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Average Price: $900

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$500

$1501+

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Kurzweil PC3k8, a synthesizer powerhouse that seamlessly blends vintage charm with cutting-edge technology. Designed for musicians who demand versatility and precision, the PC3k8 opens a universe of sound possibilities. With its 88 fully weighted, velocity-sensitive keys, this synth offers an authentic playing experience, making it a favorite among professional and aspiring musicians alike.

The PC3k8 is not just a synthesizer; it's a comprehensive workstation. Its compatibility with K 2/25/26 series sample libraries means you can integrate a wealth of classic sounds, while the innovative Dynamic V.A.S.T. synthesis engine allows for intricate sound design. Whether you're layering orchestral tones or crafting electronic beats, the PC3k8 delivers with over 850 factory presets and 128-voice polyphony for rich, dynamic soundscapes.

Adding to its versatility, the PC3k8 includes 128MB of nonvolatile sample flash memory, ensuring your samples are always ready, even after powering down. The inclusion of USB connectivity for data storage and OS updates streamlines your workflow, keeping you focused on making music. From live performances to studio sessions, the Kurzweil PC3k8 is your ultimate creative partner.

Key Features:

  • 88-note fully weighted hammer action keys with velocity and aftertouch sensitivity
  • 128MB nonvolatile sample flash RAM
  • Compatible with K 2/25/26 series sample libraries
  • 128-voice polyphony, dynamically allocated
  • Over 850 factory presets
  • USB host port for thumb drive storage and OS updates
  • 16 insert effects over 12 buses with over 300 effects available
  • 16 independent arpeggiators and 9 front-panel sliders
  • MIDI compatibility and USB functionality for comprehensive control
  • Large backlit LCD with adjustable brightness and contrast controls

Product specs

Brand Kurzweil
Model PC3K8 88-Key Production Station Keyboard
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 88 Keys
Polyphony 128 Voices

FAQs

What type of keyboard action does the Kurzweil PC3K8 have?

The Kurzweil PC3K8 features a fully weighted keyboard action, providing a realistic and responsive feel similar to an acoustic piano, making it ideal for pianists and keyboardists who prefer authentic touch and dynamics.

Is the Kurzweil PC3K8 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Kurzweil PC3K8 is well-suited for live performances, offering 128-voice polyphony and a robust sound engine capable of handling complex arrangements and layered sounds without note dropouts.

Can the Kurzweil PC3K8 be integrated with other MIDI devices?

Absolutely, the Kurzweil PC3K8 provides comprehensive MIDI connectivity options, including MIDI Input, Output, Through, and USB MIDI, allowing seamless integration with other MIDI devices and software.

What is the polyphony capability of the Kurzweil PC3K8?

The Kurzweil PC3K8 offers 128-voice polyphony, enabling you to play complex passages with multiple layers and sounds without experiencing note cut-off.

Does the Kurzweil PC3K8 support USB MIDI?

Yes, the Kurzweil PC3K8 supports USB MIDI, making it easy to connect to computers and other USB-compatible devices for enhanced control and integration with digital audio workstations (DAWs).

blackkPiano

blackkPiano

Kurzweil PC3K8 - (HQ) Loops and Sounds Overview Demo (by blackkPiano)

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil PC3K8 - (HQ) Loops and Sounds Overview Demo (by blackkPiano) by blackkPiano

Kurzweil PC3K8 - (HQ) Loops and Sounds Overview Demo (by blackkPiano)

blackkPiano

blackkPiano

Video thumbnail for Herbert Medeiros - Demo Kurzweil PC3K8 by Kurzweil Brasil

Herbert Medeiros - Demo Kurzweil PC3K8

Kurzweil Brasil

Kurzweil Brasil

Video thumbnail for KURZWEIL PC3K8 , DEMO NA CLASSIC KEYBOARDS by CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

KURZWEIL PC3K8 , DEMO NA CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

CLASSIC KEYBOARDS

Video thumbnail for KURZWEIL PC3K8 | JAM by Synth Cloud

KURZWEIL PC3K8 | JAM

Synth Cloud

Synth Cloud

Video thumbnail for KURZWEIL PC3K8 by Kytary.cz

KURZWEIL PC3K8

Kytary.cz

Kytary.cz

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil PC3K8 vs Korg KRONOS: Sound vs Sound COMPARISON! by Proficiency Music

Kurzweil PC3K8 vs Korg KRONOS: Sound vs Sound COMPARISON!

Proficiency Music

Proficiency Music

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil PC3K8: Sounds Demo Piano & Rhodes by Proficiency Music

Kurzweil PC3K8: Sounds Demo Piano & Rhodes

Proficiency Music

Proficiency Music

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kurzweil PC3k8.

Features and functionality

  • The Kurzweil VAST synthesis remains unique due to its modular nature and DSP blocks, unmatched by current software or hardware.

    Source
  • The PC3K8 offers enhanced complexity with an additional operator in algorithms, enabling more extensive use of 4-pole filters without reducing polyphony.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The K2500 with KDFX is similar to the K2600 but lacks the latter's Triple Mode, which allows chaining three algorithms together.

    Source
  • The KDFX effects, particularly its reverbs, are compared favorably to high-end brands like Lexicon and Eventide.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The KORE64 card is a recommended upgrade for the PC3, expanding its sound capabilities.

    Source

User experience

  • Several owners describe Kurzweil's interface as outdated and challenging to navigate, impacting ease of use.

    Source
  • Owners have experienced difficulties with obtaining support, as Kurzweil delegates service to local dealers, which may cease operations unexpectedly.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Finding a K2500 with KDFX for under $500 is considered a good deal, with prices often exceeding $1,000 in some regions.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A broken chip under the display circuit board can cause issues, including blank lines on the display and no response from the unit.

    Source
  • The power supply and connection issues, such as improper ribbon or connector seating, are common troubleshooting steps for unresponsive units.

    Source
  • Some owners have pointed out that the positioning of capacitors, such as one being installed sideways, might indicate potential issues with the unit’s performance.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Kurzweil PC3K8

soundonsound.com

Kurzweil's PC3K8 synthesizer is a sound designer's delight, boasting its classic VAST engine that delivers warm, rich tones that enthusiasts adore. While its sound remains top-notch, the outdated monochrome screen and lack of sampling capabilities are drawbacks. The integration of modern USB storage and user sample playback is a welcome update, though the complexity of its architecture might overwhelm some users. Despite these cons, the PC3K8 stands out as a superb performance tool with a reputation for reliability and unique sonic beauty.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
william_fletcher

The voices on the baby are outstanding especially the Piano

I use this in the studio as it is a little frail and does not like travelling.

adamdavidson

My main composing keyboard.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Philip Glass uses Kurzweil PC3k8

Philip Glass

Composer, Music Producer

Polyrock

...
Verified via Plogue

What’s next for Michael Riesman? Any upcoming project you’d like to share with us ?

The big thing at the moment is that I’m the music director for the revival of Einstein on the Beach, currently on a world tour, and next in London, Toronto, New York, and UC Berkeley.

We’re not using any MIDI for that. We decided to use stand-alone keyboards only, to simplify the audio setup. That’s the way we did it in 1976 with Farfisas and a Yamaha YC45-D. Now we are using Kurzweil PC3K8s

See how Don Airey uses Kurzweil PC3k8

Don Airey

Keyboardist

Judas Priest

...
Verified via Keyboardmag

"I also just acquired a Kurzweil PC3K8—beautiful action and fantastic piano sounds! It also has improved MIDI facilities, which drive a Kurzweil K2661, on through to a rack containing a Roland Fantom, Korg TR-4, and an old Emulator, which we’re about to replace with a digital Mellotron. There’s a two-tier stand at right angles to the Hammond. The PC3K8 goes on the bottom and a Moog Voyager goes on top."

See how Roger O'Donnell uses Kurzweil PC3k8

Roger O'Donnell

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Cure

...
Verified via Photo

I have used Kurzweil's for close to 20 years and I don't even think about using anything else. The sound, the action, the reliability are incomparable. I recently programmed the entire Cure back catalogue using only a PC3K8! Outstanding library of sounds... In those 20 years on tour I have never had a keyboard go down and thats pretty spectacular!

See how Jon Carin uses Kurzweil PC3k8

Jon Carin

Keyboardist, Composer

Pink Floyd

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Behind the Scenes with Jon Carin," produced by Kurzweil Music Systems, Jon Carin is seen using a prototype of the Kurzweil PC3K8.

See how Kyle O'Quin uses Kurzweil PC3k8

Kyle O'Quin

Keyboardist, Composer

Portugal. The Man

...
Verified via YouTube

He uses it at 0:42

See how Robert Jan Stips uses Kurzweil PC3k8

Robert Jan Stips

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Supersister

...
Verified via Photo

Robert Jan Stips uses this Kurzweil PC3k8 as seen on the promo image for the documentary "De tovenaar van de Nederpop" which is about him.

See how Origem uses Kurzweil PC3k8

Origem

...
Verified via Photo

Origem's André Floriano is seen using the Kurzweil PC3k8 during keyboard recording sessions at Estúdio 32, as shared on the band's Instagram.

See how Rubén Valtierra uses Kurzweil PC3k8

Rubén Valtierra

Keyboardist, Composer

"Weird Al" Yankovic

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video from 1:20 onward Rubén Valtierra can be seen holding a Kurzweil PC3k8.

See how Craig Kerley uses Kurzweil PC3k8

Craig Kerley

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Facebook

During the Enchant show in May 2015, Craig Kerley used the Kurzweil PC3k8, as referenced on the Facebook page "Not Otherwise Specified."

M

Myron McKinley

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Earth, Wind & Fire

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video, you can see Myron McKinley demoing how he uses the Kurzweil PC3K8 when touring with Earth, Wind & Fire. He specially shows a Setup for "That's the Way of the World" around 2:00, for which he layers a Rhodes, a piano & strings. He starts by explaining he's a long time Kurzweil user, with the PC88/mx first...

Album Usage

The Kurzweil PC3k8 has been featured on the following albums:

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 PC3k8, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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1
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1

Community setups

Show yours
O

orlan_charles

Gear IQ 94

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