Korg NAUTILUS 88 Workstation Keyboard

Quick Product Summary

The Korg NAUTILUS 88 is a professional 88-key music workstation combining a piano-focused RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action keyboard with nine powerful sound engines, advanced sampling, sequencing, multitrack audio recording and extensive live-performance tools.

Its graded hammer action gives piano players a more authentic response than the semi-weighted 61 and 73-key NAUTILUS models, while the enormous sound library covers acoustic and electric pianos, organs, orchestral sounds, analogue-style synthesis, physical modelling and modern electronic textures. For pianists, composers, producers and professional stage players who want one instrument capable of handling almost every musical role, the NAUTILUS 88 is an exceptionally versatile centrepiece.

At A Glance

Brand	Korg
Model	NAUTILUS 88
Type	Professional Music Workstation
Keyboard	88-Key RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action
Condition	New
Main Appeal	Piano-style weighted action combined with nine professional sound engines
Best For	Piano performance, live use, studio production, composition and sound design
Skill Level	Intermediate to Professional

What Makes the Korg NAUTILUS 88 Special?

The NAUTILUS 88 combines the depth of a high-end workstation with an 88-note RH3 graded hammer-action keyboard. Its four-stage weighting makes the lower keys progressively heavier and the upper keys lighter, producing a response designed to feel much closer to an acoustic piano than a conventional synth action.

Behind that keyboard sits one of Korg's most comprehensive sound-generation systems. Nine separate synthesis enginesallow different instrument types to be produced using technologies specifically suited to them, from detailed grand pianos and electric pianos to tonewheel organs, analogue-style synthesizers and sophisticated physical modelling.

Why Choose the Korg NAUTILUS 88?

RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action

The 88-key model uses Korg's RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action 3, manufactured in Japan and weighted across four stages. This makes the NAUTILUS 88 particularly attractive to pianists who want authentic resistance and dynamic control without sacrificing the capabilities of a full professional workstation.

Nine Dedicated Sound Engines

Rather than relying on one general-purpose sound engine, NAUTILUS incorporates SGX-2, EP-1, HD-1, AL-1, CX-3, STR-1, MOD-7, MS-20EX and PolysixEX technologies. Each specialises in a different approach to sound generation, giving the instrument exceptional depth across acoustic, vintage and modern sounds.

Exceptional Acoustic Piano Sounds

The SGX-2 Premium Piano engine is dedicated to detailed acoustic piano reproduction, making excellent use of the NAUTILUS 88's weighted keyboard. For players moving between traditional piano repertoire and modern keyboard sounds, this combination is one of the strongest reasons to choose the 88-key model.

Complex Splits and Layers

Combination mode allows up to 16 Programs or external MIDI instruments to be layered, split, velocity switched or crossfaded across the keyboard. With 88 keys available, there is plenty of physical playing range for sophisticated multi-zone stage setups.

Serious Songwriting and Recording Tools

NAUTILUS includes a 16-track MIDI sequencer, 16-track hard disk recorder and master track. Audio recording supports up to four tracks simultaneously, allowing complete arrangements to be developed directly from the keyboard without immediately moving into a computer-based production environment.

Powerful Sampling and Sound Design

Korg's Open Sampling System supports sampling, resampling and In-Track Sampling, giving musicians the ability to incorporate their own recordings and sounds. Combined with deep synthesis, modulation and effects capabilities, NAUTILUS is equally suited to preset-based performance and detailed sound creation.

Built for Professional Live Performance

Set List mode provides fast organisation of sounds for individual songs or complete performances, while Smooth Sound Transition technology allows held notes and effects to continue naturally when moving between compatible sounds.

Why Choose an 88-Key Workstation?

An 88-key workstation is particularly useful for musicians who want the playing experience of a digital piano while retaining the production and performance capabilities of a synthesizer.

The full keyboard range means complex piano parts can be played naturally without octave switching, while large splits and layered setups have considerably more room than on a 61 or 73-key instrument.

Unlike a conventional digital piano, however, the NAUTILUS 88 also provides deep synthesis, sampling, sequencing, audio recording, MIDI control and extensive effects. It can therefore function as a piano, synthesizer, production workstation and master keyboard within the same setup.

Who Is the Korg NAUTILUS 88 For?

Pianists Who Need More Than a Digital Piano

The RH3 weighted action makes the NAUTILUS 88 a natural choice for pianists who want realistic playing feel but also need synth sounds, organs, orchestral instruments, sequencing and advanced performance features.

Professional Live Keyboard Players

With its extensive sound library, 16-part Combinations, Set List mode, multiple outputs and full 88-note range, NAUTILUS can replace several specialised keyboards within a sophisticated live setup.

Composers and Songwriters

Integrated MIDI sequencing and audio recording make it possible to develop complete arrangements directly from the instrument, while the broad sound palette covers everything from traditional instrumentation to experimental textures.

Producers and Sound Designers

Nine synthesis engines, extensive modulation, sampling and a comprehensive effects architecture give experienced users significant scope for creating original sounds rather than simply selecting presets.

Studio and Master Keyboard Setups

MIDI In, Out and Thru alongside USB MIDI connectivity allow the NAUTILUS 88 to become the main playing surface for external hardware instruments, software instruments and larger studio systems.

Story & Context

Korg has been developing professional workstation keyboards for decades, and the NAUTILUS continues that approach by bringing multiple forms of synthesis, sampling, sequencing, audio recording and performance control together within a single instrument.

A defining feature of the NAUTILUS architecture is its use of nine specialised sound engines rather than forcing every sound through one synthesis system. The result is an instrument capable of moving convincingly from traditional acoustic instruments to detailed electronic sound design without changing keyboards.

The 88-key version adds another important dimension by pairing this technology with Korg's premium RH3 graded hammer action and distinctive wooden side panels, giving piano-oriented players a version of NAUTILUS built around a full-range weighted keyboard.

Korg NAUTILUS 88 vs Other NAUTILUS Models

NAUTILUS 88 vs NAUTILUS 73

The NAUTILUS 73 uses a lighter Natural Touch semi-weighted action, making it particularly suitable for organ, synth and general stage playing. The NAUTILUS 88 instead uses RH3 graded hammer action and offers the full piano keyboard range, making it the stronger choice for players who place acoustic-piano feel and technique at the top of their priorities.

NAUTILUS 88 vs NAUTILUS 61

The 61-key version is substantially smaller and lighter, making it easier to transport for synth-focused performers. The NAUTILUS 88 sacrifices some portability in exchange for the full 88-note range and much more substantial piano-style key response.

Standard NAUTILUS 88 vs NAUTILUS 88 AT

The standard NAUTILUS 88 is velocity sensitive but does not feature aftertouch. Korg also produces the separate NAUTILUS 88 AT, which adds aftertouch functionality. This listing is for the standard NAUTILUS 88 model.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Korg NAUTILUS 88
Keyboard	88-Key RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action 3
Keyboard Range	A–C
Graded Weighting	Four-stage weighting
Velocity Sensitive	Yes
Aftertouch	No
Sound Engines	9
SGX-2	Premium Piano
EP-1	MDS Electric Piano
HD-1	High Definition PCM Synthesizer
AL-1	Analogue Modelling Synthesizer
CX-3	Tonewheel Organ Modelling
STR-1	Physical Modelling Plucked String
MOD-7	Waveshaping VPM Synthesizer
MS-20EX	Component Modelling Analogue Synthesis
PolysixEX	CMT Analogue Modelling
Maximum Polyphony	Up to 200 voices depending on sound engine
User Program Memory	2,560 Programs
User Combination Memory	1,792 Combinations
User Drum Kit Memory	264 Drum Kits
Combination Timbres	Up to 16
Set Lists	128
Slots Per Set List	128
Effects Architecture	12 Insert + 2 Master + 2 Total Effects
Effect Types	197
MIDI Sequencer	16 tracks plus master track
Audio Recorder	16-track playback / up to 4-track simultaneous recording
Song Memory	Up to 200 Songs
Sampling System	Open Sampling System
RAM Sampling	16-bit / 48kHz Stereo or Mono
Disk Sampling	16 or 24-bit / 48kHz
Display	7-Inch Colour TouchView TFT
Display Resolution	800 × 480
Internal Storage	60GB SSD
Main Audio Outputs	L/Mono and R
Individual Outputs	1–4
Audio Output Connections	1/4-Inch TRS Balanced
Headphone Output	1/4-Inch Stereo
Audio Inputs	2 × 1/4-Inch TRS Balanced
MIDI	In, Out, Thru
USB	USB Type A and USB Type B
USB Audio	2-Channel Input / 2-Channel Output, 24-bit / 48kHz
Pedal Connections	Damper, Assignable Switch, Assignable Pedal
Dimensions	1,437 × 387 × 139mm
Weight	23.1kg
Power Consumption	40W

Power Requirements

The Korg NAUTILUS 88 operates from an AC mains connection and has a rated power consumption of 40W.

What's Included?

• Korg NAUTILUS 88 Music Workstation Keyboard

• AC power cord

• Quick Start Guide

Not included as standard:

✘ Damper / sustain pedal
✘ Expression pedal
✘ Keyboard stand
✘ Keyboard bench

Compatible optional Korg controllers include the DS-1H Damper Pedal, XVP-20 Expression/Volume Pedal, EXP-2 Foot Controller and PS-1/PS-3 Pedal Switches.

Condition Overview

New

This is a brand-new Korg NAUTILUS 88 Music Workstation Keyboard, supplied as new retail stock.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Korg NAUTILUS 88 have fully weighted keys?

Yes. The NAUTILUS 88 uses Korg's RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action 3. The action uses four stages of weighting, with heavier resistance towards the bass end and lighter weighting towards the treble to provide a more piano-like response.

Is the Korg NAUTILUS 88 suitable for piano playing?

Yes. Of the standard NAUTILUS models, the 88-key version is the most piano-focused thanks to its full keyboard range and graded RH3 hammer action. Its dedicated SGX-2 acoustic piano engine also makes it particularly suitable for demanding piano performance.

Does the standard Korg NAUTILUS 88 have aftertouch?

No. The standard NAUTILUS 88 is velocity sensitive but does not feature aftertouch. Korg also offers a separate NAUTILUS 88 AT model with aftertouch.

Can the NAUTILUS 88 record complete songs?

Yes. It incorporates a 16-track MIDI sequencer and 16-track audio recorder, with audio recording of up to four tracks simultaneously.

Can I use the NAUTILUS 88 as a MIDI controller?

Yes. Its MIDI In, Out and Thru connections, USB connectivity and master keyboard capabilities allow it to control external MIDI hardware and computer-based instruments.

Does the Korg NAUTILUS 88 include a sustain pedal?

No. A sustain or damper pedal is not supplied as standard. Korg's optional DS-1H Damper Pedal is compatible and supports half-damper operation.

How heavy is the Korg NAUTILUS 88?

The NAUTILUS 88 weighs approximately 23.1kg. Its RH3 hammer-action mechanism makes it considerably heavier than the semi-weighted 61 and 73-key versions, so a suitable heavy-duty keyboard stand and protective case are recommended for regular live use.

Fair Deal Music Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The Korg NAUTILUS 88 is an outstanding workstation for musicians who want the expressive response of a premium weighted keyboard without giving up the creative flexibility of a professional synthesizer and production workstation.

The combination of 88-note RH3 hammer action and the SGX-2 piano engine makes this the obvious NAUTILUS choice for serious pianists, but its capabilities extend far beyond piano sounds. Nine synthesis engines provide an enormous sonic palette, while sophisticated splits, layers, sampling, effects, sequencing and multitrack audio recording make it equally comfortable on stage or in the studio.

For players looking for a single professional keyboard capable of covering acoustic piano, electric piano, organ, synthesis, orchestral sounds, production and advanced live performance, the NAUTILUS 88 offers exceptional depth.