DSS-P Programmer for KORG DSS-1 Sampling Synthesizer (Pre-order)

August 3rd, 2026 - This is a pre-order listing.  The DSS-P production units are expected to ship in October 2026.  Development is completed.  We are working on the production run at the moment.  You may place an order here to reserve a unit.  Orders will ship when the units are here.   The first run is limited to 50 units.   

DSS-P - The Ultimate Programmer & Librarian for the Korg DSS-1

The Retroaktiv DSS-P completely transforms the experience of owning the legendary Korg DSS-1 Sampling Synthesizer.

Designed exclusively for the DSS-1, the DSS-P replaces tedious menu diving, floppy disk juggling, and cryptic parameter editing with a beautiful, hands-on interface that keeps you focused on creating sounds instead of navigating 1980's user interfaces.

Every major synthesis parameter is available directly from the front panel. No menus. No hunting. No compromises.

Once you've experienced editing a DSS-1 from the DSS-P, it's hard to imagine ever going back.

Rediscover Your DSS-1

The DSS-1 remains one of the most powerful hybrid sampling synthesizers ever created, but its workflow has always been limited by the technology of its era.

The DSS-P removes those limitations.

Large high-resolution displays provide instant visual feedback while dedicated controls put every important function exactly where you expect it to be. Parameter names, waveforms, envelope shapes, values, sample information, and system status are always visible, making programming intuitive and enjoyable.

Rather than feeling like an accessory, the DSS-P feels like the instrument Korg always intended to build.

User Friendly Librarian

Archive, restore, and organize your sounds without ever touching a floppy disk.

The DSS-P includes 16 MB of onboard Flash memory for storing complete DSS-1 systems, programs, and samples.

Entire systems can be transferred between the DSS-1 and the DSS-P in under one minute in most cases.

Your favorite sounds become instantly accessible and can be safely backed up to your computer without relying on aging floppy drives, disk emulators, or cumbersome conversion utilities.

Always in Sync

Unlike generic MIDI controllers, the DSS-P is constantly aware of the current state of your synthesizer.

It always knows:

• Which system is loaded
• Which programs are available
• Which multisounds are installed
• The current edit buffer
• Active parameter values

Because the controller always stays synchronized with the instrument, editing feels seamless and immediate.

Built-in Patch Generator

The DSS-P includes an advanced Patch Generator optimized specifically for the DSS-1.

Included are two carefully curated waveform libraries:

• Analog Wave Bank
• Digital Wave Bank

These waveforms integrate directly into the Patch Generator, making it easy to explore entirely new sounds while taking full advantage of the DSS-1's unique synthesis engine.

Universal MIDI Control Surface

The DSS-P is far more than a dedicated programmer.

Create your own custom control maps that transmit MIDI CC or SysEx messages to virtually any compatible synthesizer or software.

Interactive displays can present:

• Parameter names
• Parameter values
• Envelope graphics
• Waveform displays
• Custom text
• User-defined control pages

Whether you're controlling vintage hardware or modern software, the DSS-P is an incredibly versatile MIDI control surface.

Polychain Support

Own two DSS-1 synthesizers?

The DSS-P includes built-in Polychain Mode, allowing two DSS-1s to function together as a single expanded instrument with increased polyphony.

Modern Connectivity

The DSS-P integrates seamlessly into both vintage and modern studios.

• USB MIDI
• Dual independent MIDI DIN input/output ports
• Dedicated MIDI connection for the DSS-1
• Separate MIDI interface for external equipment

This architecture allows the DSS-P to remain permanently connected to your DSS-1 while simultaneously functioning as part of your larger MIDI setup.

Designed for Musicians

The goal of the DSS-P was never simply to add more knobs.

It was to remove every obstacle between inspiration and sound design.

The result is a programmer that feels less like a controller and more like an extension of the synthesizer itself.

Once the DSS-P is connected...

You may never touch the DSS-1's front panel again.

Features

• Complete hardware programmer for the Korg DSS-1
• Direct access to every synthesis parameter
• Large high-resolution graphical displays
• 16 MB onboard Flash memory
• Fast system, program and sample backup and restore
• Automatic synchronization with the DSS-1
• Integrated Patch Generator
• Analog and Digital waveform libraries included
• Universal MIDI CC and SysEx controller mode
• User-programmable control pages
• Polychain support for dual DSS-1 systems
• USB MIDI
• Dual MIDI DIN interfaces
• Librarian keeps parent Systems and child program banks linked