While a 1:1 official Korg recreation is still on many wishlists, there are several ways to get these sounds in your DAW: The Korg 01/W is a master ambient synth from 1991
, originally released in 1991 as the successor to the legendary Korg M1, remains one of the most revered digital synthesizers of the 1990s. Known for its glassy pads, warm acoustic textures, and a gritty, distinctive digital sheen, producers continuously look for a dedicated Korg 01/W VST
In 2024, Behringer accidentally leaked a prototype "Korg 01/W Clone" (midi controller with a screen). That lawsuit threat might actually push Korg to finally release a software version to counter the cheap hardware clone.
feature that allowed for darker, more aggressive digital textures than its predecessor, the M1. korg 01 w vst
Let’s be realistic. A VST will never sound exactly like a 1991 Korg 01/W running through a Mackie mixer into ADAT tape. But here is the trade-off:
Buying original hardware has clear benefits: you get the authentic sound with its unique, non-linear "grungy" and lo-fi character that many feel is lost in clean digital samples. Furthermore, a used 01/W is often surprisingly affordable, potentially cheaper than some high-end software synths. Many users still find it excellent for pads and synthesizer atmospheres.
To understand why the Korg 01/W VST is so highly sought after, it helps to understand what made the original hardware a masterpiece. Moving Beyond the Korg M1 While a 1:1 official Korg recreation is still
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.
Released in 1991, the Korg 01/W workstation shaped the sound of 1990s pop, R&B, electronic music, and film scores. It succeeded the legendary Korg M1, introducing AI2 Synthesis, waveshaping, and a warmer, more cinematic sonic character. For decades, music producers relied on the original hardware to get those lush pads, distinct digital pianos, and evolving textures.
in WAV/Kontakt format. These capture the signature 90s digital warmth. This UVI soundbank is authorized by Korg and includes samples from the feature that allowed for darker, more aggressive digital
From Vaporwave and Synthwave to Deep House and Film Scoring, the 01/W fits into almost any mix. Comparison: Hardware vs. VST 01/W Hardware 01/W VST (Korg Collection) Polyphony Unlimited (Host Dependent) Storage Floppy Disks / RAM Cards Unlimited Presets / Digital Search Maintenance Dying Backlights / Sticky Buttons Integration MIDI Cables / Audio Interface Instant DAW Automation Sound Quality 16-bit / 32kHz (Gritty) 32-bit / Up to 192kHz (Clean)
So why skip the 01/W?