Kurzweil

Kurzweil PC4 88-Key Performance Controller/Workstation Bundle

4.7 (6 reviews)

Unleash Your Creative Potential with Unmatched VersatilityThe Kurzweil PC4 is an 88-Key Performance Controller and Studio Workstation Synthesizer. It is bundled with professional-grade accessories, including AKG K240 headphones, a keyboard stand, a piano bench, a sustain pedal, and more. This pow...

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Overview

Unleash Your Creative Potential with Unmatched Versatility

The Kurzweil PC4 is an 88-Key Performance Controller and Studio Workstation Synthesizer. It is bundled with professional-grade accessories, including AKG K240 headphones, a keyboard stand, a piano bench, a sustain pedal, and more. This powerful instrument combines exceptional sound quality with extensive control options, perfect for stage and studio applications.

Specifications

  • Keys: 88 note fully-weighted hammer-action with velocity sensitive keys and aftertouch
  • Polyphony: 256 voices
  • Sounds: 2 GB of factory sample content plus 2 GB of user-loadable space; more than 1000 factory programs
  • FM Engine: 6-Operator FM engine with the ability to import 80's/90's sys EX files
  • Controllers: 9 sets of programmable knobs, sliders and buttons
  • Editing: Full Native V.A.S.T. Editing capabilities
  • Sequencers: 16 MIDI CC step sequencers
  • Sequencer: 16 track sequencer with dedicated front-panel transport buttons
  • Arpeggiators: 16 arpeggiators
  • Riff Generators: 16 riff generators
  • Headphones: AKG K240 Studio Pro Headphones

Key Features

88 note fully-weighted hammer-action with velocity sensitive keys with aftertouch

256 voices of polyphony; 2 GB of factory sample content plus 2 GB of user-loadeable space; more than 1000 factory programs

6-Operator FM engine with the ability to import 80's/90's sys EX files

9 sets of programmable knobs, sliders and buttons; full Native V.A.S.T. Editing capabilities

16 MIDI CC step sequencers; 16 track sequencer with dedicated front-panel transport buttons; 16 arpeggiators; 16 riff generators

Specifications

Key Count
88
Key Type
Fully-weighted hammer-action with velocity sensitive keys and aftertouch
Polyphony
256 voices
Factory Sample Content
2 GB
User-Loadable Space
2 GB
Factory Programs
More than 1000
Sound Engine
6-Operator FM engine
FM Engine Compatibility
Imports 80's/90's sys EX files
Controls
9 sets of programmable knobs, sliders and buttons
Editing Capabilities
Full Native V.A.S.T. Editing
MIDI Features
16 MIDI CC step sequencers, 16 track sequencer, 16 arpeggiators, 16 riff generators
Sequencer Controls
Dedicated front-panel transport buttons

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Features 88 fully-weighted hammer-action keys with velocity sensitivity and aftertouch, providing an authentic piano feel.
  • Offers a massive 256 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered soundscapes without note drop-off.
  • Includes over 1000 factory programs and 2 GB of factory sample content, alongside 2 GB of user-loadable space.
  • Equipped with a 6-Operator FM engine, capable of importing 80's/90's SYX files for classic sounds.
  • Provides extensive control with 9 sets of programmable knobs, sliders, and buttons, plus full Native V.A.S.T. Editing.

👎 Cons

  • The comprehensive features and capabilities may present a steep learning curve for beginners or those new to workstations.
  • The 88-key hammer-action design makes the unit less portable compared to lighter, fewer-key keyboards.
  • While offering 2 GB of user-loadable space, extensive sample libraries might quickly consume this capacity.
  • The focus on deep editing and performance features might be overkill for users seeking a simple, plug-and-play instrument.
  • The inclusion of 16 MIDI CC step sequencers, arpeggiators, and riff generators indicates a complexity that requires dedication to master.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Kurzweil PC4 features 88 fully-weighted hammer-action keys, which are velocity-sensitive and include aftertouch for expressive playability.
It boasts 256 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex musical arrangements and rich sound textures.
Yes, in addition to 2 GB of factory sample content, the PC4 provides 2 GB of user-loadable space for your own sounds.
It includes a 6-Operator FM engine that can even import 80's/90's SYX files, alongside the vast array of factory programs.
Yes, it features 9 sets of programmable knobs, sliders, and buttons, plus full Native V.A.S.T. Editing capabilities for deep sound customization.
Absolutely, it includes 16 MIDI CC step sequencers, a 16-track sequencer with dedicated transport buttons, 16 arpeggiators, and 16 riff generators for extensive musical creation.
With its 88 fully-weighted keys, robust polyphony, and comprehensive control set, the Kurzweil PC4 is well-suited as a performance controller and workstation for live settings.