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Description

The Kurzweil PC88mx Keyboard is a versatile digital piano designed for both seasoned performers and studio professionals. With its 88 fully-weighted keys, it delivers an authentic piano feel, perfect for expressive and dynamic performances. This model stands out as a reliable choice, whether you're composing in your home studio or performing on stage. The PC88mx is equipped with a powerful sound engine, providing a wide range of high-quality sounds that encompass various genres and styles.

This digital piano offers an extensive selection of instrument sounds, including pianos, electric pianos, strings, and more, making it a comprehensive tool for musicians seeking diversity in their soundscapes. The intuitive user interface allows for easy navigation and control, making it simple to customize your sound and performance settings. Additionally, the built-in effects and MIDI capabilities provide ample opportunities for creativity and integration with other musical equipment.

Ideal for both live and studio settings, the Kurzweil PC88mx Keyboard combines robust performance features with a user-friendly design, ensuring it meets the demands of any musical environment.

Key Features:

  • 88 fully-weighted keys for authentic piano feel
  • Wide range of high-quality instrument sounds
  • Intuitive user interface for easy control
  • Built-in effects for sound customization
  • MIDI capability for integration with other equipment
  • Suitable for both stage and studio use

Product specs

Brand Kurzweil
Model PC88mx 88-Key 64-Voice Performance Controller and Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1990s
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 88 Keys
Polyphony 64 Voices

FAQs

What kind of key action does the Kurzweil PC88mx have?

The Kurzweil PC88mx features a full-size, weighted keyboard action, providing a realistic piano feel ideal for both practice and performance.

How many voices of polyphony does the Kurzweil PC88mx support?

The Kurzweil PC88mx supports 64 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered performances without note dropouts.

Is the Kurzweil PC88mx suitable for use as a MIDI controller?

Yes, the Kurzweil PC88mx functions as a performance controller with full MIDI I/O capabilities, making it suitable for controlling external MIDI devices and software.

What are the standout sound features of the Kurzweil PC88mx?

The Kurzweil PC88mx is known for its rich piano sounds and high-quality sound engine, delivering realistic and expressive tones ideal for various musical styles.

Does the Kurzweil PC88mx have built-in effects?

Yes, the Kurzweil PC88mx includes built-in effects, enhancing its sound capabilities and allowing for greater expression and customization during performances.

Paul Reichle

Paul Reichle

Kurzweil PC88MX Demo

Video thumbnail for Kurzweil PC88MX Demo by Paul Reichle

Kurzweil PC88MX Demo

Paul Reichle

Paul Reichle

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kurzweil PC88mx Keyboard.

Setup and maintenance

  • Power cycling issues are common; a cracked main I/O board was identified as the cause, requiring replacement for stability.

    Source
  • Velocity sensitivity problems noted, with inconsistent response across keys, indicating potential need for further technical adjustments.

    Source
  • Using a Roland UM-One Mk2 USB MIDI interface is recommended for reliable connectivity, as it clearly indicates correct input connections.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Capable of splitting, blending samples, and performing MIDI tricks, showing versatility despite age.

    Source
  • The PC88 lacks USB connectivity, requiring a MIDI to USB cable or device, like the Nektar MidiFLex, for integration with MainStage.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Piano samples lack dynamic range, triggering the same sample at different volumes, unlike modern keyboards with varied sample triggers for expressiveness.

    Source
  • The PC88, despite its heft at ~50 lbs, offers a hammer action keybed praised for its tactile feel, unlike lighter synth-action keyboards which lack weighted keys.

    Source

User experience

  • While the sound remains decent for its age, the keyboard experience may not excite seasoned players compared to newer models like the Roland FP-90x.

    Source
  • Despite its age, the PC88's weighted keys are highly valued by users for their feel, adding sentimental attachment beyond just functionality.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the PC88's hammer action keybed, which remains satisfying to play, even when using modern software like MainStage or iOS apps.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The PC88 can be a viable MIDI controller if correctly configured; issues often stem from incorrect cable connections rather than the keyboard itself.

    Source
  • The PC88 can function as a standalone instrument with decent internal sounds, allowing headphone use without a computer, offering flexibility in practice settings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The PC88 is favored for its standalone capability and reliable integration with MainStage, making it a solid choice for users who value both hardware and software versatility.

    Source

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Artist usage

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D

David DeFeis

Music Producer

Virgin Steele

...
Verified

David DeFeis confirms his use of the Kurzweil PC88mx Keyboard in addition to several other instruments, stating, "I mainly use a Roland JV30 Multi-Synth, a Kurzweil PC88MX, and a Mason & Hamlin studio Grand Piano. They are all good for different applications." This information is sourced from The Official Virgin Steele Homepage.

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 PC3K8 when touring with Earth, Wind & Fire. He starts by explaining he's a long time Kurzweil user, with the Kurzweil PC88/mx first... Confirmed by his Kurzweil artist page as well: https://kurzweil.com/2019/11/19/myron-mckinley/

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 PC88mx Keyboard, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Kurzweil PC3k8
Kurzweil PC3k8 Synthesizers
1
Roland JV-30
Roland JV-30 Synthesizers
1

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