The Korg MicroKorg Vocoder and Synthesizer is a 37 key synthesizer coupled with an 8-band vocoder. It is very popular among vocoders and synthesizers and used by amateur and professional musicians alike, including the band Mates of State.

The Korg MicroKorg is basically minituarized version of the famed Korg MS2000 analog-modeling synthesizer. Don't be deceived by its diminuitive size, however. The MicroKorg is a fully functional synthesizer, vocoder, and MIDI controller with 37 minituarized keys. The MicroKorg is great for the hobbyist or amateur musician due to it's low cost. For around $350-400, one can purchase a MicroKorg, microphone included, and start making music right away.

The MicroKorg XL

The MicroKorg has now been retired and replaced with the MicroKorg XL which aims to simplify the interface and add functionality.  This has driven down prices on the plain old MicroKorg and I've seen some of them go for only $250.  Now while neither version of the MicroKorg has all of the features of higher-end synthesizers, for $250 it can't be beat.

• 128 user-rewritable programs
• 37-key miniature keyboard
• Powerful sound synthesis
• A complete range of effects
• Classic vocoding
• Flexible arpeggiator (6 types)
• Clear, unconvoluted controls and classic looks
• Serve as a compact MIDI controller for your composition needs