Korg Announces OASYS Software Version 1.10

Nov 14, 2005 5:22 PM

           
 

Korg has announced OASYS software version 1.10, which includes an OASYS Expansion Instrument (EXi) update, the STR-1 Plucked String. The new OS also adds support for up to 2 GB of memory, as well as some significant new enhancements to the OASYS voice architecture.

The STR-1 Plucked String is a physical model which allows you to pluck, strike, scrape, or otherwise excite the string with 16 different "pluck" types, noise, or any of the onboard or RAM-based PCM waveforms. The string itself utilizes a highly controllable design, with modeling of both physical materials and playing style (including damping, dispersion, nonlinearity, and harmonics). An audio input through the STR-1 provides modeled feedback, for realistic interaction between the "instrument" and the "amplifier." The string timbre can then be shaped further by using OASYS voice elements like filters, LFOs, a step-sequencer, Vector control, as well as layering with any other EXi (including using two STR-1s together).

This set of synthesis tools makes the STR-1 capable of creating traditional sounds (acoustic and electric guitars and basses, clavinets and harpsichords, harps, bells, electric pianos, ethnic instruments, etc.) and unique, experimental timbres. The EXi has a retail value of $299, but Korg is offering it free of charge to all current and future OASYS owners.

OS Version 1.10 also offers support for up to 2 GB of memory. By adding a 1 GB DIMM memory module, you can keep both the EXs1 and EXs2 expansion libraries in memory at the same time, with room for almost 700 MB of samples still available. Alternatively, by not loading either EXs library, approximately 1.5 GB of sample RAM will be available for loading new sounds or creating their own custom samples.

A new type of AMS Mixer (Alternate Modulation Source) has been added. The new Gate AMS Mixer lets you set up two different AMS sources (or fixed AMS amounts), and then switch between the two using a third AMS source. Other enhancements include the ability to set a pedal to control Inc/Dec navigation and the ability to filter out half-damping when using a sustain pedal on non-piano sounds.

OS Version 1.10 will be available in early December. For more information visit www.korg.com/oasys.