The Korg Poly800 is a polyphonic analog synthesizer that was first introduced in 1983. It was designed as a low-cost alternative to the more expensive polyphonic synthesizers of the time.
The Poly800 features a 49-note keyboard and is capable of producing up to eight voices of polyphony. It includes two oscillators per voice, as well as a low-pass filter, envelope generator, and modulation options.
One of the standout features of the Poly800 is its built-in digital delay effect, which can add depth and dimension to the sound. The delay effect can be adjusted to create a variety of textures, from subtle to intense.
The Poly800’s sound is often described as warm and rich, with a distinctive character that is distinct from other synthesizers. Its analog oscillators and filters give it a classic and vintage sound that is popular among musicians and producers.
The Poly800 has been used by many notable musicians, particularly in the genres of synth-pop and new wave. It was known for its versatility and ease of use, and its affordable price made it accessible to a wide range of musicians.
Today, the Poly800 remains a popular instrument among vintage synthesizer enthusiasts and has been emulated in software synthesizers and hardware clones. Its warm and classic sound continues to inspire musicians and producers around the world.
The Korg Poly800 was a popular synthesizer during the 1980s and was used by many notable musicians in various genres. Here are a few examples of popular artists who used the Korg Poly800 in their music:
- Vince Clarke (Erasure, Depeche Mode) – Clarke used the Poly800 extensively in his work with Erasure and on his solo album “Reset”.
- The Human League – The Poly800 was used on their hit song “Don’t You Want Me”.
- The Orb – The Poly800 was used on their classic ambient album “The Orb’s Adventures Beyond the Ultraworld”.
- The Prodigy – The Poly800 was used on their hit single “Charly”.
- The Eurythmics – The Poly800 was used on their album “Savage” and on their hit song “Here Comes the Rain Again”.
These are just a few examples of the many artists who used the Korg Poly800 in their music during the 1980s. The synthesizer’s affordability, versatility, and warm sound made it a popular choice for many musicians at the time.
The Korg Poly800 is known for its warm and classic analog sound, which is created by its two voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) per voice, and a low-pass filter with resonance. The synthesizer also includes an envelope generator, modulation options, and a built-in digital delay effect.
The sound of the Poly800 is often described as rich and full, with a character that is distinct from other synthesizers. The analog oscillators and filter give it a classic and vintage sound that is popular among musicians and producers.
The Poly800’s sound is particularly well-suited to creating rich and textured pads and strings, as well as warm bass and lead sounds. The synthesizer’s digital delay effect can be used to create a variety of effects, from subtle echoes to more pronounced repeats.
Overall, the Poly800’s sound is versatile and expressive, with a warm and organic quality that has made it a favorite of many musicians and producers.