Korg 01 W Vst Direct

The Go to product viewer dialog for this item. was a legendary workstation synthesizer produced between 1991 and 1995, succeeding the iconic M1. It is known for its AI² (Advanced Integrated Squared) synthesis, providing a warmer, richer sound than its predecessor, with 32-voice polyphony and 16-track sequencing. While Korg does not currently offer a dedicated, official VST plugin named "01/W," the sounds and character are primarily available through authorized sample libraries or by using newer Korg plugins that emulate its era. Authentic 01/W Sounds via VST & Sampling

Sample Libraries (Best Virtual Alternative): Various third-party libraries, such as those found on Etsy or Walmart/SoundLoad

, offer over 1,600 meticulously sampled sounds from the original

in WAV/Kontakt format. These capture the signature 90s digital warmth. UVI Digital Synsations Vol.1: This UVI soundbank is authorized by Korg and includes samples from the korg 01 w vst

, featuring 641 presets designed to run in UVI Workstation or Falcon.

Korg Collection (Alternative Plugins): Korg has officially modeled other 90s workstations in their KORG Collection , including the Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

. While these are not 01/W, they offer a similar 90s ROMpler workflow and sound palette. Key Features of the 01/W The Go to product viewer dialog for this item

KORG Collection 01/w: The Hybrid Monster Reborn

The Verdict Up Front: The KORG 01/w VST is a meticulous emulation of one of the most underrated powerhouses of the early 90s. It captures the unique "Waveshaping" hybrid engine that sits halfway between a classic ROMpler and a gritty experimental synth. While it may lack the immediate "vintage analog" prestige of the M1 or MS-20, it offers a sonic palette that is surprisingly modern, aggressive, and deep.

The VST Implementation: Korg Collection 01/W

The most authentic way to experience this synth today is through the Korg Collection, specifically the software plug-in version of the 01/W.

Free Sample Packs:

  • Legowelt’s 01/W sample dump (free) – 100+ multisamples.
  • Archive.org search “Korg 01/W samples”.

The Best Korg 01/W VST Alternatives

Since an official plugin doesn't exist, the term "Korg 01 W VST" usually refers to sound libraries for other samplers or emulations that get "close enough." Here are the top contenders. KORG Collection 01/w: The Hybrid Monster Reborn The

1. Historical Context: What is the 01/W?

To understand the VST, you have to understand the hardware. Released in 1991, the Korg 01/W was the successor to the legendary M1. While the M1 defined the "clean" pop sound of the late 80s, the 01/W was Korg’s attempt to be more experimental.

It wasn't just a sample player; it introduced Waveshaping. This allowed users to take a static PCM sample and distort its waveform in real-time using mathematical tables. In the hardware era, this was a menu-diving nightmare. In the VST era, it is a creative goldmine.

Part 3: The Official Alternative – The Korg Module & iOS

While there is no desktop VST, Korg released a version for iPad and iPhone inside their Korg Module app.

  • Korg Module (iOS): Contains the "01/W Expansion Pack." For $19.99, you get 32 of the essential programs (Universe, Piano, Bass) converted to the Module engine.
  • The Catch: It is not a full emulation. It uses samples of the 01/W, not a circuit-modeled synth engine. Also, it runs on iOS, not your DAW natively (unless you use a bridge like Camelot or IDAM).

Workaround: You can run Korg Module on an iPad, connect it via USB to your computer, and treat it as an external instrument. It works, but it isn't a clean VST workflow.

3. Alternative: Emulating 01/W Synthesis in Any VST

The 01/W’s AI² synthesis is a simplified PCM + subtractive engine. You can replicate it in Serum, Vital, Phase Plant, or Omnisphere: