The KORG 01/W virtual instrument, part of the KORG Collection, is a high-fidelity software recreation of the legendary 1991 workstation that succeeded the KORG M1. It is celebrated for its warm, rich digital "AI Square" synthesis and the introduction of unique "Waveshaping" technology. Key Features & Sound Engine
While there is no official Korg 01/W plugin within the Korg Collection
as of early 2026, you can achieve its signature 90s ambient and workstation sound using specialized third-party VSTs or official alternatives. 01/W VST Options Beat Machine Korg 01/W VST
: This is the most direct software recreation available. It is a sample-based VST distributed in three volumes (Set 1, 2, and 3) that covers the original Program Bank patches. You can find it at SoundEngine 01/W Series SoundEngine
offers several VST-ready sound sets including "Logic," "Rebuild," and "Synthetica" specifically for the 01/W architecture. Korg Collection - M1 VST : Often called the "grandfather" of the 01/W, the official Korg M1 VST
uses a similar patch/combi paradigm. While it lacks the 01/W's unique "Waveshaping" feature, it includes the original M1 and T-series PCM cards, providing a very similar sonic character. To "Generate a Piece" (Setup Guide)
To start creating music with these tools, follow these steps: Load Presets : If using the Beat Machine VST , select iconic 01/W patches like "A00 Ephemerals" "A30 Fresh Air" to capture that lush 1991 ambient vibe. Layer in Combi Mode
: Use your DAW to layer up to 8 different programs. This mimics the hardware's Combination mode, which was famous for massive, evolving textures. Apply 90s Effects : Use internal VST effects or a plugin like Korg MDE-X
to add the characteristic flangers and phasers that defined the 01/W sound. Sound Character for Composition The Korg 01w Thread - Page 12 - Gearspace 16 Mar 2017 —
The Go to product viewer dialog for this item. was a legendary workstation synthesizer produced between 1991 and 1995, succeeding the iconic M1. It is known for its AI² (Advanced Integrated Squared) synthesis, providing a warmer, richer sound than its predecessor, with 32-voice polyphony and 16-track sequencing. While Korg does not currently offer a dedicated, official VST plugin named "01/W," the sounds and character are primarily available through authorized sample libraries or by using newer Korg plugins that emulate its era. Authentic 01/W Sounds via VST & Sampling
Sample Libraries (Best Virtual Alternative): Various third-party libraries, such as those found on Etsy or Walmart/SoundLoad
, offer over 1,600 meticulously sampled sounds from the original
in WAV/Kontakt format. These capture the signature 90s digital warmth. UVI Digital Synsations Vol.1: This UVI soundbank is authorized by Korg and includes samples from the
, featuring 641 presets designed to run in UVI Workstation or Falcon.
Korg Collection (Alternative Plugins): Korg has officially modeled other 90s workstations in their KORG Collection , including the Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
. While these are not 01/W, they offer a similar 90s ROMpler workflow and sound palette. Key Features of the 01/W
was the legendary successor to the M1, released in 1991, known for its "AI Squared" synthesis and unique Waveshaping
feature. While Korg has officially emulated most of its classic workstations, a dedicated "01/W" plugin is currently not part of the official Korg Collection
However, there are several ways to access its sounds and technology in a modern VST environment. 1. Official Alternatives in the Korg Collection
Because the 01/W was an evolution of the M1 and T-series, much of its DNA exists in other official Korg plugins. Korg M1 VST korg 01 w vst
: Often considered the closest official alternative. It includes nearly 1,000 PCM waveforms from the M1 and T-series expansion cards. Many users find it can recreate a vast majority of 01/W patches, though it lacks the specific 01/W Waveshaping feature. Korg Wavestation VST
: Shares roughly half of the 01/W’s PCM card library, including the "Synth Design," "Dance," and "Ethnic" sets. Korg Triton VST
: As the later evolution of Korg's workstation line, it includes some refined versions of 01/W-era samples and presets. 2. Third-Party "01/W VST" Solutions
There are independent developers who have created sample-based VST instruments specifically dedicated to the 01/W: KORG O1W emulation ? - Instruments Forum - KVR Audio
The KORG 01/W was a legendary digital workstation released in 1991. While Korg has not released a standalone "01/W VST" as a single product, its unique engine and sounds are often emulated or integrated into the KORG Collection. Core Synthesis Features
AI2 Synthesis System: Uses an evolved version of the M1's synthesis, doubling the PCM samples and offering 32-voice polyphony.
Unique Waveshaping: This signature feature allows you to dynamically reshape waveforms to create complex harmonic overtones and gritty digital textures.
Massive Sound Library: The hardware includes 256 multisounds and 129 drum sounds, often expanded in software versions.
8-Part Combinations: Like the original, virtual versions allow you to layer up to eight programs together for massive, lush pads and complex splits. Modern VST Enhancements
When using Korg's official software emulations (like those in the KORG Collection), you get several modern upgrades:
Best free workflow:
Paid but easy: Kontakt 6/7 (full version) + any 01/W Kontakt library.
We didn’t just sample the 01/W. We emulated it. The Korg 01/W VST faithfully recreates the original 6‑MB PCM waveform ROM, the resonant digital filters, and—most crucially—the gritty, slightly dark character of its 18‑bit DACs. Every waveform, from the iconic “Universe” pad to the biting “Pick Bass” and “Saw Lead,” is here, with all the aliasing and warmth that made the hardware so beloved.
If you want, I can: write the full blog post, create the YouTube script, build the preset list with descriptions, or produce the pad tutorial — tell me which one.
While Korg has released many of its legendary synthesizers in the Korg Collection , there is currently no official standalone Korg 01/W VST . The 01/W is famous for its AI2 Synthesis and a unique Waveshaping
feature that allowed for darker, more aggressive digital textures than its predecessor, the M1.
If you are looking to get those specific sounds in your DAW, here are the most effective ways to do it: 1. The "Official" Workaround: Korg Trinity VST Korg Trinity VST is currently the best official route. Importing 01/W Banks
: Korg updated the Trinity plugin to allow users to import original .PCG bank files Availability
: Many users have recreated the 01/W factory presets specifically for the Trinity, allowing you to load those classic 90s patches directly into the modern plugin. 2. Third-Party Sample-Based VSTs The KORG 01/W virtual instrument, part of the
Since there is no official emulation of the 01/W's internal synthesis engine, several developers offer "VST Instruments" that are actually deep-sampled libraries of the original hardware. RetroBeat Korg 01/W VST
: Available in three separate volumes, this covers the full Program Bank of the original hardware. It acts as a simple plug-and-play VST for those who want the raw sounds without deep programming. Kontakt Libraries
: High-quality sample sets for Native Instruments Kontakt are a common way for professionals to access the 01/W's "glorious pads" and iconic 90s piano sounds. 3. Alternative Official Emulations
If you want the "vibe" of that era without needing the exact 01/W ROM, Korg offers several similar products: Korg M1 VST
: Often cited as the closest relative. While it lacks Waveshaping, it shares a similar sonic DNA and "workstation" feel. Korg Wavestation VST
: Excellent for the evolving, atmospheric textures that the 01/W was also known for, though it uses Vector Synthesis instead. 4. Legacy Hardware Support
If you own the original hardware, you can use modern software to manage it: 01wEditPro SoundTower editor
that allows you to control and program your hardware 01/W from your computer, effectively bridging the gap between hardware and a modern VST workflow. Soundtower for the Trinity VST or explore sound demos of the sample-based versions?
The KORG 01/W VST is a high-fidelity recreation of the 1991 flagship workstation, known for its warm, ambient character and unique "WaveShaping" synthesis. 🎹 Core Synthesis Architecture
The 01/W uses AI2 Synthesis, which expands on the M1's engine with more PCM samples and advanced modulation.
Single/Double Modes: Programs can use one or two oscillators. Double mode allows for complex layers but halves polyphony.
PCM Library: Includes all original waveforms from the internal ROM and expansion cards.
Non-Resonant Filters: The 01/W lacks a resonant filter; instead, it uses WaveShaping and Emphasis to create harmonic resonance and grit. 🌊 Mastering WaveShaping
WaveShaping is the "secret sauce" of the 01/W. It acts as a sophisticated distortion that adds overtones to clean signals based on 60 unique non-linear tables. How to use it: Select a Program: Enter EDIT PROG mode.
Page 1 (Emphasis & WaveShaping): Locate the WaveShaping parameters.
Choose a Type: Select from 60 tables (e.g., Sine, Pulse, or complex textures).
Modulate with EG: Use the WaveShaping EG to change the distortion intensity over time. This creates "moving" textures that standard filters cannot replicate. 🎛️ Combination Mode & Layering
Combinations (Combis) allow you to layer up to 8 Programs across the keyboard.
Here’s a sample review for a hypothetical Korg 01/W VST (since no official one exists, this covers what a well-made emulation should offer, comparing it to the classic 1991 workstation). Download DecentSampler (free)
Title: The Nostalgia Box Finally Unlocked – But Is It More Than Presets?
Rating: 4.5/5
The Hook
For years, producers hunting that early-90s ROMpler magic had two choices: track down a creaky 01/W with a dying screen, or rely on sample packs. The new Korg 01/W VST (by Korg or a quality third party like WaveAlchemy or SonicProjects) finally puts the Aeolian and Universe patches inside your DAW—no floppy disks required.
Sound – 5/5
It’s unmistakably 01/W. That grainy, 16-bit, slightly gritty transposed sound is intact. The filters (derived from the 01/W’s unique digital filter, not the later Triton’s) breathe life into pads like Soundtrack and Mystic Dreams. Bass patches have that hollow, rubbery punch that defined 90s house and industrial. If you want pristine, buy a modern synth. If you want tangible character, this nails it.
Features – 4/5
Usability – 4/5
The GUI smartly mimics the 01/W’s layout but with a macro view. Patch browsing is instant, and the randomize button (for wave sequences) is inspiring. However, deep editing still involves digging into tabs—faithful to the original’s complexity, which casual users might find dense.
CPU & Stability – 4.5/5
Efficient. A single instance uses ~3-5% on an M1 Mac. No crashes in testing.
Value – 4/5
At $99 (estimated), it’s cheaper than a used 01/W rack plus maintenance. The factory bank alone (over 300 patches) is worth it for lofi hip-hop, IDM, and retro synthwave.
Downsides
Verdict
The Korg 01/W VST is for anyone who hears Twin Peaks pads, early Prodigy bass, or Aphex Twin’s Selected Ambient Works 85-92 and wants that specific digital soul. It won’t replace Omnisphere, but it’s a time machine in plugin form. Highly recommended if you know what the letters “01/W” mean to you.
Best for: 90s revivalists, industrial producers, sound designers craving non-analog grit.
Not for: Fans of pure analog warmth or one-knob-per-function interfaces.
Korg Collection 01/W is a high-fidelity software recreation of the iconic 1991 workstation. It successfully preserves the "warm" and "atmospheric" character of the original AI2 synthesis engine while modernizing the interface for modern DAWs. Key Features Authentic AI2 Synthesis
: Accurately reproduces the original's 16-bit PCM samples and unique sound engine. Expanded Polyphony
: Unlike the hardware’s 32-voice limit, the VST supports up to 128 voices Complete Library
: Includes all sounds from the original 01/W series and all 10 optional PCM expansion cards. Modern Interface
: Features a high-resolution, scalable GUI that makes deep editing much easier than the original’s small LCD. The "Waveshaping" Factor The standout feature of the 01/W is its unique Waveshaping
function, which applies non-linear transforms to samples before they hit the filter.
: Excellent for "roughing up" drums, adding "FM-like" grit to pianos, and creating evolving, mystic pads.
: It is a "suck it and see" process that can be unpredictable compared to standard resonant filters. Sound Profile The Korg 01/W is a master ambient synth from 1991
The 01/W’s AI² synthesis is a simplified PCM + subtractive engine. You can replicate it in Serum, Vital, Phase Plant, or Omnisphere: