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Korg TR-88 - Image 1

Korg TR-88

KeyboardDigitalPolyphonic

Back in 2006, this workstation doubled the waveform memory of its Triton LE predecessor to 64MB, packing in stereo piano samples and fresh dance percussion that gave it a noticeable edge for realistic acoustic tones in a digital package.

It runs on Korg's HI synthesis system with a 48kHz sampling frequency, delivering 62 voices of polyphony through 470 multisamples and 518 drum kits, complete with 24dB/12dB low- or high-pass filters, two LFOs, and envelopes for sound shaping. The real weighted hammer action 2 keyboard spans 88 keys with velocity and polyphonic aftertouch, feeling progressively lighter toward the higher notes to mimic a grand piano, while a 240x64 pixel LCD with adjustable contrast keeps navigation intuitive via category select and audition buttons. Hands-on controls include a four-way joystick, four assignable knobs, two programmable switches, dual arpeggiators, and a 16-track sequencer holding up to 200,000 notes with RPPR patterns, cue lists, and 16 templates for quick song building. Effects shine with 89 types across one stereo insert, two master effects, and a three-band stereo EQ, all routable via a smart mixer with real-time modulation and tempo sync; connectivity covers USB and DIN MIDI, SD card storage, sustain pedal input, stereo/individual outs, and a mini headphone jack in a slim 55.7 x 14.4 x 4.8-inch black chassis weighing around 21kg.

Players appreciated the playable action, classy pianos, and reliable sequencer for live and studio use, though some noted it didn't reinvent the wheel beyond extra samples and USB ease over the LE—making it a solid, no-fuss vintage pick today.

Released

2006

Status

Discontinued

Synthesizer
Format
Keyboard, Workstation
Type
PCM, Sample-based
Internal Battery
No
Voice
A/D
Digital
Polyphony
Polyphonic
Oscillators
62
Oscillator Type
Digital
Voices
62
Filter
Yes
Envelopes
-
LFO
2
Effects
89 effect types (available for insert effects or master effects)
Expression
Aftertouch
Polyphonic
Velocity
Yes
MPE
No
Additional
-
Software
-
I/O
Audio In
-
Audio Out
2 stereo, 2 individual
Headphone
1x 1/8" mini
MIDI
In, Out, Thru
MIDI Type
DIN (5-pin), USB
Ports
SD Card, USB, Sustain Pedal
Wi-Fi
No
Workflow
Arpeggiator
Yes
Sequencer
Yes
Mod Matrix
-
Memory
-
Measurements
Dimensions
55.67 x 14.37 x 4.84 in
Weight
-
Last updated Feb 27, 2026