Microkorg XL review, kind of

[A E J O T Z]

I've used about ten different synthesizers and my hands-down favorite is the original Microkorg. The little monster sounds fantastic and using it is like playing with the best xmas toy ever. Because I love the MK so much, I've long wanted to try the Microkorg XL version. I finally got one.

The XL must stand for "extra light." It weighs half what the MK does, is all plastic, has super flimsy knobs and sounds like it's being played through a 1960s AM pocket radio. It reminds me of those cheap knock-offs of Casios made by companies you never heard of before.

It's still a usable instrument for me because there are hundreds of new (to me) patches to explore. Plus, the editor has a parameter randomizer! Most of the randomized sounds are shite but once in awhile it makes an interesting one. The XL's thin sound will actually work in my silly music and it sounds so different from the MK and CZ-101 that it will hold its own in the mix.

I don't recommend the XL as a first or only synth, especially when you can get an original MK (or an Alesis Micron, if you hate mini-keys) for $200 USD.