KORG Introduces Four-Channel Oscilloscope Kit Targeting Synthesizer Musicians

There is no better tool than an oscilloscope when it comes to waveform analysis. However, one drawback of oscilloscopes is their complexity. Even electronics engineers who characterize signals daily can struggle to use their beloved o'scope fully. So it is not hard to imagine that musicians creating music with synthesizers tend to be intimidated by these scientific instruments. For the first time, KORG and Nu-Tekt have the answer. The NTS-2 Oscilloscope Kit is a multi-tool for synth creators in a portable package.

KORG's NTS-2 measures 12.9 by 7.8 by 3.9 centimeters and weighs 130 grams without the two AAA batteries installed. NTS-2 is primarily a four-channel oscilloscope but also has a dual-channel waveform generator. On the front panel are a 2.8-inch with a 320x240 resolution, several pushbuttons for menu operation, and a single rotary knob.

The oscilloscope accepts audio-range signals up to 20 Vpp and can sample a single channel, all four individually, or a differential pair. (Two inputs are paired together for stereo operation.) Like full-sized oscilloscopes, the channels support both AC and DC coupling. There is even an XY mode available to draw Lissajous waveforms! Unfortunately, the XY-mode is only two-channel, so it may not suit "oscilloscope music" fans. An FFT provides the transform to the frequency domain with a span from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

Each dual waveform generator channel can output 10 Vpp with a frequency range of 1 Hz to 10 kHz. You can specify the output as a frequency or a note. Like a function generator you might find on a bench, this one can output sine, square, triangle, sawtooth, pulse, and noise waveforms.

In addition to the input and output connectors, there are pass-through ports for passive monitoring even when the NTS-2 is turned-off.

Even though the NTS-2 is sold as a kit, it does not require any soldering! Instead, the oscilloscope arrives as a single print circuit board panel. You gently break the boards apart, assemble the mechanical pieces with screws, and connect the battery holder cable. Either external USB-C or two AAA batteries power the NTS-2.

KORG says this kit is available for a limited time in a bundle with the book "PATCH & TWEAK with KORG" from Bjooks. It is a detailed look at the world of semi-modular synthesis. Bjooks says KORG dealers worldwide will receive the kits soon. We found an MSRP of 329.99 USD for the kit. However, at least two dealers are currently accepting pre-orders for 229.99 USD.

For more information, check out the KORG NTS-2 product page.