Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $518

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

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

Dive into the world of sound design with the Kurzweil K2500R, a powerhouse in the realm of synthesizers and sound modules. This rack-mounted synthesizer is revered for its V.A.S.T. (Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology), offering musicians unparalleled control over their soundscapes. Whether you're crafting intricate sound layers or searching for the perfect tone, the K2500R delivers with precision and versatility.

This sound module is not just about complexity; it's about providing a comprehensive toolkit for both live performers and studio producers. With an extensive library of high-quality presets and a robust set of editing tools, the K2500R is designed to inspire and enhance your musical creativity. The user interface, while detailed, remains intuitive, allowing musicians to focus on what they do best—creating music.

The Kurzweil K2500R also features an array of connectivity options, making it a versatile addition to any setup. From MIDI inputs and outputs to audio connections, it seamlessly integrates with other equipment. Plus, its compatibility with sound expansion boards ensures your sonic palette can continue to grow.

Key Features:

  • V.A.S.T. (Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology) for extensive sound design capabilities
  • Comprehensive library of high-quality presets
  • User-friendly interface for easy navigation and sound editing
  • Multiple connectivity options, including MIDI and audio inputs/outputs
  • Expandable with sound expansion boards for additional sounds and features
  • Ideal for both live performances and studio recordings

Product specs

Brand Kurzweil
Model K2500R Rackmount Digital Sound Module
Finish Black
Year 1990s
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony 48 Voices

FAQs

What is the polyphony of the Kurzweil K2500R?

The Kurzweil K2500R offers 48-voice polyphony, allowing you to play up to 48 notes simultaneously, making it suitable for complex compositions and layered sounds.

Does the Kurzweil K2500R have MIDI connectivity?

Yes, the Kurzweil K2500R features MIDI Input, Output, and Through, enabling seamless integration with other MIDI-compatible gear and DAWs.

Is the Kurzweil K2500R suitable for live performances?

The Kurzweil K2500R is a rackmount digital sound module, making it ideal for studio use. However, with appropriate MIDI controllers, it can also be effectively used in live performance setups.

What type of synthesis does the Kurzweil K2500R use?

The Kurzweil K2500R utilizes digital synthesis, offering a wide range of sounds and the ability to manipulate them with precision.

Can the Kurzweil K2500R be used with modern DAWs?

Yes, the Kurzweil K2500R can be integrated with modern DAWs via its MIDI connectivity, allowing for extensive sound design and sequencing capabilities.

wolfgang S vukan

wolfgang S vukan

Kurzweil K2500 R - Factory Presets Demo (sounds only)

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil K2500 R - Factory Presets Demo (sounds only) by wolfgang S vukan

Kurzweil K2500 R - Factory Presets Demo (sounds only)

wolfgang S vukan

wolfgang S vukan

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil K2000R and K2500R Overview, Upgrades, and Repair - Part 1 by bradthx

Kurzweil K2000R and K2500R Overview, Upgrades, and Repair - Part 1

bradthx

bradthx

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kurzweil K2500R.

Features and functionality

  • Kurzweil K2500's VAST synthesis is praised for its deep, modular capabilities, offering a unique sound design experience.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners mention replacing the floppy drive with a USB for more modern storage solutions.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The K2500 is highlighted for its robust live performance capabilities, with instant patch changes under 20 milliseconds.

    Source

Build quality

  • Noted for its durability, the K2500's rugged outer casing and high-quality keybed stand out.

    Source

User experience

  • Multiple users find the manuals comprehensive, treating them as both a manual and a textbook, aiding in understanding the complex VAST system.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some owners consider $600 a bargain for a working K2500, despite its age and weight.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The K2500R can load most K2000 programs, though some keymaps or effects might require adjustments or substitutions.

    Source
  • Using a SCSI hard drive emulator with .KRZ files on an SD card can enable the K2500R to read K2000 patches and keymaps.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The K2600 series is fully compatible with K2500 programs, while the forthcoming K2061 series will rework the K2000 soundset.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Kurzweil K2500R

soundonsound.com

The Kurzweil K2500R is a powerful evolution of the K2000, enhancing its predecessor's capabilities with a robust build, expanded polyphony, and flexible drum channels. Musicians will appreciate its high-quality sound, comprehensive sampling options, and the ability to access a vast sound library. However, its global effects handling remains a limitation for multitimbral use, and the sequencer may require patience due to its button-heavy interface. While not revolutionary, the K2500R impresses with its warm, powerful sound and user-friendly design, making it highly recommended for those seeking a top-tier workstation—provided they can afford it.

positive

Kurzweil K2500R

soundonsound.com

The Kurzweil K2500R is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the K2000R, offering expanded polyphony and a more powerful CPU, enhancing its multitimbral capabilities. The VAST synthesis technology remains a highlight, providing versatile sound design options. The new soundset, including improved drum samples, adds to its appeal, though differences in sound quality from the K2000 are subtle. Connectivity is robust with multiple audio outputs and SCSI support. The familiar operating system is user-friendly, maintaining compatibility with existing sample libraries. While the sampling upgrade is optional, it broadens recording capabilities. Overall, the K2500R is a worthy successor with thoughtful enhancements for serious synth users.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rick Wakeman uses Kurzweil K2500R

Rick Wakeman

Keyboardist

Ozzy Osbourne

...
Verified via Archive

Used on Return To The Centre Of The Earth, as mentioned on Wakeman's website and as listed in this July 1999 Sound on Sound interview.

See how Stewart Copeland uses Kurzweil K2500R

Stewart Copeland

Singer, Guitarist

The Police

...
Verified via YouTube

His computer monitor can be seen at 3:00, where several tracks are labeled "K2500R."

See how Plastikman uses Kurzweil K2500R

Plastikman

Music Producer

...
Verified via MusicRadar

I had a Kurzweil K2500 rackmount. That, along with the other big synth on this album, the Korg Wavestation A/D, was used a lot on this.

See how Yasunori Mitsuda uses Kurzweil K2500R

Yasunori Mitsuda

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Archive

"It's sad but I don't ever use this module anymore. I guess that the days of ADPCM synths are over. I used this module in a lot of different songs, through my career, so I'm pretty satisfied with it."

See how David Rosenthal uses Kurzweil K2500R

David Rosenthal

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Rainbow

...
Verified

David Rosenthal's understage control center, as documented in Keyboard Magazine, includes a fully loaded Kurzweil K2500R among other equipment, such as a Roland D-550, Roland MKS-70 with its PG-800 programmer, Roland JV-1080, two Oberheim Matrix-1000's, Kurzweil AX Plus, Voce V3, Yamaha TX802, and TX816. The setup also features a 1U rackmount Glyph containing Zip and 1GB hard drives, two Behringer Multigates, a Lexicon PCM 80 with Lexicon's David Rosenthal Music FX ROM card, a Spec Electronics Xtramix CX mixer, a Power Computing Power Center 150, two Opcode Studio 5 MIDI interfaces, and several Furman power conditioners and a regulator. Rosenthal utilizes Opcode Studio Vision Pro during the performance of "The River of Dreams" and employs Opcode Galaxy Plus Editors for synth programming.

See how Paul Hardcastle uses Kurzweil K2500R

Paul Hardcastle

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

"I already have a number of synth modules, many of which I use mainly for specific sounds. The Kurzweil K2500R has got great sounds and is a good all‑round workhorse, while the Korg 01R gets used for more ethereal parts. I've also got a Wavestation SR that has a few interesting textural sounds in it, and to be honest, I've actually named tracks after its patch names! My Emu Morpheus is usually left set to its Vibes patch."

See how Kenji Kawai uses Kurzweil K2500R

Kenji Kawai

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified

Kenji Kawai uses the Kurzweil K2500R, as confirmed on his official website under the "Profile" section.

See how Fabian Del Priore uses Kurzweil K2500R

Fabian Del Priore

Composer

...
Verified via Twitter

"Some pictures of my music studio from 2009! :) Roland XV5080, Kurzweil K2500, Korg 01R/W, Wavestation SR, amaha Promix01, Nintendo DS and more :) #studio #homestudio #synth #nintendo #NintendoDS #NDS"

See how Callisto uses Kurzweil K2500R

Callisto

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this image a Kurzweil K2500R can be seen in Callisto's rack as the third lowest unit. Based on the placement of the text it is specifically the K2500R, and not K2000R.

See how Andrew Barnabas uses Kurzweil K2500R

Andrew Barnabas

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

"A Roland JV1080 and Akai S3200 written using Logic Audio for Med 1, same for Med 2 with the addition of a Kurzweil K2500R and better orchestral samples." From the respective email of Andrew Barnabas.

See how Sean Murray uses Kurzweil K2500R

Sean Murray

Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

Highlighted at 2:14, Sean Murray module racks can be seen in the video demonstrating his music.

There is is a Integra 7's and a Jv1080 and also two kurzweil racks on the bottom.

The k2500R can be seen in the bottom.

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 Kurzweil K2500R, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

E-mu Vintage Keys
E-mu Vintage Keys Sound Modules
3
Roland JV-2080 Synthesizer Module
Roland JV-2080 Synthesizer Module Synthesizers & Sound Modules
3
Drawmer DS201
Drawmer DS201 Effects Processors
2
KORG 01R/W
KORG 01R/W Synthesizers
2
Roland JD-800
Roland JD-800 Synthesizers
2
Ensoniq TS-10
Ensoniq TS-10 Synthesizers
1
Roland SDE-3000
Roland SDE-3000 Effects Processors
1

Community setups

Show yours
pergamoon

pergamoon

Gear IQ 157

More Kurzweil Synthesizers

Kurzweil PC1x

 

 
Billy Joel
1 artist using
Kurzweil PC3

 

 
Bernie Worrell Noriyuki Iwadare Terry Lawless
6 artists using
Sequential Prophet-6

$3,274.75 - $3,499.99

# 1

Rank

Kevin Parker Thom Yorke Mike Shinoda
168 artists using
Moog Grandmother

$999.00 - $1,084.00

# 4

Rank

Dominic Fike Deadmau5 Martin Garrix
52 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    gboy
    gboy

    Gear IQ 2213