EXs258 Ararat Synths

EXs258 Kelfar Ararat Synths – Most Wanted Leads for KORG KRONOS/NAUTILUS

This exclusive collection of lead sounds is drawn from Karim El-Far’s personal selection of instruments at Kelfar Technologies. It has been meticulously sampled in Kelfar Technologies’ private studio using top-tier audio interfaces and equipment, ensuring unmatched fidelity and realism. The EXs258 Kelfar Ararat Synths are also inspired by the very famous lead sounds of the EXs96 Monomusica, incorporating vintage-style combinations and Mono-Portamento sound techniques to deliver both expressive authenticity and modern versatility.

The library features 32 Programs and 48 Combinations, offering a versatile collection of Armenian, Assyrian, Chaldean, Syriac, Kurdish, Persian, and Eastern-inspired lead sounds — all meticulously crafted through Analog Synthesis.

Though these cultures do not speak the same language, they share a profound musical heritage: modal scales, ornamented melodies, and expressive phrasing that transcend borders. This library captures that common thread, transforming it into powerful analog voices that honor tradition while opening new creative possibilities.

All Programs and Combinations in the EXs258 were created exclusively from 11 carefully crafted Multisamples, including Lead, Piano, Guitar, Brass, Organ, Lead Clarinet, Distortion Leads, Strings, Ethnic Timbres, and more.

The EXs258 offers a wide range of EDM- and Ethnic-inspired lead sounds that can be seamlessly integrated into any genre of music. Whether you’re producing electronic dance tracks, pop, rock, fusion, or cinematic scores, these sounds provide the energy, clarity, and versatility needed to elevate your performance and compositions. Designed with analog synthesis techniques, they deliver both modern punch and timeless character, making them an essential addition to every keyboardist’s sound palette.

Most importantly, this collection will be available worldwide on Korg’s official shop website, ensuring that musicians everywhere can access and share in these voices of heritage, power, and presence.

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Key Features

Authentic synthesis methods, using carefully programmed analog-style techniques to achieve the most expressive lead sounds.

EXs258 --- Unmatched realism, flagship tone, and just 15MB of Virtual Memory. A must-have when space is tight and inspiration runs high.

Comprehensive tone shaping, including full control over reverb, delay, chorus, distortion, and WahWah for maximum customization of your leads.

Mono Low Priority, Mono Low Priority is essential when performing in a Zourna style, as it preserves authentic phrasing and articulation, and is especially useful in the Armenian style.

Dynamic expression is enhanced by an Expression Pedal, offering deep control over volume, attack, and performance nuance; when an Expression Pedal is not available, each Program and Combination is assigned to JS‑Y (Joystick – Y axis) for volume control.”

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Optimized Voicing

Programs designed for professional studio and live applications.

Combinations Mode offers a range of powerful features—including Program Split and KARMA (ARP/Nautilus)—which are essential for live performances. In Split mode, players can assign sustained textures such as hold strings or a single-note “Dam” drone to the left hand, while performing expressive Armenian-inspired lead sounds on the right. This setup allows seamless control of accompaniment and solo voices together, creating a rich and authentic stage experience.

Vintage dynamic volume and louder than KORG factory presets!

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Effects

Do you need to add specific effects to carry off a solo or flourish? Knobs 7/N-5 and 8/N-6 control the effects in real time. This feature makes it easy to get the right amount of Reverb or Delays whether you're performing live or playing in the studio. We've even programmed the Ararat Synths in Progs and Combis with effects related to a theme or song!

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Realistic Lead Articulations & AMS (Alternate Modulation Source, Real-time Controls)

Featuring Slide, Mute, and Velocity based Bending, each articulation is meticulously programmed for authenticity and dynamic responsiveness. It is highly recommended that you use the EXs258 Guide to become familiar with the Kelfar Ararat Synths.

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EXs258 Kelfar Ararat Synths is the definitive lead sound library for KORG KRONOS/NAUTILUS, delivering authentic, dynamic, and inspiring tones for every keyboardist and performer.

Note: The order of the factory Programs is arranged differently among NAUTILUS, KRONOS3, KRONOS2, KRONOSX/KRONOS. This affects sounds which reference the factory Programs. Please download the file which matches your product model.