Korg Volca Keys Analogue Loop Synthesizer User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Korg Volca Keys is a compact and portable analog synthesizer designed for creating a wide range of sounds, from classic analog tones to complex patterns. It features a simple yet powerful interface, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced musicians.

• Compact and Portable: Lightweight design with 27 touch-sensitive keys, ideal for on-the-go music creation or small studio setups.
• Three-Voice Polyphony: Capable of playing chords and layered sounds for rich sonic textures.
• Built-in 16-Step Sequencer: Create and store complex melodic and rhythmic patterns with motion sequencing capabilities.
• Classic Analog Tones: Authentic analog sound engine with versatile modulation and delay effects.
• Flexible Power Options: Operates on batteries for portability or via an optional AC adapter for extended use.
• Connectivity: Includes MIDI input for integration with other devices and sync capabilities with other Korg Volca series units.

Figure 1: Front view of the Korg Volca Keys synthesizer.

2. Setup

2.1 Powering the Unit

The Volca Keys can be powered by either AA batteries or an optional 9V DC power adapter (not included).

• Battery Installation: Open the battery compartment on the bottom of the unit. Insert 6 AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
• AC Adapter: If using an AC adapter, connect it to the DC 9V input jack on the rear panel.

2.2 Initial Connections

Before operation, connect your Volca Keys to an audio output device such as headphones, an amplifier, or a mixer.

• Audio Output: Connect headphones or an audio cable to the 3.5mm stereo mini-jack output.
• MIDI Input: For external control, connect a MIDI cable from your MIDI controller or DAW to the MIDI IN port.
• Sync In/Out: Use the Sync In/Out jacks to synchronize the Volca Keys with other Volca series units or compatible devices.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Controls and Interface Overview

The Volca Keys features a clearly laid out control panel. Familiarize yourself with the main sections:

Figure 2: Top-down view of the Korg Volca Keys control panel.

• VCO (Voltage Controlled Oscillator) Section: Controls the core sound generation.
  • Poly: Selects voice modes (Poly, Unison, Octave, Fifth, Ring).
  • Detune: Adjusts the pitch difference between oscillators in Unison mode.
  • Portamento: Controls the glide time between notes.
• VCF (Voltage Controlled Filter) Section: Shapes the timbre of the sound.
  • Cutoff: Sets the filter's cutoff frequency.
  • Peak: Adjusts the filter resonance.
  • EG Int: Controls the envelope generator's intensity on the filter.
• LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) Section: Adds modulation to various parameters.
  • Rate: Adjusts the LFO speed.
  • Pitch Int: Controls LFO intensity on pitch.
  • Cutoff Int: Controls LFO intensity on filter cutoff.
• EG (Envelope Generator) Section: Defines the sound's amplitude over time.
  • Attack: Controls the time it takes for the sound to reach its peak volume.
  • Decay/Release: Controls the decay time after the attack and the release time after the key is released.
  • Sustain: Controls the level the sound holds while a key is pressed.
• Delay Section: Adds an echo effect to the sound.
  • Time: Adjusts the delay time.
  • Feedback: Controls the number of repeats.
• Global Controls:
  • Volume: Master output level.
  • Tempo: Controls the sequencer playback speed.
  • Memory: Accesses saved patterns.
  • Func: Activates secondary functions of keys and knobs.
• Keyboard/Sequencer Section:
  • Touch Keyboard: Play notes directly.
  • Step Buttons (1-16): Used for step sequencing and selecting various functions.
  • Motion Sequence: Records knob movements into the sequence.

3.2 Basic Operation

To begin, ensure the unit is powered on. The built-in speaker allows for immediate sound output.

• Playing Notes: Use the touch-sensitive keyboard to play notes. Adjust the OCTAVE knob to change the pitch range.
• Sound Sculpting: Experiment with the VCO, VCF, LFO, and EG knobs to create different sounds.
• Adding Delay: Use the TIME and FEEDBACK knobs in the DELAY section to add an echo effect.

3.3 Sequencer Operation

The 16-step sequencer allows you to record and play back musical phrases.

• Recording a Pattern:
  1. Press the REC button (located above the WRITE button). The button will light up.
  2. Play notes on the touch keyboard. Each note played will be recorded as a step.
  3. Press REC again to stop recording.
• Playing a Pattern: Press the PLAY button (located above the MEMORY button).
• Motion Sequence Recording: While recording or playing a pattern, turn any knob to record its movements into the sequence. This adds dynamic changes to your sound.
• Saving a Pattern:
  1. Hold the FUNC button.
  2. Press the WRITE button.
  3. Select a memory slot (M1-M8) using the corresponding step button. The button will flash, then light solid when saved.
• Loading a Pattern:
  1. Hold the FUNC button.
  2. Press the MEMORY button.
  3. Select a memory slot (M1-M8) using the corresponding step button.

Figure 3: Hands-on interaction with the Volca Keys.

3.4 Voice Modes

The Volca Keys offers several voice modes to alter its sonic character:

• Poly: Standard polyphonic mode, allowing multiple notes to be played simultaneously.
• Unison: All three oscillators play the same note, creating a thick, powerful sound. Use the DETUNE knob to spread the oscillators.
• Octave: Oscillators are layered in octaves.
• Fifth: Oscillators are layered with a perfect fifth interval.
• Ring: Activates ring modulation for metallic or bell-like tones.

3.5 Synchronization and MIDI

The Volca Keys can be integrated into a larger setup:

• Sync: Connect the SYNC OUT of one Volca unit to the SYNC IN of another to synchronize their tempos and sequencers.
• MIDI: Use the MIDI IN port to control the Volca Keys from an external MIDI keyboard, sequencer, or computer. This allows for more precise note input and parameter control.

3.6 Official Product Video

4. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Battery Care: Remove batteries if the unit will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
• Storage: Store the Volca Keys in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

5. Troubleshooting

If problems persist, consult the official Korg support resources.

6. Specifications

• Model Name: VOLCAKEYS
• Manufacturer: Korg
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 8 x 5 x 2 inches (approx.)
• Item Weight: 1 pound (approx.)
• Body Material: Alloy Steel
• Color: Black
• Number of Keyboard Keys: 27
• Power Source: Battery Powered (6 AA batteries included) or optional 9V DC adapter
• Connectivity: MIDI IN, Sync IN/OUT, Audio Out (3.5mm stereo mini-jack)

7. Warranty and Support

Korg products are designed for reliability and performance. For detailed warranty information specific to your region and product, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Korg website.

For technical support, FAQs, and additional resources, please visit the Korg official support page:

Korg Official Support