Tune Up: Korg Pandora Review

posted in: Features • Reviews & Playlists

Guitar, bass and keyboard players are always looking for new toys and better accessories. Sure, the actual instrument is important, and the amplification equally so. However, do you need to spend hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars on a collection of effects pedals and rack units? If you read our post about the Line 6 Toneport/POD series, you know the value of a multi-effects processor. The Korg Pandora is a multi-effects processor that comes in a compact unit, contains a huge collection of presets/effects and even allows you to string together your own presets and formations.

This unit can be used effectively to process almost any guitar/bass sound you may need. However, in this case it is compact and easy to use (similar size to a standard tuner), but often doesn’t work well in lieu of an amp (like the Line 6 did). However, this unit makes up for it in its versatility as a practice/rehearsal module.

The line contains several different models, most particularly the guitar unit. There is also a bass unit which contains some awesome effects specifically for bass use, but the unit is discontinued. To start, we’ll give you the specs/stats:

–REMS amp modeling technology (Korg’s exclusive)

-180 distinct modules (amp models, cabinet simulaters, pedal effects, studio units)

-Space for 200 presets (100 provided, 100 user-created)

-Aux In for play-along’s (with transposition capability and bass removal)

-Phrase Trainer (looping for rehearsal)

-USB for simple audio interface features

While there are a bunch more specifications, we’ve pointed these out because they really encompass the positive attributes of the unit. The amp modeling technology is really quite realistic (especially for a small unit) and the sheer number of arrangable modules allows you to easily fill up the 200 preset slots. Of course, where the unit stands out is its rehearsal/practice amp features. Simply plug in some headphones (allowing you to practice without disturbing anyone around you), and play along to a recording using the Aux input. This also allows you to transpose to a new key for easier solo’s and even gives you a bass removal option (if you’d like to play along with your own bassline). Finally, the phrase trainer allows you to loops sections and get everything perfect. The Pandora did try to include an audio interface connectibility option, but it’s not quite as versatile as, say, the Line 6 Tone Ports.

Overall it’s a great unit with awesome rehearsal features. We’d recommend being weary when recording, however, as the unit can be a little noisy and the signal a little unpredictable. At the end of the day, it’s used specifically for rehearsal and live settings. In these realms, it absolutely delivers.