Product Review: Korg SV-2 & SV-2S – Vintage Stage Piano

Following in the footsteps of the popular SV-1 vintage stage piano, the new Korg SV-2 impresses in terms of design, sound, and functionality. This is especially true of the SV-2S, which has a built-in speaker system.

The curved retro design brings the golden era of vintage electric pianos from the ’60s and ’70s into the 21st century. This applies to both the SV-2 and SV-2S – the “S” stands for “Speaker”: Inspired by the stand-alone concept of the Wurlitzer A-200, the SV-2S has built-in speakers.

It is immediately apparent that the speakers have been tastefully integrated into the design of the SV-2S. However, the arrangement of the speakers also has a lot to offer in terms of sound: The playback system has been optimized to achieve the most spatial sound effect possible. As you can hear from the first time you play the instrument, the little white one sounds pretty big!

Whether on stage or in your living room, the Korg SV-2S is sure to be an eye-catcher. Moreover, Korg offers a portable stand that enhances the retro look of the digital piano. For even more vintage flair, get the new stage piano stand with wooden legs (available as of March 2021 for 239,- Euro RRP).

Korg SV-2: With 73 or 88 Keys?

Both Korg SV-2 models are available with either a 73- or 88-key keyboard. The keyboards feature the RH3 hammer action mechanism and graduated weighted keys. In addition, it has already proven its good playing characteristics in practice with the SV-1, the Korg Grandstage, or the Korg D1.

Easy Handling, Good Sounds

Except for a few minor details, the control panel has the same layout as its predecessor. The vintage controls are more than just stylish, as the retro knobs on the Korg SV-2 still make accessing sounds and effects virtually self-explanatory.

The polyphony has increased significantly from its predecessor. However, 128 voices is still a bit limited compared to some of the competition.

Many New Acoustic Pianos

Nevertheless, a lot has happened under the hood, as the Korg SV-2 has obviously inherited some features from the Korg Kronos and Grandstage. With German, Italian, Austrian, and Japanese Grand, the selection of acoustic pianos is very similar to those instruments. All of these sounds faithfully reproduce the typical characteristics of famous grand pianos (Steinway, Fazioli, Bösendorfer, and Yamaha). Finally, two upright pianos complete the acoustic piano section – great sounds for singer/songwriter-style accompaniment.

The piano sounds are expressive and assertive – above all the grand pianos. Ideal for stage use, but also a good choice in the studio. Sound details such as damper resonance and key-off effect allow for nuanced articulation of the acoustic pianos. There even is a damper noise effect! However, if this should interfere with a live performance, you can adjust the volume using the layer system on the Korg SV-2.

The Trademark of the Korg SV-2: Vintage Keyboards

In addition to the classic Wurlitzer and Fender Rhodes, the Korg SV-2 offers some rarities. These include the Electra Piano and the two compact instruments Pianet T and Pianet N, built by the German company Hohner in the 1960s and 1970s. While actually an acoustic piano, the distinctive sound of Korg’s M1 workstation also deserves the title “retro cult”. You could easily mistake this sound for an electric grand piano. And of course, a detailed sampled Yamaha CP80 piano – a bright, rocky and full sound – represents this genre.

The sounds are consistently charming and do a good job of conveying the characteristics of the originals. This is especially true for the numerous versions of Wurlitzer and Fender Rhodes. The latter is available in several versions: Mark I Suitcase and Mark I Stage, Mark II Suitcase and Mark II Stage. You can play these Rhodes variants from mellow and buttery to bell-like, percussive and aggressive. The sounds are rich in detail, and it is endless fun to play with the subtle nuances they contain.

For those who love extremely bell-like and wiry Rhodes sounds, a Mark V has also been sampled, which authentically revives the pop ballads of the ’80s with corresponding Dyno-My sounds. The two versions of the Wurlitzer electric piano take you back to the ’60s and ’70s: One is rocky and jazzy, while the other is a little richer in overtones for pop songs à la Supertramp – perfect!

Vintage Effects and Real Tubes

What would electric piano sounds be without authentic effects? With phaser, flanger, wah, tremolo, and amp simulations, the Korg SV-2 has all the effects you need for proper vintage electric pianos. Delay and reverb are not missing either. In addition, you can connect up to three pedals to control the effects. There aren’t many editing options, but you’re guaranteed to be able to adjust the most main features. The most important thing is that the sound is right!

There are many amp models to choose from. Especially with the electric pianos, the tube circuitry in combination with the amp and speaker simulations makes for a lot of sound. From light distortion to complete shredding, everything is possible. But even in clean mode, without any drive, the sound changes: With the mids and highs still present, the Korg SV-2 now sounds like you are playing it through a real combo amp – amazing. The tube even provides the typical hiss and buzz. All in all, it sounds very authentic.

Split and Layer Using Editor Software

As with the previous SV-1 model, you must use the free Editor for Windows and MacOS to create split and layer sounds. There is no function for this on the control panel, only a few layer combinations in the ready-made presets. These sound really good – but it’s a shame that you can’t layer sounds on the fly while playing.

One little goodie: You can combine up to three sounds using the Editor, allowing the Korg SV-2 to create some pretty rich-sounding layers.

Korg SV-2 in Practice

If you enjoy getting creative with sounds, you’ll enjoy getting to know the Editor. It’ll show you much more this stage piano has to offer than just rock-solid, great-sounding piano sounds. However, the Korg SV-2 (like its predecessor) lacks a simple layer/split function that you can use on the fly while playing. You’ll simply have to accept the straightforward operating concept of the SV-2. After all, the Korg SV-2 focuses on extremely simple and straightforward handling. It’s something you’ll want to get used to, though.

Navigating through the (quite a few) basic sounds is certainly a bit of an orientation exercise. Fortunately, 64 Favorites memory locations make it easy to organize your favorite sounds. LED indicators on the knobs also let you know the status of your instrument at all times, allowing you to tweak the sound and work with the effects at any time. The SV-2 is comfortable to play in every way – just pick your sounds and enjoy.

Above all, this goes for the built-in speakers, making the Korg SV-2S a tip for anyone who wants a stylish retro electric piano instead of a classic one. The spatial sound of the speakers is more than just a trendy advertising promise and a top feature of the “S” model. The sound remains clean and clear even at higher volumes: If there is any distortion, it is intentionally caused by the tube and amp simulation.

Conclusion: Stylish Retro Look, Even More Sound

Like its predecessor, the Korg SV-2 impresses with its focus on vintage instruments. The sounds are exquisite and a joy to play. With a lively character and good sound quality, Korg has also improved the wide range of acoustic pianos.

Great sounds, easy to use, and a super chic look. If you like the Korg SV-2, consider getting the “S” model with built-in speakers. Not only is it convenient to turn it on and start playing right away, but the Korg SV-2S also sounds great.

Korg SV-2 – Overview

Release date: 02.2020
Keyboard: 73 or 88 keys, RH3 hammer action with graduated weighting
Polyphony: 128 voices
Manufacturer/Distributor: Korg

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