Korg Kronos 2 61-Key Keyboard Synthesiser (2025 Model) Review
Introductory overview
The Korg Kronos 2 61-Key Keyboard Synthesiser (2025 model) is a professional music workstation designed for studio production, live performance, and advanced sound design. It combines multiple sound engines, onboard effects, and solid-state storage in a single unit intended for keyboardists, producers, and composers who require a broad palette of sounds and integrated sequencing tools.
Upon initial use, the Kronos 2 presents a solid build and a responsive touchscreen interface that supports efficient navigation. Startup times are relatively quick for a workstation of this class, allowing users to move rapidly into sound selection, performance, or sequencing tasks.
Key characteristics and design
The Kronos 2 features nine dedicated sound engines, covering a wide range of synthesis methods and instrument modelling approaches. These include sample-based playback, virtual analogue synthesis, FM-style synthesis, physical modelling, and dedicated engines for piano and organ.
Each engine offers a distinct synthesis approach, enabling layered, split, and multi-timbral configurations that span acoustic instruments, electric sounds, electronic synthesis, and experimental textures. This architecture supports complex sound design as well as traditional keyboard performance roles.
The 61-key version provides a compact footprint suitable for studio desks and live rigs where space efficiency is important. Internal storage is handled by a 62 GB solid-state drive (SSD), which accommodates factory libraries, user samples, and optional expansion content. Up to 16 internal effects (16FX) can be configured using flexible routing options, supporting insert, send, and master processing at both part and global levels.
The front panel combines physical controls with touchscreen interaction. Sliders, rotary encoders, buttons, and performance wheels provide direct access to levels, filters, envelopes, and modulation parameters. The central touchscreen acts as the primary navigation hub, offering visual access to sound engines, combis, sequencing functions, set lists, and system settings. The overall layout balances deep control with immediate accessibility.
Workflow and usability
In studio environments, the Kronos 2 often functions as a central workstation. Users can:
Build multi-timbral setups using multiple sound engines simultaneously
Create keyboard splits and layers for performance and recording
Use the internal sequencer to capture ideas, arrange tracks, and manage structured compositions
The sequencer is designed to support both real-time recording and detailed editing. While capable of complex arrangements, its interface remains approachable for users transitioning from DAW-based workflows who prefer a hardware-centred production process.
The integrated SSD allows for fast access to large sample libraries, which is particularly useful for piano, orchestral, and custom sound sets. Kronos sounds can be triggered directly from the onboard keyboard or via external MIDI controllers and DAWs.
For live performance, the set list and patch management functions allow performers to organise sounds in performance order. Patches and combis can be recalled quickly, and the system is designed to minimise audio interruption during sound changes. Real-time control via sliders, knobs, and the touchscreen enables dynamic adjustment of levels, filters, effects, and modulation during performance.
The combination of multiple sound engines, effects processing, and sequencing makes the Kronos 2 suitable for:
Building complete backing arrangements within the instrument
Performing complex layered parts in band or solo contexts
Acting as the central keyboard in hybrid studio and stage setups
Integration and connectivity
The Kronos 2 is designed to integrate into both DAW-based and hardware-centric configurations. Typical connectivity includes:
MIDI in, out, and thru for external keyboards, modules, and sequencers
USB for MIDI communication with computers, enabling DAW integration
Main and assignable audio outputs for routing individual parts or submixes
Headphone output for focused monitoring
Pedal inputs (sustain, expression, and assignable controls)
In DAW-based studios, the instrument can function as a multi-timbral sound module, a performance keyboard for software instruments, or an audio source recorded into an interface for further processing. In hardware setups, it can act as a master controller, sending MIDI to external devices while responding to external clock, program changes, and control data.
Compatibility with major platforms such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools allows the Kronos 2 to operate effectively in modern production environments. However, initial configuration may be required to optimise MIDI routing and workflow preferences.
Who this product is suited for
The Korg Kronos 2 61-Key Keyboard Synthesiser (2025 model) is suited for:
Keyboardists who require a compact workstation covering acoustic, electric, and electronic sounds
Studio producers and composers working with layered arrangements and integrated sequencing
Live performers and musical directors managing multiple sound roles from a single instrument
Sound designers focused on detailed programming, modulation, and sample-based synthesis
Users operating hybrid studio-stage environments who need a central sound and control hub
Where to find
👉 Readers can check current pricing and availability for the Korg Kronos 2 61-Key Keyboard Synthesiser (2025 model) (affiliate link)
Image credits
Product images and branding: Korg / respective authorised retailers.
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