The new Sound On Sound (SOS for short) from Korg is an unlimited track recorder – battery-powered, completely self-contained, and features a built-in, high-quality stereo microphone and speaker.
Each track, take, or overdub is recorded as an individual CD-quality 16-bit, 44.1 kHz .wav file, and saved directly to a microSD or microSDHC card. Accurate BWF (Broadcast Wave Format) timing information is embedded in each track, which ensures that all tracks will automatically line up when imported into a DAW for further editing, mixdown, and final playback.
The SOS can record up to 200 songs in the traditional linear manner, or be set to loop a specific section. Memory consumption is roughly 100 recorded minutes per GB.
The SOS provides 100 effect programs divided into Guitar and Bass, Microphone, and Master categories. Nine of those effects provide real-time control using the LCD touchscreen.
In addition, the SOS features built-in guitar, bass, and chromatic tuners; 50 internal rhythm patterns (with 4 variations each); the Sound Stretch function that can alter the playback speed without affecting the pitch; an unlimited Undo function; and free software for basic audio editing and CD burning.
The compact recorder also provides a 1/4-inch balanced instrument input, an 1/8-inch mic input, an 1/8-inch stereo line input, and a stereo headphone output.
The SOS ships in April 2010 and will carry a list price of $400. SOS owners can download the free compatible Korg Audio Utility software from korg.com.
