Korg Kaossilator (2007–2016)

Name: Korg Kaossilator
Brand: Korg

A compact, handheld dynamic phrase synthesizer with 100 built-in programs spanning acoustic, percussion, and electronic sounds

Overview

The Korg Kaossilator (model KO-1) is a portable dynamic phrase synthesizer. Korg released it in 2007 and produced it until 2016. It fits in the palm of your hand, and you shape the sound by sliding a finger across the touchpad. Horizontal movement controls pitch. Vertical movement adjusts timbre or filter cutoff. It comes with 100 preset programs that include acoustic instrument emulations, drum kits, and synthetic tones, so it works as a self-contained tool for live looping and sketching musical ideas. Performers and producers picked it up because it gave them immediate, expressive control over sound without the usual synthesis programming.

Specifications

Model designation	KO-1
Product type	Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer
Form factor	Compact, handheld
Programs	100 programs including acoustic, percussion, and electronic sounds
Dimensions	106 mm (W) x 129 mm (D) x 29 mm (H)
Weight	154 g

Design

The Kaossilator uses a touchpad to control both pitch and sound parameters in real time. The body is compact and handheld, and the controls are built for playing on the go.