Korg introduces the iDS-10, a virtual analog synthesizer app for the iPhone, complete with patching function that lets you synthesize your own sounds.

This new release is actually a port of the Korg DS-10 app that was released for the Nintendo DS handheld game console, carrying over many of the features found on the original while introducing some modern improvements.

The original DS-10 was meant to be a stripped down version of the MS-20 analogue synth, featuring patch cables for modulation routing and a step sequencer. It became quite popular when it was first released back in 2008 for the Nintendo DS. Many were surprised by the how easy it was to use, and how it made synth music less of a chore and more enjoyable. Now this fun app is being made available for iPhone users to enjoy.

The iDS-10 carries over the same analog style interface, only this time it is improved to take advantage of the iPhone's modern capabilities. You can utilize built-in parameters or craft your own sound, and you can automate any of the parameters as you see fit, resulting in a wider range of sound possibilities. It that's not enough, there are five effect types available for further control over your sound. More importantly, the synth engine efficiently utilizes the iPhones CPU to generate sounds with improved quality. Another nifty feature of this synth app is the addition of an oscilloscope, giving you the ability to "see" the sound that you're synthesizing.

The voice synthesizer is another fun feature implemented in iDS-10, based on a vocoder that generates human like voices. All you have to do is enter your lyrics and the app can turn them into a synthesized voice with pitch. There are various parameters that can be adjusted, giving you more control over the character of the voice. You can also use the microphone of your iPhone to turn the app into a regular vocoder effect.

The new Korg iDS-10 app comes with an analog drum synthesizer, giving you a variety of percussive sounds. You get six drum sounds that include kick, snare, tom, percussion and two hihat versions. Again the intent of this addition is the fun factor, not necessarily a good feature for creating pro level drum tracks.

Kaoss mode and the smart keyboard feature is what makes this app a fun music production software, it lets you specify a scale or record phrases, which can be great tools for getting musical inspiration and ideas. The KAOSS mode's easy to use step sequencer allows even those with little musical knowledge to enjoy the app. Note that you can seamlessly play 32 patterns and manipulate them in real time, much like how a DJ or Electronic music artist would do when performing.

Check out the official video demo:

The new Korg iDS-10 Synthesizer App is now available at the app store for at half the price for only $9.99, it will go back to its original price of $19.99 after December 28. For more information, visit Korg.

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