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Kora Expander?

Kwerky
Wondering if there was any more information about the Kora expander pictured at SynthFest France 2025?
https://synthanatomy.com/2025/04/kodamo-kora-expander-the-comeback-of-the-rackmount-pcm-synthesizers.html
Sounds intriguing.
Avi F
From the demo I heard at https://youtu.be/hEa45uWsrLE?si=mR28y7lrYXPDVeu2

So it's a sound design study and not a product. I think it sounds interesting the combo of fm bitmask and pcm samples.

But if it's an expander it also made me wonder which synth it could be used to expand? 🤔
Kwerky
Thank you for the video link, at least I can hear it now.
The article I linked to, included a link to Kodamo's site saying to visit there for more information.
Since there is no information there, I figured I'd just ask.
I guess we'll hear more when they're ready.
KODAMO
Hi,
It is basically a one-off expander made for the people at SynthFest to have fun playing with some sounds. Unfortunately the demo shows nothing except a few bare samples and synthesis, not even layered together. But there is potential!
We have been working hard sampling thousand sounds recently, that work will end up somewhere :)
Creating a modern 19" rack expander (fully editable with an editor including custom sample upload) would be fun for sure!
Jazz Paladin
I am looking forward to any new standalone synth you put up for sale! Out of curiosity, have you ever considered physical modeling ? I had been interested in the Aodyo Anyma Omega, but they went bankrupt after their crowdfund :(
KODAMO
We will release a desktop module of the Mask1 soon if you are interested 😉
Jazz Paladin
Woo hoo! Yes indeed, sign me up!
jbowman
Would love it if the desktop module could open up the multi-timbral aspects of the Mask1 engine (e.g. more audio outs / USB audio). 8 parts would be even better than 4/5 😉
HMan
Very excited to hear there’s a desktop Mask in the works :)
Jazz Paladin
Now if there were only a way to reserve the first unit ;)
KODAMO
Not yet but we will send an email when ready and probably most synth-related websites will spread the news ;)
Jazz Paladin
Very nice! Will the specs be different from the keyboard version at all? Because I am really forcing myself to refrain from buying the keyboard while waiting :)
SBeehive
Congratulations on releasing the Mask 1 EX!

Can the Mask 1 EX be used as a controller to modify the parameters of the second layer of a Mask 1 preset? For instance, if I have my Mask 1 in layer mode, could I use the EX as a controller for layer 2 while the Mask 1 handles Layer 1?
unclewayback
Yes, congrats! Looks lovely!

(I have a question too, maybe this should be split to its own thread?)

Can the Mask 1 EX respond to MPE? I don't have a Mask 1 but I believe that there was a work around there with the 4 voice multitimbrality, which the MASK 1 EX lacks...
KODAMO
Thank you!

Can the Mask 1 EX be used as a controller to modify the parameters of the second layer of a Mask 1 preset? For instance, if I have my Mask 1 in layer mode, could I use the EX as a controller for layer 2 while the Mask 1 handles Layer 1?

It could be made possible with a firmware update, it is not currently implemented

Can the Mask 1 EX respond to MPE? I don't have a Mask 1 but I believe that there was a work around there with the 4 voice multitimbrality, which the MASK 1 EX lacks...

MPE is not supported, because of its mono/bi-timbral architecture. I suggest you try the various play modes included, they are not a replacement for MPE but allow for a great degree of expression in a different way (ties and other articulation behavior). MASK1 keyboard can be 4-note polyphony MPE
unclewayback
Thanks for your quick response. Does it respond to polyphonic or only channel aftertouch?

(But the great price has already convinced me to buy! I can't wait to give it a try. 👍 )
KODAMO
It reponds to channel aftertouch and mod wheel CC, depending on how these are assigned in the voice
SBeehive
Oh my goodness, that was quick!! Looks like it was foolish to wait until today to place the order.

I'm glad the synth sold well!!
Jazz Paladin
Wow, that is absolutely bonkers that the Ex sold out already…glad I managed to order mine, but in the future , whenever a new Kodamo hits the market, I will need to remember to always jump on it…

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