Korg 05R/W (1993)

A half-rack digital synthesizer module released in 1993, designed for General MIDI compatibility and multitimbral performance.

Overview

The Korg 05R/W is a half-rack digital synthesizer module introduced in 1993. It functions as a General MIDI sound module and features Korg's AI² Synthesis System, which uses wavetable-based, fully digital processing. Designed as a compact and versatile tone generator, it offers 16-part multitimbrality and was positioned as a budget-friendly option within Korg’s AI synthesis lineup. The unit includes 236 preset Programs and 100 Combinations, making it suitable for studio and live use where space and cost were considerations.

Specifications

Product type	half-rack digital synthesizer module
Release year	1993
Original price (UK)	£599.00 inc VAT
Synthesis engine	AI² Synthesis (wavetable, full digital processing)
Polphony	32-voice (conflicting sources: 16-voice also reported)
Multitimbrality	16-part
Programs	236 individual Programs
Combinations	100 Combinations
Oscillators	2 per voice
LFOs	2
PCM ROM size	6 Mbyte
Velocity response	Yes
Architecture	Dual voice programs; each sound decomposes into 1–16 voices, each voice into 1–2 tones

Design

The 05R/W uses a half-rack form factor and is built around Korg’s AI² Synthesis System, derived from the 01W series. It is an all-digital synth engine with no analog components, emphasizing compactness and integration into MIDI systems. The design prioritizes efficient use in multitimbral setups, with front-panel access to basic navigation and editing functions.

Context

Released in 1993, the 05R/W entered the market as a more affordable alternative to Korg’s flagship digital synths like the M1 and 01/W. It shared the same AI² synthesis technology but in a stripped-down, rack-mountable format aimed at musicians needing reliable General MIDI playback and expandability without the cost of full-sized workstations.