Korg Introduces Pa1X Arranger Keyboard

Pa1X (Click for a close-up)

Pa1X Rear Panel (Click for a close-up)

Following the launch of its Pa1X Pro, Korg is introducing the Pa1X, an arranger keyboard that combines sound and effects engines, TC-Helicon based vocal effects, real-time performance features, and a bi-amplified speaker system in a sleek package.

The Pa1X features 61 keys with aftertouch, a color 240 x 320 pixel TouchView screen, and Korg's RX Technology. The Pa1X's menu layout offers easy access to over 350 fully editable music Styles, and over 200 user Style locations. Stored Styles may be loaded in or played directly via the built-in floppy drive. Each Style contains eight accompaniment parts, four variations, three intros, two endings, three fills, and a break and count-in for creating song patterns. The Pa1X recognizes multiple chord variations, and can scan the user's playing to keep the accompaniment in tune.

Korg's XDS Dual Sequencer allows users to load one sequence while the other plays, and use the DJ-style crossfader for smooth transitions between them. The Backing Sequencer can capture all eight of the accompaniment tracks plus four real-time parts in a single pass, greatly speeding up the songwriting process. Powerful editing capabilities control standard sequencer functions, as well as tone parameters for sounds assigned to a given track. The sequencer is compatible with standard SMF or Karaoke files. Karaoke lyrics will appear in the display or can be displayed on an external monitor using an optional video interface kit (VIF3).

The SongBook function allows players to select a song from the user-defined database and instantly call up the correct sounds, style, tempo, key, and effects for each song. A single Performance setting (320 total) can save and recall a Style, Single Touch Settings, transposition, scale type tempo, and control assignments with a single command. A Jukebox function can playback an entire set in a continuous manner.

The Pa1X delivers 62-note polyphony along with 760 pre-loaded sounds (plus 512 user locations), and 48 preset drum sounds (128 user-programmable kits). Up to four sounds can be stacked or split across the keyboard and played in real-time. Realistic organ sounds are provided via the digital drawbar organ. Four Single Touch Settings (STS) commands call up new sound sets for each real-time performance part. In addition, four simultaneous Master Effects (90 types) can be used, plus a set of TC-Helicon vocal effects.

The built-in 16 MB (expandable to 32 MB) sampler can read WAV, AIFF, and Korg or Akai samples/multisamples. Sampled sounds can be sliced to create new grooves and kits, filtered and processed by the internal effects, or assigned to create new Sounds.

The bi-amped sound system features a limiter, a custom EQ, two 13 cm deep bass speakers (each powered by a 35 Watt amp) as well as two soft dome tweeters (12 Watts each) all housed in a bass reflex enclosure, delivering a rich, musical sound.

Pa1X options include an MP3 encoder/player, internal hard drive, and a CD-R drive. Pitch Correction and Voice Modeling are available as optional upgrades to the TC-Helicon vocal effects.

Additional features include:

• Eight user-assignable faders (can act as drawbars)
• Four assignable switches
• Joystick and two fixed function faders
• Two pairs of Audio Outputs
• Two pairs of MIDI In/Out
• Two Audio Inputs -- One switchable to Balanced MIC Input with independent gain control
• Coaxial S/PDIF Output
• Damper Pedal Input and User-Assignable Pedal Input
• Connection to optional EC5 Pedalboard with five assignable switches

MSRP: $4,300.00