Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP
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 29 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
96%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Simple controls (25)
- Easy to use (22)
- Excellent sound (22)
- Versatile (22)
- Compact (15)
Cons
- Limited functions (5)
- Difficult to use (3)
Best Uses
- Performances (22)
- Amateur recording (16)
- Professional recording (14)
- Outdoor events / games (12)
- Soundtracks (7)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Experienced (12), Novice (9), Professional musician (8)
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.
Reviewed by 29 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
Cons
- Limited Functions
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
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 - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
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 - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
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 - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
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 - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
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 - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
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 - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
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.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
this product is the best for fx
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
Cons
- Bulky
Best Uses
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
Super. Just super.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
I planed on only using it for vocal effects, but now have taken full advantage of its looping capabilities and drum machine for my live shows. Its also very easy to learn how to use. Bottom line: buy it. I love it.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
Wow!The kaoss pad is a great product and it suits the needs it was supposed to meet. It integrates my music gear for my compositions and allows me more creative freedom.
The best part was the low, low price.
The only drawback is that you can't loop within itself. You have to draw from external sources.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Fun
- Intuitive Control Scheme
- Versatile
Cons
- Limited Num of Channels
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
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.
Pros
Cons
- Difficult To Use
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Music Videos
- Performances
- Professional Recording
- Soundtracks
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
This product is so awesome to have. It is an advanced piece of equipment. It is like a small computer. Im still learning on it, but once I can figure everythin out, i think there will be endless possibilities.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
- Professional Recording
- Soundtracks
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
Ive been so busy this year i have not had the time to dig into the KP3 like i would like too, but so far so good. I just wanted to say thanx [...]:)Andy WitchezNOLAMF RECORDS
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
- Limited Functions
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
A superb little FX box that is so much fun to use. I have been eyeing this for so long and got it for 259 and now its even cheaper on B&H. You will not find this anywhere in this world for a cheaper price than B&H. This is it!!
At the moment, I use it to create a jambalaya of loops as i run it through my computer. I take snap shots of the music I like and play around with its amazing FX offering.
I also have connected my mic to it for some casual beat boxing. You can save your files to a built in sd card system which is great.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
- RCA connections
Best Uses
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
I am happy with what the KP3 allows me to do, but I was not happy with the fact that I received a defective unit. There was no audio from the right channel through the headphones or through the outputs. I also am not entirely sure why Korg goes with RCA outputs and inputs on the KP3. They have a terrible noise floor to deal with.
Other than these issues it is a great unit. It is simple to use and has an endless combination of effects. I'll be using it in live shows frequently.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Compact
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
I personally use the Korg Kaoss Pad 3 mainly for its sampling abilities but I use it often in conjunction with synthesizer apps on the iPad/iPod Touch. There is a very wide range of effects to use and they are very versatile in use. The Auto-BPM feature is absolutely great, it can automatically detect the BPM of any incoming sound for you and match your current sounds to it. Overall an absolutely great piece of equipment.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Parties
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
pros
- easy to use, no complicated manuals
- effects very very usefull and easy to understand
- lots of effects - you will not leave your audience bored y using same effects several times
- lots of lights (touch pad) - impressive in any event
cons
- clock does not function well with my VDJ software, but I don't care (I build loops "on the fly" using VDJ)
- kind of difficult to upload different samples from the card (however I believe that it is just a matter of "practice")
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
- Bulky
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Performances
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
this product is great, and this site sells it for the cheapest I could find anywhere online, it's brand new, not b stock or used. all the effects sound lovely, it's got 128 effects, for a line in input, can also have a mic input for vocoder effects and a 4 bank sampler, I'd have to say I mainly use it as an effects unit and it is incredibly intuitive, all of the effects sync up to a BPM that you can either set or the kp3 can analyze your incoming signal and find the BPM for you. this means that you're delays/flangers, etc are in increments that sync up to your input source. It really does sound amazing.
Pros
- Accurate Controls
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
- Breaks Easily
Best Uses
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg KP-3 KAOSS PAD - Touch Sensitive, Realtime Effects Generator / Controller with Sampler and Editing Software for Mac OS X and Windows XP:
This is a great item. The best sampler on the market for the price. Very simple and intuitive controls, once you get beyond the initial learning curve and deceptively confusing interface. The only reason I give this 4 stars and not 5 stars is because this is the 2nd Korg KP3 I have owned since the first one I owned did not survive a single fall off of a vibrating speaker.
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Cables
- Price: $3.19
Headphones
- Price: $59.99
Expansion Cards
- Price: $4.99
Cases & Protection
- Price: $22.53
Microphones
- Price: $39.00
Cable Management
- Price: $6.87
Engineer's Essentials
- Price: $3.95
What's in the Box
- External Power Supply
- Touch Pad Protection Sheet
- Software CD-ROM
- One (1) Year Warranty
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