Korg PS3300 (1977–1981)
An analog synthesizer produced from 1977 to 1981, notable for its triple-section architecture and rarity.
Overview
The Korg PS3300 is a vintage analog synthesizer built by Korg and produced from 1977 to 1981. It is one of the largest and rarest analog synthesizers ever made, often described as equivalent to three PS3100 synthesizers combined, with three resonators and a highly layered sound architecture. The instrument features 48 filters with a 24dB/octave slope, similar in design to the MS20 filter section. It includes two LFOs per synth section, one of which provides a sine wave only. The original model operates on 110V but can be used in 220V regions using an external step-down power supply, which is typically included.
A reissue model, known as the PS-3300 FS, was introduced in 2024 and features aftertouch and 49 keys—“one key more” than the original. Users note tonal differences between the vintage and reissued versions. The PS3300 has been used by artists such as Aphex Twin, contributing to its cult status among analog synth enthusiasts.
Specifications
| Production years | 1977–1981 |
| Filters | 48 filters (24dB/oct MS20-type) |
| LFOs | 2 LFOs per synth section (one with sine wave only) |
| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 1,000 × 245 × 454 mm (39.37 × 9.65 × 17.87 inches) |
| Voltage | 110V (usable with 220V via external step-down power supply) |
| Keys | 49 (PS-3300 FS reissue) |
| Key feature | Aftertouch (PS-3300 FS reissue) |
Design
The PS3300 is built as a triple synthesizer system, effectively combining three PS3100-style sections into one instrument. It uses discrete analog circuitry with 48 MS20-type 24dB/octave resonant filters. Each synth section includes two LFOs, one limited to sine wave output. The architecture allows for complex layering and modulation, contributing to its famously rich and "very fat" sound.
Context
The Korg PS3300 stands as a rare and ambitious analog polyphonic synthesizer from the late 1970s, positioned at the high end of Korg’s early synth lineup. It was succeeded in spirit by the reissued PS-3300 FS in 2024, which updated the original with aftertouch and a slightly expanded keyboard. While not part of a formally documented product family, it is closely associated with the PS3100 and PS3200 through user accounts and architectural similarity.
Market
The reissued PS-3300 FS was listed for sale at $21,000 on Reverb, reflecting its status as a high-end collector’s instrument. Vintage units are exceptionally rare, and the reissue has drawn attention for its tonal differences compared to original models. No common failure modes or maintenance issues are documented.
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