Overview

The Kurzweil PC3K series is the state of the art in Kurzweil performance controller technology. It represents the culmination of Kurzweil’s advanced synthesis hardware and software, combining all of the best aspects of the award-winning K-series (K2000, K2500, K2600) and PC-series (PC88, PC2X) and then adding even more improvements on top of that. A world-class sound set, VAST™ synthesis architecture that remains unparalleled in depth and flexibility, hugely powerful KDFX effects processing, and the addition of 128 MB of Flash sample memory make the PC3K series what some in the music industry refer to as “the solid gold Swiss army knife” of professional keyboard sound and functionality.

The PC3K comes equipped with 1074 factory presets (Programs) spanning a wide range of pianos, electric pianos, strings, brass, guitars, drums, many different types of synthesizer timbres, and much more. 150 factory Setups (multi-timbral layers and splits) are included that combine many of these different sounds into interesting and unique combinations.

With 9 front panel sliders, 10 switch buttons, pitch wheel, modulation wheel, 3 switch pedal inputs, 2 continuous controller pedal inputs, and key-activated monopressure, as well as inputs for an optional K2600-style “Super Ribbon” and breath controller input, the PC3K provides a staggering array of control options at your fingertips (and feet!)

VAST Technology

Kurzweil’s VAST synthesis architecture is one of the most advanced and powerful methods of shaping sound available in a hardware synthesizer today. VAST provides the ability to combine up to 32 layers of signal processing in a single patch (Program) with each layer having not only completely unique processing blocks such as filters, shapers, and distortion, but also having its own individual “wiring” between these different blocks. Signals from one layer can be cascaded into other layers, creating long processing paths altering a single signal. Each layer can have its own unique Keymap (sound source) as well as processing modulation using sliders, wheels, and switches.

Samples and File Compatability

Like its predecessors, the PC3K comes built-in with 128 megabytes of sample memory for loading your own custom samples for use in the VAST engine. Unlike older DIMM-based RAM technology, the PC3K’s sample memory is based on non-volatile Flash RAM: what gets loaded there, stays there. No more having to reload all of your samples after every power cycle.

Keeping with its non-obsolescence design philosophy, the PC3K includes the ability to load files from previous Kurzweil instruments such as the K2000, K2500, and K2600, as well as the PC3LE and previous generation PC3 series. RAM sample compatibility is 100%, while the majority of K-series Programs, Setups, and Keymaps are also compatable (about 80%).

KDFX Processing

After harnessing the power of VAST to shape your sound, the PC3K includes Kurzweil’s famous KDFX effects processing for applying traditional “outboard” style effects such as reverb, chorus, flange, delay, compression, EQ, and many more. The effects section allows for up to 16 insert effects shared or distributed over 11 different processing busses.

Also included as a final effects stage, the PC3K includes a Master Effects section as a final compression and EQ right before the signal passes through the output jacks. This allows for a global adjustment of sound character for adapting to any studio or live performance situation or venue. This Master effect is independent of the 16 insert effects and is globally active no matter what mode your instrument operates in.

Quick Access Mode

With Quick Access mode, you can arrange and organize all your favorite, go-to Programs and Setups into convenient, one-button-press banks of sounds right at your fingertips. Each Quick Access bank can have up to 10 Programs or Setups mixed and matched and available at the press of a button on the number pad (1-9, 0). No more scrolling through huge lists of sounds to get right at the one you’re looking for. Editing a Quick Access bank is quick and easy for fast, pre-show programming, eliminating the need for carrying around a “cheat sheet” with all your sound numbers written out.

Other Features

The PC3K includes a fully featured 16-track sequencer with the ability to load in songs from an external source with an unlimited track count. Track- and event-based editing is available with functions like quantize, remap, controller scaling, and more. Sequences can then be played back normally or included in user-created Setups as triggerable, pattern-based “Riff” tracks.

USB connectivity allows for connecting your PC3K to a computer for both MIDI over USB, as well as saving and loading files over USB through a cable connection or directly with a USB thumb drive. This allows for easy file storage, as well as quick and easy OS updates.

The PC3K is available in 88-note fully weighted, 76-note semi-weighted, or 61-note semi-weight actions.

Specs

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