Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $390

Standard/Professional

$249

$700+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Introducing the Korg KAOSS Pad 3, a powerhouse of effects and sampling capabilities. This DJ gear not only dazzles with its vast array of samples and playbacks, but also impresses with its real-time effects processing. Its intuitive touchpad and screen make it exceptionally user-friendly. The Pad's tempo functions offer impeccable beat-matching, with an accuracy that surpasses expectations. With its MIDI control and USB connection, the Korg KAOSS Pad 3 is not only versatile, but also incredibly convenient for on-the-go performance.

Key Features:

  • Intuitive touchpad and screen

  • Real-time effects processing

  • Accurate BPM beat-matching capabilities

  • MIDI control

  • USB connection for versatility and convenience

Product specs

Brand Korg
Model KP3 Kaoss Pad 3 Dynamic Effect / Sampler
Finish Black
Year 2000s
Categories DJ Controllers

FAQs

What kind of effects can the Korg KAOSS Pad 3 produce?

The Korg KAOSS Pad 3 offers over 100 effects including filters, delays, reverbs, vocoders, and more. It allows real-time manipulation of these effects using its intuitive X-Y touchpad, making it versatile for live performances and studio work.

How does the sampling feature on the Korg KAOSS Pad 3 work?

The KAOSS Pad 3 allows you to sample audio on the fly with its built-in sampler. You can record, loop, and manipulate samples directly, providing creative freedom for DJs and producers to integrate unique sounds into their sets.

Is the Korg KAOSS Pad 3 compatible with other DJ gear?

Yes, the Korg KAOSS Pad 3 can be easily integrated into a DJ setup via its RCA and MIDI connections, making it compatible with a wide range of mixers and controllers for expanded performance capabilities.

Does the Korg KAOSS Pad 3 require an external power source?

Yes, the Korg KAOSS Pad 3 requires an external power supply, which is included with the device. This ensures stable performance during live sets and studio sessions.

Can the Korg KAOSS Pad 3 be used for live performances?

Absolutely, the Korg KAOSS Pad 3 is designed for live performance use, offering real-time control over effects and samples. Its touchpad interface allows for dynamic and expressive manipulation, making it a favorite among DJs and live electronic musicians.

DJ Mag

DJ Mag

Beardyman using Korg's kaoss Pad 3

Video thumbnail for Beardyman using Korg's kaoss Pad 3 by DJ Mag

Beardyman using Korg's kaoss Pad 3

DJ Mag

DJ Mag

Video thumbnail for DJmag Korg Kaoss Pad 3 Review by DJ Mag

DJmag Korg Kaoss Pad 3 Review

DJ Mag

DJ Mag

Video thumbnail for The KORG KP3 TWELVE YEARS Later by Off Shift Productions

The KORG KP3 TWELVE YEARS Later

Off Shift Productions

Off Shift Productions

Video thumbnail for Korg Kaoss Pad 3, still a great FX Box by ben rabary

Korg Kaoss Pad 3, still a great FX Box

ben rabary

ben rabary

Reviews

PROS

  • Intuitive interface, easy for beginners to learn

  • Versatile effects, including solid delays and monstrous BitCrusher

  • Enhances live performances with its visual and functional design

  • Offers quick sampling for on-the-fly creativity

  • Supports MIDI control for integration with other gear

  • Suitable for a wide range of musical styles, from electronic to guitar music

  • Unique X/Y touchpad allows expressive effect manipulation

  • Can be used as a MIDI controller, adding variety to DJ sets

  • Features like grain shifter and vocoder expand sound possibilities

  • Suitable for both studio and live settings, enhancing gear like the Kaossilator Pro Plus

CONS

  • Tap tempo and MIDI sync are unreliable

  • Limited to one effect at a time, affecting versatility

  • Some effects, like the Reverb, are of poor quality

  • Inconsistent beat detection, might be slightly off BPM

  • Sample time and motion capture could be improved for better usability

  • Shift key and mode switching make operation clunky and less intuitive

  • Lacks balanced connectors, affecting studio use

  • Some users report noise issues, affecting output quality

  • Touch panel can be inaccurate, complicating precise control

  • Effect selection not significantly different from previous models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg KAOSS Pad 3.

Use cases and applications

  • The KP3 is effective for resampling live drummers and flipping samples in real time, particularly in large orchestral jazz ensembles.

    Source
  • Integrating the KP3+ with FL Studio can offer precise automation control over its effects, enhancing studio setups.

    Source
  • The KP3 is adept at integrating vocal samples into DJ sets, especially when pre-saved on a memory card for timely triggering during performances.

    Source
  • It's favored for live sampling and looping, with users highlighting its ease of use in these areas.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Kaoss Pad Quad, though less visually stylish, excels with its delay, compressor, reverb, and bitcrush effects, allowing multiple effects to be set simultaneously.

    Source
  • The Mini Kaoss Pad offers classic KP sounds and auto-BPM detection but lacks MIDI, positioning it as a simpler alternative to the KP3+.

    Source
  • The KP3 is often compared with the NTS-3, with some users preferring the latter due to its practical features despite missing an illuminated pad.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The KP3+ cannot save and reload sessions while keeping tracks in sync, which can impact workflow continuity during performances.

    Source
  • The KP3+ allows quick effect selection or loop slicing in real-time using its eight-button row, enhancing live performance flexibility.

    Source
  • Some effects on the KP3 can cause extreme outputs if not carefully managed, prompting users to pre-program favorite effects for quick access.

    Source
  • The KP3 is noted for its onboard looping and resampling capabilities, with a popular feature being its talk filter.

    Source
  • The KP3 is praised for its ability to handle dense drum tracks with repeated resampling, maintaining a thick, non-digital sound even after extensive bouncing.

    Source
  • The KP3’s MIDI sync capability is praised, though it's noted that tempo changes affect sample pitch, useful for ambient pitch bends.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The KP3's screen often requires calibration, with some users needing to recalibrate frequently due to tracking issues mid-set.

    Source

User experience

  • The KP3's headphone output can be notably quiet, with some owners reporting non-functional RCA outputs, impacting the device's utility in some setups.

    Source
  • Some users find the KP3 looper's drift manageable if they don't rely heavily on MIDI sync, viewing it as a sound-mangling tool rather than precision equipment.

    Source
  • Some users experience volume drops when using the KP3 with certain equipment, suggesting a need for careful gain staging.

    Source

Build quality

  • The KP3's plastic construction can lead to button wear over time, with some users preferring older models like the KPII for their tactile feel.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners have bought KP3+ models for around $200, considering it a worthwhile investment at that price.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Korg Kaoss Pad 3

soundonsound.com

The Korg Kaoss Pad 3 is a powerful leap forward, boasting intuitive touchpad controls and impressive effects. Its sampling capabilities are user-friendly, while the addition of USB connectivity and sample storage on SD cards make it a modern performer’s dream. Although some functions lack MIDI control and the external power supply is a minor gripe, the KP3's tactile design, engaging LED display, and robust sound quality make it a must-have for DJs and live performers. If you've yet to experience the Kaoss, this iteration offers the most innovative features yet at a reasonable price.

positive

Korg Kaoss Pad 3 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Korg KAOSS Pad 3 is a hit with its intuitive design and impressive performance features, making it perfect for creative sound manipulation. Its standout X-Y control surface and expanded effects programs are praised, but it falls short with limited sample time and triggers. Overall, it's a powerful tool for musicians, offering fun and easy usage.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 22 Reviews and 147 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
nirad

Really Fun Device.

Easy to use, sounds great but wish it had balanced connectors.

iolloyd

Great effects

Looper, delays, grain shifter, this thing has it all. There's even a vocoder and enough banks to store a multitude of patterns and settings. Although known for it's place in electronic production setups, it's equally at home processing guitar effects. Lots of fun to use.

str8sounds

Korg Kaoss Pad 3 PLUS is wonderful companion to Kaossilator Pro Plus

I love running my Kaossilator Pro Plus through this Kaoss Pad 3 Plus. It greatly enhances an already astonishing touch pad synthesizer and loop recorder. The grain shifting effects in particular are really wild.

V

Nothing Much Like It For Me

Great for live sampling, recording onto from synths, this has been very versatile. Was definitely my greatest find for being only 99$ when I found her!

V

Korg Kaoss PAD KP3

Korg Kaoss PAD KP3 I never really use this but for some reason the touch panel is not working anymore, so i use it only for tapping BPM when I have an idea! High price tap tempo monitor!

aoshi

beastly

this is used exclusively as an extension of my MicroKorg which gives me more expression on effects. occasionally if i am feeling sassy i will hook up my LSDj to it

rowlandrose

Favorite Effects Unit

Great for adding quick effects. I hook it up to my MidiNes to give chiptune sounds some interesting flavors. Completely controllable through MIDI for sequencing.

gurinoleg

Awesome effect processor for jams

Having everyday fun in studio with dub and techno sessions.

nextgen

Korg 4 life

A very nice piece of performance equiptment

alphy

wow

just insert your sounds into this dynamic effector and make a whole new sounds and ....

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Wes Borland uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Wes Borland

Singer, Guitarist

Limp Bizkit

...
Verified via Photo

In this instagram video you can see his home setup; a Koass pad 3 is there

See how Omar Rodríguez-López uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Omar Rodríguez-López

Guitarist, Bassist

At the Drive-In

...
Verified via Uberproaudio

Omar Rodríguez-López is the composer, lead guitarist and producer for the progressive rock group The Mars Volta and the former guitarist for the post-hardcore outfit At the Drive-In.

This guy has a pretty extensive guitar rig. He has a ton of effects pedals!

Let's look at some of the gear and equipment that has been seen in Mars Volta's Omar Rodriguez's guitar rig.

  • Korg KP3 Kaoss Pad
See how Bonobo uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Bonobo

Bassist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

You can see his KP3 on top of his rack

See how The Chemical Brothers uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

The Chemical Brothers

Music Producer

The Chemical Brothers

...
Verified via Facebook

can be seen in this post from July 7, 2022

See how Andrew Huang uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Andrew Huang

Singer, Guitarist

First Of October

...
Verified via YouTube

Uses in this October 12, 2010 video

See how Jon Hopkins uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Jon Hopkins

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Jon Hopkins in using a Kaoss Pad 3 (three actually)

See how Russell Lissack uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Russell Lissack

Guitarist

Bloc Party

...
Verified via Photo

A Korg KAOSS Pad 3 sits in the top row of Russell Lissack's pedalboard, as seen in this photo. This shot is from Bloc Party's music video for Octopus (it appears very quickly around the 0:28 mark).

See how Richard Devine uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Richard Devine

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

can be see at 14:00 in this video

See how Fred again.. uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Fred again..

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

Korg Kaoss Pad KP3 can be seen in this post.

See how Sid Wilson uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Sid Wilson

Keyboardist, DJ

Slipknot

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Sid is seen testing out Korg's Kaoss pad 3 and Kaossilator pro

See how Merzbow uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Merzbow

Composer, Music Producer

Kikuri

...
Verified via Twitter

Merzbow can be seen using a Korg KAOSS Pad 3 in a photo posted on Twitter by MerzbowOfficial with the caption "本日です 物販あります🕊️".

See how Kiasmos uses Korg KAOSS Pad 3

Kiasmos

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the live KEXP performance of "Looped," Kiasmos' Janus Rasmussen is seen using the Korg KAOSS Pad 3.

Album Usage

The Korg KAOSS Pad 3 has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Korg KAOSS Pad 3, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Apple MacBook Pro (General)
Apple MacBook Pro (General) Computers & Peripherals
5
Apple iPad (General)
Apple iPad (General) Computers & Peripherals
3
Roland AIRA TB-3
Roland AIRA TB-3 Synthesizers
3
Korg Volca Beats
Korg Volca Beats Drum Machines
3
Korg MicroKORG
Korg MicroKORG Synthesizers
3
Roland SH-101
Roland SH-101 Synthesizers
3
Ableton Live
Ableton Live DAW Software
3
Boss RE-20 Space Echo
Boss RE-20 Space Echo Delay Effects Pedals
3
Arturia BeatStep Pro
Arturia BeatStep Pro Audio Sequencers
3
Ableton Push
Ableton Push MIDI Pad Controllers
3

Community setups

Show yours
B

boheme

Gear IQ 87

D

disector

Gear IQ 51

M

muzik4machines

Gear IQ 359

ihcilon

ihcilon

Gear IQ 182

telehope

telehope

Gear IQ 97

valera_valerievitch_vassiliev

valera_valerievitch_vassiliev

Gear IQ 83

garza

garza

Gear IQ 61

S

shoseinen

Gear IQ 555

1 alternative for Korg KAOSS Pad 3, curated by the Equipboard community.

Korg Kaoss Pad KP3+

$225.00 - $478.00

newer

The kp3+ is slightly updated, with some new FX and a different power supply.

More Korg Audio Samplers

Roland SP-404A

$599.99 - $689.99

# 10

Rank

Kurt Vile Nick Reinhart Lila Ramani
12 artists using
Yamaha A5000

$25.00 - $2,099.99

# 36

Rank

YSE
1 artist using

Accessories & Related Items

Gear Guides