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Average Price: $900
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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
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What type of keyboard action does the Kurzweil PC3K8 have?
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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.
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Is the Kurzweil PC3K8 suitable for live performances?
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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.
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Can the Kurzweil PC3K8 be integrated with other MIDI devices?
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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.
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What is the polyphony capability of the Kurzweil PC3K8?
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The Kurzweil PC3K8 offers 128-voice polyphony, enabling you to play complex passages with multiple layers and sounds without experiencing note cut-off.
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Does the Kurzweil PC3K8 support USB MIDI?
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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).
Videos
blackkPiano
Kurzweil PC3K8 - (HQ) Loops and Sounds Overview Demo (by blackkPiano)
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
Comparisons
Mods and upgrades
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The KORE64 card is a recommended upgrade for the PC3, expanding its sound capabilities.
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User experience
Value and pricing
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Finding a K2500 with KDFX for under $500 is considered a good deal, with prices often exceeding $1,000 in some regions.
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Setup and maintenance
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A broken chip under the display circuit board can cause issues, including blank lines on the display and no response from the unit.
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The power supply and connection issues, such as improper ribbon or connector seating, are common troubleshooting steps for unresponsive units.
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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.
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Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 7 Ratings
186
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.
Artist usage
Add artist
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
"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."
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!
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.
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.
Origem's André Floriano is seen using the Kurzweil PC3k8 during keyboard recording sessions at Estúdio 32, as shared on the band's Instagram.
In this YouTube video from 1:20 onward Rubén Valtierra can be seen holding a Kurzweil PC3k8.
During the Enchant show in May 2015, Craig Kerley used the Kurzweil PC3k8, as referenced on the Facebook page "Not Otherwise Specified."
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.
Community setups
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