Korg began in Japan during the 1960s, where they manufactured rhythm machines like the Donca-Matic DA-20 and the Mini Pops. Since then, the company has cultivated a reputation as one of the foremost producers of electronic instruments in the world. Their instruments have consistently maintained an aura of cultural sophistication and historic significance, especially considering the impact the democratization of technology and commercial availability have had on the market.

Historically, Korg had enough foresight about the resurgence of analog technology to become the first mainstream synthesizer company to start producing analog gear again. Instruments such as the Monotron and Volca lines, Monotribe, MS-20 monophonic synthesizer re-release, and both the Minilogue and Monologue synthesizers have established the precedent for affordable analog synthesizers just as the very concept of “analog” was reintegrated into the current zeitgeist.

Functionally, Korg consistently manages to infuse their instruments with an air of legibility that propels them to mainstream visibility. In 2016, Korg collaborated with legendary musician Richard D. James for presets, scales, and sounds for their Monologue monophonic synthesizer, which serves as a perfect entryway into the world of synthesis.