Kurzweil PC3K
Kurzweil PC3K
Kurzweil PC3K series (PC3K8, PC3K7, PC3K6) are 128 voice Dynamic V.A.S.T. synthesizers, direct successors of legendary K2xxx synthesizer workstations.
The user interface has been improved. Factory programs are categorized and can be selected by scrolling or by using bank and program select buttons, favorites programs can be can be organized into "Quick Access" banks. Each preset sound has an "Info" screen for viewing the current controller assignments and other info. The Easy Audition feature provides link to a bank of "riffs", recorded sequences which preview each sound. Free computer Desktop Editor provide easy editing for both Mac and PC platforms.
Synthesis architecture
All Kurzweil PC3K synthesizers have 128 voice/up to 32 layers per program latest generation Dynamic V.A.S.T. synth engine with improved processing power and integrated Virtual Analog oscillators based on VA1 Virtual Analog Synthesizer prototype. The PC3K comes with 64 MB of ROM sounds (include the Orchestral and Contemporary sound blocks, General MIDI (GM), Stereo Triple Strike Piano, Classic Keys for realistic vintage electric piano sounds, and new String Sections.
The VA -1 anti-aliasing oscillators include saw, super saw, triple saw, square and hard sync oscillators. There is also larger set of V.A.S.T. filters (including 4-pole Moog style LPF) and non-linear processors. KB3 tone-wheel organ simulator mode is also available.
The Cascade mode enables to route every layer in program through the DSP of any other layer, in series or blended together, with up to 32 layers. The concept is the same as K26 Triple Mode, but it is not limited to three layers only. User algorithms can be created as well.
PC3K series instruments are capable of loading samples, WAVE, AIFF files and most of the K Series programs and setups. 128MB of re-loadable, non-volatile, user flash ROM. Loaded samples stay in memory even after power cycle.
Sequencer
PC3K´s sequencer is newly designed, having unlimited tracks and 960 PPQ resolution, set of song editing functions like event editing, swing, and controller scaling with a new friendlier interface. The sequencer can play back MIDI type 0 or 1 sequences, record and play back songs, and record multi-timbral sequences received via MIDI.
Arpeggiators & Riffs
16 full-featured independent arpeggiators featuring 48-step programmable, pattern generators with both pitch and velocity controls with multiple latch modes, selectable play order, velocity, duration, tempo, and sync functions as well as pre-recorded beats and musical phrases.
The 16 "Riff" generators (used for triggering MIDI sequenced phrases, beats, or complete multi-track arrangements from notes on the keyboard and/or any on-board physical controller.)
Effects
16 insert effects distributed over 11 buses, two available auxiliary sends, PLUS a global Master FX section. The PC3 offers more than twice the processing power of KDFX engine. It includes over 500 effects - reverbs, delays, chorus, flange, phaser, EQs, distortions, Leslie simulators, compressors, and more. Effects can be chained together in series, or distributed among the PC3K's 16 multitimbral channels. Master effects feature EQ section and master compressor.
Physical appearance
Keyboard: Velocity and monophonic aftertouch sensitive (see the Models available for more details), pitch wheel, modulation wheel, 9 front panel sliders/drawbar controllers, 10 front panel switches (momentary or toggle, software selectable), 3 switch pedal inputs, 2 continuous control pedal inputs, optional ribbon controller input, breath controller input. Controller values can be "captured" and stored as part of a program.
Display: 240 x 64 backlit graphical LCD with brightness and contrast controls.
Outputs: 4 analogue balanced TRS outputs, 1 headphone output, 24-bit, stereo S/PDIF (44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192-kHz modes, externally clockable),
Data terminals: MIDI IN/OUT/THRU, USB (MIDI over USB), Flash Memory XD card.
Sounds never before imaginable (after more than 20 years)
The Kurzweil PC3K synthesizers have a unique "fat" sound and it is excellent in multi-timbral settings. The comprehensive editing functions offer immense sound programming possibilities PC3Ks offer superb acoustic sounds, excellent pads, as well as aggressive non-harmonic digital colors. It is suitable for all contemporary music styles.
Models available
There are three keyboard models, rack version as with previous K series is not available.
PC3K6
61-note lightly-weighted synth action keyboard (Fatar TP9) velocity and pressure sensitive
PC3K7
76 note semi-weighted-action keyboard (Fatar TP8) velocity and pressure sensitive
PC3K8
88-note, fully-weighted hammer-action keyboard (Fatar TP40L) velocity and pressure sensitive
The technical specs are identical for all three models.
Compatibility
With OS V2 and above:
PC3LE
Fully compatible with PC3LE (except of different onboard controller assignment)
PC3
Fully compatible except of sample objects
K2 series
Although „majority of Setups, Programs and Keymaps“ compatibility is advertised, only simple programs that do not use advanced synthesis and certain V.A.S.T. DSP blocks really works. From our experience not more than 20% of our K:Works K2600 programs really works trouble free. The K2661 compatibility sample file is provided.
Plus:
Excellent sound, still surpasses most of the main-stream synthesizers, workstations and VSTis
Comprehensive V.A.S.T. synthesizer engine
VA-1 Anti-aliasing oscillators
New classic Moog 4pole low pass filter emulation
KDFX effect processing
USB storage media support (no clumsy SCSI)
Samples stored in non volatile flash ROM
K25/26 sample compatibility
Upgradeable OS in Flash ROM (via USB)
2000 locations for user object (the expensive P-RAM expansion times are gone)
Arpeggiators and Riff generators
Onboard assignable sliders
Still decent design and sturdy construction
Soundtower computer editor available
Minus:
Some of the K25/26xx VAST DSP blocks are missing (cause problems with K25/26xx compatibility and limits more advanced and experimental programmability)
K2xxx compatibility does not provide successful results for “more advanced” K2xxx programs
Higher level of aliasing within some DSP blocks compared to K25/K26xx further limits the quality of several types of sound programs
Small LCD by today´s standards
Ribbon controller now optional with short cable and not enough place to comfortably accommodate on the front panel
Extremely slow USB load/save time (seems like it emulates old floppy drive)
Only 4 analog outs (enough for live, but insufficient for studio use)
No ADAT or other multichannel IN/OUTs
What we love to have in next OS versions
Improved K2xxx compatibility
Add the missing DSP blocks from K25/26xx
Advanced library functions for both factory and user programs (the Waldorf navigation system known from Blofeld e.g.)
Faster USB load/save
Web resources
http://kurzweil.com/ - Kurzweil Music Systems company web page
Can I use the PC3K:Works sound program collections for Kurzweil PC3/PC3LE synthesizers?
No, you can´t. The PC3K:Works collections have been specially designed for Kurzwel PC3K series only. There is dedicated PC3:Works soundware available for PC3/PC3LE synthesizers.
Can I use the PC3:Works sound program collections for Kurzweil PC3K synthesizers?
Yes, you can. These collections can be used for both Kurzweil PC3 and PC3K synthesizers. For more technical information, please see the PC3K:Works product description - section "Detail".
I have loaded the PC3K:Works sound program collection into my Kurzweil PC3K synthesizer and many programs sound incorrectly?
The PC3K:Works sound program collections require the Kurzweil K2600 compatibility file to be installed into your Kurzweil PC3K synthesizer. For detailed information, please see the PC3/PC3K:Works - Reference Guide - chapter "PC3K:Works / Kurzweil K2600 Compatibility File".
The PC3/PC3K - Reference Guide, PDF document, is available in "Downloads" section.
-
PC3K:Works - Synth Collection - (Kurzweil PC3K)
download mp3
Regular Price: €149.00
Special Price: €99.00
Exclusive collection of professional sound programs contains vintage synth emulations, synth pads, synth basses, synth leads and synth programs specially designed for using with Kurzweil PC3K internal arpeggiator.
Learn More
The PC3K:Works - Synth Collection is a special bundle including our PC3K:Works - Synth Collection (Volume 1 - Volume 6).
Sound banks: 8
Sound programs: 660
This soundware collection is carefully categorized to provide efficient searching and better user comfort for studio composing and live performance.
PC3K:Works – Synth Collection is supplied in the following categories:
Vintage Synth
This soundware category has been designed with a special emphasis on the so called “old school” feeling. It contains emulations of famous vintage synthesizers (e.g. Moog, Oberheim, ARP, Sequential Circuits, PPG, etc.).
126 sound programs (1 sound bank)
Synth Pads
A large collection of warm, lush, sharp and modern “analog & digital” synth pads carefully designed for various music styles.
176 sound programs (2 sound banks)
Synth Leads
Selection of monophonic and polyphonic leads with 70s and 80s retro feeling, including contemporary experimental leads. The aftertouch and portamento is extensively used to emulate the real lead synthesizer play style.
50 sound programs (1 sound bank)
Synth Basses
Analog and digital synthesizer bass programs, including exclusive MiniMoog emulations based on KVA – Virtual analog oscillators and excellent Kurzweil´s Mogue LP filter.
153 sound programs (2 sound banks)
ARP/SEQ Programs
Sound programs designed for the Arpeggiators and Step sequencers. The ARP/SEQ programs use filtered KVA – Virtual Analogue Oscillators - Saw, Square, Super Saw, Triple Saw and PWM, with extensive support of onboard real time MIDI controllers. For detailed description of the Kurzweil PC3K/PC3 and PC3LE MIDI controller settings, see the “PC3K/PC3:Works real time MIDI controller standard” table below.
105 sound programs (1 sound bank)
Sync Programs
Category containing leads and filtered programs with the oscillator sync. Oscillator sync is one of the features available on synthesizers with two or more oscillators, where one oscillator restarts the period of the second one, so they have the same base frequency. The timbre is then altered on the synced oscillator by adjusting its frequency input providing sharp and metallic sounds.
50 sound programs (1 sound bank)
Note: This soundware collection is designed for Kurzweil PC3K synthesizers without optional ROM boards installed.
Soundware delivery info: The ordered product will be delivered to your e-mail address as a ZIP file.
Product documentation (PDF Format) - PC3K:Works - Synth Collection (Kurzweil PC3K):
Reference Guide
Sound Program List -
Ultimate collection of electric organ emulations based on Kurzweil PC3K´s internal ROM samples (organ, organ drawbars and organ partials) and KB3 Mode.
Learn More
This soundware collection contains the vintage electric organs including filtered, specially modulated and distorted organ sounds for various music styles.
In addition the “Electric Organ“ collection - "Organ 3" sound bank contains, as a free bonus, more than 65 organ sound program variations specially designed for live performance.
The "Organ 3" sound bank also contains, as a free bonus, more than 100 new KDFX effect settings sorted into the individual effect groups:
• Single effects: (Delay, Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Distortion)
• Effect combinations: (Chorus + Delay, Flanger + Delay, Phaser + Delay, Distortion + Delay).
Most of delay effect settings (single effects and effect combinations) use the Kurzweil PC3K internal MIDI clock for easy BPM (beats per minute) synchronization.
Info: Some of electric organ sound programs contain the individual sound program layer of the key release emulation (controlled via MIDI 29 – onboard On/Off – switch) to increase the vintage authenticity of the final sound.
Sound banks: 4
Sound programs: 294
Free bonus programs: 95
Note: This soundware collection is designed for Kurzweil PC3K8, PC3K7 and PC3K6 synthesizers without optional ROM boards installed.
Soundware delivery info: The ordered product will be delivered to your e-mail address as a ZIP file.
Product documentation (PDF Format) - PC3K:Works - Electro (Kurzweil PC3K):
Reference Guide
Sound Program List -
Exclusive collection of clavinet and electric piano sound programs (Rhodes, Wurlitzer, Yamaha CP80, Hohner Pianet and FM piano emulations) including a large number of specially modulated (filter, shaper, distortion, etc.) clavinet and electric piano sounds, carefully designed for various music styles.
Learn More
Sound banks: 3
Sound programs: 116
Free bonus programs: 23
Note: This soundware collection is designed for Kurzweil PC3K8, PC3K7 and PC3K6 synthesizers without optional ROM boards installed.
Soundware delivery info: The ordered product will be delivered to your e-mail address as a ZIP file.
Product documentation (PDF Format) - PC3K:Works - Electro (Kurzweil PC3K):
Reference Guide
Sound Program List -
Comprehensive soundware collection of various classical and specially modulated types of clavinets, electric pianos and electric organs including the tonewheel organ emulations based on Kurzweil PC3K´s KB3 Mode.
Learn More
The PC3K:Works - Electro is a special bundle including our PC3K:Works - Electro (Volume 1 - Volume 2).
Sound banks: 7
Sound programs: 410
Free bonus programs: 118
This soundware collection is carefully categorized to provide efficient searching and better user comfort for studio composing and live performance.
PC3K:Works – Electro includes the following sound program categories:
Clavinets
This category contains clavinet emulations including various filtered and specially modulated clavinet sound programs.
Sound banks: 1
Sound programs: 31
Free bonus programs: 4
Electric Pianos
Special category of the electric piano sound programs carefully designed for various music styles. This soundware category contains the classical Rhodes, Wurlitzer, Yamaha CP80, Hohner Pianet and FM electric pianos including the experimental electric piano emulations.
Info: Some of electric piano sound programs contain the individual sound program layers of the key thump and key release emulations (controlled via MIDI 29 – onboard On/Off – Switch) to increase the vintage authenticity of the final sound.
Sound banks: 2
Sound programs: 85
Free bonus programs: 19
Electric Organs
Ultimate category of electric organ emulations based on internal ROM samples (organ, organ drawbars and organ partials), and Kurzweil PC3´s KB3 Mode.
This category contains vintage electric organs including filtered, specially modulated and distorted organ sounds for various music styles.
In addition the “Electric Organs“ category – “Organs 3” sound bank contains, as a free bonus, more than 65 organ sound program variations specially designed for live performance.
The “Organs 3” sound bank also contains, as a free bonus, more than 100 new KDFX effect settings sorted into the individual effect groups:
• Single effects: (Delay, Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Distortion)
• Effect combinations: (Chorus + Delay, Flanger + Delay, Phaser + Delay, Distortion + Delay).
Most of delay effect settings (single effects and effect combinations) use the internal Kurzweil PC3K MIDI clock for easy BPM (beats per minute) synchronization.
Info: Some of electric organ sound programs contain the individual sound program layer of the key release emulation (controlled via MIDI 29 – onboard On/Off – switch) to increase the vintage authenticity of the final sound.
Sound banks: 4
Sound programs: 294
Free bonus programs: 95
Note: This soundware collection is designed for Kurzweil PC3K8, PC3K7 and PC3K6 synthesizers without optional ROM boards installed.
Soundware delivery info: The ordered product will be delivered to your e-mail address as a ZIP file.
Product documentation (PDF Format) - PC3K:Works - Electro (Kurzweil PC3K):
Reference Guide
Sound Program List
