From djacques@csulb.edu Thu Jun 03 16:53:46 2004
Subject:RE: New Clone Comparison MP3s

OK, I finally got around to listening to the "clone comparisons". On
first listening I must say that the CX3, XK3, Nord, and B4 all sound
remarkably similar. A testament on how close the manufacturers are on
nailing the B3 sound. The Leslie sims are all very close, with the CX3 a
bit heavier (and preferable, to my tastes. By the way, thank you for
switching to my 1955 B3 sound as I certainly play with that tone 95% of
the time)
There is no doubt that compared to the other clones, the CX3 has a more
midrange to its tone. I have found this to be a great advantage in my
performing as my organ always stands out (in a good way) from the mix.
The muddy sound of the Electro seems to lose presence.
The B4's leslie sim is kind of strange on the walking bass line. Almost
a squirrely vibrato effect, not very realistic (IMHO).
The XK3 has a very strange distortion circuit. Hard to describe, sort of
like a "buzz"--certainly not realistic. It does not sound like its going
through the Leslie sim like the CX3's does (which grinds very nicely).
Maybe that's the problem. Could it be that the "tube" distortion is
really all hype? This is the unfortunate distortion sound that I
remembered from playing it at NAMM.
I too would love to hear examples with the percussion.
So what does all this mean?
These organs seem so close that it comes down to which one the player
prefers to perform on. The difference between the XK3 and CX3 is like
the difference between my 1956 and 1955 Hammonds. One is slightly
brighter than the other with more midrange, but I would gladly perform
on either. Why? Because of the setup of the B3 console and the great
keyboards.
I believe that it will come down to this when choosing between an XK3,
CX3, Nord, or B4. Use whatever you feel comfortable using. Its like
choosing a notebook computer, how does the keyboard feel? How are the
controls layed out? Does it make sense to you?
Do I like the fact that it says "Korg" on the back of my keyboard?
Nothing that a piece of black gaffers tape can't solve.


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