Kurzweil K2000VPR

This is an addendum to my long review in March 1998. It is important to note that I am reviewing a "loaded" K2000VPR. This means that the module has both the Orchestral and Contemporary ROM sound blocks installed (about $300 each, included in the $3100 price I quoted). This adds 200 sounds to the 100 that come with the unit, and greatly increases the quality and variety of voices. This is a primary reason that I purchased the K2000VPR over the E-synth, although they were VERY close in my book. Overall, these patches are the most accurate and realistic anywhere.

March 26, 1998. This is the second half of a rather lengthy exposition on my 6-month mission to buy a good "start-up" home studio. I bought an 88-key weighted controller, a synthesizer/sampler, and a digital multitrack recorder. I wanted to share my shopping experience on-line because many of these sites are devoid of truly useful info. Ideally, this provides objective advice for those of you shopping for similar products. Look for both the controller and sound module reviews on this site.
SYNTHESIZER/SAMPLER SOUND MODULES
I realize that people get downright religious about different companies and sounds ? I'm just expressing an opinion here. You really need to spend a *lot* of time listening if you're in the market for a module. I recommend visiting stores with a good set of headphones. This allows you to listen to each module with a common denominator. I went so far as to jot notes down as I was playing so I'd remember them later. In addition, every box/synth should get TWO listens, because hearing a second (and third...) module will change the way you think about the first. Finally, remember that I was purchasing a controller and a sound box, so my needs for a sound library are different from someone looking for one do-it-all workstation.
Where did I start? There are a million options that I narrowed down to three: a good sampler with its sound library (expensive), a synthesizer/sampler (also expensive), or multiple synthesizers that cost the equivalent of one of the first two options. For example, I could get an Akai CD3000XL sampler with the Akai sound library. Second, I could go for the Kurzweil K2000 or E-mu E-Synth that are synthesizer/samplers. Third, I could get the Roland JV2080 AND a Korg Trinity Rack module for the same price (maybe even a Yamaha MU90R too). Essentially, we have to weigh sound quality (or "realness") vs. quantity and flexibility (2 smaller cheaper modules usually give more polyphony and multitimbrality than one expensive one).
Again, the needs of the performer determine what sounds are "good", which is why I stayed away from the techno/dance... although not ignoring it entirely. Here is a list of the ones I shopped and you might consider:
- Roland JV-1080/JV-2080 and expansion boards; S-760 sampler and library - Yamaha MU100R/MU90R ? haven't heard the new E-5 yet - (I ignored the Yamaha A-3000 because it doesn't have a sound library) - Kurzweil K2000VPR/K2500 - E-mu E-Synth, Proteus, Vintage Keys, E-6400 sampler and library - Korg Trinity Rack, NS5R - Kawai K5000R - Alesis QSR - Akai 3000-series samplers and library, SG01 modules
Note: I found it difficult to really examine the expandable modules like the Roland JV-2080 and Alesis QSR because few stores carry the expansion cards or boards in stock. This sucks because we shouldn't have to buy an expandable module without hearing how it expands! Also, it's unfortunate that Ensoniq doesn't aggressively sell its rack samplers and library (couldn't find one anywhere) ? and the E-Prime and new ZR-76 don't even come in rack versions!
Anyway, here briefly is my analysis. The most impressive modules were, not surprisingly, the most expensive of the bunch. The Kurzweil K2000 and E-mu E-Synth sound fantastic. The Kurzweil shines for acoustic and orchestral instruments, the E-Synth is better for synths, basses, and electronic stuff. Oddly enough, after a number of listens, the Korg Trinity Rack lost some luster. Many of the sounds were neat, but its acoustic sounds were a little weak. It's a great instrument altogether, so I didn't rule it out. (Remember too that I bought the Korg SG Pro X controller so maybe I felt I have enough of the super-processed Korg sound.) The Kawai might be great for fat pads and techno/dance, but it's not my style. The Alesis QSR is intriquing ? much like the Roland JV-2080. Both expand nicely. However, the Roland just sounds cleaner and has a greater variety (and higher quality) of expansion options. The Akai samplers are classic,

-24 note polyphony, but rarely needs layers -the Orchestral and Contemporary ROM additions are worth the money -Accepts Roland, Akai, Ensoniq samples -built in effects, but you'd need more -sequencer disk drive included, SCSI port for ZIP/CD-ROM drives -check the Sweetwater Sound Web site for the best information

-orchestral and acoustic are the best available at any price -48 note polyphone version is K2500R but has the same sounds -this is the most programmable box anywhere, so can be used for any type of music (the libraries cater to Rock, Jazz, & Classical though)

This will be the mainstay of my home studio. For more dance/techno music, check out the E-mu E-Synth. That's a great box too.