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Basically, these are user-programmable circuits that enable you to wire various components together (pitch, amp, LFO, shapers, filters etc) in many configurations, to shape your sound on a very intricate level. Layers can cross-modulate each other for complex evolving sounds, while algorithms (similar in concept to those found on a DX7) are used for further processing the sample(s) within these keymaps.
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These sample keymaps are then assigned to layers (32 layers are possible per program). You start with a sample (mono/stereo) and assign it to a keymap (keyboard zone). The program architecture is basically similar to other workstations, but soon becomes more complex.
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Note that when in this mode, no note stealing can occur due to polyphony limits (unlike VAST programs which use intelligent note stealing when maximum polyphony is approached). In KB3 mode (which uses free running oscillators to make tonewheel organ sounds) the sliders correspond to the nine drawbars that you would find on a Hammond organ, which works great in practice. "The program architecture is basically similar to other workstations, but soon becomes more complex." This is handy for making quick changes to sounds while performing, though it would be great if the screen flashed up with the function you were editing when a slider was moved, as it's easy to forget what function each slider is assigned to. In program mode, the sliders can affect parameters including filter cutoff/resonance, LFO rate, layer volume, envelope parameters and FX control. To the left of the PC361 is a set of nine sliders that operate according to the mode selected. It's easy to play every type of sound from this keybed, though you could of course marry the PC361 with a weighted controller (via MIDI) for getting the best out of the piano-type sounds. Thankfully, the keyboard itself is very playable, with a fast and precise yet soft feel.
Kurzweil pc2x software#
We'd highly recommend using the Soundtower computer editing software for any serious editing tasks. It makes negotiating the 'board frustrating, particularly as so much menu diving is required to get the best from this synth. It's small, hard on the eyes (as there's no colour to highlight different functions) and there's just too much crammed into the space for our liking. Compared to some competing workstations, the screen is a nightmare. Which brings us onto another point - the display.
Kurzweil pc2x manual#
In fact, more than for most synths, the manual is essential reading - there's just so much functionality crammed in. "The front panel is neatly laid out, though there's still a lot of info to take in."