)

Equipment used

• Korg Wavestate (all the main sequences, strings and leads)
• Korg Modwave
• Korg Multi/Poly
• Uno Drum
• Korg ER1 plugin
• Solina String Ensemble

This is a new collection of performances for the Korg Wavestate called the Solar Collection.
Inspired by a journey across space, this set forms the foundation of my new album, Large Magellanic Cloud, named after a dwarf galaxy and satellite of the Milky Way.

Listen now on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, Youtube Music

The performances are atmospheric, featuring multi-layered sequences that take full advantage of the Wavestate’s unique capabilities. In addition to the sounds used on my album, this collection includes several performances created specifically for this release.

The set is available for free at TheDigitalLifestyle.com.

Solar Collection: A Free Atmospheric Sound Pack for the Korg Wavestate

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In this video, I demonstrate the sounds and break down how they are constructed. Be sure to check out my new album, available on most streaming services.

BTW I used Distrokid to upload my music, if you want thinking of trying it out please use my referral code

At the end of last year, I got the new Korg Multi/Poly, an amazing analog modeling synth. I’ve had a lot of fun creating sounds on it, and with its modular design, you can craft complex sounds and authentic reproductions of classic synths.

Go back twenty-five years, and Korg released their first virtual analog synth, the MS2000. With its distinctive blue design and hands-on controls, it kick-started Korg’s virtual analog range. Since I still have my MS2000, I thought it would be interesting to see how far virtual analog synths have come over the past twenty-five years.

In this video, you’ll get a look (and listen) at the architecture of the Korg MS2000 alongside the new Korg Multi/Poly.

Welcome to this week’s podcast! Garry and I catch up on the latest tech news, including the smart home gadgets he’s been testing—such as using AI to control heating. I also talk about my new Korg sound packs and the latest Windows 11 builds.

Links from this week’s show:

• Laser Harps and Beyond: Elka Synthex Sounds for the Modwave
• Mastering Vintage Synth Templates on the Korg Multi/Poly
• Building Tangerine Dream Soundscapes with the Korg Multi/Poly

Thanks to my Patreon supporters. https://www.patreon.com/c/IanDixon

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

The Elka Synthex was an Italian polyphonic analog synthesizer from 1981, featuring 8 voices, two filters, and a ring modulator. Shane Parker kindly sent me a set of Synthex samples, which I’ve imported into my Modwave to create an exciting new sound set.

In this collection, you’ll find some of the classic Synthex sounds, including the iconic Laser Harp famously used by Jean-Michel Jarre, along with many other timeless tones.

Elka Synthex Sounds for the Modwave

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This pack includes Shane’s samples and my custom performances designed for the Modwave—and best of all, it’s a free download!

The Korg Multi/Poly is a powerful analog modeling synthesizer, featuring filters, VCAs, and envelopes that emulate classic synths like the ARP Odyssey, Minimoog, Mono/Poly, Prophet-5, and SEM filters.

Korg’s modular approach allows you to mix and match different model types, offering incredible flexibility. To make things easier for sound designers, Korg has also included vintage synth templates that serve as a great starting point.

In this video, I demonstrate how to use these templates to recreate the iconic sounds of classic vintage synths on the Multi/Poly. Hopefully, it will inspire you to design your own timeless sounds!

Welcome to This Week’s Show!

This week, I’m joined by musician, synth collector, and YouTuber Alex Dalliance, also known as Vulture Culture. Alex has an incredible YouTube channel and a thriving community centered around vintage synthesizers.

Alex regularly hosts a weekly YouTube live stream where he dives deep into the world of vintage and modern synths, sharing his expertise and passion with fans and fellow enthusiasts.

In this episode, we chat about Alex’s journey into music, his first vintage synth, and how he built his impressive collection. He shares insights into the challenges of maintaining vintage synthesizers and reveals which ones he considers overrated and which are absolutely irreplaceable.

Alex’s passion for synths and his community is truly inspiring, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy this engaging conversation as much as I did!

Links from this week’s show:

• Vulture Culture – YouTube
  
• Classic Korg Wavestation Presets Reimagined for the Wavestate
  
• 74 Inspiring Programs and Performances for the Korg Multi/Poly
  

Thanks to my Patreon supporters. https://www.patreon.com/c/IanDixon

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

With this new sound pack for the Korg Wavestate, I’m bringing back the iconic sounds of the classic Korg Wavestation!

This collection includes 35 performances and 48 programs band new, faithfully recreating some of the classic presets from the 1990 Korg Wavestation and bringing them into the 21st century.

The Korg Wavestate, a modern interpretation of the Wavestation, features many of the original samples and wave sequences. I’ve meticulously recreated these classic sounds and updated them for today’s Wavestate.

Each performance in this pack is composed of multiple layers and wave sequences, giving you endless possibilities to incorporate them into your own performances.

This sound pack is compatible with the original Wavestate, Wavestate MkII, Wavestate SE, Wavestate Module, and Wavestate Native.

Two versions of this pack are available:

• Full Set: Includes all 35 performances and 48 programs.
• Free Cut-Down Pack: A smaller selection to get you started.

By purchasing the full version, you’re directly supporting my ability to create more free and premium sound packs in the future.

The Korg Multi/Poly is a powerful and versatile synth, and with its motion sequencer, you can create captivating multi-layer performances. One of my favourite styles of music is the late ’70s and early ’80s Tangerine Dream, so I decided to try recreating a Tangerine Dream-inspired performance on the Multi/Poly.

In this video, I start with an initialized performance and build up a Tangerine Dream sound step by step. I begin with the sequence, then add synth and PPG-style vocal layers. From there, I demonstrate how to incorporate additional layers and use modulation controls to adjust the volume of each layer seamlessly.

This walkthrough will give you insight into the Multi/Poly and showcase some of its powerful features. Plus, the performance I created in the video is available as a free download!

Korg multi/poly Tangerine Dream Performance - Free Download

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If you enjoy my patches, be sure to check out my sound packs for the Modwave, Wavestate, and Multi/Poly.

Welcome to This Week’s Podcast!

TDL Show #791

This week, I’m joined by Dan Phillips from Korg R&D to dive into Korg’s NAMM announcements and the exciting new Multi/Poly synthesizer.

Dan shares insights about the latest products unveiled at NAMM, focusing on the Multi/Poly—a new analog modeling synthesizer. He discusses the inspiration and development behind this instrument, explaining why the team decided to innovate beyond simply recreating the classic Mono/Poly.

We explore the standout features of the Multi/Poly, including its advanced filters, synth templates, and meticulously modeled envelopes. Dan also explains the inclusion of wave shaping, the role of CMT (Component Modeling Technology), and what’s next for Korg R&D.

Don’t forget to check out my brand-new sound set for the Multi/Poly, along with tutorial videos to help you make the most of this incredible synth!

Links from this week’s show

• multi/poly – ANALOG MODELING SYNTHESIZER | KORG (U.K.)
• Breaking Down Korg’s Synth Lineup: Wavestate, Modwave, and Multi/Poly Compared
• 74 Inspiring Programs and Performances for the Korg Multi/Poly

Thanks to my Patreon supporters. https://www.patreon.com/c/IanDixon

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

Welcome to My First Sound Pack for the Korg Multi/Poly!

I’m excited to introduce this sound pack, featuring 74 programs and performances inspired by the unique capabilities of the Korg Multi/Poly. Inside, you’ll find a diverse range of sounds, including:

• Complex sequences reminiscent of Tangerine Dream
• Iconic classics like “In the Air Tonight”
• Faithful reproductions of legendary synths like the Prophet-5
• Warm, analog-style synth textures

This pack includes both individual programs for customization and a complete set of performances ready to use. I’ve fully utilized the analog modeling technology in the Multi/Poly, as well as advanced features like Motion Sequencing 2.0 and Layer Rotate, to create something truly special.

Two Versions Available:

• Free Edition: A cut-down version of the pack
• Premium Edition (£9): The full-featured set. By purchasing the premium edition, you’re helping to support this site and channel, making it possible for me to create more sound packs in the future.

Korg multi/poly sound pack volume one - Free version

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In the accompanying video, I showcase the sounds and break down how they were created, so you’ll also pick up some sound design tips along the way.

Enjoy the video and happy music-making!

Welcome to our new digital store! Here, you’ll find premium sound packs for synthesizers like the Korg Modwave, Wavestate, and Multi/Poly.

By purchasing one of our premium sound packs, you’re not only getting hand-crafted, high-quality synth sounds but also supporting our sound design tutorials and free sound sets.

We also offer a vast collection of free sound packs for synthesizers—be sure to check them out!

Happy synthing!

Give it a try!

Since getting the new Korg Multi/Poly, I’ve been asked which is the better synth: the Modwave, the Multi/Poly, or the Wavestate. Since I own all three of these synths, I thought it would be helpful to make a detailed comparison.

In this video, I break down the differences between these three Korg R&D synths: Wavestate, Modwave, and the new Multi/Poly. The differences between the Wavestate and the Modwave are fairly clear, but the comparison between the Modwave and the Multi/Poly is less obvious.

In the video, I dive into the architecture of the synth engines and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each synth. I explain how each can play different roles in your setup and help you decide which one might be the right choice for you. I take a close look at the filters, envelopes, effects, and motion sequencers. I also explore the Multi/Poly’s templates for recreating classic synths and discuss which of the synths allow you to use your own samples.

The video turned out longer than I intended, but I felt it was important to go into detail about these powerful synths. I hope you enjoy it!

In this video, I’m sharing a free organ-based sound pack for the Korg Modwave, designed to give you classic organ tones with modern control. Inspired by the Modwave’s four modulation controls, I’ve created a set of organ patches that use these as real-time drawbars to deliver an authentic organ sound. You’ll find recreations of classic organs from artists like Genesis and Pink Floyd, including CX3, DW8000, Korg M1, Polysix, and even Vox Continental organs.

The patches take full advantage of the Modwave’s effects section, modulation controls, and the Kaoss pad, giving you complete control over the sound. Whether you’re looking for vintage organ tones or creative new possibilities, this free sound pack has something for every synth lover.

The Organ Collection for the Korg Modwave

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Download the sound pack (link in the description) and enjoy exploring these iconic organ sounds!

Welcome to our first show of 2025! This week, Garry and I discuss what we’re looking forward to this year, the latest news from CES, and exciting developments in music tech.

I share details about my new Korg Multi/Poly, Garry dives into the world of 360 cameras, and we explore the latest trends in smart home technology.

Links from this week’s show:

• Exploring Analog Synth Samples on the Modwave and Wavestate
• Mastering Pitch Lanes: Unlock New Sonic Possibilities on the Korg Modwave, Wavestate, and Mono/Poly
• Korg Modwave vs Korg Wavestate: Which Synth is Right for You?
• Home | Windows Insider Blog

Thanks to my Patreon supporters. https://www.patreon.com/c/IanDixon

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

In this video, I show you how to understand the built-in samples on the Modwave and Wavestate. I was asked the question, “Where are the Moog samples on the Wavestate?” and this video aims to explain how the built-in samples are named on these synths.

I explore the range of analog synth samples available and explain the differences between them. Specifically, I show you how to find the samples and highlight the various types of analog samples. For example, there are several saw wave samples, and I walk you through each one, explaining where it was sampled from.

With this knowledge, you can create authentic reproductions of classic analog synths, such as the Minimoog, Prophet-5, Matrix-12, and Jupiter-8.

Additionally, I demonstrate how to use wave sequencing on the Wavestate, along with phasing and layering techniques.