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Description

Elevate your musical journey with the Kurzweil K2661, a powerhouse 61-note synthesizer that seamlessly blends portability with the robust features found in its acclaimed K2600 series predecessors. Designed for both studio and stage, this versatile workstation is ideal for film composers, sound designers, and professional musicians seeking an all-in-one solution.

At the heart of the K2661 lies the V.A.S.T. (Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology), an award-winning synthesis engine that offers unparalleled sound-shaping capabilities. With 60 DSP functions and 126 algorithms, you can sculpt sounds with precision and creativity. The KDFX effects system, powered by Kurzweil's proprietary VLSI chips, provides a versatile 5-stereo-bus design with 24-bit signal processing, ensuring your compositions sound professional and polished.

The K2661 is not just about sound; it's about control. With eight assignable sliders, a 32-track sequencer, and extensive MIDI capabilities, including a variety of controller inputs, it offers a hands-on experience that inspires creativity. The KB-3 Organ Mode allows for real-time manipulation of tone wheel organ sounds, bringing authentic organ vibes to your fingertips.

This synthesizer is also equipped with a SmartMedia slot for easy storage upgrades and an ADAT optical output, providing 8 channels of 24-bit digital I/O. Its compatibility with a vast array of sound libraries, including Kurzweil's own and third-party formats, ensures you have access to a world of sonic possibilities.

Key Features:

  • 61-note synth-style action with monophonic aftertouch
  • True 48 voice polyphony with 192 oscillators
  • V.A.S.T. synthesis engine with 60 DSP functions and 126 algorithms
  • KDFX 5 stereo bus, 24-bit digital effects
  • 32-track sequencer with full editing capabilities
  • ADAT optical output for 8 channels of 24-bit digital I/O
  • SmartMedia slot for storage and upgrades
  • Extensive sample-processing capabilities with up to 128 MB of sample memory
  • Compatible with Kurzweil and third-party sound libraries
  • Full MIDI controller capabilities with assignable sliders, footswitches, and pedal inputs

FAQs

Is the Kurzweil K2661 synthesizer polyphonic or monophonic?

The Kurzweil K2661 synthesizer offers true 48-voice polyphony, allowing for complex and layered soundscapes in your performances and recordings.

What type of keyboard action does the Kurzweil K2661 have?

The Kurzweil K2661 features a 61-key unweighted synth-style action with monophonic aftertouch, providing a responsive and expressive playing experience suitable for various musical styles.

Can the Kurzweil K2661 be used as a MIDI controller?

Yes, the Kurzweil K2661 has full MIDI controller capabilities, including 8 sliders, optional ribbon controller, footswitches, pedals, and breath controllers, all of which are assignable for versatile control.

What are the standout features of the Kurzweil K2661's sound engine?

The K2661 utilizes V.A.S.T. Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology with 60 DSP functions and Triple Modular Processing, offering 126 sound-shaping algorithms for detailed per-voice processing.

Does the Kurzweil K2661 support sample memory expansion?

Yes, the Kurzweil K2661 supports up to 128MB of sample memory, allowing for extensive sample processing and storage capabilities.

What digital connectivity options does the Kurzweil K2661 offer?

The Kurzweil K2661 features optical digital ports, selectable as ADAT Lightpipe or S/PDIF, providing up to 8 channels of 24-bit digital I/O for professional audio integration.

Does the Kurzweil K2661 include organ sounds?

Yes, the Kurzweil K2661 includes KB-3 Organ Mode, offering powerful tone wheel organ synth models for authentic organ sounds.

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

KURZWEIL K2661 DEMO NA CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

Video thumbnail for KURZWEIL K2661 DEMO NA CLASSIC KEYBOARDS by CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

KURZWEIL K2661 DEMO NA CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil K2661 by MeX @marcoballa (Subtitles) by MeXKeys

Kurzweil K2661 by MeX @marcoballa (Subtitles)

MeXKeys

MeXKeys

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil K2661 demo by Synthratix

Kurzweil K2661 demo

Synthratix

Synthratix

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil k2661 by Levi keyboards

Kurzweil k2661

Levi keyboards

Levi keyboards

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kurzweil K2661.

Value and pricing

  • Used K2661 units are considered a good deal, often priced under $500, offering robust features for the cost.

    Source

User experience

  • The keyboard action is praised as outstanding, providing a highly satisfying playing experience despite maintenance challenges.

    Source
  • Despite its weight, the K2661 is highly regarded as a versatile studio tool, although it's less favored for live performance due to its bulk.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • A desire exists for a compact VAST synthesis module with PC or tablet editing capabilities to reduce physical footprint.

    Source
  • The availability of iPad editors for Kurzweil synths significantly enhances their usability, making complex programming more accessible.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The PC3 LE series now supports full VAST editing, offering more layers and features, presenting a strong alternative to the K2661.

    Source
  • The K2661 offers fewer layering capabilities and effects compared to the PC3, yet remains a solid choice for those looking for a well-rounded controller.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Although the K2661 shines as a digital synth, its sampling features are limited by 128MB RAM and reliance on SCSI HDs.

    Source
  • The K2661 is favored for Rhodes, Wurlitzer, and Mellotron samples, and its synth engine is frequently used for unique sounds that capture attention.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It's suggested to replace the Digitech DSP instruction RAM IC if effects processors fail, enhancing reliability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The K2661 has a powerful VAST architecture but involves significant menu-diving, which can be cumbersome for some users.

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  • The K2661’s sound is described as having a "3D" quality, with its synth engine providing a wide array of sounds that surprise listeners.

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  • The K2661 is praised for its ability to blend seamlessly in a mix, often requiring little to no EQ adjustments.

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Build quality

  • The keypads can wear out over time, and tact switches may lose responsiveness, requiring attention for optimal performance.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners recommend replacing power supply capacitors to prevent potential failures, especially if the capacitors show swelling or the unit shuts off unexpectedly.

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  • Inside the K2661, multiple boards are connected via ribbon cables which may need reseating to address noise issues.

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  • Reflowing solder on large chips is suggested for those with surface-mount soldering skills to potentially resolve the noise issue on the K2661.

    Source
  • Owners recommend inspecting for corrosion or poor connections inside the K2661, which may cause the prevalent noise problems.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Kurzweil K2661

soundonsound.com

The Kurzweil K2661 synth workstation brings the power of the K2600 into a portable, non-weighted keyboard format, showcasing superb sound quality and the enduring strength of its VAST technology. However, it feels like a relic from the past, lacking significant updates and still carrying old flaws like limited polyphony and a small display. The exclusion of ribbon controllers is a missed opportunity, and while the sound remains top-tier, the steep price tag seems unjustified against more modern competitors. This offering would have been groundbreaking in the late '90s, but by 2004 standards, it falls short of expectations.

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jon Carin uses Kurzweil K2661

Jon Carin

Keyboardist, Composer

Pink Floyd

...
Verified via Kurzweil

According to the Kurzweil's website, Carin is a user of the Kurzweil K2661.

See how Steve Walsh uses Kurzweil K2661

Steve Walsh

Singer, Keyboardist

Kansas

...
Verified via Photo

According to this post on his blog, Walsh is used to play a Kurzweil K2661. A photo of the keyboard signed by Walsh himself was posted.

See how David Rosenthal uses Kurzweil K2661

David Rosenthal

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Rainbow

...
Verified via YouTube

David Rosenthal describing and explaining his rig, where he is using the Kurzweil K2600X as well as his touring rig for Billy Joel in October of 2014.

At 2:00, we see David mentioning his Kurzweil K2661. "... sustain pedal for the K2661 which is my other controller up top here."

See how Needlz uses Kurzweil K2661

Needlz

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

The K2661can be seen 0:59 into this video

See how Alan Howarth uses Kurzweil K2661

Alan Howarth

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video interview with Alan, he discusses some of his current gear, which includes an Arp Avatar, a Minimoog Model D, a Kurzweil K2661, an M-Audio Keystation, an Arturia Spark, and an Arturia keyboard, presumably a KeyStep.

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 K2661, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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