Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $749

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

Unleash your creative potential with the Kurzweil PC361, a synthesizer that's as powerful as it is versatile. This 61-key marvel is not just an instrument; it's a complete performance and production powerhouse. With 128-voice polyphony, you can explore an array of sounds that span from classic vintage tones to cutting-edge synth textures, all with remarkable depth and clarity, thanks to Kurzweil's custom-designed chips.

Designed for the modern musician, the PC361 features the Dynamic V.A.S.T. synth engine, offering unparalleled flexibility and control. Dive into a rich sound palette of over 800 programs, including the legendary Triple Strike Grand Piano and a vast collection of orchestral instruments. The VA-1 Virtual Analog Synthesizer inside the PC361 allows for deep sonic exploration with seamless program switching and clickless portamento, ensuring your performance is as smooth as your imagination.

The PC361 doesn't just sound great; it feels great, too. Its lightly-weighted synth-action keys with velocity and aftertouch sensitivity make every note come alive. The intuitive interface, featuring a backlit LCD, ensures that navigating your way through complex sounds and settings is effortless, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your music.

Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the Kurzweil PC361's robust onboard sequencer, powerful effects engine, and extensive connectivity options make it the perfect companion for any musician looking to push their creative boundaries.

Key Features:

  • 61-note, lightly-weighted synth-action keyboard with velocity and aftertouch
  • 128-voice polyphony and 16-part multitimbral capability
  • Over 850 factory presets with extensive layering
  • Dynamic V.A.S.T. synth engine and VA-1 Virtual Analog Synthesizer
  • Onboard sequencer with unlimited tracks and 960 PPQ resolution
  • 16 insert effects with over 300 world-class options
  • USB MIDI functionality and extensive connectivity options
  • "Easy Audition" and "Info" soft button for user-friendly navigation

Product specs

Brand Kurzweil
Model PC361 61-Key Digital Workstation Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Polyphony 128 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis engine does the Kurzweil PC361 use?

The Kurzweil PC361 features a V.A.S.T. (Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology) engine, allowing users to deeply customize and shape their sounds with extensive layering and modulation options.

How many voices of polyphony does the Kurzweil PC361 offer?

The Kurzweil PC361 provides 128 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered performances without note dropouts.

Does the Kurzweil PC361 have USB MIDI connectivity?

Yes, the Kurzweil PC361 includes USB MIDI connectivity, making it easy to integrate with computer-based setups and DAWs for recording and sequencing.

Is the Kurzweil PC361 suitable for live performances?

The Kurzweil PC361 is well-suited for live performances, offering robust sound options, a lightweight design, and reliable MIDI control capabilities, making it a versatile choice for gigging musicians.

What is the keyboard action type of the Kurzweil PC361?

The Kurzweil PC361 features a synth action keyboard, providing a smooth and responsive feel suitable for both fast passages and expressive playing.

Can the Kurzweil PC361 be used as a standalone digital workstation?

Yes, the Kurzweil PC361 functions as a standalone digital workstation, offering a wide range of onboard sounds, effects, and sequencing capabilities for comprehensive music production.

Tiago Mallen

Tiago Mallen

Kurzweil PC361-(Test Sounds)

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil PC361-(Test Sounds) by Tiago Mallen

Kurzweil PC361-(Test Sounds)

Tiago Mallen

Tiago Mallen

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil PC361- intro( If I Ain't Got You) Alicia Keys by L&A Produções Musicais

Kurzweil PC361- intro( If I Ain't Got You) Alicia Keys

L&A Produções Musicais

L&A Produções Musicais

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kurzweil PC361.

Build quality

  • The "EDIT" button functionality allows quick access to editable parameters, enhancing user experience despite the complex interface.

    Source
  • The Kurzweil PC361 is noted for its robust construction, making it a reliable choice for long-term use, unlike the Blofeld which has reported issues with knobs and wheels.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Kurzweil PC361's VAST synthesis engine includes 57 algorithms for intricate sound shaping, allowing for user-programmable circuits.

    Source
  • The VA-1 synthesis engine combines FM, waveshaping, and sample filtering, offering diverse sound design capabilities.

    Source
  • The PC361 offers Cascade and Dynamic modes, enabling users to rewire algorithms for advanced sound design, akin to polyphonic modular synthesis.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the user interface intuitive despite its complexity, with easy navigation through the EDIT button.

    Source
  • The manual is notably extensive, likened to a "truck workshop manual," suggesting significant depth in features.

    Source
  • Owners express high satisfaction with the PC361, often describing it as a significant upgrade within their music setup, capable of replacing multiple other devices.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The PC361 supports MPE capabilities, working well with devices like the Linnstrument after setup.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The PC361 is suited for sound design competitions, where it successfully recreates sounds from popular songs with high accuracy.

    Source
  • The Kurzweil PC361's ability to function as a standalone unit without needing external editors appeals to those preferring in-synth programming.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • An $820 price for a well-maintained PC361 is considered reasonable, especially with added accessories like a flight case.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • When buying used, it is advisable to check for the Kore64 expansion and perform a diagnostic test to ensure all components are functioning properly.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Kurzweil PC361 Review : VASTer Than Ever - Audiofanzine

audiofanzine.com

Kurzweil's PC361 is a formidable digital modular synthesizer that impresses with its stellar sound quality, connectivity, and modularity. The inclusion of VA-1 analog modeling and KB3 modeled organs offers rich, diverse sounds, while the powerful multieffects and real-time controls elevate the user's creative control. However, the device lacks direct graphic editing, sampling, and audio integration over USB, which could be a setback for some. Despite these limitations, the PC361 remains a standout choice for musicians seeking a reliable and versatile workstation, both in the studio and on stage.

positive

Kurzweil PC361 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mayo_bojadziev

Best Sounds

The best sounds. Little complicated to use for non VAST-ers

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kate Pierson uses Kurzweil PC361

Kate Pierson

Singer, Guitarist

The B-52's

...
Verified via YouTube

In a live performance video of The B-52's at The Majestic Ventura Theater on February 9, 2013, Kate Pierson expresses her enthusiasm for the Kurzweil PC361, highlighting its ability to replicate the iconic sounds of the Farfisa, Vox Panther, and Jupiter 8. She praises it as an "all-in-one wonder" and appreciates its simple and sleek design.

See how Marko Niskala uses Kurzweil PC361

Marko Niskala

Keyboardist

Leverage

...
Verified via YouTube

In the "Wheels From Hell" live video, Marko Niskala is seen performing with a Kurzweil PC361 keyboard at the 20-second mark, as documented by LeverageOFFICIAL on YouTube.

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 PC361, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Novation Nova II
Novation Nova II Synthesizers
1

More Kurzweil Synthesizers

Kurzweil PC1x

 

 
Billy Joel
1 artist using
Kurzweil PC3

 

 
Bernie Worrell Michael Bluestein Al Greenwood
6 artists using
Sequential Prophet-6

$3,444.00 - $3,499.99

# 1

Rank

Kevin Parker Thom Yorke Trent Reznor
168 artists using
Moog Grandmother

$999.00 - $1,084.00

# 4

Rank

Dominic Fike Deadmau5 Martin Garrix
51 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    harness
    harness

    Gear IQ 175