PS-3300

The legendary KORG PS-3300

Introduced in 1977, the original PS-3300 was a unique and magnificent instrument. The semi-modular predecessor to the MS-20, it boasted a remarkable 144 independent synthesizer voices–three for each of its 48 keys. Renowned for its huge, lush, and unmistakable sound, it captivated pioneering artists including Kraftwerk, Jean-Michel Jarre, Keith Emerson, and Aphex Twin. With fewer than 50 of the original units made, it may be the rarest and most sought-after synthesizer ever created.

In 2024, KORG announced the new limited-edition PS-3300 reissue: artfully hand-crafted, physically imposing, and with a sound every bit as distinctive as the original. Of course, it also features modern improvements, such as extensive MIDI control and program storage. Now, KORG is pleased to present the first true re-creation of this legendary synthesizer in software: the KORG Collection PS-3300.

As one of the very first polyphonic synths, the PS-3300 did practically everything differently. It boasted unorthodox filters, octave-divider oscillators, distinctive envelopes, unconventional modulation, a three-layer design, and a semi-modular patch panel. Its three-band resonators not only generated vocal and string timbres, but could also be modulated for phaser, wah, and other dynamic effects. Variations in analog components meant that each of the 144 voices had its own quirks, creating rich, organic, and not-entirely-predictable sounds. 

KORG’s proprietary CMT technology faithfully reproduces the whole of this experience - unlike any other software instrument.

Modeled and enhanced

While this is by far the best-sounding and most accurate software version of the PS-3300 (see below for more details), KORG didn’t stop there. They have also implemented a host of improvements and modifications while preserving its unique character, including:

• Choice of modeled filters: the refined and gentlemanly PS-3300, or the aggressive MS-20
• Option to have separate envelopes for filter and amplitude, or to use a single envelope as on the original
• For all envelopes, a choice of modeled PS-3300 or modern exp/log shapes
• Additional Modulation Processors, including a Multiplier, Attenuverter, and Lag Processor
• Additional Modulation Generators (aka LFOs)
• Stereo pan, with modulation, for the three synth units
• Modeled Ensemble effect from the PS-3100 and PS-3200
• White and Pink Noise available directly from the Signal Generator (aka oscillator)
• Sample and Hold available directly from Modulation Generators
• Option to link inter-panel oscillator phase, for string synth and combo organ sounds
• Tempo sync options in all appropriate places
• Expanded pitch range–a superset of the vintage and reissue keyboards, plus an extra fifth in the bass
• Built-in mults for all output jacks
• …and many other small but useful enhancements

Features

• Play without patch cables; intuitive knob-based sound design
• Smart patching shows signal flow and hides invalid connections
• On-screen help for every control
• MIDI patch panel with aftertouch, mod wheel, pitch bend, and X-Y support
• 30-slot Mod Matrix for flexible MIDI modulation
• Direct MIDI Mapping for external controllers
• Built-in Ensemble effect plus 31 insert and reverb effects
• Import programs from the hardware PS-3300 reissue
• Authentic analog behavior via KORG Component Modeling Technology (CMT)
• Modeled oscillators, filters, envelopes, and LFOs with true circuit characteristics
• Unique envelope and filter interactions for expressive tone shaping
• Voice Variation modeling across 180 voices for rich, organic sound