Korg X3

Launched in 1993 as a smart evolution of the iconic M1, this workstation packed 340 multisamples into just 6MB of ROM, delivering punchy strings, solid basses, and versatile drums that still hold up in modern mixes.

Its AI2 synthesis engine drives single-oscillator programs at 32-voice polyphony or dual-oscillator setups at 16 voices, with each oscillator offering a resonant lowpass filter, three dedicated envelopes for pitch, filter, and amp, plus two LFOs for movement. You'll find intuitive controls via a backlit LCD, X/Y joystick for pitch bend and modulation, velocity-sensitive 61-key synth action keyboard with monophonic aftertouch, and dual multi-effects processors from a bank of 47 options like reverb, delay, chorus, and overdrive. A 16-track sequencer handles 10 songs and 32,000 events, with floppy drive and PCMCIA slots for saving 200 user programs and combis, plus MIDI In/Out/Thru and sustain pedal input—all in a sleek 1055 x 338 x 96mm black chassis weighing 10kg.

Players have long praised its reliable workstation workflow and GM-compatible sounds for quick gigs, though some note the lighter Fatar keys lack the heft of heavier actions, and expansion cards can be tricky to source today.