The Korg TR series, known for its remarkable sound quality and extensive feature set, has piqued the interest of musicians and enthusiasts alike. Among the features that can greatly impact expressiveness and sound manipulation is aftertouch, a performance attribute sought after by many keyboardists. In this article, we will explore whether the Korg TR series, specifically the TR workstation keyboards, includes aftertouch functionality.
Understanding Aftertouch
Before delving into the specifics of the Korg TR series, let’s clarify what aftertouch entails. Aftertouch is a performance feature commonly found in high-quality keyboards and synthesizers. It allows musicians to apply additional control to a note after it has been played, adding an extra layer of expressiveness to their performances.
Aftertouch comes in two primary forms:
- Channel Aftertouch: Channel aftertouch affects all notes played simultaneously on the keyboard. Musicians can use it for global modulation effects, such as applying vibrato to all held notes.
- Polyphonic Aftertouch: Polyphonic aftertouch, a more advanced form, enables each individual note to respond independently to the pressure applied to the keys. This feature provides nuanced control over the sound of each note played, offering expressive possibilities like varying the filter cutoff or changing the pitch of individual notes.
Korg TR Series and Aftertouch
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the Korg TR series, which includes the Korg TR61 and TR76 workstations, does not feature aftertouch functionality. These instruments prioritize other performance and sound manipulation capabilities, which include extensive sound libraries, built-in effects, sequencing capabilities, and a user-friendly interface.
It’s important to bear in mind that the availability of specific features can vary across different models and product releases. Manufacturers like Korg may introduce new iterations or updates to their instruments over time. Therefore, for the most current and accurate information regarding the Korg TR series and its features, including the presence of aftertouch, it is advisable to refer to the official Korg website or consult the instrument’s user manual.
Conclusion
While the Korg TR series of workstation keyboards boasts a wealth of features and capabilities, as of my last update, aftertouch is not among them. Musicians who prioritize aftertouch for their playing and sound manipulation needs should verify the specifications of the specific keyboard model they are interested in and consult the manufacturer’s resources for the most up-to-date information regarding the Korg TR series.

