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Average Price: $930

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Description

Unleash the legendary soundscapes of the Hammond B-3 in a sleek, modern package with the Hammond XK-3c. This compact powerhouse retains the soulful expressiveness and iconic tones of its predecessor, while introducing a suite of updated features for today’s musicians. From the dual drawbars to the dynamic digital Leslie simulator, every detail is engineered for an unparalleled playing experience. Whether on stage or in the studio, the XK-3c brings a new level of versatility and control to your music, making it a must-have for organ enthusiasts and contemporary players alike.

Key Features:

  • Dual sets of drawbars for authentic Hammond articulations
  • Integrated digital Leslie simulator for iconic rotating speaker effects
  • Comprehensive chorus-vibrato for depth and texture
  • 96 editable tonewheels for personalized sound sculpting
  • Parameter Menu for custom modifications, mimicking famous hot rod modifications

Product specs

Brand Hammond
Model XK-3c
Finish Wood Finish
Year 2010s
Categories Organs
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 73 Keys

FAQs

What type of sound engine does the Hammond XK-3c use?

The Hammond XK-3c features a digital sound engine designed to replicate the classic tonewheel sound of traditional Hammond organs, providing authentic organ tones with modern reliability and convenience.

How many keys does the Hammond XK-3c have?

The Hammond XK-3c is equipped with 73 full-size keys, offering an extensive range for performance flexibility while maintaining a compact design suitable for various playing environments.

Is the Hammond XK-3c suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Hammond XK-3c is well-suited for live performances due to its robust build, authentic organ sounds, and intuitive controls, making it a favorite among professional musicians for stage use.

Can the Hammond XK-3c connect to external speakers?

The Hammond XK-3c includes standard audio outputs that allow it to connect easily to external speakers or amplifiers, enhancing its sound projection for both practice and performance settings.

What is the keyboard action type of the Hammond XK-3c?

The Hammond XK-3c features a synth action keyboard, providing a smooth and responsive playing experience that is ideal for replicating the feel of traditional organ keys.

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Kraft Music - Hammond XK-3c Organ Performance with Scott May and Christian Cullen

Video thumbnail for Kraft Music - Hammond XK-3c Organ Performance with Scott May and Christian Cullen by Kraft Music

Kraft Music - Hammond XK-3c Organ Performance with Scott May and Christian Cullen

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Video thumbnail for Hammond XK-3c - the 120 factory presets by SynthMania

Hammond XK-3c - the 120 factory presets

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for Comparing the Hammond XK-3c Pro to the classic Deep Purple Hammond C3 organ by Nick Foley UK - Hammond for Hire

Comparing the Hammond XK-3c Pro to the classic Deep Purple Hammond C3 organ

Nick Foley UK - Hammond for Hire

Nick Foley UK - Hammond for Hire

Video thumbnail for Hammond XK3c : extended solo | Frank Montis by Hammond Lessons | Frank Montis

Hammond XK3c : extended solo | Frank Montis

Hammond Lessons | Frank Montis

Hammond Lessons | Frank Montis

Video thumbnail for Hammond XK3c System using Internal Leslie sim by Joe Doria Music

Hammond XK3c System using Internal Leslie sim

Joe Doria Music

Joe Doria Music

Video thumbnail for Hammond XK-3c on Stage by Thomas B

Hammond XK-3c on Stage

Thomas B

Thomas B

Video thumbnail for Highway Star Hammond Lead on an XK3c by David B

Highway Star Hammond Lead on an XK3c

David B

David B

Reviews

PROS

  • Sound closely mimics top keyboard of the B3 organ

  • Chorus effect impressively authentic; can split on upper/lower manuals

  • Leslie simulator convinces even seasoned musicians

  • Customizable tones and circuit path, including tube order

  • Lightweight compared to similar models

  • Durable over years of use

  • Endorsed by renowned musician Booker T. Jones

CONS

  • Lacks the full dual-manual setup of the traditional B3 organ

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hammond XK-3c.

Features and functionality

  • The XK-3c offers extensive organ controls like drawbars and waterfall keys, closely mimicking a real B3 experience.

    Source
  • Owners mention the ability to connect directly to a real Leslie for a clean stereo image, enhancing authenticity in studio settings.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest using a Neo Ventilator if unsatisfied with the built-in Leslie simulator for an enhanced sound experience.

    Source
  • Adding drawbar heads to Novation Impulse faders enhances realism when using the B3X plugin.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The XK-3c's Leslie simulation is considered superior to the Korg CX3's, with further improvements noted in the Hammond SK series.

    Source
  • The IK B3X plugin's Leslie simulation is preferred over the Hammond SK1's internal sound for home use.

    Source
  • The XK-3c's waterfall keys are praised for realism, second only to an actual B3, outperforming Nord in authenticity according to owners.

    Source
  • The Viscound Legend, offering two manuals, is noted for its jazz and pipe organ sounds, though less ideal for rock compared to the XK-3c.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for recording projects seeking authentic B3 sounds, especially when paired with a real Leslie for added realism.

    Source
  • For realistic club performances, the XK-3c can be enhanced by running through a tube amp for warmth and EQ adjustments.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The B3X plugin requires manual MIDI control mapping, with limited mapping options available.

    Source

User experience

  • A user found the Arturia Keylab 61 effective for controlling the B3X plugin, with faders positioned on the right.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The XK5's multi-contact key system provides noticeable "crunchiness," appreciated by those familiar with fine-tuning organ sounds.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Hammond XK-3C review | Digital Piano Review Guide

digitalpianoreviewguide.com

The Hammond XK-3C masterfully captures the essence of the classic B3 sound with its impressive organ patches and Leslie speaker simulation, making it a standout for B3 purists. Its slick, classy design and responsive, comfortable keyboard facilitate fast playing, although the small LCD screen can be cumbersome for on-the-fly adjustments. While the XK-3C’s price may deter newcomers, its user-friendly interface and seamless patch changes make it accessible to both beginners and experts. Despite its cost, it's a worthy investment for those seeking authentic organ sounds, though budget-conscious players might consider the more affordable Hammond SK1.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
nickgrooves

Plays and sounds like the real thing, but only weighs ~48 lbs.

When I met Booker T. Jones, he said "I want one of those!" His only reason for not buying one was because you couldn't split the chorus effect on the upper/lower manuals ...until they came out with this model (the 'c' in XK-3c stands for 'chorus'). Anyway, if his endorsement doesn't convince you, take my word for it ... LOL. The Leslie simulator sounds really great. Lots of times I'm at a gig and someone asks "where's your Leslie cab?" to which I point to my board and watch their eyes grow in disbelief. Other features of this organ are the ability to completely and totally customize the tones AND circuit path including switching the order of the tubes. For real.

gary_strag

Excellent

Very good sound, not too heavy, have for a lot of years without problems

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dizzy Reed uses Hammond XK-3c

Dizzy Reed

Keyboardist

Guns N' Roses

...
Verified via Hammond USA

“When all else fails, the Hammond is my inspiration. With G n’ R, I play an XK-5 through a Leslie 3300. It sounds unbelievable and I use it as a MIDI controller. I also play and XK-3 through a Leslie Studio 12 for clubs. It kicks ass, holds it’s own. And of course, in the studio, there is nothing like the B-3 through a Leslie. It’s the best sound ever.”

See how Rod Argent uses Hammond XK-3c

Rod Argent

Singer, Keyboardist

The Zombies

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "The Zombies - Odessey and Oracle Revisited 40th Anniversary Concert," Rod Argent is seen performing with a Hammond XK-3c organ.

See how David Rosenthal uses Hammond XK-3c

David Rosenthal

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Rainbow

...
Verified via YouTube

David Rosenthal describing and explaining his rig, where he is explaining his touring rig for Billy Joel in October of 2014.

At 1:46 in the video, we see the Hammond XK-3c, in which David explains "... and that's running through a Leslie 147, which is below the stage.

See how Kyle O'Quin uses Hammond XK-3c

Kyle O'Quin

Keyboardist, Composer

Portugal. The Man

...
Verified via YouTube

At 2:59, a Hammond XK-3c Keyboard can be seen, one of Kyle's many keyboards.

See how ryo (supercell) uses Hammond XK-3c

ryo (supercell)

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

In the music video for "The Bravery," ryo (supercell) can be seen using the Hammond XK-3c organ.

See how Jörn-Uwe Fahrenkrog-Petersen uses Hammond XK-3c

Jörn-Uwe Fahrenkrog-Petersen

Keyboardist, Composer

Nena

...
Verified via YouTube

As seen being used at Bang Your Head Festival with his former band Voodoo X. 0:07s in.

See how Zoot Money uses Hammond XK-3c

Zoot Money

Singer, Keyboardist

Eric Burdon & the Animals

...
Verified via YouTube

Visible throughout this video of Zoot Money’s October 9, 2017 performance at The 100 Club. It is also mentioned erroneously as an “SK3” in this interview from Detail Issue 2, which was posted to Facebook on May 11, 2021.

These days when Zoot is on the road he is traveling much lighter. He plays a Hammond SK3, which is basically the digital version of the old Hammond B3 and a Roland 90 digital piano. “I’ve broken it right down into the digital world. I can’t be lugging the wardrobe around everywhere. I’ve even got an electronic thing which is called a Ventilator, which is in fact a Leslie – the electrical impulses give you the Leslie effect. It’s six inches by three inches and you punch a button away you go!” So with all this currently set up in the front room at his Fulham home, he’s practising new material ready for the day he can get back out playing again.

See how Terry Lawless uses Hammond XK-3c

Terry Lawless

Keyboardist

U2

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Terry Lawless is seen with a Hammond XK-3c.

See how Karen Grotberg uses Hammond XK-3c

Karen Grotberg

Keyboardist

Jayhawks

...
Verified via Photo

"Yes! I saw the Jayhawks last week and they sounded great. Grotberg's rig was a CP5 and an XK3c set up in an L shape. Nothing fancy but good playing that supports the songs." http://forums.musicplayer.com/ubbthreads.php/topics/2638856/Re_Underrated_and_Unappreciate

See how Seth Justman uses Hammond XK-3c

Seth Justman

Singer, Keyboardist

The J. Geils Band

...
Verified via Photo

In the provided image, Seth Justman, the keyboardist, is clearly shown utilizing a Hammond XK-3c organ. This visual evidence confirms his use of this specific musical instrument.

See how Jim Beard uses Hammond XK-3c

Jim Beard

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Chroma

...
Verified

In an interview with JazzTruth, Jim Beard confirmed his use of the Hammond XK-3c, stating, "A Hammond XK-3C, which is one manual of a digital Hammond, and the Nord Stage. That's it. The Nord Stage is great. Great clavinet and Rhodes sounds."

See how Lou Pardini uses Hammond XK-3c

Lou Pardini

Singer, Keyboardist

Chicago

...
Verified via Hammond USA

As mentioned on Hammond's official website

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Hammond XK-3c, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

1 alternative for Hammond XK-3c, curated by the Equipboard community.

Korg CX-3 Organ

$350.00

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