If you’re looking for an affordable and inspiring polyphonic analog synthesizer, Korg’s Minilogue series offers two fantastic choices: the Korg Minilogue and the Korg Minilogue XD. Both synths have gained a strong reputation among musicians, producers, and synth enthusiasts for their great sound, hands-on interface, and budget-friendly pricing. But which one is right for you? Korg Minilogue vs Korg Minilogue XD? Let’s dive into the key differences and strengths of each model.
Design & Build – Korg Minilogue vs Korg Minilogue XD
At first glance, both the Minilogue and Minilogue XD look very similar. They share the same slim, compact design with a metal top panel and wooden back, giving them a premium look despite their affordable price.
Both synths feature 37 mini-keys, which are playable but might not be ideal for those who prefer full-sized keys. The layout remains highly intuitive, with direct access to all important controls like oscillators, filter, envelopes, and effects.
However, the Minilogue XD has some notable improvements in build quality. The joystick for pitch/modulation feels more precise, and the OLED oscilloscope display is a great addition for visualizing waveforms and modulation.
Polyphony & Voice Modes
Both synthesizers are 4-voice polyphonic, meaning you can play four notes at a time. They also feature multiple voice modes, such as Unison (stacking voices for a fat mono sound), Chord (great for instant harmonies), and Arp (built-in arpeggiator).
One limitation of both models is that 4 voices can sometimes feel restrictive, especially for chords and pads. However, Minilogue XD’s richer sound and digital oscillator help compensate for this limitation.
Sequencer & Modulation
Both synths feature a 16-step sequencer, but the Minilogue XD improves on the original by adding motion sequencing for more expressive, evolving sounds. The sequencer is easy to use, and the joystick modulation on the XD allows for more real-time control.
Presets & Patch Management – A Key Difference
One important difference between the Korg Minilogue and Minilogue XD is the number of preset slots.
•Korg Minilogue: Comes with 100 factory presets and 100 user slots, allowing you to save and recall your own sounds. While this is plenty for many users, preset organization can feel a bit limited without external tools.
•Korg Minilogue XD: Offers 200 factory presets and 300 user slots, giving you much more flexibility for storing, organizing, and experimenting with sounds.
To make preset management easier, Korg provides dedicated patch editors/librarians, available for free download from their official website. These editors allow you to:
✅ Organize your presets efficiently
✅ Save and recall your favorite patches quickly
✅ Back up your sounds to avoid losing them
If you like to tweak and store a lot of custom sounds, the Minilogue XD’s expanded memory and improved preset management make a big difference!
Minilogue XD Module – A Space-Saving Alternative
If you don’t need a keyboard and want to save space on your desk, the Korg Minilogue XD Module is a great alternative. It features the same powerful hybrid sound engine, effects, and modulation options as the keyboard version, but in a compact, keyless form factor.
Unlike many other synths where the module version is significantly cheaper, the Minilogue XD Module is priced nearly the same as the keyboard version. This means that while you save space, you don’t really save money. Still, for those who prefer a desktop-friendly setup or already have a dedicated MIDI controller, it’s a great option without compromising on sound or features.
Unfortunately, the original Minilogue doesn’t come in a module version, which is something I personally regret. I would happily swap my keyboard version for a desktop model because I like having everything within reach in front of me, and I typically use one master keyboard to control all my synths. It’s a shame that Korg never released a Minilogue Module, as I believe it would be a fantastic option for many studio setups.
Free Sample Packs – Experience the Pure Sound of Minilogues
If you want to hear the true, organic character of both the Minilogue and Minilogue XD, I’ve created free sample packs that capture their raw essence in high-quality recordings. These packs let you explore the pure sound of these synths, even if you don’t own them yet.
🎛️ Minilogue Sample Pack – A collection of raw waveforms, basses, and leads that highlight the metallic, cutting sound of the original Minilogue.
🎛️ Minilogue XD Sample Pack – A deep dive into the expanded sonic palette of the XD, showcasing its hybrid oscillator engine, enhanced filter, and improved effects.
Additionally, I’ve also created a special ambient-focused sample pack:
🌌 Minilogue XD Ambient Sounds Sample Pack – A free collection of atmospheric and spacey sounds generated entirely on the Minilogue XD. This pack highlights its potential for deep, cinematic textures and evolving pads—perfect for ambient and electronic music.
💾 All of these packs are free to download from my website, so feel free to check them out and experience the sound of these instruments in your own productions! 🚀🎹
Custom Soundsets for Minilogue & Minilogue XD
If you want to get the best sounds out of your Minilogue or Minilogue XD, I highly recommend checking out my custom sound packs:
🎛️ Korg Minilogue Soundsets – A collection of carefully designed presets to expand the sonic possibilities of the original Minilogue.
🎛️ Korg Minilogue XD Soundsets – Presets tailored to take advantage of the XD’s multi-engine oscillator, improved filter, and high-quality effects.
These packs will instantly enhance your sound palette, making it easier to craft inspiring music right out of the box! 🎹🔥
It Still Has a Place in My Studio
Even though I own more expensive synthesizers, the Korg Minilogue still holds a place in my studio. Its metallic, buzzy character often finds its way into my productions. Compared to other polyphonic synths, it may sound thinner, but in this case, that’s not a bad thing—it fits beautifully into a mix without much effort.
The interface is a dream to work with, making it super easy to dial in the perfect sound with just a few tweaks. However, the 4-voice polyphony can sometimes feel limiting, and I would love a desktop version without keys, since I’m not a fan of mini-keys.
That said, this is a synth that could easily be someone’s only instrument, and I truly enjoy using it. Sometimes, after not playing it for a while, I turn it on and it surprises me all over again—proving that old love never dies.
Final Thoughts – Which One Should You Buy?
Both the Korg Minilogue and Minilogue XD are fantastic choices, especially for beginners or those looking for an affordable, budget-friendly polyphonic synthesizer.
🎹 Why Choose Minilogue?
✔ Classic analog sound with a metallic character
✔ Easy to use and great for beginners
✔ Lower price point
🔥 Why Choose Minilogue XD?
✔ More versatile with the hybrid analog-digital engine
✔ Improved filter, effects, and deeper modulation options
✔ Sounds bigger and richer than the original
Both synths have a musical character that inspires creativity, which isn’t always a given in every instrument. If you’re looking for an affordable, fun, and hands-on synth, either of these could be the perfect fit! 🚀
