Korg Volca NuBass Vacuum Tube Synthesizer

A powerful bass synth with a sound source based around a vacuum tube oscillator, the KORG volca nubass is a groundbreaking bass synth implemented with KORG's new-generation vacuum tube: NuTube. This modernized technology is implemented into the oscillator, sub oscillator and drive circuits, creating incredibly warm tones and rich distortions that only a tube can provide. This unique form of sound generation, along with nubass' low-pass ladder filter, delivers countless timbral possibilities.

Compact, battery powered with built-in speakers included, the new volca nubass has everything the modern musician needs to take their music to the next level.

A vacuum tube oscillator circuit forms the heart of volca nubass, utilizing groundbreaking Nutube technology

The Nutube is equipped with two vacuum tubes; one is used in the oscillator to generate a sawtooth wave or square wave. The other vacuum tube is used in the drive circuit of the sub oscillator, adding depth and warmth one octave below the oscillator. This oscillator and sub oscillator provide a circuit structure that brings out the harmonic character that only a real vacuum tube could provide.

A transistor ladder low-pass filter that produces a distinctive sound

The low-pass filter defines the sound of this bass machine; it uses a transistor ladder design found on classic analog bass synths. This filter is uniquely dynamic in the way it affects a sound more than just ranging from bright-to-dark. Its wide range of timbral possibilities makes it ideal for a broad variety of dance music; you can use it to create the distinctive modulation that can be heard in acid house, or increase the resonance to bring out a sharp character that's appropriate for techno.

Analog driver circuit

nubass is equipped with overdrive that uses an analog circuit reminiscent of a classic stompbox. Turning the knob toward the right compresses the volume while causing mild distortion, adding thickness to your bass sounds. The tone knob also lets you adjust the crispness of the high-frequency range.

A 16-step sequencer that lets you automate parameters

The volca nubass is equipped with a full-fledged 16-step sequencer with a variety of functionality; by using it in conjunction with a rhythm machine, you can construct rhythm tracks or loop music. You can use the 16 buttons for step input just like the rest of the volca series, or play the buttons as a keyboard for realtime recording. The chain function lets you play back multiple sequence patterns in succession, allowing you to loop up to 16 sequences.

Three functions to create grooves on volca nubass

The sequencer of the volca nubass provides three functions that add the slap and slide performance techniques that are distinctive of acid bass: these transpose, accent, and slide functions are accessible and controllable through the step sequencer.

Connectors that allow synchronized performance and external control

Since this unit provides a sync jack for easy connection to Korg groove machines, you can connect it to another volca series unit or to equipment such as an electribe or the SQ-1, and enjoy synchronized playback with the sequencer. There's also a standard MIDI IN connector, so you can use the volca drum as a sound module for your DAW.

Specifications

Keyboard: Multi touch Keyboard / step key

Synthesizer Type: Analog synthesis

Maximum Polyphony: 1

Structure: VTO (oscillator, sub-oscillator), VCF, VCA, EG, LFO, Overdrive

Sequencer

Number of parts: 1

Number of Steps: 16 (pattern chain is available)

Number of Recording Patterns: 16 (No.1 - 10 are factory preset)

Connectors

Audio Output: Headphones (3.5mm stereo mini jack)

Sync: Sync In (3.5mm monaural mini jack, Maximum input level: 20V), Sync Out (3.5mm monaural mini jack, Maximum Output level: 5V)

MIDI: MIDI In

Power

Battery Life: Approximately 8 hours (using alkaline batteries)

Power supply: AA alkaline battery 6, AA nickel-metal hydride battery 6, or AC adapter "KA-350" (optional)

Other

Included accessories: Sync cable

Dimensions (W x D x H): 193 115 46 mm / 7.61" x 4.54" x 1.82"

Weight: 370 g / 0.82 lbs. (Excluding batteries)