Korg SGproX Stage Piano/Controller
July 11, 1997
Korg announces the introduction of the SGproX Stage Piano/Controller at this year's Summer NAMM Session. The SGproX is the next generation of Korg's popular SGX-1D Electric Piano, and combines the feel and sounds required by demanding keyboardists with the power of a comprehensive MIDI master controller.
The SGproX features an 88-note, weighted-action keyboard (with velocity & aftertouch sensitivity), 64-voice polyphony for absolute musical expression, 64 on-board sounds and two independent digital multi-effects processors. The SGproX allows for control of up to ten timbres (eight external/two internal), and functions as a fully-professional master keyboard controller with up to ten zones for keyboard splits and layers. In addition, eight assignable controllers are provided to control a variety of MIDI functions. Sixty-four Performance Memories are provided to store these multi-timbre controller setups.
Korg's SGproX has ideal on-board sounds with flexible editing control of sounds and effects.
At the heart of the SGproX are Korg's new stereo piano samples, with full dynamics and natural spaciousness. These stereo samples are powerful and expressive, drawing on the experience and voicing-technology Korg professional instruments are known for, particularly emphasizing the lows and mid-range. Korg's voicing team carefully crafted the velocity switching, providing for natural tonal changes and dynamics that immediately respond to the player's touch. In addition to the new stereo acoustic piano sample, the SGproX features the legendary Korg SG-1D mono piano samples, as well as other popular keyboard sounds such as: Electric Pianos, Clavinet, Combo & Pipe Organs, Vibes & Strings, Bells, Synth Pads and Electric & Acoustic Bass. All 64 on-board sounds can be edited by adjusting the attack, decay, release, brightness, keytouch and scale type. The SGproX also features two studio-quality, programmable, stereo digital multi-effects processors, with twelve types of effects possibilities. Hyper Enhancer, a new digital effect developed specifically for the piano samples, adds depth and impact to the sound. An additional five-band graphic equalizer is also provided.
As a Master Keyboard/Controller, the SGproX provides extensive control over all MIDI parameters for live performance.
The Korg SGproX performs as a fully professional master keyboard, with up to ten zones for keyboard splits and layers. Two sets of MIDI connectors are provided, allowing external tone generators to be controlled from a total of four MIDI OUTs. The SGproX allows for control of a total of ten timbres; two timbres on the internal tone generator and eight on external tone generators. Full command over all parameters for volume, panning, key range and controller settings is provided, enabling the user to create customized performance setups. A combination of up to ten timbres can be saved as a Performance, and 64 Performances can be stored in SGproX's internal memory. These can be selected directly using front panel switches for maximum speed during live performance.
The Korg SGproX boasts a total of eight hardware controllers to support its master keyboard functionality: two assignable wheels are placed at the left side of the instrument and there are four assignable sliders on the front panel, with optional assignable pedal and switch inputs provided. MIDI messages can be freely assigned to these controllers, for control of up to eight external tone generators or the SGproX itself.
The MIDI specification defines a number of controls which are implemented by a combination of two or more different MIDI messages. The SGproX provides easy transmission of frequently-used messages (such as those related to tuning and pitch bend) as a set. For example, the tuning message that normally requires specifying four messages can be set up simply by specifying one message. This makes controlling a number of MIDI devices easier than ever before.
The SXproX's Intuitive panel layout is designed for smooth, easy operation.
The SGproX is designed for easy, intuitive operation, with dedicated
switches provided for one-touch selection of the most frequently used functions. Sixteen switches allow selection of internal preset sounds or Performances. For quick performance setup, a dedicated button is also provided for split and layer.
The SGproX also offers dedicated switches for both equalizer and effect on/off. Parameters for a variety of functions in program edit, performance edit and global are screened directly on the front panel. Flipping through endless display pages to find the right parameter are a thing of the past with the SGproX.
A large, easy-to-read 40-character display is backlit for superb visibility even on the most dimly lit stages. The SGproX weighs in at just over 52 lbs. and is available with a wide variety of optional Damper, Pedal Switches, Volume and Expression pedals, further enhancing the SGproX's live performance capabilities.
The Korg SGproX provides what every live performance and studio musician needs: great sound and feel, advanced master controller features and functionality, ease-of-use and portability. The Korg SGproX has a suggested retail price of $2600.00 and will be available in August, 1997. For more information, visit their web site at www.korg.com. | 
