Name: Korg Prophecy
Brand: Korg
Availability: InStock

A monophonic synthesizer using physical modeling and Korg's MOSS synthesis system, released in 1995.

Overview

The Korg Prophecy is a monophonic synthesizer released in 1995, designed for deep, expressive sound creation through advanced digital modeling. Marketed as a "solo synthesizer," it features a 37-note keyboard with both velocity and aftertouch sensitivity, emphasizing performance control. It was one of the earliest commercial synthesizers to implement physical modeling and virtual analog synthesis via Korg’s proprietary MOSS (Multi Oscillator Synthesis System) DSP engine, allowing it to emulate acoustic and analog sounds with dynamic realism. Externally, the unit is noted for its light yet robust construction and oiled walnut wood end panels, giving it a distinctive aesthetic among mid-90s synths.

Specifications

Synthesis Type	Physical modeling based on MOSS DSP
Polyphony	Monophonic
Oscillators	Twelve oscillator sets (each set consists of a pair of oscillators)
Keyboard	37 keys, velocity- and aftertouch-sensitive
Display	40 x 2 LCD
Dimensions	740 mm (w) x 280 mm (h) x 100 mm (d)
Arpeggiator	5 preset patterns, adjustable velocity and gate length, 3 directions: up, down, random

Design

The Prophecy uses Korg’s Open Architecture Synthesis System (OASYS), built around the MOSS DSP platform, enabling multiple synthesis types within a single instrument. Its design centers on real-time expressiveness, with extensive control over oscillator behavior and articulation. The inclusion of twelve oscillator sets—each comprising a pair of oscillators—allows for rich, layered sound generation despite its monophonic nature.

Context

The Prophecy was introduced in 1995 at a price of $1595, positioning it as a premium solo performance synthesizer focused on synthesis innovation rather than polyphony or workstation features. It was praised as an early leader in analog and acoustic modeling, with a source noting its capability by stating, “It's not a new synth — it's seven!” referring to its diverse sound engines.

Market

A listing on Equipboard notes a current market price from $225.79, reflecting its status as a collectible mid-90s digital synth. One unit was described as non-functional with quiet output, though this refers to a single used example and not general reliability.