KORG Volca Beats Synthesizer

The Korg Volca Beats is an analog drum machine with a step sequencer based on the Electribe series. This hybrid drum machine features 6 analog drum parts and 4 high-quality PCM-based parts. SYNC and MIDI IN allow synchronization with multiple devices, including connection to a DAW. Battery operation and built-in speakers provide enhanced portability.

The Korg Volca Beats continues the tradition of classic drum machines with six fully analog sounds: Kick, Snare, Hi Tom, Lo Tom, Closed Hi Hat, and Open Hi Hat. The sounds are shaped with a minimal set of parameters to craft the desired drum tone. For example, the three controls for click, pitch, and decay create a range of sounds. Regardless of the settings, the sounds deliver a dense tone with the characteristic punch of analog drums.

The Electribe step sequencer on the Volca Beats makes step editing intuitive. Notes are entered via the 16 step keys, while the timing lights provide an overview of the rhythm. Separate phrases can be recorded in real time for each oscillator, and up to eight sequence patterns can be created. The Stutter function allows modification of the step sequencer with trigger repeats. Active Step creates new bass lines by deleting and inserting steps.