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Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP
-
Discontinued
Availability Details
CloseThis item has been discontinued by the manufacturer and is no longer available.
- B&H # KOKP3
- Mfr# KP3
The KP-3 KAOSS Pad from Korg is an effects processor/controller with a unique X-Y touch pad interface, that allows for controlling multiple effect parameters in real-time. The user simply touches, taps and/or rubs a finger across the surface of the touch pad to create enumerable effects. USB connectivity and SD Card storage, along with editing software makes the unit a perfect performance tool for DJs, as well as a unique processor for studio applications.
The unit provides 128 effect programs, ranging from delays and filters to vocoders and synthesizers. All can be modified and saved to program memory. Pad Motion records all finger motion for the ultimate in repeatability, while Hold and Mute features add even more versatility. An FX Release function automatically provides a delay effect when removing the hand from the touch pad, making it easier to perform smooth transitions during a performance.
In addition, the KP3 also functions as a sophisticated sampler. Both microphone and line inputs are provided, allowing for sampling from a variety of audio sources. Resampling allows for recording the output of the KP3 itself, as well as to sample incoming signals through the onboard effects. Both loop and one -shot samples can be recorded and played from the Sample Bank buttons. Sample editing tools provide automatic sample slicing, and the start point of the loop can be manually adjusted to keep samples in sync.
128 Effect Programs
- Includes essential effects like filters, delays, reverb and flanging, along with specialty effects that include grain shifter, decimator, a vintage analog style filter with a tone-bending drive circuit, and expanded EQ
- Programs are selected by turning a knob and assigning them to up to eight program memory locations, each with a recall button
- A HOLD switch allows for freezing an effect in its current position, making it easy to capture a perfect setting or to rhythmically change the sound by drumming on the pad
- FX Release adds an adjustable delay tail when removing a finger from the pad. In addition to being a creative performance tool, the feature also prevents the abrupt dropping out of the effect while transitioning from one setting to another
Synthesizers and Vocoders
- Loaded with synthesizer sounds including analog synthesizer programs and ethereal ambiance-type sounds
- Also included are vocoder programs that are great for MC or vocal processing, or adding vocoder effects to program material
BPM Effects
- The delay time or the LFO rates of modulation effects such as pan, phaser or flanger can be synchronized to the beat with the unit's programmed BPM effects
- An auto BPM function detect the speed of an input source, or alternatively the BPM can be adjusted manually or by tap-tempo
- The KP3 can also send and receive tempo information via MIDI clock. This allows the unit to detect BPM information from a turntable for example, and in turn provide MIDI clock to other devices down the line
Sampling with Effects
- The KP3 can record both looped phrases and one shot samples from an external source
- Four sample keys
- Loop samples can be up to four measures (sixteen beats) long, at 73 BPM or above. Eight beats is the maximum number that can be sampled for tempo values lower that 73. If the tempo is 39 BPM or lower, the maximum number is four
- Resampling allows sampling external audio sources through the internal effects, or capturing the entire output of the unit as a new sample
- Time-Slicing chops a sample into separate parts
Pad Movements
- Pad movements are remembered exactly and any complex pad movements can be played back, instantly reproducing the original effect sounds
- A MUTE function can be used to cut the input sound, leaving only the reverb or delay "tail," or muting can be rapidly switched on/off in time with the rhythm
Operation and Connection
- Turntables, CD players and musical instruments can be easily connected
- A microphone input is perfect for processing vocals or for use as a wild MC toolbox
- MIDI IN and OUT connectors allow a computer-based or stand-alone sequencer to record and playback subtle movements traced on the pad for flexible production and remixing possibilities. The MIDI OUT connector also allows for controlling other synthesizers and MIDI gear
Light and Style
- The pad lighting system places sixty-four individual LEDs in an eight by eight grid under the pad, providing visual cues as to the current program, held position, etc. It can even scroll a custom message across the pad
- The unit is also built to travel with a heavy-duty, die cast aluminum chassis and a bold, slim-line design
| Effects Type | Multi |
| Channels | 2 (stereo) |
| Effect Variations | 14 categories |
| Presets | 128 |
| User Memory | 8 |
| Inputs |
2 x RCA phono Line 1 x 1/4" TS phone Microphone |
| Output |
2 x RCA phono 1 x 1/4" TRS phone Headphone |
| AD/DA Conversion | 24-bit linear, 48kHz |
| MIDI | In and Out |
| External Storage |
SD Card Via USB to a computer Sys-Ex |
| Display | 3 digit LED |
| Frequency Response | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Dynamic Range | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Noise | Not specified by manufacturer |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 8.3 x 8.9 x 1.9" (211 x 226 x 48mm) |
| Weight | 2.87 lbs (1.3 kg) |
| Specialties | Patterns on the touch pad change according to the type of effect being used and the position of the user's finger on the pad |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 42 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
98%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Simple controls (34)
- Versatile (32)
- Easy to use (31)
- Excellent sound (31)
- Compact (24)
Cons
- Limited functions (8)
- Difficult to use (3)
Best Uses
- Performances (32)
- Amateur recording (21)
- Professional recording (20)
- Outdoor events / games (18)
- Soundtracks (10)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Experienced (20), Novice (12), Professional musician (10)
Most Liked Positive Review
The only thing better...would be two
I was given this as a gift for Christmas I can say that I've never had more fun with a sampler. The Kaoss Pad is the most immediately accessible sampler and effect generator that I...Read complete review
I was given this as a gift for Christmas I can say that I've never had more fun with a sampler. The Kaoss Pad is the most immediately accessible sampler and effect generator that I have layed my hands on. In my form of music, beatboxing, the KP3 has enjoyed a long lifetime of use and it's easy to see why: it's simply the best sampler out on the market. Put in a sample or beat via the numerous handy input options and it will seamlessly play it back, allowing you to alter it however you please and layer more samples on top of it just as fluidly. One of my favorite features that is included on the Kaoss Pad is the tap bpm feature that allows you to tap out a tempo and it then gives you the approximate bpm, a very handy feature. The only thing that I can think of that irks me about this product is the limited number of samples that the Kaoss Pad can store at once (four). This can be remedied, however, by the purchase of two of the product.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
What is it?
So far using it as an effects module.
Great delays, filters, and sound wrecker effects.
Looping is a pain. Loops dont sync with each other to my knowledge and dont st...Read complete review
So far using it as an effects module.
Great delays, filters, and sound wrecker effects.
Looping is a pain. Loops dont sync with each other to my knowledge and dont start at the beginning when triggered. Synth sounds are not controllable.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 42 customers
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Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
I bought this for my son. This is his second kaoss pad, and he now has the two of them connected together and to his other music gear. The product is great in its own right, And in combination with other kaoss pads and with other music gear is very rewarding to the tech minded, budding musician,
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
I've wanted one of these since it came out and now it's finally cheap enough for me to afford it without regret. I link it through my mp3 player and do live remixing at a small local venue. This is probably the best purchase I've made in a long time. There are so many neat little features about it and it's pretty easy to learn even without the manual. I would definitely reccommend this product to a friend.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
- Limited Functions
Best Uses
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
This unit has some amazing features, and some very limited uses. As an effects processor, it okay but it has a lot effects that are very similar. Some of the effects are unique like the 4 crossfader effects. These let you fade seemlessly between 4 different samples. The start up time seems like it has been improved from an earlier unit (same model, just a few years different production). The sound does seem to vary between something kind of cheesy to something professional depending on what effect you're using.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Dynamic Effects
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
- Short Loop Length
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Music Videos
- Performances
- Soundtracks
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
This will be the third Kaoss Pad that I've purchased over the course of the last two years. I do not use this device for "DJ'ing" as most reviews and advertisements describe. Instead I utilize it with a series of synthesizers, vocoders, and my own voice to create full songs and textures from scratch. No MP3s, no samples.I love the ability to loop on it, as this makes up the backbone of my set-up. The effects on it prevent these loops from becoming stale or droning, and the versatility of of the loop features allows me to twist and bend different combinations of loops to build songs that have a powerful arc.My only issue with this device is that the loops are limited to sixteen beats at the most, depending on your tempo, which can really hinder more commonly used song structures. In the great scheme of the device, however, this drawback is easily overlooked.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Experimentation
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
This is an amazing toy and tool. I find myself using it to create, layer, and archive beats from a number of sources. Don't know how "professionals" use it, don't care. I can plug a sound source into it, seamlessly sample short rhythmic patters, resample through effects to dramatically change the tone and rhythm, layer with outputs from other synthesizers, transfer to my DAW to attempt to create music (I'm no good at it, but if I WAS good at it, the KP3 would be a key part of my success).
This thing is solid, fun to use, interesting to look at and very well designed for what it does. It is too bad the software is so out of date- KORG should have mercy and release working software updaters for current Mac OS systems.
Anyway, I am quite happy with this amazing tool. One of the best things I own.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
this is a great tool for any music enthusiast and is fun to use
Pros
- Compact
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional Recording
- Soundtracks
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
As someone who makes a lot of indie rock records I am always looking for new tools to add a spark to the mix.
I have many plugins, and those are great for things like reverbs, compressions and EQs.
This baby really comes in handy when i want the parameters of an effect to change in real time.
Using this device is very much like playing an instrument.
Controlling the effect parameters sa the music plays is a really great way to get the exact sound that you want.
I have mine wired through my patchbay and i basically send the signal of the Channel that i want to effect out of the board into the effect unit and then back into the board to record the effected signal.
I usually use the effect mix turned all the way up.
So far i have used it for EQ sweeps, Vocoder, Echo effects. (i've only had it for a week).
i have seen pictures of Brian Eno using this thing!
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
- Limited Functions
Best Uses
- Performances
- Soundtracks
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
This product is way more than I ever thought. I've been thinking about investing in a KP-3 since it came out, but I never really had the extra funds. But I've definitely gotten my moneys worth out of it and I've only had it for a few weeks.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
The Kaoss Pad is amazing at what it does and sounds incredible. You don't need much technical ability to use but it definitely helps. It's fairly simple to operate but to really get the hang of it, you'll need a good bit of practice.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
I have the Korg Kaossilator and now this KP3 as well. The effects in the KP3 allow me to add tremendous dynamic variation to the already powerful Kaossilator. B&H had the best price I could find.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
- Limited Functions
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Music Videos
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
doing 4 samples / then filter and mod them to extremes.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
Has been my favorite tool in my live performances. I haven't used the Kaoss Pad to its full potential but I'm already satisfied with what it does =) If your looking to buy this watch youtube videos about it, get blown away, and come back to B&H to purchase this item! They have a great deal! -DJ Okaishun
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
very usefull processor
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
Cons
- Limited Functions
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
As an EFX processor, this thing is loads of fun. You can stream anything through it and screw with its output in real time. It's limited in its sampling capabilities, however. The problems I see with this unit that make it inferior to a good sampler are:
1) Not enough RAM. Can sample 16 beats max per bank. Addition of memory card does not add to this RAM. Given this short time, everything ends up sounding very "loopy," unfortunately.
2) No metronome. Trying to start a beat while watching a blinking light for tempo is just awkward. Light doesn't change color either to indicate measure. C'mon Korg.
3) No sampler triggering. It's a no-brainer: give an option to trigger the sampler upon sound input. Otherwise you have to try and sync pressing record and playing your instrument/sample. You can go in later and offset the sample start time, which is awkward, and if the sample is longer than 16 beats you will cut the end off (see problem 1).
I think a DJ would have fun with this, and the effects are super cool to play with, but the sampling limitations are kind of a bummer and change this from a a potential instrument to just a glorified EFX pedal. All that said, it's very fun to use, so, 4 stars.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
I use this sweet piece of gear as an external effects processor for live electronic music sets. I run the FX out/send to the KP3 and then back in/return to the mixer. It works great this way and was really easy to setup. I wish it had 1/4" input/outputs, but RCAs are ok. I also use it as a phrase sampler and this function is great and really easy to implement. I read the manual, hooked it up and was sampling/looping synth melodies in no time! Love this lil guy and it sure does live up to the hype. What a good buy and you can't beat the B&H price. [$]?! Get your Kaoss on now!
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
Cons
- Limited Functions
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Music Videos
- Performances
- Professional Recording
- Soundtracks
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
I love this technology it makes music ten times better
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Great for live looping
- Versatile
Cons
- OS is difficult to update
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Beatboxing
- Events
- Live Looping
- Music Videos
- Performances
- Professional Recording
- Soundtracks
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
I love this product so much. I currently own four. My only complaint is that the fader is a bit flimsy. As far as live looping goes, this piece of gear is essential!
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
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Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
I use this box to mangle sound coming out of a Korg EMX. It does a great job. Also good for using as a vocoder. Also, it's built like a tank - all metal construction.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
- Cannot update firmware
- No included USB cord
Best Uses
- DJING
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
This is a really great product, it's very powerful and easy to use and get the hang of. There are two problems I have found. The KP3 did not come with the newest firmware (operating system). The box told me to go to Korg.com to find the OS 2.0, but it was nowhere to be found. I ended up googling it. I only found the updater software on the Korg UK site. The updater was too old to work with Mac OSX 10.7 Lion or Windows 7 64-bit, and did not work on my other computer (iMac, Mac OSX 10.6 Snow Leopard). I still have no way to update the firmware. The other problem, which is never mentioned anywhere, is the fact that the KP3 does not come with a USB cable. Thankfully I had an extra cord (USB A to USB B) laying around, but I do not think that everyone else does.
Pros
- Looks cool
- Options
- Versatile
Cons
- Difficult To Use
Best Uses
- Amateur DJ
- Amateur Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD Effects Processor:
New to DJ but like to do things diff. I like the Vocoder in it.
Pros: easy to set up and looks cool. Has tons of options.
Cons: NOT for the beginner. The instructions assume you already know "everything".
Still fun to play with and find new stuff with.
Not as many ways to hook up as I would have liked.
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