Six channels, built-in effects, USB-C audio and MIDI make the NTS-4 a flexible hub for hardware setups
Korg has announced the NTS-4 Performance Mixer Kit, a compact analogue mixer designed for musicians building hardware-based setups around volca instruments, NTS devices, Eurorack modular systems and desktop synthesizers.
The fourth product in Korg’s Nu:Tekt series, the NTS-4 continues the range’s unusual approach to DIY hardware. The mixer arrives as a self-assembly kit, but there is no soldering required. Korg says the complete unit can be assembled in just a few minutes, making it ready for use almost immediately.
Once assembled, the palm-sized mixer provides six channels in a steel chassis, with enough connectivity and processing to serve as the centre of a compact studio, live rig or portable hardware setup.
Built for Performance
The NTS-4 is designed to behave more like a performance mixer than a conventional routing box.
Every channel features dedicated CUE and MUTE buttons. CUE allows a channel to be monitored privately through headphones before bringing it into the main mix, which could be particularly useful when preparing transitions during a live performance. MUTE provides instant channel cuts for performance-oriented control.
The six inputs comprise four stereo minijack channels and two mono minijack channels. The mono inputs can accept Eurorack-level signals, with an internal attenuator allowing them to be switched between line and modular levels.
That means a Eurorack system can connect directly to the NTS-4 without requiring an additional interface or level-conversion device.
Two Layers of Effects
Korg has given the NTS-4 two independent stereo effects engines.
Each channel has its own SEND FX control, with seven effects available:
- Delay
- Ping Pong Delay
- Hall Reverb A and B
- Slap Reverb A and B
- Chorus
The main output has a separate TOTAL FX engine with ten effects for processing the entire mix:
- Low-pass filter
- High-pass filter
- Isolator
- Flanger
- Phaser
- Decimator
- Drive
- Distortion
- Compressor
- Limiter
This allows individual channels to be given spatial effects while the master output can be shaped independently, providing considerably more creative control than the NTS-4’s compact size might suggest.
USB-C Adds a Modern Twist
The NTS-4 is also designed to fit into computer and mobile-based workflows.
Its USB-C connection carries 24-bit, 48 kHz audio as well as USB MIDI, and can provide bus power. Korg says the mixer can be connected to a Mac, PC or mobile device for recording and streaming.
That opens up some useful possibilities for hardware performers. A complete live set can be recorded directly to a phone, streamed from the mixer, or integrated into a computer-based production setup.
The dedicated MIDI Out connection also allows MIDI data from a DAW to be routed directly to external hardware.
Small Footprint, Serious Connectivity
Despite measuring just 195 x 125 x 38 mm and weighing 613 grams, the NTS-4 provides a surprisingly comprehensive set of connections.
The specification includes:
- Four stereo 3.5mm inputs
- Two mono 3.5mm Eurorack-compatible inputs with switchable attenuation
- Stereo Send and Return
- Main L/R outputs on 1/4-inch unbalanced jacks
- Dedicated headphone output
- 3.5mm TRS MIDI Out
- USB-C audio and MIDI
- Seven per-channel Send FX
- Ten master Total FX options
- CUE and MUTE controls on every channel
- Three-digit LED display
- Steel chassis
The NTS-4 can process up to 10 audio signals, making it capable of acting as the central mixer for a fairly substantial desktop or hybrid hardware setup.
DIY, Without the DIY Headaches
The Nu:Tekt concept has always been about giving musicians a more hands-on relationship with their hardware, and the NTS-4 continues that idea without making assembly intimidating.
There is no soldering involved, and the kit includes assembly instructions and a USB Type-C to Type-A cable. Power comes from USB bus power or an optional 9V AC adapter.
For musicians with a collection of small hardware instruments, the NTS-4 could be an interesting alternative to a conventional mixer, particularly when performance controls, effects and direct computer connectivity are priorities.
Pricing and availability
The Korg NTS-4 Performance Mixer Kit is available from July 10, 2026, through authorised Korg retailers.
Pricing is set at:
- $249 USD
- €219 EUR
- £189 GBP
- ¥32,000 JPY
