From c_schonberger@yahoo.com Tue Apr 01 16:20:11 2008
Subject:Thoughts on XK-3 system

Just my thoughts,

Since H/S introduced the XK-3c which neatly fits into the existing XK-3 systems (pro and traditional), I think there might be - in a few years perhaps - a third combo organ which still fits exactly into the existing systems with expression pedal and lower keyboard. I am now 100% convinced that H/S is holding back to have room for improvement. I mean there are many better B3 emulations out there both software and hardware based. There is still a lot of room between the New B3 (traditional cab or portable).

I am not sure if people from H/S are reading these posts (they should though) because if a sufficiently large number of persons would buy it, they would make it.
Here is my suggestion for the ultimate XK-3:

1) addressing key- and release click: using either Guido's VB3 MIDI velocity or some randomness as opposed to re-triggering the exact same sound at the exact same level.

2) real authentic tone - there still is some clearness, some "glowing" missing. Perhaps ditching the "long loop samples" and going all physical modeling would be the solution.

3) no tubes. A fine software overdrive emulation which can be switched off for use of real tube amps would be just fine. It has been done successfully in software.

4) mechanically latching preset keys so we don't need the LED's and have an even more authentic B3 look and feel. Should be heavy-duty for reliability.

5) absolutely convincing vibrato/scanner section. The leslie sim doesn't have to be perfect (but should be as good as great emulations done some eight years ago!), since many want to run the signal through a real leslie anyway.

6) allowing for two kinds of inverted-key-presets: a) the ones involving software emulations of overdrive and leslie cab (and perhaps choice of tonewheel and cey click) digital synth style; b) the ones emulating the original vintage B3 presets, all using no (or the same - switchable to off) leslie sim and the same cey click and tonewheel setting (adjustable for all, comes with a nice default setting, representing a good 50s/60s B3 model.

I hope that isn't too much to ask, I just talk bacause I think at leats two software versions and about four hardware keyboards - if not more - sound much closer to a B3 than the current version of the XK-3 system. Will H/S stand by, watch and rely on their name, or do something about it - soon?

...just my thoughts, any input highly welcome,
Christian



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