Korg mini-KP (Kaoss Pad)

Korg mini-KP

Korg mini-KP (Kaoss Pad) comes under a product line of portable devices from Korg, famed for making devices that are both fun and simple to use.  It is basically an effects processor, and often paired in use with its sibling, the Korg Kaossilator (a phrase synthesiser) to mangle/manipulate sounds/effects.  

The mini-KP feels sturdy to hold and offers comfortable use.  However, with time, I found the mini-KP used less often than Kaossilator.  The input panel was designed for fingers and thus it performs poorly when precise inputs are required.  Some users have resorted to using a stylus and a 4 x 4 grid paper.


Yes you get get some really "whacky" sounds/effects, but the number of times you hear yourself saying "wow, that is nice." is few and far in between.  That said, a determined user can still creatively incorporate the sounds/effects effectively into their music.  We are discussing "old-tech" here because the next-generation of Kaossilators have arrived and they feature improved functionality such as memory card recording and speaker, etc.

Quality/Build: 8/10
Functions/Features: 5/10
Sound Quality: 6/10
Star Factor: 5/10

Main Specifications

100 dynamic effects with adjustable depth, including:
o Multiple types of smooth, great-sounding resonant filters
o Decimators and grain-shifters to totally mangle your sound
o Looping effects that repeat and manipulate audio phrases
o BPM-synced effects like delays and LFO-based filter sweeps
o Synthesizer programs with X/Y control of pitch and filter
o Combination effects such as delay + reverb
o Two memory buttons to store your favorite presets
o Tap button for syncing BPM-based effects to the incoming audio
o FX Release function adds a BPM-synced delay ”tail” to sounds so they gradually fade away when you release your finger from the pad
o “Direct” or “Send” modes allow you to connect the mini-KP anywhere in your setup
o Hold function allows you to remove your finger from the pad, while maintaining the effect
o Battery operation for total portability (optional AC adapter available)