Image: Amy Hope Dermont from Providence, RI, USA, CC BY 2.0 — via Wikimedia Commons
Korg RADIAS
| Category | Electronic (virtual analogue synthesizer) |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Japan |
| Classification | synthesizer |
| Wikipedia | en.wikipedia.org |
| Wikidata | Q4352312 |
Overview
The Korg RADIAS is a virtual-analogue synthesizer released by Korg in 2006. It uses Korg’s MMT (Multiple Modeling Technology) synthesis engine to model a wide range of analogue and digital voicing techniques, and combines this with on-board drum synthesis, vocoder, step sequencing, and effects. The instrument was offered both as a 49-key keyboard model and as a desktop module; in both formats the synthesis voice card is detachable, allowing it to be installed in compatible Korg workstations.
Origin & History
Korg developed the RADIAS as a successor to the earlier MS2000 series, expanding its modelling capabilities and adding drum and rhythm sections suitable for stand-alone groove work. The MMT engine provides multiple oscillator types — analogue waveforms, formant modelling, FM, additive ring-modulation — selectable per timbre. The vocoder section uses a 16-channel design and accepts an external microphone for traditional vocoder use. The detachable RADIAS-R card was bundled with the M3 workstation, giving its synthesis voice a second life in that platform.
How It’s Played
The RADIAS is played from a four-octave keyboard or via MIDI from another controller. Its interface centres on illuminated knobs and buttons that follow a step-sequencer / parameter-edit logic familiar to users of Korg’s MS series. Multitimbral operation lets the player split or layer four timbres for live-performance-friendly sounds, and the step sequencer allows full pattern-based arrangements without a host computer. The vocoder section can be addressed live with a microphone or routed from internal audio sources.
Cultural Significance
The RADIAS appeared during a period of strong commercial demand for hybrid hardware groove and synthesis instruments and was widely adopted in electronic pop, hip-hop production, and live electronic acts. Its vocoder and drum-synthesis sections gave it a flavour distinct from contemporary virtual-analogue rivals. The RADIAS has remained a respected used-market instrument and continues to appear in studio setups built around hardware synthesis.
Related Instruments
- – immediate predecessor in concept
- Korg Wavestation – earlier advanced Korg synthesis platform
- Korg Prophecy – Korg mono-synth precursor
- Korg Kronos – Korg’s later flagship workstation
- Access Virus – competing virtual-analogue platform
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the RADIAS analogue?
No — it is a virtual-analogue (digital modelling) synthesizer.
How many voices does it have?
24-voice polyphony.
Does the synthesis card fit other Korg products?
Yes — the RADIAS-R card is compatible with the M3 workstation.
Image: Korg RADIAS on stage, photo by Amy Hope Dermont, CC BY 2.0 (Wikimedia Commons).
