Korg Monotribe (2011)

Name: Korg Monotribe
Brand: Korg
Availability: InStock

A single-voice analog groove-box with ribbon keyboard and Electribe-style sequencing, released as part of Korg's analog revival

Overview

The Korg Monotribe is a compact analog synthesizer and rhythm machine designed as a hands-on, menu-free instrument for immediate playability. Released in 2011 and presented at Musikmesse that year, it evolved from the pocket-sized Monotron into a more structured analog groove-box with built-in sequencer and drum section. Designed by Hiroaki Nashijima, the Monotribe combines a monophonic analog voice with a 3-part analog drum section, all controlled via a ribbon keyboard and step sequencer. It was positioned as a fun, affordable way to explore analog synthesis and rhythm creation, with no LCD display or menus to navigate—offering direct access to its discrete analog circuitry. The device received a firmware update to OS 2.0, introducing 16-step sequencing and expanding its musical capabilities.

Specifications

Voice architecture	single monophonic voice
Synthesis components	Analog VCO, VCA, and VCF
Drum section	3-part analog drums, using discrete analog circuitry
Sequencer	Step Sequencer; OS 2.0 adds 16 Step Sequencing
LFO	Multi-Function LFO
Keyboard	Ribbon Keyboard
Circuitry	discrete analog circuitry
Connectivity	no MIDI or USB connections
Product type	synthesizer / rhythm synth
Finish available	Black

Design

The Monotribe uses discrete analog circuitry throughout, with dedicated analog VCO, VCF, and VCA for its monophonic voice, and a separate 3-part analog drum section. It features a ribbon keyboard for pitch control and a step sequencer inspired by the Electribe series, allowing intuitive pattern creation without menu diving. The interface is fully knob-per-function with no LCD display, emphasizing immediacy and tactile control. Though it lacks built-in MIDI or USB, third-party solutions like the MIDITRIBE I/O were developed to add MIDI connectivity.

Context

The Monotribe was released in 2011 as part of Korg’s renewed focus on analog synthesis, following the release of the Monotron—the company’s first analog synthesizer in 25 years. It expanded on the Monotron’s concept by adding sequencing, rhythm, and performance controls, transforming it from a simple analog toy into a functional analog groove-box. Marketed as a compact, musical instrument for experimentation and live use, it bridged the gap between Korg’s analog legacy and modern portable synthesis.

Market

The Monotribe was listed by retailer Hard To Find at £169 (approximately $277) at launch. Used units have appeared in listings with prices starting as low as $12.00. Reverb lists production years as 2011–2026, though official confirmation of continued production beyond the early 2010s is not available.