Hammer and Circuit

Category: Electro-Acoustic

  • Best Phase8 Korg Berlin Demos

    So, it’s finally out. The Korg Berlin Phase8 has finally started showing up at various stores around the world for pre-order. But what does it sound like? Initially, I saw a number of videos that really focused in on the short, staccato sounds that we’ve already seen. I was perplexed by some of these initial videos.

    Fortunately after a couple days, more videos have come out as well as a pretty convincing demo from the Korg Berlin team.

    Here are a few facts that I’ve been able to glean from these more recent round of videos:

    • The entire synth resonates, making it very similar to an acoustic instrument. You can produce and impact sound by touching not just the resonators, but also the side of the synth and even the table next to it.
    • While the Phase8 is similar to an acoustic instrument, it differs in its ability to use precise controls like envelopes and velocity to shape the sound.
    • The real-time sequencer offers more versatility than some of the initial videos demonstrated.

    When I look at these features collectively, the versatility of the synth comes into focus. It operates, like all real-world instruments, within a set of limits that are meant to be explored, challenged, and resolved. In many ways that’s the point of creative endeavors.

    Here are some of the recent videos that I found most helpful in getting a sense of the sound and possibilities for the Phase8:

    Rachel from Korg Berlin’s demo really helped me understand the range and performance aspects of the Phase8. Watch this for background and versatility.

    Another great video from Noisegate. There’s a great solo exploration of the Phase8 with household objects and an interesting look at pairing it with Teenage Engineering gear.

    And finally, Gabe from B&H Pro Audio has a detailed video. Watch for background and experimentation with the Phase8 as part of a set up.

    I’m sure more videos will emerge as the Phase8 gets shipped out into the world. I’m really looking forward to seeing more jams and experiments, as I try to figure out if this fits into my setup and music goals.

  • GAS: Korg Berlin Phase 8

    I’ve been lusting after the Korg Berlin Phase 8. It’s officially a case of GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome).

    5 prototypes of the Phase8 Electro-acoustic synth by Korg Berlin
    5 Prototypes of the Phase 8 by Korg Berlin.

    Have you heard about the Phase 8 from Korg Berlin? A quick search in google will reveal, among other things, a bizarre thread on reddit where someone seems disturbed by the funding structure of Korg. “Why has Korg continued to fund Korg Berlin with basically no output?” writes the poster…perhaps they were under the impression that their tax payer dollars were funding the program?

    Either way, the fact that this discussion is at the top of the search results highlights the scarcity of information out there. Here’s what I know:

    What does the Korg Berlin Phase 8 do?

    The Phase 8 is an 8 voice acoustic synthesis synthesizer that generates sound by electromagnetically striking resonators. The goal is to blend physical vibration with synthesis. I’ve heard people on the internet describe this as a hybrid sound of piano and kalimba, but I’ve also more recently heard some sounds that seem more diverse and potentially deeper coming out of very short Instagram stories.

    In addition to the way it makes sound, the unit also has a sequencer that can be polyrhythmic and it “may” be possible to swap out the resonators. When you look at the photo above or visit the Korg Berlin website to listen to the sound demos created by staff at Korg Berlin, you’ll probably notice the wide variation in color schemes and customization.

    Will these variations in look as well as resonator type be available in the mass produced units? I hope so. Otherwise it would seem like a bit of a mistake to create awesome prototypes that only give the impression that the mass produced units are lesser or more vanilla.

    How does the Korg Berlin Phase 8 sound?

    As I mentioned there are a few videos available on the website, but also there are some demos on YouTube. I’d recommend this one:

    Is it just a potentially expensive Kalimba? I doubt it, I think Korg Berlin has kept information and sound demos very close to their chest. Some of the newer videos emerging on Instagram stories (and sadly disappearing as fast as they come) hint at a very large sonic range. I’m hoping that turns out to be the case.

    When & How Much?

    The unit is supposed to come out in the first quarter (which for non-office drones or accounts means January to March of 2026). And it’s supposed to cost under 1000 Euro (1,163 USD). How that fits into the European and North American cost of living crisis which has become equally a cost of synthesis crisis, I don’t know.

    The price is stiff to be sure, but not unbearable for a piece of gear that could become central in a setup. And that’s the question, will this be the kind of unit that we’re willing to save for and to pass up other options to buy?

    I think my reaction to this will very much depend on the depth and breadth of sound we see once longer and more in-depth videos and sound demos emerge. For now, the GAS is still building.