From aschwartz@baaqmd.gov Tue Nov 02 10:53:25 2004
Subject:another XK-3 convert


I auditioned the XK-3 several times trying to decide whether it was
enough of an improvement over my CX-3 to merit buying it. I decided
it is, and yesterday bought one. I'd emphasize the importance of
trying one out yourself and making a decision based on your needs,
because I could easily see someone making this decision differently.
I play mostly jazz and funk, mostly in situations where the organ is
very much out in front in the mix.

The XK-3 can produce the soft rich tone that I like. Its rare that I
turn up the grit (though it can do that too). Mostly I want the
organ sound to melt over the listeners ears like butter. The XK-3
does this even going straight into a PA. The key click is too loud
even at zero, but can be further tempered by lengthening the attack
parameter. The pedal tones from the XK-3 are fabulous, and are a big
reason for my wanting this keyboard. I like the flexibility in the
decay rate and mapping together with the lower manual.

Others have expressed indifference to the leslie sim, but I think
mostly that reflects lack of enthusiasm for any leslie sim. Upon
close listening, I think there's much to like about it. I hear alot
of detail, and I like the different modeling options. Of course, it
also sounds great through my Pro3T. Playing the CX-3, I've gotten
used to using the leslie fast/slow using a momentary switch. Once
that becomes a part of your playing style, its hard to give it up.
The XK-3 has that feature. The midi capabilities are better than the
CX-3, and are enough for my purposes.

It takes hardly a feather to trigger notes on the XK-3. My right has
quickly adapted and plays this keyboard as well as anything. My left
hand playing bass feels clumsy, hitting unintentional notes. One way
of dealing with this is to switch the pedal part to velocity-
triggering.

At home, I set the XK-3 atop my CX-3. This works out pretty well as
a dual manual facsimile. With a couple small props, the XK overhangs
the CX keybed in a way that doesn't impede playing it. Its not
ideal, but its works well enough. Owning a true dual manual is a
luxury I can't afford -- space is tight, and I can't transport it.
This comes very close functionally, and it doesn't look too
ridiculous.

Adan