Korg Announces Oasys PCI Computer Card

July 23, 1999 -- Korg USA is premiering the OASYS PCI, a state-of-the-art computer card which integrates high-quality synthesis, effects processing, and computer audio input and output into a single, professional PCI audio card which complements any MIDI sequencer or software-based digital audio workstation.

The OASYS PCI's synthesizers represent a continual evolution from Korg's OASYS project, with many improvements and additions. There are hundreds of sounds based on over 20 algorithms, including modeled analog synths, FM, tonewheel organ and rotary speaker, reed and tine pianos, physically modeled trumpet, trombone, sax, flute, guitar, bass, vocals, pipe organ, analog percussion, tempo-based LFOs and analog-style sequencers, and more. Synthesis algorithms are plug-ins loaded from disk, which allows easy upgrades and expansion.

The OASYS PCI includes over 100 effects algorithms. The majority of the effects from Korg's award-winning Trinity workstation are included - everything from standard reverbs, choruses, flangers, phasers, overdrives, and amp simulations, to unique effects such as random filter, stepped phaser, doppler shift, and talking modulator. Additional new effects include tempo delays, modulation via MIDI-sync'd LFOs and analog-style sequencers, envelope and LFO-swept filters, new analog EQ and reverb algorithms, a 160 second maximum delay time, and more.

These effects can process the onboard synthesizers, tracks from digital audio programs, and live audio inputs - simultaneously. Using the built-in submixer, chains of up to 4 effects each can be used on up to 12 separate channel inserts, 4 sends, and 6 stereo output busses. As with synthesis algorithms, all effects are plug-ins loaded from disk, allowing for easy expansion in the future. Almost every parameter can be controlled via MIDI, allowing easy modulation and automation of mixing, synthesis, and effects from any MIDI sequencer or real-time MIDI controller.

The OASYS PCI features a total of 12 inputs and outputs: stereo analog, stereo S/PDIF, and eight-channel ADAT optical. All inputs and outputs are 24-bit, and can be used simultaneously with compatible multitrack audio software. Word clock and ADAT timecode I/O ensure easy integration with other digital audio equipment. The onboard DSP processing power provides zero-latency record monitoring - even with effects - so users will not experience any timing delays. This DSP power also helps relieve the burden normally placed on the host CPU when using plug-ins and applications providing similar functionality.

The OASYS PCI supports all major audio and MIDI standards, for compatibility with virtually every audio and MIDI program. ASIO drivers for MacOS and Windows provide direct compatibility with Cakewalk Metro, Cubase VST, Digital Performer, Logic Audio, Vision DSP, Studio Vision Pro, and more. Standard Windows drivers provide compatibility with all popular Windows audio programs, including Cakewalk, Samplitude, SAW, Acid, Sound Forge, and more. OMS, FreeMIDI, and standard Windows MIDI drivers seamlessly connect the OASYS PCI to all MIDI sequencers. Version 1.0 will support MacOS, with a future release adding Windows compatibility.

OASYS PCI will ship in October, 1999 with a list price TBA.

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Specifications:

Audio and sync input and output

24-bit stereo analog input and output
24-bit S/PDIF input and output
24-bit ADAT optical input and output
BNC Word clock input and output
ADAT timecode input and output/through
Sample rates: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, external clock

Synthesizers

Synthesizers are plug-ins loaded from disk, allowing for easy future expansion
Initial release includes over 20 synthesis algorithms and hundreds of sounds

Effects

Effects are plug-ins loaded from disk, allowing for easy future expansion
Initial release includes over one hundred unique effects algorithms

Submixer

12 channels, each of which may process synthesis programs, audio inputs, or hard disk audio tracks
Channel inserts may each have up to 4 effects
4 sends, each with up to 4 effects
6 stereo output busses, each with up to 4 effects

Compatibility