This item has been discontinued by the manufacturer and is no longer available.
The PC3X from Kurzweil is an 88-key performance controller that also includes a huge array of sounds, a synthesis engine, all coupled with a comprehensive sequencer. Building on the success of the K Series, the PC3X includes Kurzweil's Triple Strike Grand Piano, KB3 Mode, along with basses, drums, guitars, synthesizers for every genre, and over two hundred fifty string section and orchestral programs.
Using custom designed chips, Kurzweil's V.A.S.T. architecture coupled with their VA-1 Virtual Analog Synthesizer delivers powerful sounds and features. The unlimited track sequencer with 1536 PPQ resolution and superior effects processing allows the controller to function as a total music production DAW workstation. A USB interface and an xD card port further enhance the functionality of the PC3X.
| Keyboard | 88 fully-weighted hammer action with velocity and aftertouch |
| Polyphony | 128 voice, dynamically allocated |
| Multitimbral | 16 parts (one per MIDI channel) |
| Sequencer | Unlimited tracks with 1536 PPQ resolution |
| Presets |
850 64 KB3 programs |
| User Memory |
1024 location 128 MIDI locations |
| Controllers |
Pitch wheel Modulation wheel 9 Front panel sliders/drawbar controllers 2 Front panel switches (momentary or toggle, software selectable) 3 Switch pedal input 2 Continuous control pedal inputs Mono pressure Super Ribbon input Breath controller input 1 Please Note:Controller values can be "captured" and stored as part of a program close |
| Output |
4 x 1/4 TRS phone Output (24-bit DACs) 1 x 1/4" TRS phone Headphone (rear panel ) 1 x RCA coaxial S/PDIF Output (24-bit) 2 x 5-pin DIN MIDI Out/Thru |
| Inputs |
1 x RCA coaxial S/PDIF Clock In only 1 x 5-pin DIN MIDI |
| Other Connectors |
1 x USB 1.1 1 x xD card port 2 Please Note:USB port can be used for MIDI over USB. xD card can be used for backup and loading programs, sequences and updating the OS close |
| Display | 240 x 64 angled backlit LCD with dedicated back panel brightness and contrast controls |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 54.33 x 13.98 x 4.33" (1380 x 355 x 110mm) |
| Weight | 55 lbs (25kg) |
| System Compatibility | Mac and PC platforms |
| Specialties | Cascade Mode allows the user to route one layer through the DSP of any other layer within a program, up to 32 consecutive layers deep |
Displaying reviews 1-2
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Kurzweil PC3X - Keyboard Performance Controller:
I have owned this keyboard for 1 year now.
I have lost track of how many people have come up to me and commented
on how much they love the sound from this thing.
Most importantly I love the professional sound quality.
When I was deciding to purchase it I was torn between the Korg M3
and this board. To my ears the korg sounds are not as deep sounding.
I think the best aspect of the board is the sounds are so interesting and
never get tired and this has really helped me with my creativity!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Kurzweil PC3X - Keyboard Performance Controller:
I purchased this controller primarily to use as a silent practice instrument with headphones. The keyboard does not feel like a "real" piano of course (my other piano is a large Steinway) but the action is astonishingly good, preferable to a mediocre grand or an upright for practice. It is regular and reliable, and the response and sensitivity of the touch can be edited over a wide range. There are several "classical" piano programs to choose from, all of them complex and with individual character. You have the ability to edit the programs yourself down to the sample level, or to create entirely new programs.
The open-pedal string resonance isn't worked out really well yet. Half-pedaling is not available, but as I read the programming abilities, I think it could already be done.
The whole catalogue of sounds is huge. It also includes good classical orchestral samples, pop- and jazz-related samples, a wide range of electric keyboard samples, and analogue synthesis. For "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" or a classic "Nola" there is also a real good Hammond B-3 replica. A sequencer and computer interface via USB assist composing, recording and software maintenance.
Kurzweil continually updates the operating system, sound programs and manuals on line, and the update procedure (I've been through it twice now) is fast and reliable. Their marketing is currently a bit spotty, but their products are the best.
Displaying reviews 1-2