First synth: Korg MicroX or R3 ?

bulls hit · 2nd March 2008

I'm trying to work out the differences between the r3 and the microx.

I was originally looking at the Microkorg, but I need usb connectivity for the laptop, and I read some comments that weren't too complimentary about the smaller keys.

I'm after dirty, grimy sounds(e.g The Prodigy) that can be blended with the guitars/drums that I record.

I'm leaning toward the r3 because I'm also interested in the vocoder.

I'm not really interested in using it as a controller. I've just sold my Remote SL as I wasn't using any of its capability. Is the microx a controller with a synth bolted on, or is it more of a synth that performs some controller functions as well?

Can the microx do stuff that the r3 can't, or vice versa?

Any direction you can provide will be a big help...

rids · 2nd March 2008

The MicroX can be a controller (only 4 knobs though), but My Novation SL37 is way easier to use as a controller.

I think the R3 is more suited for your style. I like my MicroX, but I bought it for Rompler sounds and it also has a nice emphasis on Electronic sounds.

The MicroKorg has the MS2000 sounds, but the keys suck. The R3 has a totally new VA sound to it. I'm sure you'll like it, but you should play a MicroX at Guitar Center or something to test the sounds and if they fit your style.

kalle1978 · 2nd March 2008

Why not get a 90's VA. I think they sound better. And you can get a more pro-machine, than those you mentioned, for the same price as these new ones (which will drop in value as soon as you leave the store with them...).

Also, I would check aout the Moog Little Phatty - that, and som distortion pedals or something, should get you some grimy stuff indeed. But it's monophonic (only plays one sound at the time).

It all depends on how much money you can spend. On the other hand, I don't think the Moog Little Phattys will ever drop in price, so if you go with that, you will most likely not loose any money, since it's more likely to go up in value.

bulls hit · 3rd March 2008

Guys, thank you very much for the input, I really appreciate it. My knowledge in this area is very limited. I've heard of Moog of course but I don't know what a 90's VA is, it sounds like something vintage. I need something with usb connectivity for the portability aspect. I think you're right about the R3 so I've gone ahead and ordered one, and I'm really looking forward to its arrival. Thanks again!

rids · 3rd March 2008

The R3 is a Radias without a couple things (was it the mod seq. - can't remember). And it has fewer multimbrality.

keybdwizrd · 3rd March 2008

Here are lots of Micro X demo videos:

YouTube - Broadcast Yourself.

2nd March 2008	#1
bulls hit Gear addict Joined: Feb 2008 Posts: 461 Thread Starter	First synth: Korg MicroX or R3 ? I'm trying to work out the differences between the r3 and the microx. I was originally looking at the Microkorg, but I need usb connectivity for the laptop, and I read some comments that weren't too complimentary about the smaller keys. I'm after dirty, grimy sounds(e.g The Prodigy) that can be blended with the guitars/drums that I record. I'm leaning toward the r3 because I'm also interested in the vocoder. I'm not really interested in using it as a controller. I've just sold my Remote SL as I wasn't using any of its capability. Is the microx a controller with a synth bolted on, or is it more of a synth that performs some controller functions as well? Can the microx do stuff that the r3 can't, or vice versa? Any direction you can provide will be a big help...

2nd March 2008	#2
rids Lives for gear Joined: Aug 2005 Location: Between Harmony & Irregularity Posts: 2,178	The MicroX can be a controller (only 4 knobs though), but My Novation SL37 is way easier to use as a controller. I think the R3 is more suited for your style. I like my MicroX, but I bought it for Rompler sounds and it also has a nice emphasis on Electronic sounds. The MicroKorg has the MS2000 sounds, but the keys suck. The R3 has a totally new VA sound to it. I'm sure you'll like it, but you should play a MicroX at Guitar Center or something to test the sounds and if they fit your style. __________________ "It ain't the instrument, Baby!" - Ray Charles

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2nd March 2008	#3
kalle1978 Gear maniac Joined: Jul 2007 Posts: 169	Why not get a 90's VA. I think they sound better. And you can get a more pro-machine, than those you mentioned, for the same price as these new ones (which will drop in value as soon as you leave the store with them...). Also, I would check aout the Moog Little Phatty - that, and som distortion pedals or something, should get you some grimy stuff indeed. But it's monophonic (only plays one sound at the time). It all depends on how much money you can spend. On the other hand, I don't think the Moog Little Phattys will ever drop in price, so if you go with that, you will most likely not loose any money, since it's more likely to go up in value.

3rd March 2008	#4
bulls hit Gear addict Joined: Feb 2008 Posts: 461 Thread Starter	Guys, thank you very much for the input, I really appreciate it. My knowledge in this area is very limited. I've heard of Moog of course but I don't know what a 90's VA is, it sounds like something vintage. I need something with usb connectivity for the portability aspect. I think you're right about the R3 so I've gone ahead and ordered one, and I'm really looking forward to its arrival. Thanks again!

3rd March 2008	#6
keybdwizrd Lives for gear Joined: May 2007 Location: Chicago, USA Posts: 531	Here are lots of Micro X demo videos: YouTube - Broadcast Yourself.