WaveStation EX © 1992 Korg
The WaveStation EX is an upgraded, expanded version of Korg's original groundbreaking 1990 WaveStation keyboard. Externally, the EX retains the exact same physical chassis, intuitive layout, 61-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch, and the iconic, large graphical LCD editing screen. Internally, however, it represents a major mid-lifecycle upgrade designed to address the primary limitation of the original model: its waveform memory capacity.
The core of the WaveStation EX is its "Advanced Vector Synthesis" and "Wave Sequencing" engine. By utilizing the prominent front-panel vector joystick, players can dynamically morph and blend between four distinct digital waveforms in real-time. With Wave Sequencing, the synth can seamlessly crossfade through an orchestrated sequence of up to 255 multi-sampled waveforms per patch, generating incredibly complex, evolving textures and rhythmic loops.
The defining feature of the EX variant is the addition of 4 Megabytes of brand-new PCM sample ROM, bringing the total internal sample memory up to 6 Megabytes. This expansion introduced 119 new multi-samples and drums, including realistic acoustic instruments, pianos, and a dedicated suite of percussion sounds. It also features a reworked operating system (Version 2) which introduces enhanced MIDI control and allows the internal dual-digital effects processors to utilize advanced vocoder and pitch-shifting effects.
The Factory Upgrade Path: Because the physical housing was identical to the 1990 original, Korg offered a specialized hardware upgrade kit for original WaveStation owners. For a fee, musicians could take their original keyboards to authorized service centers to have the new EX ROM chips and the updated OS installed, converting their standard units into full EX models.
The Missing Piano Fixed: The biggest complaint about the original 1990 WaveStation was the complete lack of a conventional, usable acoustic piano sound. Korg specifically tailored the new 4MB PCM expansion in the EX to fix this, leading with a highly praised, rich grand piano multi-sample.
Vector Joystick Legacy: The iconic vector joystick design used to morph sounds on the WaveStation EX was directly inherited from the Sequential Circuits Prophet VS (1986). After Sequential Circuits closed, Korg hired its core engineering team—led by Dave Smith—to design the WaveStation architecture.
Cinematic Footprint: Thanks to the expanded acoustic and ambient wave sequences introduced in the EX, this model became an absolute staple for Hollywood film and television composers throughout the 1990s, heavily defining the soundscapes of sci-fi, mystery, and new-age music of the era.