The Korg Minilogue XD is an upgraded version of the base model and is a versatile and powerful analog synthesizer that has quickly become a favorite among musicians and producers.

It is designed for both beginners and experienced players and offers a wide range of features and capabilities for creating unique and innovative sounds.

This review will look at the main features of this instrument and break down what makes it one of the best mini-synths.

The Korg Minilogue XD is a polyphonic analog synthesizer released in 2019 and is an updated version of the original Minilogue.

The XD model adds a digital oscillator, a multi-engine, and an effects section to the analog architecture of the original, allowing for a greater range of sound-shaping possibilities.

Here are some of the key specifications of the Korg Minilogue XD:

The Korg Minilogue XD is a four-voice polyphonic synthesizer with two oscillators, a filter, an LFO, and a range of effects. It is also a completely new Minilogue, with its own unique sounds and characteristics.

It combines the best elements of the Prologue, Monologue, and original Minilogue, to create an even better instrument.

The sound is improved and has been described as warmer, fatter, grittier, and having a more dynamic sound with deeper bass tones. The Korg Minilogue XD also includes micro-tuning.

The Minilogue XD can sound both warm and aggressive. It is a versatile instrument with the ability to create warm pads and heavy saw leads.

The VPM (Variable Phase Modulation) FM mode has 16 oscillators and a mod envelope, which are carried over from the Prologue synth.

VPM has classic FM EPs, strings, and metallic sounds. Also carried over are the cross mod, sync, and ring mod. The XD can create a variety of sine, square, and saw-wave sounds.

The Minilogue XD’s digital oscillator is capable of generating a wide range of user-customizable waveforms.

The multi-engine section also allows users to load custom oscillators and effects created using Korg’s software development kit (SDK), greatly expanding the synth’s sound-shaping capabilities.

The Minilogue XD’s effects section is a major upgrade over the original Minilogue, with three independent effect types that can be used simultaneously.

The effects can be assigned to different sections of the synth (oscillators, filter, amp) or used globally, and include a variety of delay, reverb, and modulation effects. There is a three-way mixer with level controls for VCO1, 2, and the Multi-Engine.

You can push the VCO levels and use the two-position filter drive switch to push the XD’s mixer and filter into overdrive.

The XD has a more powerful yet simplified 16-button, 16-step sequencer, with a customizable Multi-Engine and effects.

This sequencer allows for the creation of complex and dynamic patterns and expands your creative workflow. There are also motion-sequenceable stereo effects and outputs.

In terms of the front panel, the Minilogue XD features a relatively straightforward layout that should be familiar to anyone who has used a subtractive synthesizer before and has not changed much compared to the base model.

The synth’s key parameters are accessible via dedicated knobs and buttons. There is also a small LCD screen that displays patch information and other settings.

There are also new stereo outputs, a new damper pedal jack, and dual-CV inputs which allow you to connect with modular gear.

The Korg Minilogue features a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to transport and use on stage or in the studio. It has a sleek and modern appearance, with a high-quality build that feels solid and durable.

The keybed is the same as the original with slim keys and 3 octaves. You can play super-fast lines easily and span a wider range than with full-size keys.

It is also compact and portable so it can fit in tight setups at home and on stage. There is a new spring-loaded joystick on the panel that is very useful for pitch bend and expression.

The Korg Minilogue is designed with ease of use in mind, with a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy to create and edit sounds. It features a small LCD screen that provides visual feedback on your waveforms.

The Minilogue also includes a range of high-quality, durable, and ergonomic knobs and buttons that allow for quick and easy adjustments to your sound.

The Korg Minilogue is a highly capable performance instrument, with a range of features that make it ideal for live playing.

It includes a range of MIDI capabilities, allowing it to be used as a controller for other instruments or as a sound module for a computer.

Additionally, the Minilogue features a built-in arpeggiator and a range of performance controls that make it easy to create dynamic and expressive performances.

The Korg Minilogue is also a powerful recording tool, with a range of input and output options that make it easy to integrate with other recording hardware and software.

The USB port allows for easy connection to a computer, as well as MIDI and audio inputs and outputs.

Whilst the Korg Synth line-up is impressive, their workstations are all-encompassing instruments that are almost overwhelming in scope.

Specifically, their Kronos and Nautilus workstation pianos are a pianist or producer’s dream for the studio or stage and they are both an ideal all-in-one music-making solution. You can check out the review for both of these instruments below.

Overall, the Korg Minilogue XD is a powerful and versatile synthesizer that combines the warmth and character of analog synthesis with the flexibility and digital control of modern synthesis techniques.

It is a highly capable and versatile analog synthesizer that offers a wide range of features and capabilities for both beginners and experienced players.

Its sound quality overall is excellent, with rich analog tones that are perfect for a range of musical styles. Its compact size, ease of use, and affordability make it an excellent choice for musicians who are looking for a portable and powerful synthesizer.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for a first synth or a seasoned pro looking for a new sound-shaping tool, the Minilogue XD is worth considering.