The instrument
The Korg PS-3100, introduced in 1977, is a polyphonic analog synthesizer renowned for its rich and expansive sound. It was part of Korg's PS series, which also included the PS-3200 and PS-3300, but the PS-3100 was the most accessible of the three. The instrument offers a unique combination of features, including a sophisticated modulation system and extensive patching capabilities, making it a favorite among synthesizer enthusiasts and professional musicians alike.
The PS-3100's polyphonic nature and warm, analog sound made it suitable for a wide range of musical applications. Its lush, string-like textures and complex modulations were particularly found in progressive rock and electronic music circles. Despite its relatively limited production run, the PS-3100 remains a highly regarded instrument, known for its unique character and options.
Details
The Korg PS-3100 features 48-note polyphony, with each note having its own oscillator, filter, and amplifier, providing a true polyphonic experience. The oscillators generate sawtooth and pulse waveforms, which can be shaped using the synthesizer's extensive modulation options. One of the standout features of the PS-3100 is its unique patching system, which allows for extensive modulation routing and creative sound design.
The PS-3100 includes a voltage-controlled filter (VCF) with adjustable cutoff and resonance, capable of producing a wide range of tones from warm and smooth to bright and resonant. The synthesizer also features a voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA) with an envelope generator for dynamic control over the sound's amplitude.
A key feature of the PS-3100 is its resonator section, which includes three band-pass filters that can be individually modulated, adding depth and complexity to the sound. Additionally, the instrument includes a frequency modulation (FM) section and a sample-and-hold module, providing further modulation possibilities.