NAMM 2026: Korg KAOSS Pad V is the next generation of its dynamic FX processor and sampler hardware, featuring dual-touch control and more.
Korg’s NAMM 2026 coverage continues. After the microAudio audio interfaces and the new Filter Ark plugin, there’s now something for fans of live effects. For this, we go back to 2013 when Korg released the Kaoss Pad 3+. That was the last one in this form factor.
Well, it’s not the last one. Ahead of NAMM 2026, Korg has announced the KAOSS Pad V, the next generation of its dynamic FX processor and sampler hardware in its best-known clothes.
Korg KAOSS Pad V
The Kaoss Pad V heralds a new era for the KAOSS Pad, beloved by live musicians. Korg hasn’t experimented with the KAOSS Pad V’s design, adopting almost the entire look of the Pad 3+ from 2013, with one difference: it’s not black but white/silver.
The exterior is almost vintage, but the core has been updated for 2026. Like its predecessors, the KAOSS Pad V is a dynamic FX processor and sampler controlled by a touchpad. This is one of the highlights of the new version.
It introduces an all-new touchpad with dual-touch support, enabling you to move two parameters simultaneously to build evolving textures.
In previous versions, you could manipulate sounds with a single finger on an X/Y pad. Now, you can do it with two fingers on a single pad.
On the FX side, it features a new voice FX engine that delivers creative vocal processing for performances and production. Add harmonies, vocoder layers, pitch-morphed tones, and other expressive vocal textures in real time.
You can also control external MIDI gear using your voice, opening entirely new ways to perform. In addition, it features a refreshed library of classic and modern KAOSS effects, including filters, delays, reverb, modulation, voice processors, and more.
A detailed list of available effects is available on the website. The Logue SDK engine, like the one used in the NTS-3 Kaoss Pad, is unfortunately not included.
One can only hope that Korg will magically unlock it one day, as they did last year with the microKORG 2.
Customizability & Expanded Sampling
Of course, the effects can be fine-tuned on both the device and the pad-LED colors, program behavior, effect depth, and performance controls. Plus, you can build personal variations and save custom presets on the device.
A key feature of the KAOSS Pad 3+ was its sampling capability. Yes, the KAOSS Pad V is also a sampler with recording, overdubbing, and looping on-the-fly, and these functions have been expanded.
According to Korg, you can now sample up to 8 bars that are dependent on tempo. You can also overdub layers in real time and maintain the loop position during playback.
There are also multiple playback and slicing modes available for creative rearrangement. Use the BPM-synced step hold to stay locked to the groove. The Kaoss Pad V now supports SD cards up to 32GB (KP 3+ only supports 4GB), enabling larger samplings.
Korg hasn’t shared the sampling limitations with the press. I’ll add them later once the website is online.
Better Connectivity
The Korg KAOSS Pad V isn’t just more sonically versatile; it’s also more versatile in how you can use it. This is where its expanded connectivity comes into play.
It now features an integrated USB audio interface that makes it easy to record, process, or stream your audio. That’s not all.
A new Hi-Z jack/balanced mic preamp turns the KAOSS Pad V into a guitar- and bass multi-FX processor without additional hardware.
This expanded connectivity lets you use the MIC, LINE, and USB inputs simultaneously to blend vocals, instruments, and computer audio in a single setup.
A newly designed power circuit and updated audio path provide stable, low-noise performance, making KAOSS PAD V equally at home on stage, in the studio, or anywhere you create.
Furthermore, it includes the classic stereo cinch line-in/line-out sockets, a USB-B port for audio and data, 5-pin MIDI in/out, and a 9V power-supply input.
On the front panel, you have the new combo Hi-Z /mic preamp with level control, a headphone socket with volume control and a SD card slot. It also ships with editor software.
Korg KAOSS Pad V First Impression
After the failed and much criticized Kaoss Replay of 2024, Korg has brought back the classic version with the Kaoss Pad V. Version 5 looks like a solid update with some nice additions.
It’s a shame they didn’t adopt the Logue SDK engine from the NTS-3 Kaoss Pad, which would have allowed users to expand the effects list even further. Perhaps it’s integrated, but Korg hasn’t enabled it. We will see it!
Korg KAOSS Pad V is available soon for $649.
More information here: Korg
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