Korg Volca Modular Micro Synthesizer

The Korg Volca Modular is a semi-modular analog synthesizer that puts powerful modular synth potential in the palm of your hand.

Micro Modular Synth

Drawing inspiration from 'west-coast' style synth behavior, the Volca Modular features 8 analogue sound modules and a total of 50 patch points. By interconnecting each module you can quickly create bold, unique synth sounds anywhere, any time.

Korg Volca Modular Key Features:

• Fully patchable, modular synth
• Eight Modules: Source, Functions, Woggle, Split, Dual LPG, Utility, Space Out, Sequence
• 2 x Analog Oscillators
• 16 Step Sequencer with Parameter Automation
• Randomize Function
• Two Sequencer Playback Modes
• Musical Scales, Keys and Micro Tuning
• Connections for Synced Performance and External Control
• Battery Powered Operation
• 20 x Patch Cables Included

The Volca Legacy Continues

The Korg Volca has established itself as a cult icon amongst synth aficionados and casual music creators alike. Since it's introduction, the Volca series has paved the way for portable synth design that remains quick to learn and fun to play. Volca Modular continues this traditon and makes modular synthesis even more accessible than ever before.

West Coast Synth Architecture

'West-Coast' style synths were based on oscillators such as FM modulation which generated numerous overtones, and used random and complex control signals and low-pass gate circuits to vary tonal character and volume, so that slight movement of a knob might dramatically transform the sound. While their potential was acknowledged, the resulting sound and its changes were difficult to predict, causing these synths to be used in a more experimental capacity.

Volca Modular continues this tradition via these elements, including FM and PCM. The result is a truly unique sonic footprint that stands out from traditional 'east-coast' style synths that employ simple oscillators and filter modifiers.

Semi-Modular Signal Path

The Volca Modular is a semi-modular synthesizer consisting of independent analog synth modules, digital effects, and a sequencer. Each of the modules has been carefully selected for itsability to stand alone or be used in a modular signal path.

The modules are internally connected so that sound can be produced even before connecting the included pin cables, and the routing is shown by white lines on the panel. Module connections via a pin cable take priority over the internal connections, bypassing them.

Volca-Style Sequencer (plus randomization!)

Using the 16 buttons familiar from the volca series, you can perform step input or use the buttons as a keyboard for realtime recording. The pattern chaining function plays back multiple sequence patterns in succession, allowing you to connect up to 16 sequences with up to 32, 64, or even 256 steps to create large-scale development.

Fully Patchable

Volca Modular’s modules are connected via the included pin cables, allowing a diverse range of combinations. The unit's compact chassis provides 50 patch points.

Inputs and outputs are color-coded for recognition at a glance, and the signals are also marked by symbols to indicate audio, control, gate or trigger. Normally, each signal is connected according to its use, but on the volca modular, signal levels are universally compatible between modules, allowing hidden possibilities to arise from patching that defies common sense.

Twenty pin cables are included with Volca Modular, and also included is a reference sheet explaining each patch point and providing basic examples of patching.

Portable, Take-Anywhere Design

Compact, size, battery operation, and built-in speaker mean that you can take this unit anywhere and enjoy playing at any time.

CV Connectivity

With a sync jack that allows easy connection to a Korg groove machine, you can connect the Volca Modular to another volca series unit, a minilogue, monologue, or prologue, an electribe, or the SQ-1, and enjoy sessions with the sequencer synchronized to the playback.

The CV IN jack for external control is a TRS mini stereo jack that lets you input two signals. The left channel can input a ±5V signal and the right channel can input a signal of 1V/oct (0–+6V) signal which is internally converted to pitch CV within the volca modular. Of course, each of these two signals can also be patched to control a module.

Hear It In Action!

Check out the 'Hear it in Action' Soundcloud Playlist on this page to hear what the Korg Volca Modular is capable of - or why not book a full demonstration and get hands on at your local PMT Store?