KORG KROSS 2-61 - 61-key workstation with sampler, 16 pads, and USB audio (matte black)

KORG KROSS 2-61 - 61-key workstation with sampler, 16 pads, and USB audio (matte black)

The KORG KROSS 2-61 is an ultra-light professional workstation that packs synthesis, sampling, sequencing, and effects into a portable unit powered by an adapter or AA batteries . Its EDS-i engine offers 120-voice polyphony , over 1,000 factory programs (1,075 total between presets and GM2) and 134 effect types . PCM memory includes 128 MB for library expansion and a factory waveform set with hundreds of multisamples and drumsamples to cover any style. It includes 16 pads for sample triggering (up to 14 stereo s per pad , with simultaneous playback of 4 pads ) and a 48 kHz/16-bit audio recorder to SD card for capturing rehearsals and performances.

The production section integrates a 16-track MIDI sequencer , Drum Track , dual arpeggiators , and a step-sequencer with up to 64 steps per program, combo, or song. The integrated USB audio interface allows the KROSS 2 to be used as an audio/MIDI interface with Windows and macOS, and also works with iOS via suitable adapters. Whether live or in the studio, its line and mic inputs , L/R and headphone outputs, and assignable footswitches facilitate a compact setup . All this in a chassis weighing just 3.8 kg , with a matte black design and an approximate battery life of 6–7 hours on 6 AA batteries.

Main features

• Keyboard : 61 velocity-sensitive keys (C2–C7, no aftertouch), light response for agile playing.
• Sound engine : EDS-i (Enhanced Definition Synthesis-integrated) with multimode filters and advanced modulation.
• Polyphony : up to 120 voices (varies depending on the use of stereo multisamples and layers).
• Programs/Combis/Kits : 1,075 factory programs (810 preloads + 265 GM2); 896 combis (384 preloads) and 58 drum kits (42 preloads).
• PCM Memory : Approx. 128 MB factory default; 128 MB extra for expansion (KORG options).
• Effects : 5 Insert + 2 Master (134 types), stereo side-chain for compressor/gate/vocoder.
• Pad Sampler : 16 pads × 8 banks; up to 14 stereo s per pad , 4 simultaneous pads ; editing with normalize , loops, and start/end points; 44.1/48 kHz 16-bit WAV import.
• Audio Recorder : WAV 48 kHz/16-bit to SD (up to ~ 3 h continuous, 200 songs).
• Sequencing : MIDI 16 tracks (up to 210,000 events ), tempo 40–300 BPM, 772 drum patterns.
• Arpeggiators and Step-seq : 2 Combi/Seq arpeggiators; 64-step step-sequencer ; 1,024 preloaded arpeggios (1,280 user-defined).
• Connectivity : USB type B (audio/MIDI), MIDI DIN In/Out, LINE IN stereo minijack, MIC IN jack (without phantom), OUTPUT L/R 1/4”, 3.5 mm headphones; SD/SDHC slot.
• Controls : Pitch/Mod wheels, 2 assignable buttons (SW1/SW2), 2 real-time control knobs ; Damper (half pedal), switch , and assignable continuous pedal inputs.
• Mobility : weight 3.8 kg , consumption 5 W , operation with 6 × AA ~ 6–7 h .

Product benefits

• True all-in-one : synthesizer, sampler, sequencer and effects ready to produce without a computer.
• Fast Flow : 16 pads for sample triggering, direct step-seq and real-time control section.
• Stage-ready sound : Over 1,000 powerful presets, EDM kits, and 134 effects for mixing right on the machine.
• Integrated audio/MIDI interface : Connect via USB to Windows/macOS and even iOS to record or add instruments to apps .
• Extreme portability : 3.8 kg and battery-powered for rehearsals, gigs and sessions without depending on power.

Use cases

• Live : combos with 2 arpeggiators and Drum Track, instant sound changes and pads for samples /playbacks.
• Mobile production : 16-track sequencer + SD audio recorder for complete demos without a DAW.
• Hybrid Studio : Use it as a USB interface and master keyboard; import WAVs or resample the KROSS 2's own output.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much can I sample per pad? Up to 14 stereo seconds per pad; 4 pads can be triggered simultaneously.
• Can I record long audio? Yes, in 48 kHz/16-bit WAV to an SD card (up to ~ 3 hours , depending on the SD card).
• Does it work as a USB audio interface? Yes, it sends/receives audio and MIDI over USB with Windows/macOS and is compatible with iOS via adapters.
• Can it be used with batteries? Yes, with 6 × AA batteries (approx. 6–7 h ), plus an included adapter.

Description for projects

Workstation with 61-key (C2–C7) velocity-sensitive keyboard; EDS-i engine; 120 polyphony . Total factory programs : 1,075 (810 preload + 265 GM2); 896 combis (384 preload); 58 kits (42 preload). Effects: 5 Insert + 2 Master (134 types). Pad sampler : 16 pads × 8 banks, up to 14 stereo/pad s , 4 simultaneous pads; 44.1/48 kHz 16-bit WAV import; normalize/loop editing. Audio recorder : 48 kHz/16-bit WAV to SD (max. 3 h/200 songs). MIDI sequencer: 16 tracks (up to 210,000 events); 64-step step-seq ; Drum Track (772 patterns); 2 arpeggiators. Connectivity: USB-B (audio/MIDI), MIDI In/Out, Line In stereo minijack, Mic In 1/4” (no phantom power), Out L/R 1/4”, 3.5 mm headphones, SD/SDHC slot (up to 32 GB); Damper/Assign Switch/Assign Pedal inputs. Power supply: DC 9 V or 6 × AA (≈6–7 h); consumption 5 W. Dimensions 935 × 269 × 88 mm ; weight 3.8 kg ; includes AC adapter and quick start guide; matte black finish.