NAMM 2026: After years of anticipation, Korg is set to release the intriguing Phase8 synth. This unique instrument merges acoustic sound with digital control, thanks to a new technology called “Acoustic Synthesis.” The mastermind behind this innovation is Tatsuya “Tats” Takahashi, known for the popular Minilogue and Volca series.
During a presentation at NAMM’s Global Media Day, Tats described the Phase8 as “organic” and “alive.” He emphasized that it transcends traditional boundaries, saying it goes “beyond analogue vs digital” and even “beyond electronics.”
So, what’s so special about Phase8? Think of it as a hybrid combining a synthesizer with an electric kalimba. At its core, there are eight chromatically tuned steel resonators, with a total of 13 included. These resonators produce sound through electromagnetic stimulation and can be physically engaged—plucked, tapped, or strummed. Korg even encourages users to place objects on the instrument for new textures and tones. The instrument features an “Air” slider to adjust the acoustic response when interacting with the resonators.
Phase8 has dedicated controls for each resonator, allowing for precise sound shaping. Users can program sequences or record them live, with eight memory slots to store their work. There’s also a unique Shift knob for adding delayed triggers to resonators in sync with the tempo, providing further creative possibilities.
In terms of connectivity, Phase8 includes MIDI In/Out, USB MIDI, sync options, and CV input. Plus, it has a ¼” audio output and a 3.5mm headphone jack for easy integration into music setups.
Priced at $1,149, the Phase8 represents a bold step in the world of synthesizers, reflecting a growing interest in instruments that blend traditional and innovative sound-making techniques.
According to recent trends, musicians increasingly favor gear that allows for experimentation and organic sound creation. The rise of “live coding” and “generative music” reflects this growing appetite for a more hands-on approach to music-making. The Phase8 could very well be at the forefront of this creative evolution.
For more details, you can visit Korg’s website.
