At the 2018 NAMM Show, Korg is introducing the KR-55 Pro Rhythm and Drum Machine
The Korg KR-55 Pro is designed to be a simple, multi-function rhythm machine, with real recorded drum grooves and mixer/recorder functionality. It offers 24 rhythm styles, designed to reproduce the sound and experience of playing with a percussionist. Each style includes multiple patterns, providing accompaniment for endless recording, thanks to the sophisticated chain function.
Here’s the official video intro:
Features:
- 24 built-in drum/percussion styles that were recorded live using KORG’s proprietary “Real Groove Technology.”
- Each rhythm style includes a rich variety of patterns: two variations, basic, fill-in 1, fill-in 2, and ending.
- Use the chain function to create a rhythm structure for an entire song, and play it automatically.
- A rich array of input jacks includes one XLR mic input, two guitar/bass inputs, and a stereo AUX input, allowing multi-channel mixing.
- A high-quality reverb effect and equalizer are provided, giving you the freedom to shape your sound.
- You can perform along with a rhythm style, and record the combined result as an audio file on an SD card.
- Multi-track recording is supported, allowing you to produce more sophisticated tracks.
- The tuner function features a large meter for good visibility. You can also tune while hearing a guide tone.
- Acoustage technology delivers a spacious sound.
- The unit can be powered on six AA batteries, allowing up to seven hours of use.
A separately sold foot switch lets you control the unit with your foot.
Audio Demos:
Pricing and Availability
See the Korg site for details.
Amid all this confusing analog gear with its lack of presets and blips and bloops, it’s so nice to see a company remember how to make a product the sole purpose of which is to try to make a real musician’s job obsolete.
Looks like a great producto for those who do solo performances at small gigs/venues.
I like the simplicity!
Idea for a “studio” version; would be cool if it spat out MIDI (for using it as a preset rhythm sequencer / simple arranger / fill-ins, etc.) and a nice collection of Korg’s history of drum kits/drum machines?
Is this just a preset machine or can one make their own patterns? I can’t seem to find the UI for such.
too bad it doesn’t have midi sync !
Why does a dork-ball product like this have an SD cart slot, and something like the Volca Sample does not? I’m sure this will cost more than the Volcas, but in terms of functionality this thing seems horrible to me, and the Volca Sample would be far more usable if it could store more songs/patterns/sounds.
Sounds and looks weak compared to the original Korg KR-55
I just ordered this unit. I had the original KR55 back in the day. It was one of the first drum machines to let you put in a fill with a foot switch for off/on and fill. When Roland came out with the CR1000 I started using that. Pre programmed drum machines are a good thing for a solo musician who don’t want to sequence everything. I’m hopeful that I will have enough beats to cover most of the material I cover. I sometimes play with a live drummer and most of what we do is “on the fly.” A good drummer can jump in and play without a lot of rehearsal. A drum machine like this can work great in a live situation where you need solid beats, variations and fills without all the work of programming. Not to mention the ability to allow the musician to taylor the performance to the situation while performing live. If the tone of the unit is good, sounds like real drums and works easily, I can’t think of anything else I personally want. It’s funny how people view these drum machines so differently. I’ve been waiting for years to find a pre-programmed drum machine that actually sounds good. I was almost convinced it would never happen.
Hi Dennis william, after some time and after using it what you think. Thank you