It is unlikely to arrive before 2030, if ever. The market for physical modelling is niche, and Korg seems focused on the Wavestate/Modwave/Opsix trinity.
The Korg Prophecy was the immediate monophonic predecessor to the Z1. It introduced the physical modeling and MOSS concepts that the Z1 later expanded into full polyphony. Korg has released an official which features a stunning, modernized user interface. While it is monophonic (perfect for leads, basslines, and expressive acoustic solos), it captures the exact raw DSP character and oscillator algorithms found in the Z1. Alternative Software Synthesizers for Z1 Enthusiasts
Equipped with Korg’s Multi-Oscillator Synthesis System (MOSS), the Z1 was a polyphonic powerhouse capable of mimicking real-world acoustic instruments, futuristic brass, and liquid-like analog leads. Today, as music production has largely moved inside the computer, the quest for a official remains a highly discussed topic among electronic musicians and sound designers. The Power of the Original Korg Z1
Korg's take on FM synthesis, perfect for sharp metallic clangs and classic digital electric pianos. Acoustic Modeling
The Z1 was famous for its 13 oscillator algorithms, several of which are now available in the KORG Collection 5 : korg z1 vst
Variable Phase Modulation (Korg’s take on FM synthesis) and comb filtering for metallic, glassy textures.
If you just want the sound of the Z1 in your productions, without the need for deep real-time editing, sampling is a practical route. A provider called offers recordings of single notes from a Korg Z1. These samples are available in various formats, including Native Instruments Kontakt , Apple EXS24, and Ableton Live Sampler.
If you absolutely need the exact factory presets ("Stratocaster," "Steel Drums," "Breath Bass"), buy a used hardware Z1 ($800–$1200) and record it direct. In the box, the Z1 remains a ghost—a beautiful, resonant, un-emulated ghost.
| Z1 Algorithm | Best VST Replacement | |---------------|------------------------| | Brass/Wind | SWAM Trumpet / Flute | | Plucked String | AAS Strum Session | | Bowed String | Sculpture (Logic) | | Reed | Reaktor – Steampipe 2 | | Organ | VB3-II | | Bell/Mallet | Chromaphone | It is unlikely to arrive before 2030, if ever
Since a perfect 1:1 Z1 VST isn't available, the community has developed several creative workarounds to bring MOSS synthesis into the box.
If you just want in a VST: get AAS Chromaphone 3 (closest modern spiritual successor).
Bringing acoustic-like expressive playing to a multi-voice synthesizer. How to Get the Korg Z1 Sound in a VST Format
The Korg Z1 (1997) was a unique physical modeling synthesizer (using MOSS – Multi-Oscillator Synthesis System). Korg has in their Korg Collection or otherwise. It introduced the physical modeling and MOSS concepts
Arturia’s engines include several physical modeling algorithms developed by Mutable Instruments (Modal and Speech engines). These algorithms deliver the same gritty, mathematical, yet strangely human textures found in the Z1. Sound Design Tips: Recreating the Z1 Sound in Software
The short answer is: The recent addition of the Korg Trinity to the software collection is a massive hint. If Korg can emulate the entire Trinity workstation—which included the MOSS option—porting the standalone Z1 is technically feasible. Furthermore, the ongoing trend of hardware manufacturers releasing software versions of their classics makes the Z1 a logical next step.
The Legendary Multi-Model Synthesizer Enters the Digital Age
This gives you access to the Z1 oscillator models (including the physical brass, reed, and plucked models).
Combined with a multi-node polyphonic arpeggiator, an XY touchpad, and a highly flexible modulation matrix, the Z1 delivered expressive textures that flat PCM sample-playback synths of the era simply could not match. 2. Is There an Official Korg Z1 VST?
