KORG Introduces KAOSS PAD V

A reimagined evolution of the expressive touch-based effects platform   16-Jan-26

We were literally just talking about what a new KP would have on SonicTALK this week, and today Korg announces the KAOSS PAD V, the latest generation of their long-running touch-based effects processor series.

The new KPV has a redesigned interface and a suite of updated technology.  Korg describe the KAOSS PAD V as a "complete reimagining" of their tactile effects concept.

Probably the biggest new feature is dual-touch pad, which allows two parameters to be controlled at once. Allowing performance combinations such as filtering while adjusting delay, shifting pitch while altering reverb, or blending modulation with feedback. 

Connectivity has also been improved, with MIC, LINE  and USB inputs available simultaneously, letting you blend vocals, instruments, and computer audio within one setup. The balanced mic preamp provides clean vocal input, while a dedicated Hi-Z input allows guitars and basses to be connected directly.

The integrated USB audio interface simplifies recording and streaming, making it straightforward to capture performances into a DAW, run effects during a livestream, or monitor through headphones. Korg have also updated the power circuitry and audio path to provide a stable, low-noise signal chain suitable for both stage and studio use.

The KAOSS PAD V introduces a new Voice FX engine which allows real-time vocal harmonies, vocoder layers, pitch-morphed tones, and other expressive voice treatments. It can even send control data to external MIDI gear using the performer's voice, adding a new dimension to live control and performance design.

Korg have also expanded the KAOSS PAD's looping and sampling functionality. You can now sample up to eight bars depending on tempo, overdub layers in real time, and maintain loop accuracy during playback. BPM-synced Step Hold ensures that effects remain locked to the groove, while new slicing and playback modes open creative possibilities for rearranging captured material.

The KAOSS PAD V includes a curated library of classic effects drawn from previous models, covering filters, delays, reverbs, modulation, and vocal processing. These legacy effects are complemented by new algorithms that take advantage of the updated hardware and processing power.

Users can customize parameters through an onboard editor, build variations, and save presets directly on the device. LED pad colours, program behaviour, and effect depth can all be adjusted to suit individual workflows.

Key Features:
• Dual-touch performance pad for two-parameter control
• Next-generation Voice FX engine for harmonies, vocoder and pitch shaping
• Hi-Z guitar and bass input for direct connection
• Integrated USB audio interface for recording and streaming
• MIC, LINE and USB inputs usable simultaneously (line in on phonos still - boo!)
• Expanded looping and sampling functions (up to 8 bars, real-time overdub)
• BPM-synced Step Hold for tight rhythmic control
• Refreshed library of classic and modern KAOSS effects
• Onboard editing with custom preset storage
• SD/SDHC card support up to 32 GB (though only 8 bar sample length)
• MIDI In/Out, RCA and TRS connectivity
• Dimensions: 210 (W) × 226 (D) × 49 (H) mm, Weight: 1.3 kg

Available now priced at £519/$649
 

We would have liked to have seen the Logue SDK included for more custom expandability,  and the basic functionality is not particularly expanded - we're thinking longer and more functions for sampling and looping,  but hey ho.
 What do you think, there are a lot of previous KAOSS devices out there, will you be upgrading?

https://www.korg.com/uk/products/dj/kaoss_pad_kpv/

Bo Beats does a nice round up of this: