Sounds Defy Gravity

The Korg Monotribe was 2011′s geek toy to have, an analog monophonic synth that squeals like a 303 with classic Korg MS-20 filters. It’s a fantastic machine and for $230 it’s one of the least expensive ways to get into subtractive synthesis.A recent update for the Monotribe brings new functionality and improved sequencing  to the device and Korg have recently announced a Mono Mania contest where you can win a 24-karat gold-plated Korg Monotribe (fresh!) But.. (and it’s a big but) the one drawback to this device is that is does not have MIDI capability built-in. This seems to have been a calculated choice as Korg seem to have built this device with modification in mind.

Part of the reason for the Monotribe’s popularity is the open-source attitude that Korg seems to have taken with this product. While opening the device will void your warranty, Korg have included notes on the inside of this product that actually illustrate solder points to MOD your Monotribe for further functionality. Now most of us (myself included) don’t own a soldering iron and haven’t the slightest idea of how to start tinkering with the electronic side of this device. But that’s where Amazing Machines comes in. This Brazilian company is offering a plug-and-play solution to MIDI for the Monotribe for $88US. Check out their site for more info and for a full breakdown of the process involved, Sonic Lab (below) has a nice video that shows what you’ll need to do to install this mod. Positively brilliant. Can’t wait to get our hands on one.