Korg KM-2 KAOSS Mixer
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| KM-2 KAOSS Mixer |
January 19, 2001Following the success of their critically-acclaimed KAOSS Pad digital effects/controller,
Korg is introducing the new KM-2 KAOSS Mixer - a unique hybrid product combining
a second- generation KAOSS Pad with a performance-oriented DJ mixer. In addition
to professional mixing capabilities, the KM-2 gives the user a new level of control
over sampling, and realtime effects processing - perfect for the DJ who aims to
be on the cutting edge of sound manipulation and performance.
The KM-2's mixer section offers two channels, each with both line and phono
inputs. Channel 1 also features a mic input, which can be routed through the KAOSS
Pad for effects treatment or sampling, or used as a talkback source without running
it through the channel input. Each channel features 3-band EQ, input gain faders
and peak indicators. The mixer provides both Master and Booth outputs, a Headphone/Booth
monitoring switch (for cueing material), and a 12-step LED display for output
signal monitoring. An ultra-sensitive crossfader features three crossfade curves,
to ensure ideal feel and control whether the mixer is used for traditional signal
mixing or the most athletic scratch-based performance. Korg has also added their
proprietary Ultra BoostTM technology, which adds powerful low-end to the signal
in a precisely controlled way that will not distort the speaker system.
Along with the full-featured mixer, the KM-2 includes a revamped KAOSS Pad
that has expanded sampling and realtime effects capabilities. The advanced effects
section boasts 80 specially-designed effects programs, including reverbs, delays,
filters, chorus, flange, phasing, distortion, pitch-shifting and ring modulation.
The user simply moves their finger along the X/Y pad to control a multitude of
effects parameters, making it easy to create very advanced and powerful effects
changes. The Hold button can be used to remember the most recent position of contact
to lock in that setting, and to toggle between settings by simply drumming on
the pad's surface. A rotary knob makes it easy to scroll through effects, and
eight buttons provide instant access to user-chosen favorites. A new FX Depth
knob allows the user to subtly blend in effects for smoother transitions, and
effects can be used to cross-fade between the two input channels for exciting
new mixing possibilities.
The KM-2 also features a new auto-BPM function that can be used to automatically
lock-in the tempo of an incoming signal, as well as a standard Tap Tempo input
with a 3-digit BPM LED. Each channel has the ability to remember its tempo for
accurate and effortless switching between sources. Many new tempo effects programs
have been created for use with this feature.
Sampling on the KM-2 has been enhanced, with an expanded 23 seconds of sampling
time at a 44.1 kHz/16-bit sampling rate. Samples can be taken from the mic/phono
or line inputs and the user can even sample through the KAOSS Pad's effects, including
any realtime movements. There are four dedicated sampling buttons so samples can
be triggered independently from the pad's effects. When the samples are assigned
to the pad the user has control over scratching, re-looping, pitch-changing and
a host of radical performance possibilities.
States Product Manager Jerry Kovarsky, "With the KAOSS pad we brought
something new to realtime effects processing for the DJ - we've taken the feedback
we got from its many users and have delivered a new type of performance-oriented
mixer - the mixer as a new type of instrument."
The KM-2 KAOSS Mixer will be available in Late Spring, 2001 with pricing to
be announced shortly. For more information, visit their web site at www.korgusa.com. |
