KORG NTS-1 - DIY Digital Synthesizer Module with Multi-Effects and Arpeggiator

KORG NTS-1 - DIY Digital Synthesizer Module with Multi-Effects and Arpeggiator

The KORG Nu:Tekt NTS-1 is a monophonic digital synthesizer module that combines a MULTI Engine oscillator with a multi-mode filter , three LFOs , and three stereo effects processors (modulation, delay, and reverb) in a compact, portable form factor. Supplied as an easy-to-assemble, solderless DIY kit with a tool included, it is fully compatible with the logue-SDK ecosystem for loading user oscillators and user effects created for minilogue xd and prologue. It includes a ribbon keyboard , a multi-mode arpeggiator, stereo audio input for use as an external effects unit, and SYNC and MIDI IN (3.5mm TRS Type A) connectivity. It is powered by USB micro-B (5V) and fits into any studio or live setup.

Main features

• Monophonic sound engine (MULTI Engine): saw, triangle, square and VPM waveforms, with the ability to load user oscillators.
• Multimode filter with resonance: LPF/HPF/BPF in 2 and 4 pole versions, plus OPEN mode.
• Modulation: 1 envelope (EG) and 3 LFOs for precise timbre sculpting.
• Effects processing: 3 stereo blocks (MOD: chorus, ensemble, phaser, flanger; DELAY; REVERB) with dedicated control.
• Advanced Arpeggiator: Ranges, scales and note orders (including random mode), adjustable pattern length from 1 to 24 steps and syncable resolution.
• Logue SDK support: 16 user oscillator slots and user effects slots (MOD, Delay, and Reverb) manageable with the Librarian app.
• Flexible connectivity: 3.5mm (TRS) headphone output, 3.5mm (TRS, stereo) Audio In , Sync In/Out and MIDI IN (3.5mm TRS Type A) for integrating external controllers and sequencers.
• DIY, compact, and robust: Solder-free assembly with included screwdriver; lightweight chassis for on-the-go portability; USB powered.
• Dimensions and weight: 129 × 78 × 39 mm; 124 g.
• Included software: Bundle with creative tools (DAW and plugins) to start producing instantly.

Product benefits

• Big sound in a small package: versatile synthesis, characterful filters, and quality effects in an ultra-compact module.
• Unlimited customization: Expand your palette with third-party or proprietary oscillators and effects thanks to the logue SDK.
• Dual function synth + multi-effects: process external sources in stereo or use it as a synth controlled by any MIDI sequencer.
• Learning and experimentation: ideal for getting started with synthesis, testing out quick ideas with the arpeggiator, and delving deeper into sound design.
• True portability: Works with a USB power bank and fits in any backpack.

Use cases

• Effects module for synthesizers, drum machines or auxiliary mixer outputs, taking advantage of the stereo Audio In.
• Portable monophonic synth for lines, sequences and arpeggios, synchronized with external hardware via Sync or MIDI.
• Sound lab to test user oscillators and user effects from the Logue ecosystem, or upload your own developments.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it polyphonic? No. The NTS-1 is monophonic .
• Can I use it as an external effects unit? Yes. It has a stereo audio input for processing external signals with its MOD/Delay/Reverb blocks. Please note that the input does not normalize from mono to stereo; if you connect a mono source, use a cable/adapter that doubles the channel to L/R.
• Does it support minilogue xd and prologue content? Yes. It's compatible with the logue SDK and supports oscillators and effects created for those models.
• Do I need to solder to assemble it? No. The kit is assembled without soldering and comes with a screwdriver.
• Does USB send/receive MIDI on the original NTS-1? The micro-B USB port is used for power and managing content with the NTS-1 Librarian app. MIDI notes are received through the 3.5 mm TRS (Type A) MIDI input .

Description for projects

DIY monophonic digital synthesizer with 1 oscillator (sawtooth/triangle/square/VPM shapes), LPF/HPF/BPF multimode filter (2/4 poles) with resonance, 1 EG and 3 LFOs; 3 stereo effects processors (MOD: chorus/ensemble/phaser/flanger, Delay, Reverb); arpeggiator with 1–24 step length; logue-SDK support (user slots for oscillators and effects); ribbon keyboard; connectivity: 3.5 mm TRS headphone output, 3.5 mm TRS audio input, Sync In (max. 20 V) and Sync Out (5 V), MIDI IN 3.5 mm TRS Type A, USB micro-B (power/content management); 5 V USB power supply (≤500 mA); 129 × 78 × 39 mm; 124 g; includes USB cable, screwdriver and manual.