Korg M50 workstation has M3 sounds

Korg has updated its workstation range with the release of the M50. Available in 61-, 73- and 88-note configurations, this is designed to be portable and affordable, yet full of functionality.

Based on the same EDS (Enhanced Generation Synthesis) tone generation system as you'll find in Korg's M3, the M50 offers 256MB of PCM voice data. This translates to 608 programs, 384 combinations and 32 drum kits.

If you need some rhythmic backing, you can use the Drum Track - this contains 671 patterns and also enables you to create your own - while there's also a polyphonic arpeggiator.

No self-respecting workstation would be complete without a sequencer, and the M50's offers 16 MIDI tracks, 128 songs and the ability to record up to 210,000 notes. Your sequences can also be saved to SD card, as can programs and combinations.

Control of the M50 is via the TouchView graphical user interface, though you can also tweak it via the supplied editing software on your Mac or PC. It's even possible to use the instrument as a VST, AU or RTAS plug-in.

Both the M50-61 and M50-73 use Korg's semi-weighted Natural Touch Keyboard, while the 88-note version benefits from a Real Weighted Hammer Action 3 graded action keyboard. All three models should be available this month, with prices ranging from £899 to £1499.

For detailed specs, check out the Korg website.