Korg miniKORG 700Sm

Monophonic analog synthesizer

• Reproduction of the first Korg series synthesizer from 1973
• 37 Thin-key keyboard with aftertouch (no velocity sensitivity)
• Spring reverb and joystick
• Traveller controller for wah-wah and other effects
• 2 oscillators with triangle wave, square wave, sawtooth wave, chorus I, chorus II, arpeggiator
• 14 program memories
• Includes soft case

The Korg miniKORG 700Sm is a faithful reproduction updated with modern features-most notably USB connections, MIDI and an arpeggiator-of the analog synth of the same name from the 1970s: the roots of Korg's sonic identity in the world of sound synthesis. Here we find it offered in a compact version, with 37 aftertouch-sensitive slim keys. Compared with the original version, we also find: user memories for settings, spring reverb, and joysticks for pitch bend and modulation.

miniKORG 700Sm retains all the features of the miniKORG 700FS (produced in very limited quantities in 2021) while offering a more compact keyboard and a size reduced to about 86% of the original. In addition, the miniKORG 700Sm weighs only 5.8 KG and is more convenient to transport. Commercialized in 2021, the miniKORG 700FS was an extraordinary reimagining of the legendary miniKORG 700S analog synthesizer from the 1970s, enhanced with additional features that were not available in the original. The limited run production sold out quickly, creating strong demand for greater availability.

Korg has a long history of producing analog synthesizers, and in recent years has distinguished itself by faithfully reproducing some of the rarest and most sought-after models. The miniKORG 700Sm pays homage to the sound of the iconic miniKORG 700, the very origin of Korg's analog synthesizer history, here enhanced to meet the needs of today's musicians.

The essentials of an analog synthesizer

The true beauty and richness of the sounds produced by the miniKORG 700 could not be realized through analog modeling technologies that use computational integrated circuits such as DSPs and other devices to simulate analog circuits.

Although it is possible to replicate a circuit by using the same parts and copying design schematics or printed circuit boards, this does not guarantee that the original sound will be reproduced, as components deteriorate over time, drastically altering the sound. To faithfully recreate the original sound, we relied on the experience and memory of the engineers who had worked on the original product.

Thanks to our team of engineers, who gained valuable experience over the years working on numerous projects to reintroduce historic synthesizers to the market, we were able to bring the original sound back to life. This team was led by the legendary Fumio Mieda: a KORG engineer since the 1970s and one of the designers of the original miniKORG 700S. Working closely with KORG's sound designers, they meticulously reproduced the original sound as faithfully as possible. We hope that anyone who plays the miniKORG 700Sm will consider it an authentic and beautifully crafted recreation of the original.

Brilliant leads, powerful bass - and more

The miniKORG 700 was KORG's first synthesizer and produced some of the most identifiable, rich, and powerful analog sounds of all time. The new miniKORG 700Sm features piercing tone oscillators and offers a faithful recreation of the Traveler controller-a hallmark of the miniKORG 700-designed to add color and expression to performances. Its sound integrates seamlessly into today's music, particularly with its lead and bass synths.

Possibility of use as an additional on-stage synth

The miniKORG 700 was originally designed as a sub-keyboard, often placed above organs (frequently used in the 1970s) to expand the sound palette on stage. The miniKORG 700Sm, with its compact and portable format, stands out as a powerful solo instrument and also integrates seamlessly with stage keyboards such as electric pianos and organs.

The controls of the miniKORG 700 were arranged under the keys in a row, allowing musicians to access them easily when the instrument was placed on top of an organ. This intuitive layout remains unchanged, offering simplicity, ease of use, and a unique look that sets it apart from any other instrument.

Additional features in this new version:

• Spring reverb
• Joystick for pitch bend and modulation
• Aftertouch for more expressiveness
• Arpeggiator
• USB connector, MIDI IN, and CV/GATE IN jacks
• Memories for storing settings

A second oscillator

The miniKORG 700Sm includes two oscillators to create powerful and rich sounds, especially for basses and leads.

The Traveler Controller

A unique aspect of the miniKORG 700, the Traveler controller, consisted of two parallel sliders located under the keyboard, which allowed musicians to adjust the cutoff frequency to create distinctive sounds. In the miniKORG 700Sm, the original mechanical limitations have been removed, offering endless possibilities for creating unique sounds.

A Soft Case Included

The miniKORG 700Sm comes with a custom-made soft case for more comfortable and protected transportation.

Specifications

• Keyboard: 37 slim keys with aftertouch
• Dimensions: 641 x 228 x 107 mm
• Weight: 5.8 kg
• Power supply: AC adapter (DC 12V)
• Development supervision: Fumio Mieda