The Korg Radias comes in two models: a 49-keyboard with sound module attached and the Radias•R, the sound module on its own. Either way you'll have a 24-voice synth whose MMT sound engine shares oscillator technology with Korg's top-of-the-line Oasys. There are 256 programs onboard each made up of four timbres. Each timbre has two oscillators that'll deliver modeled analog, VPM, PCM, and formant waves and more. For modifying the waves you have: dual multimode filters; three envelope generators; two LFOs; three modulation sequencers, six virtual patch cords for connecting everything; two insert effects; two-band EQ; Drive; eleven types of Wave Shaping; and a Punch control for amplifying the attack portion of the sound.

Each Program has its own Master effect, an arpeggiator and two-step sequencers that allow up to 32 steps and eight-note polyphony. There are also 128 synth templates (starting patches), 128 insert effects and 128 master effects available.

One of the coolest sounding features is the 16-band Vocoder section. A unique feature is the ability to record up 7.5 seconds of formant information--spoken word or adlibs from you singer or anybody else! These prerecorded speech formants let you recreate vocoding effects without a microphone (a headset mic is included). Set and tweak the vocoding ahead of performance time and know it's all going to work and sound perfect.

The live front panel features 63 illuminated switches, 39 illuminated knobs and a backlit LCD to keep things under control. An impressive looking synth, the Radias sells for $1,999 while the Radias•R module is $100 less. More information at www.korg.com or call 631-390-6500