KORG NTS-1 Digital Kit MKII - DIY Programmable Synthesizer Module with Multi-Touch Keyboard, Sequencer, and Effects

KORG NTS-1 Digital Kit MKII - DIY Programmable Synthesizer Module with Multi-Touch Keyboard, Sequencer, and Effects

The Korg NTS-1 digital kit mkII condenses a synthesizer and effects unit into a DIY kit that assembles in minutes and fits in the palm of your hand. This second generation debuts an 18-key multi-touch keyboard , integrated sequencer , more processing power and a revamped logueSDK for loading user oscillators and effects . The engine combines 1 VCO , multi-mode filter , 1 envelope and 3 LFOs , and a chain of three effects blocks (MOD, DELAY, REVERB) with creative new variants such as tape delay , shimmer , distortions, fuzz and Oscillator OFF / Filter THRU functions . With MIDI IN/OUT , SYNC IN/OUT , AUDIO IN (which can even be used as a modulation source to create FM/AM/Ring) and USB-C for power and data, it's a versatile tool for studio, live and sound design.

Main features

• New 18-key multi-touch keyboard for precise playing and sequencing.
• 8-step sequencer with live and step recording, per-note gate and velocity , and autosave of last state (including sequencer data).
• Synthesis engine : 1 VCO, multimode filter , 1 EG and 3 LFOs; built-in arpeggiator.
• Internal effects in 3 blocks: MOD ( chorus , ensemble , phaser , flanger , soft/hard clip , sine fold , fuzz ), Delay and Reverb with new variants (e.g. tape delay and extended reverbs).
• Updated logueSDK : loading of user oscillators and effects (mkII not compatible with original NTS-1 plugins ); management with KORG KONTROL Editor and 100 memories recallable from the computer.
• Expanded Connectivity : MIDI IN/OUT (3.5mm TRS), SYNC IN/OUT (3.5mm TRS), AUDIO IN and AUDIO OUT/Headphone (3.5mm), USB-C (Power/MIDI/Management).
• MIDI Control : Most parameters are available via MIDI CC ; the internal sequencer can control external equipment via MIDI OUT.
• Physical customization : reversible side panels (silver/black anodized) and same shape/dimensions as the first version for accessory compatibility.
• Ultra-compact form factor : 129 × 78 × 39 mm and 122 g; USB-C bus powered (≤ 500 mA).

Product benefits

• Instant creativity : Play, record, and save ideas on the fly with the multi-touch keyboard, arpeggiator, and 8-step sequencer.
• Expanding Palette : Add user oscillators/effects with the logueSDK and focus on designing your own sound character.
• Central to your setup : Use the MIDI OUT to sequence other synths, drum machines, or modules; integrate external signals via the AUDIO IN and modulate them (FM/AM/Ring).
• True portability : fits in any backpack, is powered by USB-C, and offers standard audio and sync connections.

Use cases

• Hybrid studio : as a stereo effects module, creative drone or auxiliary MIDI sequencer.
• Direct : triggering short motifs, fills with the sequencer and textures with tape delay /expansive reverbs.
• Learning/DIY : Gateway to development with logueSDK and synthesis with clear controls.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it compatible with the original NTS-1 plugins ? No. The mkII uses an updated SDK; it employs mkII-specific plugins .
• Is it polyphonic? The keyboard can send MIDI notes polyphonically ; the internal response will depend on the loaded oscillator/effect and the programming.
• How do I load user oscillators/effects? Use the KORG KONTROL Editor (Win/Mac) by dragging the “user unit” file and sending it to the NTS-1 mkII.

Description for projects

Korg NTS-1 digital kit mkII synthesizer module (DIY): 18-key multi-touch keyboard; 8-step sequencer (live/step, gate and velocity per note, autosave function); engine with 1 VCO , multi-mode filter , 1 EG , 3 LFOs and arpeggiator; MOD/DELAY/REVERB effects (chorus, ensemble, phaser, flanger, soft/hard clip , sine fold , fuzz , etc.); AUDIO IN usable as modulation source (FM/AM/Ring); connectivity: AUDIO OUT/headphones 3.5 mm , AUDIO IN 3.5 mm , SYNC IN/OUT (TRS 3.5 mm), MIDI IN/OUT (TRS 3.5 mm), USB-C ; USB bus powered power supply (≤ 500 mA); dimensions 129 × 78 × 39 mm ; weight 122 g . Includes USB cable and assembly instructions .