From holsen5629@aol.com Wed Jan 25 01:28:50 2006
Subject:Re: XK1 details, anyone?

<< I've seen some posts where the XK1 was not that impressive. I'm looking
for details on just what's wrong with it, and the retail price. Oh, and if
anything is right with it. >>

<< Anyone know MSRP pricing yet?? >>

Perhaps I can help sort this out. The XK-1 is a less expensive version of
the XK-3 with fewer features The MAP (manufacturers advertised price) is $1495,
which means "street prices" will average about $500 less than the XK-3.
Buyers looking for a basic keyboard with the XK-3 "engine," but without reverse
color presets, tube overdrive, etc., will be delighted. Existing XK-3 owners
used to the features and versatility of the XK-3 will be less than delighted

<< From what I hear, the HS XK-1 only has synth sounds - no piano or
strings. >>

Basically true. The XK-1's "extra voices" are, frankly, limited. There is a
piano voice but it's actually a "synthy" electric piano. Also, the voices are
solo effects that cannot be layered with each other or the drawbars. I see
this feature as a minor bonus but not all that important for traditional
Hammond players.

<< What is a "Leslie DIN" output? >>

The Leslie output is an 8-pin DIN connector (similar to but not identical to
Leslie output in the XM-1 drawbar module). It works directly with a Leslie
2101 but other 11-pin Leslie models like the 122XB will require an optional
DIN-to-11-pin, plug-in adapter.

<< where/when can i see one? >>

The XK-1's at NAMM were pre-production versions. Production models are
scheduled to start shipping to dealers in March.

The XK-1 competes with other mid-level keyboards like Korg, Nord, the
replacement for the now discontinued VK-8, etc. This is a tough, competitive,
price-driven market. The idea was to reduce the price by offering buyers fewer
features for less cost without cutting build quality. I wouldn't be surprised
if a MIDI module with the XK-3 "engine" is next. BTW, I don't know to be a
fact, so don't start any rumors but it is a logical next step.

Harvey Olsen

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