Korg DW-6000
DW-6000 | |
---|---|
Manufacturer | Korg |
Dates | 1985 |
Technical specifications | |
Polyphony | 6 |
Timbrality | 1 |
Oscillator | 2 DWGS waveforms per voice |
LFO | 1 |
Synthesis type | Analog/digital hybrid using subtractive synthesis |
Filter | 4-pole resonant low-pass |
Attenuator | ABBDSR envelope generator |
Aftertouch expression | no |
Velocity expression | no |
Storage memory | 64 |
Effects | Chorus |
Input/output | |
Keyboard | 61-key |
Left-hand control | Joystick |
External control | MIDI |
The Korg DW-6000 is a
Sounds and features
The DW-6000 is a six-voice hybrid digital-analog synthesizer and features a five-octave keyboard, memory for 64 presets, a joystick and MIDI implementation. The front panel features two buttons for program and parameter selection, numeric keys for choosing program and parameter numbers, and a data slider with +/— buttons for more precise parameter editing, echoing the design used on the Korg Poly-61, Korg's first synthesizer with digital controls.[1][3]
The DW-6000 employs Korg's Digital Waveform Generator System (DWGS), which features sampled waveforms stored in a pair of 256 Kbit ROM chips. Eight digital waveforms are available, each with unique overtone characteristics, and their graphical representations are displayed on the front panel. A unique sample is utilized for each octave, and the waveforms were created using additive synthesis, which were then encoded onto the ROM chips. The DW-6000 features two oscillators, offering controls to modify their relative volumes and detune the second oscillator, creating a rich chorus-like effect.[1][4][5]
The key assign modes allow standard polyphonic playing as well as and polyphonic
Reception
Criticism of the DW-6000 focused on its lack of a touch-sensitive keyboard, a feature becoming standard by the end of 1985, the single parameter control which slowed down editing, and the absence of RAM cartridge storage. However, it received praise for its sound quality, especially its piano sounds, brass effects, and metallic and bell-like digital sounds, which were reminiscent of the pricier PPG Wave.[1][5][6]
The DW-6000 initially faced challenges due to its high recommended retail price of around £1,200, which was quickly adjusted to £999 to stay competitive. The announcement of the upcoming DW-8000, which featured a velocity-sensitive keyboard, impacted its sales negatively. The subsequent release of the DW-8000 eclipsed the DW-6000, as the new model introduced velocity and pressure sensitivity, 16 waveshapes, a sophisticated arpeggiator, and a programmable digital delay line for each sound, all at a similar price point of approximately £1200.[6]
References
- ^ a b c d e Colbert, Paul (Apr 1985). "Korg DW-6000". One Two Testing. United Kingdom: IPC Magazines Ltd, Northern & Shell Ltd. pp. 16–17. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
- ^ Trask, Simon (Nov 1985). "Here In Black & White". Electronics & Music Maker. United Kingdom: Music Maker Publications (UK), Future Publishing. pp. 90–93. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
- ^ a b Schwartz, Curtis (Apr 1985). "Korg DW6000". International Musician & Recording World. United Kingdom: Cover Publications Ltd, Northern & Shell Ltd. pp. 102–103. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
- ^ a b Goldstein, Dan (Mar 1985). "Korg DW6000". Electronics & Music Maker. United Kingdom: Music Maker Publications (UK), Future Publishing. pp. 10–12. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
- ^ a b Foister, Dave (Apr 1985). "Making Waves". Electronic Soundmaker & Computer Music. United Kingdom: Cover Publications Ltd, Northern & Shell Ltd. pp. 17–18. Retrieved 2024-03-25.
- ^ a b Jenkins, Mark (Dec 1985). "The Synths Of The Year Show". International Musician & Recording World. United Kingdom: Cover Publications Ltd, Northern & Shell Ltd. pp. 104–107. Retrieved 2024-03-25.