KORG Volca Drum - Digital Percussion Synthesizer with Waveguide Resonator and 16-Step Sequencer

KORG Volca Drum - Digital Percussion Synthesizer with Waveguide Resonator and 16-Step Sequencer

The KORG volca drum is a digital percussion synthesizer that breaks away from conventional drum machines. Its next-generation DSP engine builds sounds from flexible triggers , wave folders , and overdrive , and brings them to life with a physically modeled Waveguide resonator with Tube and String modes . The architecture offers six independent parts , each with two editable layers (waveform, pitch shifter, and amplitude envelope), for designing everything from realistic hits to experimental timbres. This is all integrated with a 16-step sequencer with Motion Sequence , pattern chaining up to 256 steps , and creative tools like Active Step , Slice , Accent (16 levels), and Choke . It includes a high-bright LCD display , built-in speaker , standard MIDI IN , and analog Sync In/Out ; it runs on six AA batteries (≈10 h) or the optional KA-350 adapter.

Main features

• 6-part × 2-layer digital engine : each part with a choice of waveforms (sine, saw, filtered noises), pitch modulators , and amplitude EG ; layer-by-layer or linked editing.
• Waveguide resonator with Tube / String and DECAY , BODY , TUNE controls for adding body/tension type resonances and tails.
• 16-step volca sequencer with step /real-time recording, Motion Sequence (automates numerous parameters), Pattern Chain up to 256 steps .
• Performance functions: Active Step , Step Jump , Slice (ratchets), Accent in 16 levels and Choke by groups.
• Two Randomize functions : randomize sound parameters (per part) or step edits (step/slice/accent/active step) of a part.
• Memory : 16 Kits (10 factory) and 16 Programs (10 factory) with patterns, motion and assigned kit.
• Connectivity : 3.5 mm headphone output, Sync In/Out (minijack; OUT 5 V/15 ms; IN max. 20 V), standard MIDI IN (module for DAW/keyboard).
• Portability : Built-in speaker and 6xAA power supply (≈10 h). Includes 6x AA batteries for verification and sync cable .
• Compact size : 193 × 115 × 39 mm ; 370 g (without batteries).

Product benefits

• Wide sound design : from crisp electronic thump to metallic/organic textures thanks to wave folding , overdrive and physical resonator.
• Instant creative flow : Fast sequencer with automation and variation functions ( randomize , slice , active step ) for dynamic performances.
• Easy integration : use it alone (speaker/batteries), synchronized via Sync with other volca/electribe devices, or as a MIDI module in your DAW.

Use cases (guidelines)

• Direct : Chain patterns to 256 steps, automate sends to the resonator and apply slices for rhythmic climaxes.
• Hybrid Studio : Sequence from your DAW via MIDI IN and capture stereo output from the headphone jack.
• Portable Jams : batteries + speaker for ideas on the fly; sync with other volca devices via Sync .

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does it have a built-in speaker? Yes, for instant monitoring without additional equipment.
• Can I sync it with other devices? Yes, via Sync In/Out (3.5 mm); it also has a MIDI IN for external control.
• What's stored in each program? The 16-step pattern, the Motion Sequences , and the associated Kit .

Description for projects

Digital percussion synthesizer with 6-part × 2-layer structure; Waveguide resonator ( Tube / String modes); 16-step sequencer with Motion Sequence and Pattern Chain up to 256 steps ; Active Step , Slice , Accent (16 levels), Choke and Randomize functions (sound or steps per part); memory for 16 Kits (10 presets) and 16 Programs (10 presets); connectivity: 3.5 mm headphones , Sync In/Out (OUT 5 V/15 ms; IN max. 20 V), MIDI IN ; built-in speaker ; power supply: 6×AA (≈10 h) or KA-350 (optional); includes 6 AA batteries and Sync cable ; dimensions: 193 × 115 × 39 mm ; weight: 370 g (without batteries).