Korg Opsix Altered FM Synthesizer

Back to navigation

This article was Written By

Our Product Research Team

Get to know them!

The User-friendly FM Synth You've Always Needed

Korg's fresh and expansive reimagining of classic digital synthesis, the Opsix Altered FM synthesizer delivers wide versatility and a full-spectrum, high-definition sound in an easy-to-use synth. From bells and chimes to sharp leads and wooly basslines, the Opsix handles it all in strides thanks to a unique "altered" FM synthesis approach. By sidestepping the often frustrating drawbacks of complex traditional 6-operator FM (Frequency Modulation) sound generation in favor of a much more musical and immediate approach, the Opsix houses a staggering amount of power, wrapped in a tidy, 37-key chassis with accessible hands-on controls that give you the real-time sound-shaping you would sooner expect to find on an analog synth. The core of this synth's expansive voice is its Operator Mixer, a series of six illuminated knobs and faders attached to different parameters for tonal tweaking as you see fit. Boot it up, and you're instantly met with hundreds of presets to lay a solid base to explore. FM synth mavens at Sweetwater are finding the Korg Opsix to be an incredibly flexible synth capable of a multitude of unique sounds. We think you'll agree.

Like having six synths on standby

The Opsix features six different waveforms, all of which can be edited for near limitless sonic options. By removing parts of the sound that you don't want, Subtractive hones in on precisely what you want to hear, with up to six envelopes and multi-modeled filters to channel classic to contemporary synth sounds. Semi-modular reroutes signal paths to subtly or drastically change your sound, with a handy Algorithms section to reshape your base without the need for patch cables. Analog boasts a wealth of stackable waveforms alongside analog-style controls, capable of booming basses, stinging lead lines, lush pads, and more. Turn to Waveshaping for some added distortion, great when seeking to channel a dirtier overall sound with plentiful overtones. Additive stacks waveforms and blends harmonics for a wide range of dissonant and harmonic sounds. Classic FM rounds out the list, which is capable of many of those iconic synth sounds heard from the 1980s to present day, all accomplished courtesy of genuine 6-operator FM architecture.

Korg's modern approach to FM

When the first digital synthesizers arrived in the early 1980s, many keyboardists found them frustratingly complicated to use, despite their obvious potential. With the Opsix, Korg has taken a fresh, modern approach to FM. Their "altered" 6-operator FM synthesis makes the vastly capable FM sound generation method accessible to any musician who has ever played a classic analog synth. Equipped with an easy-to-use 6-fader operator level mixer, 6-knob ratio mixer, six data entry rotary encoders, and a flexible sound engine that takes you well beyond basic FM, the Opsix broadens the potential of digital synthesis. Whether you're an '80s FM purist or entirely new to digital synthesis, the Korg Opsix is a must-have addition to your synth arsenal.

Astounding power under the hood

The Korg Opsix may be small, but it packs an awesome sonic wallop. With 250 expertly curated factory presets (and 250 user slots), you'll hit the ground running. From there, shaping your sound with the Opsix is almost as intuitive as any analog synth you've ever had your hands on. Analog experts will be instantly at home with the Opsix's 21 oscillator waveforms, three onboard envelopes, three LFOs, and 11 powerful filters, while Korg's versatile V.Patch virtual patching system keeps routing simple. Deploy the Opsix's 16-step polyphonic sequencer. Load notes into the 7-pattern arpeggiator. Or fire up the Randomize feature for some delightful unpredictability. FM synthesis has never been this approachable — or fun!