Korg M01 (2010)
A compact M1-sampler-based workstation for the Nintendo DS focused on composition.
Overview
Released in 2010, the Korg M01 faithfully recreates the classic Korg M1 sounds as a sampler-based composition tool for the DS. It emphasizes sequenced composition over synthesis, and introduced many users to arrangement on handheld hardware. While not heavy on sound design, its incredibly varied library means that there is no need to create your own sound design.
Core Features
- M1 soundset including — piano, pads, basses, synths, drums and classic M1 tones
- Step sequencer, mixer, and kaoss-pad style controls
- Geared toward composing rather than live performance
Interesting Info
The M01 offered many of the M1’s famous presets and made them accessible on a portable device. It had limited polyphony due to DS hardware but was praised for its sound palette and accessibility for beginners and sketching ideas. Unfortunately the game was only released in Japan as a amazon exlusive, and copies now sell for 100+ dollars.
Practical Tips
- Because the m01 has limited polyphany, make sure to be efficent when using tracks.
- Use an external speaker that has more low-range for a better listening experience.
- For recording, run a simple aux cable to a line-in port on a pc, and record the output signal with a audio program like audacity.