NAMM 2026: Korg Kaoss Pad V, a unique instrument for creating electronic music

There was plenty of gear that appealed to electronic musicians at NAMM 2026, and Korg definitely didn’t hold back. The Kaoss Pad has been popular in electronic music production since the first version became available, but the line hasn’t seen anything new (at least not a full-size model) since 2013’s KP3+.

That changed with the announcement of the Kaoss Pad V. It’s a full-size version with new enhancements and features that make it a unique sound creator with effects that’s just as perfect for sound design as it is for playing live.

Coordinate controls

A XY touchscreen interface has always been the heart of the Kaoss Pad series. It provides a novel level and method of tactile control for crafting sounds and manipulating effects that lets users create something truly unique.

It can alter all types of parameters, from simple filters and envelopes to affecting how the other controls on the KPV function. You can slice sounds in all kinds of ways that you just can’t through standard knobs and sliders or create stutters that sound right at home at Electric Daisy Carnival.

Powerful vocal processing

Vocals are one – if not the – most important elements of a mix. The Kaoss Pad V is built around the new Voice FX vocal engine which allows for esoteric and inventive ways to process vocals.

There are plenty of ways to get sounds into the unit including MIDI in and out, a microphone/guitar input, USB-B, and SD-SDHC card.

The first Kaoss Pad came out all the way back in 1999, and 26 years later it’s more relevant than ever.

Learn more about the Korg Kaoss Pad V.