M1: AI Synthesis Workstation Synth Plugin by KORG

Rated 4.7/5 on Plugin Boutique (617 ratings)

M1 is a software synthesizer plugin from KORG that recreates the classic M1 music workstation, built on its AI synthesis system and including more than 3,000 preset sounds. It is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

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01Overview

M1 brings the sound of KORG's 1988 M1 workstation into a modern plugin. Its synthesis engine is reproduced in software from the original circuit design, and the preset library covers the original M1 programs, the expansion ROM cards and the sounds of the M1EX, T1, T2 and T3 synthesizers. Beyond the original hardware, the plugin adds filter resonance, VDA modulation and 18 master effects. A high-resolution, scalable interface supports Retina and 4K displays.

Best for

Classic 80s and 90s synth sounds
Pianos and organs
Retro pop production
Electronic music sound design
Recreating M1 patches

Developer: KORG
Category: Synths
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Complete reproduction of the AI synthesis system
Over 3,000 preset sounds from original M1 ROM cards
Sound browser filtered by instrument and character
EASY mode for quick access to key parameters
Filter resonance and VDA modulation added
18 master insert effects, including a compressor
High-resolution interface for Retina and 4K displays
Compatible with original M1 via SysEx data transfer

03In depth

Sound Character and Synthesis Engine

KORG developed the M1 around its AI (advanced integrated) synthesis system, which combines PCM waveforms with a digital effects processor. According to KORG, the plugin reproduces the synthesis system in full, with the circuitry replicated in software down to the last detail. KORG says its engineers adjusted the result by ear, because sampling the original sounds alone would not capture the instrument's character.

The library includes the well-known M1 Piano and M1 Organ sounds that appeared on many records. KORG also states that programs and combinations are fully independent in this version, a capability the original hardware did not have.

Workflow, Browser and EASY Mode

With over 3,000 presets, the new sound browser lets you filter by instrument category and sound character, so you can reach a sound quickly. For faster edits, EASY mode puts oscillator and effect selection, filters and EQ on a single page.

Full parameter control remains available for detailed programming. The plugin adds filter resonance and VDA modulation, which the original M1 lacked, and its effect section grows from two master effects to 18 insert effects, including a compressor.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	KORG
Type	Plugin
Category	Synth
Formats	VST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats does M1 support?

M1 is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats. It runs as a 64-bit plugin on Windows and macOS.

What do I need to run M1?

On macOS you need OS X 11 or later, an Intel Core i5 or better (Apple Silicon is supported), and 8 GB RAM, with 16 GB recommended. On Windows you need Windows 10 64-bit or later, an Intel Core i5 or better, and 8 GB RAM. Both systems need 8 GB of free disk space and an internet connection.

Is M1 compatible with the original hardware?

Yes. Sounds created in M1 stay compatible with the original M1, and you can transfer data via SysEx. The plugin is also interoperable with the iM1 for iPad.

Does M1 include the original M1 sounds?

Yes. KORG states the preset library includes all of the original M1's programs, the 19 PCM ROM cards released for the M1, and sounds from the M1EX, T1, T2 and T3 synthesizers.