This is the rackmount version of the DW-8000, a hybrid digital/analog poly synth. Identical, except the EX-8000 does not have the arpeggiator. Dark, moody, and heavy are good ways to describe the sound. Has some beautiful crystal EP's, and can generate some truly ripping lead lines ( with the built-in digital delay ). Basically 16 DCO's, or single cycle waveforms, passed through a VCF and VCA. Filter can self oscillate, and is one of the squelchiest around. A very cheap addition to any setup, and very underrated at that.
You can create some warm strings and synth pads on the fly, and programming is a breeze. All of the parameters are on the front panel, so no real need for a manual. But there is one online, if you have to have it. See the Korg Links page. For cheap analog filter wierdness, this box rules. Get one, you won't be sorry.