Kurzweil PC2KBD User manual

Kurzweil PC2
Musician’s Guide
©2000 All rights reserved. Kurzweil is a product line of Young Chang Co.; Kurzweil and PC2 are
trademarks of Young Chang Co. All other products and brand names are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies. Product features and speciÞcations are subject to change
without notice.
Part Number: 910345 Rev. A

ii
IMPORTANT SAFETY & INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO THE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURYTO PERSONS
WARNING: When using electric products, basic precautions should
always be followed, including the following:
1. Read all of the Safety and Installation Instructions and Explanation
of Graphic Symbols before using the product.
2. Do not use this product near water - for example, near a bathtub,
washbowl, kitchen sink, in a wet basement, or near a swimming
pool, or the like.
3. This product should be used only with a stand or cart that is
recommended by the manufacturer.
4. This product, either alone or in combination with an amplifier and
speakers or headphones, may be capable of producing sound
levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for
a long period of time at a high volume level or at a level that is
uncomfortable.If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the
ears, you should consult an audiologist.
5. The product should be located so that its location or position does
not interfere with its proper ventilation.
6. The product should be located away from heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, or other products that produce heat.
7. The product should be connected to a power supply only of the type
described intheoperating instructions orasmarkedon theproduct.
8. This product may be equipped with a polarized line plug (one blade
wider than the other). This is a safety feature. If you are unable to
insert the plug into the outlet, contact an electrician to replace your
obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the plug.
9. Thepowersupply cordof the product should be unplugged fromthe
outlet when left unused for a long period of time.When unplugging
the power supply cord, do not pull on the cord, but grasp it by the
plug.
10. Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not
spilled into the enclosure through openings.
11. The product should be serviced by qualified service personnel
when:
A. The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged;
B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the product;
C. The product has been exposed to rain;
D. The product does not appear to be operating normally or
exhibits a marked change in performance;
E. The product has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.
12. Do not attempt to service the product beyond that described in the
user maintenance instructions. All other servicing should be
referred to qualified service personnel.
13. WARNING: Do not place objects on the product’s power supply
cord, or place the product in a position where anyone could trip
over, walk on, or roll anything over cords of any type. Do not allow
the product to rest on or be installed over cords of any type.
Improper installations of this type create the possibility of a fire
hazard and/or personal injury.
RADIO ANDTELEVISION INTERFERENCE
WARNING: Changes or modifications to this instrument not expressly
approved by Young Chang could void your authority to operate the
instrument.
IMPORTANT: When connecting this product to accessories and/or other
equipment use only high quality shielded cables.
NOTE: This instrument has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when the instrument is used in a commercial
environment. This instrument generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this instrument in a residential area is
likely to cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be
required to correct the interference at his or her own expense.
Changes and modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer
or registrant of this instrument an void the user’s authority to operate this
instrument under Federal Communications Commission rules.
In order to maintain compliance with FCC regulations, shielded cables
must be used with this instrument. Operation with unapproved
equipment or unshielded cables is likely to result in harmful interference
to radio and television reception.
NOTICE
This apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise
emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference
Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
AVIS
Le present appareil numerique n’emet pas de bruits radioelectriques
depassant les limites applicables aux appareils numeriques de la
class A prescrites dans le Reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique
edicte par le ministere des Communications du Canada.
SAVETHESE INSTRUCTIONS
The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol,
within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert
the user to the presence of uninsulated
"dangerous voltage" within the product's
enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DONOTOPEN
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
The exclamation point within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the product.
CAUTION

iii
Young Chang Distributors
Contact the nearest Young Chang ofÞce listed below to locate your local Young Chang/ Kurzweil representative.
Young Chang America, Inc.
P.O. Box 99995
Lakewood, WA 98499-0995
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Young Chang Co.
178-55 Gajwa-Dong
Seo-Ku, Inchon, Korea 404-714
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Young Chang Akki Europe GmbH
Industriering 45
D-41751 Viersen
Germany
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Young Chang America, Inc. (Canadian Division)
3650 Victoria Park Ave. Suite 105
Toronto, Ontario Canada M2H 3P7
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Contents
Young Chang Distributors ............................................................................................................................................... iii
Chapter 1 Introduction
Basic PC2 Features .......................................................................................................................................................... 1-1
The Sound ................................................................................................................................................................. 1-1
Keyboard and Controllers ...................................................................................................................................... 1-1
Effects......................................................................................................................................................................... 1-2
Options ............................................................................................................................................................................. 1-2
Sound ROM Cards................................................................................................................................................... 1-2
Polyphony Expansion Board.................................................................................................................................. 1-2
Pedals......................................................................................................................................................................... 1-2
Ribbon Controller..................................................................................................................................................... 1-2
Music Rack ................................................................................................................................................................ 1-2
Breath Controller...................................................................................................................................................... 1-2
Unpacking your PC2 ...................................................................................................................................................... 1-3
Chapter 2 Startup
Setup.................................................................................................................................................................................. 2-1
Installing the Music Rack........................................................................................................................................ 2-1
Basic Connections............................................................................................................................................................ 2-2
Power ......................................................................................................................................................................... 2-2
Audio ......................................................................................................................................................................... 2-3
MIDI........................................................................................................................................................................... 2-4
Using the PC2 as a MIDI Master .................................................................................................................... 2-4
Using the PC2 as a MIDI Slave ....................................................................................................................... 2-4
MIDI Out/Thru................................................................................................................................................. 2-4
Pedals......................................................................................................................................................................... 2-4
Breath......................................................................................................................................................................... 2-5
Ribbon........................................................................................................................................................................ 2-5
Digital Output .......................................................................................................................................................... 2-6
Powering Up .................................................................................................................................................................... 2-6
Display (LCD)........................................................................................................................................................... 2-6
LEDs........................................................................................................................................................................... 2-6
Software Upgrades .................................................................................................................................................. 2-6
Playing the Demo Sequences ................................................................................................................................. 2-6
Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................................ 2-7
No Text in Display ............................................................................................................................................ 2-7
Low Battery........................................................................................................................................................ 2-7
No Sound ........................................................................................................................................................... 2-7
Chapter 3 Performance Features
In This Chapter................................................................................................................................................................ 3-1
Overview .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3-1
Modes ........................................................................................................................................................................ 3-1
Editors ................................................................................................................................................................ 3-2
The Internal Setup.................................................................................................................................................... 3-2

Kurzweil PC2 Musician’s Guide
Contents
vi
Effects and EQ .......................................................................................................................................................... 3-2
Physical Controllers................................................................................................................................................. 3-3
The Front Panel................................................................................................................................................................ 3-3
Common Features.................................................................................................................................................... 3-4
Master Volume Slider....................................................................................................................................... 3-4
Data Entry .......................................................................................................................................................... 3-4
System................................................................................................................................................................. 3-4
Effects.................................................................................................................................................................. 3-5
Functions............................................................................................................................................................ 3-5
Sound Source..................................................................................................................................................... 3-5
Mode-Dependent Features ..................................................................................................................................... 3-6
The Display (LCD)............................................................................................................................................ 3-6
Cursor Buttons .................................................................................................................................................. 3-8
Sound Parameters............................................................................................................................................. 3-8
Zone Parameters ............................................................................................................................................... 3-8
Sound/Setup Select .......................................................................................................................................... 3-8
Zone Select and Assignable Controllers ........................................................................................................ 3-9
Selecting Programs and Setups................................................................................................................................... 3-13
Other Selection Methods....................................................................................................................................... 3-13
Internal Voices Mode and KB3 Mode .......................................................................................................... 3-13
MIDI Setups Mode.......................................................................................................................................... 3-13
EQ .................................................................................................................................................................................... 3-14
Changing the EQ.................................................................................................................................................... 3-14
Effects.............................................................................................................................................................................. 3-14
Activating Effects ................................................................................................................................................... 3-14
Changing Effects .................................................................................................................................................... 3-15
Muting Effects......................................................................................................................................................... 3-15
Wet/Dry Mix .......................................................................................................................................................... 3-16
Layering and Splitting.................................................................................................................................................. 3-17
Using AutoSplit for Quick Layers and Splits..................................................................................................... 3-17
How AutoSplit Works ........................................................................................................................................... 3-18
Saving Quick Layers and Splits ........................................................................................................................... 3-18
Changing the AutoSplit Key Without Editing................................................................................................... 3-19
Saving the AutoSplit Key...................................................................................................................................... 3-19
Muting and Soloing ...................................................................................................................................................... 3-19
Muting ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3-20
Soloing ..................................................................................................................................................................... 3-20
The AutoSplit Feature............................................................................................................................................ 3-20
Saving the Internal Setup............................................................................................................................................. 3-21
Digital Audio Output ................................................................................................................................................... 3-21
Chapter 4 Programming Your PC2
Basic Editing Concepts ................................................................................................................................................... 4-1
Overview................................................................................................................................................................... 4-1
Beginning to Edit...................................................................................................................................................... 4-1
Navigation ......................................................................................................................................................... 4-1
Data Entry .......................................................................................................................................................... 4-2
Naming and Storing ......................................................................................................................................... 4-2
Other Save-Dialog Functions ................................................................................................................................. 4-3
Restoring Factory Effects ................................................................................................................................. 4-3
Deleting Objects ................................................................................................................................................ 4-3

Kurzweil PC2 Musician’s Guide
Contents
vii
Dumping Objects .............................................................................................................................................. 4-4
Intuitive Entry .......................................................................................................................................................... 4-5
Short Cuts for Data Entry ................................................................................................................................ 4-5
Short Cuts for Navigation................................................................................................................................ 4-6
Other Editing Functions.......................................................................................................................................... 4-7
Comparing ......................................................................................................................................................... 4-7
Copying and Pasting ........................................................................................................................................ 4-8
More About SysEx Dumps ..................................................................................................................................... 4-9
SysEx IDs............................................................................................................................................................ 4-9
Dumping the Entire Memory.......................................................................................................................... 4-9
The Program Editor ...................................................................................................................................................... 4-10
Program Editing Basics ......................................................................................................................................... 4-10
Entering the Program Editor......................................................................................................................... 4-10
The Current Layer............................................................................................................................................4-11
Keymaps............................................................................................................................................................4-11
Muting and Soloing Layers ............................................................................................................................4-11
Storing Effects.................................................................................................................................................. 4-12
Beyond the Basics................................................................................................................................................... 4-12
The Setup Editor............................................................................................................................................................ 4-12
The Default Setup and the Clear Setup ....................................................................................................... 4-13
Entering the Setup Editor ..................................................................................................................................... 4-13
Creating Setups ...................................................................................................................................................... 4-13
Setting Initial Volume Levels for Different Zones............................................................................................. 4-14
Assigning Sliders to Control Wet/Dry Mix in Different Zones ...................................................................... 4-15
Assigning Entry Values ......................................................................................................................................... 4-15
A Few Important Points About Entry Values ............................................................................................. 4-16
Multiple Controller Function ............................................................................................................................... 4-17
Offset vs. Scale................................................................................................................................................. 4-18
Crossfades ............................................................................................................................................................... 4-18
Velocity Switching.................................................................................................................................................. 4-19
Velocity Layering ................................................................................................................................................... 4-19
Switching Setups With a Pedal ............................................................................................................................ 4-19
Transposing a Setup With a Button ..................................................................................................................... 4-20
The KB3 Editor.............................................................................................................................................................. 4-20
Editing the Percussion Parameters...................................................................................................................... 4-20
The Effects Editor .......................................................................................................................................................... 4-21
Effects Change Mode............................................................................................................................................. 4-21
Setting the Effects Change Mode.................................................................................................................. 4-21
Entering the Effects Editor.................................................................................................................................... 4-22
Selecting Different Effects..................................................................................................................................... 4-22
Editing Effects Parameters.................................................................................................................................... 4-23
KB3 Effects ....................................................................................................................................................... 4-23
Saving Effects.......................................................................................................................................................... 4-23
Other Effects-Editor Functions............................................................................................................................. 4-25
Common Editing Tasks ................................................................................................................................................ 4-25
Making Effects Active at Program or Setup Selection ...................................................................................... 4-25
Turning AutoSplit On and Off ............................................................................................................................. 4-25
Controlling Vibrato and Tremolo with LFOs..................................................................................................... 4-26
Using Mono Audio Output .................................................................................................................................. 4-26
Changing Preset Drawbar Values........................................................................................................................ 4-26
Making Drawbars Live .................................................................................................................................. 4-26
Changing the Values of Preset Drawbars.................................................................................................... 4-26

Kurzweil PC2 Musician’s Guide
Contents
viii
Editing the Internal Setup..................................................................................................................................... 4-27
Using the Arpeggiator .................................................................................................................................................. 4-27
Using Pressure (Aftertouch) as an Arpeggiator Controller ............................................................................. 4-29
Using the Arpeggiator with a Sequencer or External Controller.................................................................... 4-29
Using the PC2 to Control External Slaves ................................................................................................................. 4-30
Sending Bank-Select and Program-Change Messages ..................................................................................... 4-30
Understanding Bank-Select Controllers ............................................................................................................. 4-30
Sending Program Changes Only ......................................................................................................................... 4-32
Preventing Program Changes on Slaves............................................................................................................. 4-33
Working With an External Sequencer ........................................................................................................................ 4-33
Turn Local Control Off! ......................................................................................................................................... 4-33
Global Method................................................................................................................................................. 4-33
Setup Method .................................................................................................................................................. 4-33
Recording to a Sequencer While in MIDI Setups Mode................................................................................... 4-34
Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................................................. 4-34
Chapter 5 Descriptions of Parameters
Program Editor Parameters ........................................................................................................................................... 5-1
The Timbre Menu..................................................................................................................................................... 5-1
The Envelope Menu................................................................................................................................................. 5-3
The LFO Menu.......................................................................................................................................................... 5-3
The LFO Menu: Rotor Effects Parameters............................................................................................................ 5-4
Setup Editor Parameters................................................................................................................................................. 5-5
The MIDI Xmit Menu .............................................................................................................................................. 5-5
The Program Menu.................................................................................................................................................. 5-6
The Key Range Menu .............................................................................................................................................. 5-9
The Transpose Menu ............................................................................................................................................. 5-10
The Velocity Menu ................................................................................................................................................. 5-10
The Controllers Menu............................................................................................................................................ 5-14
The Controllers Menu: Continuous Controller Parameters............................................................................. 5-15
The Controllers Menu: Ribbon Controller Parameters..................................................................................... 5-16
The Controllers Menu: Switch Controller Parameters ..................................................................................... 5-17
Switch-Button Priority ................................................................................................................................... 5-18
The Arpeggiator Menu.......................................................................................................................................... 5-19
Effects Editor Parameters............................................................................................................................................. 5-24
KB3 Editor Parameters ................................................................................................................................................. 5-27
The Timbre Menu................................................................................................................................................... 5-27
The Envelope Menu............................................................................................................................................... 5-28
The Envelope Menu: Percussion Parameters..................................................................................................... 5-29
Envelope Menu: Percussion Pitch Parameters .................................................................................................. 5-30
The LFO Menu........................................................................................................................................................ 5-30
System Parameters ........................................................................................................................................................ 5-30
The Global Menu.................................................................................................................................................... 5-30
The MIDI Recv Menu ............................................................................................................................................ 5-36
Appendix A Maintenance and Upgrades
Replacing the Battery..................................................................................................................................................... A-1
Before you Begin ..................................................................................................................................................... A-1
Opening your PC2 .................................................................................................................................................. A-1
Installing the Battery .............................................................................................................................................. A-1

Kurzweil PC2 Musician’s Guide
Contents
ix
Replacing the Option Panel................................................................................................................................... A-3
Powering up............................................................................................................................................................. A-3
Boot Block........................................................................................................................................................................ A-3
Starting the Boot Block ........................................................................................................................................... A-3
About Software Upgrades ..................................................................................................................................... A-3
Setting Up For a Software Upgrade ..................................................................................................................... A-4
Installing an Operating System or Setups ........................................................................................................... A-4
Installing a New Boot Block .................................................................................................................................. A-4
Installing Sound ROM Options............................................................................................................................. A-5
Resetting the PC2 .................................................................................................................................................... A-5
Running the Diagnostics........................................................................................................................................ A-5
Appendix B Reference
SpeciÞcations ...................................................................................................................................................................B-1
Physical SpeciÞcations.............................................................................................................................................B-1
Electrical SpeciÞcations ........................................................................................................................................B-1
Voltage and Frequency Ranges.......................................................................................................................B-1
Power Consumption.........................................................................................................................................B-1
Environmental SpeciÞcations.................................................................................................................................B-2
Audio SpeciÞcations .............................................................................................................................................B-2
Line-Level Left and Right Analog Audio Outputs ......................................................................................B-2
Digital Audio Output ................................................................................................................................... B-2
Headphone Output ..........................................................................................................................................B-2
Parameter Reference .......................................................................................................................................................B-3
PC2 Audio Signal Routing.............................................................................................................................................B-8
MIDI Controllers .............................................................................................................................................................B-9
Special Controllers ..........................................................................................................................................................B-9
KB3 Controllers .............................................................................................................................................................B-10
PC2 Keymaps................................................................................................................................................................. B-11
PC2 Effects and Effects Parameters ............................................................................................................................B-12
Reverb......................................................................................................................................................................B-12
Delay ........................................................................................................................................................................B-13
Chorus......................................................................................................................................................................B-13
Flange.......................................................................................................................................................................B-14
Phase ........................................................................................................................................................................B-14
Chorus + Delay.......................................................................................................................................................B-14
Chorus + Reverb.....................................................................................................................................................B-15
Chorus + Delay + Reverb......................................................................................................................................B-15
Flange + Delay........................................................................................................................................................B-15
Flange + Reverb......................................................................................................................................................B-15
Flange + Delay + Reverb.......................................................................................................................................B-16
Flange and Other....................................................................................................................................................B-16
Filters .......................................................................................................................................................................B-16
Laserverb.................................................................................................................................................................B-16
Distortion.................................................................................................................................................................B-17
Enhancer..................................................................................................................................................................B-17
Compressor.............................................................................................................................................................B-17
Simple Motion ........................................................................................................................................................B-17
Spatial ......................................................................................................................................................................B-17
Rotary Speaker .......................................................................................................................................................B-18
MIDI Implementation Chart........................................................................................................................................B-19

Kurzweil PC2 Musician’s Guide
Contents
x
Appendix C PC2 Programs and Controller Assignments
Factory Controller Assignments ...................................................................................................................................C-1
Programs and Controllers..............................................................................................................................................C-1
Index
.....................................................................................................................................................................................I-1
Index of Parameters
.............................................................................................................................................IP-1

Chapter 1
Introduction
Thanks for buying your PC2 MIDI performance controller! It combines 16 megabytes of
renowned Kurzweil ROM sounds with an extensive set of ßexible and easy-to-use performance
and MIDI-control featuresÑall in a portable keyboard that can help you sound like a pro on
stage or in the studio. We hope you like it.
Basic PC2 Features
The Sound
The PC2 offers 64-voice polyphony thatÕs expandable to 128 voices. For maximum ßexibility in
connecting to sound systems and processing or recording equipment, the PC2 provides analog
and digital audio outputs, which you can use simultaneously.
There are 128 factory programs, including KurzweilÕs new stereo triple-strike Grand Piano,
Rhodes and Wurlitzer electric pianos, stereo strings, brass, and Take 6 vocal samplesÑas well as
our critically-acclaimed keyboard, guitar, bass, drums, and percussion sounds. ThereÕs also
room for two Sound ROM Option cards, for up to 48 megabytes of ROM sounds.
Setups make the PC2 a versatile performance instrument and MIDI control keyboard. Each
setup contains four zones that can cover any part of the keyboard, or overlap across the entire
keyboard. You can program each zone independentlyÑwith different programs, physical
controller assignments, and MIDI channels for each zone. Using the onboard arpeggiator, you
can program setups with grooves that start automatically and evolve in countless variations as
you play.
For serious Hammond organ fans we offer KB3 Mode, which uses tone-wheel synthesis to
provide superb recreations of the classic B-3 soundÑincluding real-time drawbar controls and
multi-effects settings that include all of the essential features of a Hammond-Leslie setupÑ
percussion, key click, chorus and vibrato, tube amp distortion, and rotary speakers with
programmable speed control that ramps up and down like the real thing. You can play KB3
programs by themselves or with other programs in setups.
Keyboard and Controllers
There are two PC2 models. Both have the same features, with only one exception. The PC2X has
a fully-weighted 88-key piano action, while the standard PC2 has a 76-key lightly-weighted
action for the perfect combination of power and portability. Both models have mono pressure
(aftertouch), and have programmable velocity sensitivity. (By the way, whenever we mention
the PC2 by name, weÕre referring to both models.)
YouÕll Þnd the usual array of physical controllersÑPitch Wheel, Mod Wheel, jacks for
continuous and switch pedal jacks, and a breath-controller jackÑas well as multi-function
front-panel buttons and sliders, and a unique ribbon controller. TheyÕre all fully programmable.
ThereÕs an extensive list of programmable features for MIDI controlÑthe PC2 isnÕt just a great-
sounding performance keyboard; itÕs a serious tool for MIDI sequencing, and makes an excellent

1-2
Introduction
Options
centerpiece for sophisticated MIDI studios. The PC2 is also well-equipped to receive MIDI from
other instruments or external MIDI sources like computer-based sequencers.
Effects
To complement the ROM sounds, there are over 150 multiple effects and 30 reverbs. You can
apply the effects to programs or setups, and you can easily control the wet/dry mix in real time.
You can also program the multi-effects and reverbs for even more control in performance and
recording.
Options
Ask your Kurzweil dealer about the following PC2 options:
Sound ROM Cards
The PC2 has sockets for two ROM expansion cards that you can install yourself (the expansion
kits come with complete instructions). Each expansion card adds 16 megabytes of ROM sounds
to the 16 megabytes of onboard ROM.
Polyphony Expansion Board
ThereÕs a kit for expanding your PC2Õs polyphony from 64 voices to 128 voices. You can install
this kit yourself as well.
Pedals
The PC2 has jacks for three switch pedals (for functions like sustain or program/setup changes)
and two continuous pedals (for functions like volume control). Your Kurzweil dealer stocks the
following optional pedals:
FS-1 Standard box-shaped switch pedal
KFP-1 Single piano-style switch pedal
KFP-2M Double piano-style switch pedal unit
CC-1 Continuous pedal
Ribbon Controller
ThereÕs a dedicated modular jack (like a telephone jack) on the rear panel for connecting this
600-mm (24-inch) ribbon controller. You can conÞgure the PC2 to use the ribbon as a single large
controller, or a three-section controller with independent settings for each section.
Music Rack
The sturdy acrylic music rack (model PC-MDS) Þts into a bracket that you attach to the PC2Õs
rear panel. YouÕll Þnd installation instructions on page 2-1.
Breath Controller
You can plug a Yamaha (or equivalent) breath controller into the dedicated jack on the PC2Õs rear
panel (your Kurzweil dealer wonÕt necessarily have these in stock).

Introduction
Unpacking your PC2
1-3
Unpacking your PC2
Your PC2 carton should contain the following:
¥ PC2 or PC2X Performance Controller
¥ Power adapter
¥ Piano-style switch pedal
¥ Four adhesive-backed rubber feet
¥ This manual
¥ Warranty card
You might want to keep the PC2 carton and packing materials for easy shipping or transport.

Chapter 2
Startup
Setup
When setting up the PC2 for use it must be placed on a sturdy, level surface where both ends of
the unit are supported. A conventional keyboard stand may be used if it is strong enough to
support the unitÕs weight (about 35 pounds for a PC2, 50 for a PC2X). If you are going to be
using the unit on a table now or in the future, apply the four stick-on rubber feet to the bottom.
Figure 2-1 shows the recommended locations marked with pairs of small guide holes. Remove
the backing paper from each rubber foot and attach just forward of each set of guide holes. It is
possible that these locations could interfere with some keyboard standÕs supports, so check how
the PC2 Þts on your stand before applying the rubber feet.
Figure 2-1 Attaching rubber feet
Installing the Music Rack
YouÕll need a Phillips screwdriver to install the optional music rack.
1. Remove the four screws on the rear panel of the PC2, as shown in Figure 2-2.
2. Use the screws to attach the music rack bracket, making sure that the rounded edge of the
bracket is at the top.
3. Slide the music rack in from the top (as shown in the Þgure).
Attach feet here

2-2
Startup
Basic Connections
Figure 2-2 Installing the music rack
Basic Connections
Power
The PC2 has an external transformer/power supply with a standard electrical plug on one end,
and a keyed four-pin plug that connects with the PC2 (keyed means that thereÕs only one way to
connect it). This is a specialized power supply, and is not interchangeable with other power
supplies.
Caution : Use only the power supply that comes with your PC2, or a replacement purchased from an
authorized Kurzweil dealer. Using a different power supply can seriously damage your PC2!
Before connecting the power supply, make sure your PC2 is off (push the side of the power
switch thatÕs marked with a circle). Connect the keyed plug to the AC In connector. Figure 2-3
shows the correct orientation of the plug.

Startup
Basic Connections
2-3
Figure 2-3 Proper orientation of plug
Place the power supply somewhere where it will stay dry and out of the way. We recommend
keeping it on the ßoor. Never cover the power supply with anything; it needs adequate
ventilation to prevent overheating.
Connect the plug at the other end of the power-supply cable into a standard power outlet. If you
plan to take your PC2 to a location that uses a different voltage level, youÕll need to get an
additional power supply thatÕs compatible with the local voltage.
Audio
The PC2 features balanced left and right analog audio outputs with
1
/
4
-inch jacks. For best
results, use balanced cables to connect to balanced, line-level inputs on your mixer or sound
system.
ItÕs important to use shielded, twisted-pair cables. The cables should each have
1
/
4
-inch stereo
(tip-ring-sleeve) plugs on one end to connect to the PC2. The other end of each cable should
have either
1
/
4
-inch stereo plugs or XLR plugs. Cables of this type provide balanced operation,
which greatly reduces many types of noise. Unbalanced cables or sound-system inputs wonÕt
give you quite the same audio quality.
For best performance, set the PC2Õs Master Volume slider to its maximum when adjusting mixer
or sound-system levels. Otherwise, if you adjust the PC2Õs level by increasing the level of your
sound system, youÕll increase the noise level.
If youÕre using a monaural sound system or running the PC2Õs audio into a single mixer
channel, we recommend conÞguring the PC2 for mono output, in which case the PC2 sends the
same one-channel signal to the left and right sides of both the analog and digital outputs. See
page 4-26 for information about using mono audio output mode.
The PC2 has a headphone jack, which carries the same signal as the main outputs (thatÕs true
whether youÕre using stereo or mono output). The headphone jack accepts a standard
1
/
4
-inch
stereo plug, and is compatible with nearly all types of headphones. Plugging into the
headphones jack does not mute the other audio outputs.
You can also use the headphone jack as an unbalanced stereo line-level output. Just connect a
stereo cable from the headphone jack to a stereo input on your mixer or sound system. If you
have only unbalanced inputs to your sound system, youÕll get better audio quality using the
headphone jack.
ThereÕs also an RCA digital audio jack, which you can use in addition to the analog outputs. See
page 2-6 for more information.
Flat side down!
Key

2-4
Startup
Basic Connections
MIDI
The PC2 both transmits and accepts most standard (and several specialized) MIDI messages. In
other words, it can serve as both a MIDI master and a MIDI slave.
Using the PC2 as a MIDI Master
Connect a MIDI cable from the MIDI Out port of the PC2 to the MIDI In port of the device you
want to controlÑanother MIDI musical instrument, or any device that accepts MIDI, such as a
computer with a MIDI interface or an integrated MIDI In port. This makes the PC2 a MIDI
control device, and you can use it to play other instruments, make recordings using sequencers,
or send MIDI System Exclusive (SysEx) messages for storing programs, setups, and effects
settings externally.
When the PC2 is the MIDI master, you can conÞgure it to control only its slaves, or to play its
own sounds in addition to controlling the slaves.
Using the PC2 as a MIDI Slave
Connect a MIDI cable from the MIDI Out port of the instrument or device that youÕre using as
the MIDI master to the MIDI In port of the PC2. This makes the PC2 a MIDI slave, enabling you
to play its sounds from any MIDI instrumentÑkeyboard, wind controller, drum pads,
whateverÑor to control it via MIDI devices like dedicated sequencers or computers running
sequencing applications. The PC2 can receive 16 independent channels of MIDI information.
MIDI Out/Thru
This jack has two functions: it can be a MIDI Out port, enabling you to send directly to two
different slaves, or it can be a MIDI Thru port, in which case it passes along whatever MIDI
information that the PC2 receives at its MIDI In port (but not the MIDI information that the PC2
itself generates). This makes it easy to include the PC2 in a chain of multiple MIDI devices,
which is a common conÞguration when youÕre using a computer for sequencing.
ThereÕs a small switch labeled Thru/Out on the PC2Õs rear panel (as you face the rear panel, the
switch is to the left of the MIDI In port). Use a small pointed object to set the switch to the
position you wantÑa ball-point pen works nicely.
Pedals
Plug your switch or continuous pedals into the corresponding jacks on the PC2Õs rear panel. We
recommend using the Kurzweil pedals described on page 1-2, but you can use almost any
switch or continuous pedal, as long as it adheres to the following speciÞcations (as most pedals
do):
Switch pedals
1
/
4
-inch tip-sleeve plug
Continuous pedals 10-kOhm linear-taper potentiometer,
1
/
4
-inch tip-ring-sleeve plug
If you use a third-party (non-Kurzweil) switch pedal, make sure itÕs connected before you turn
on your PC2. This ensures that the pedal will work properly (it might function backwardÑoff
when itÕs down and on when itÕs upÑif you turn on your PC2 before plugging in the pedal).
Similarly, donÕt press any of your switch pedals while powering up, because the PC2 veriÞes
each pedalÕs orientation during power up. If youÕre pressing a pedal, you might cause it to work
backward.

Startup
Basic Connections
2-5
The pedals are independently programmable within each zone of every setup. Here are the
default settings for the Þve pedals you can use with the PC2:
Switch Pedal 1 Controller 64 ( Sustain )
Switch Pedal 2 Controller 66 ( Sostenuto )
Switch Pedal 3 Controller 67 ( Soft )
Continuous Control Pedal 1 Controller 11 ( Expression )
Continuous Control Pedal 2 Controller 4 (Foot Pedal)
Breath
The 3.5mm Breath jack labeled Breath accepts a standard breath controller, which sends
standard MIDI Breath (MIDI 2) messages. The PC2Õs preset programs and setups donÕt respond
to breath, but if you have other instruments that do respond to Breath, you can control them
from the PC2 via MIDI.
You can also program the PC2 so that the breath controller sends a different MIDI message. This
would enable you to use a breath controller to affect the PC2, but then other instruments
receiving MIDI from the PC2 would no longer respond to the PC2Õs breath controller (unless
you also programmed them to receive the same MIDI Controller that the PC2Õs breath controller
is sending).
Ribbon
Connect the optional Kurzweil Ribbon Controller into the modular Ribbon jack on the rear
panel. The ribbon controller itself should rest on a ßat surface; it Þts nicely between the keys and
the buttons and sliders on the front panel.
The ribbon is a continuous controller. You can program the ribbon controller to send MIDI
Controller messages 1Ð127, as well as several specialized messages. It generates values of 0Ð127
for whatever MIDI Controllers you assign it to send. Just press it, and slide your Þnger along the
ribbon to change the value of the message itÕs sending.
You can conÞgure the ribbon to have one control section that runs its entire length, or to have
three sections of equal length. It sends its highest values when you press it at the end where the
cable connects. When you conÞgure it to have three sections, each section sends its highest
values at the end closest to the cable.
The ribbon controller comes with an adhesive-backed foam strip and Velcro¨fastener pads. The
foam strip will hold it in place under most circumstances, but you might Þnd it more convenient
to attach it more securely with the Velcro fasteners. In that case, we recommend sticking the
hook side of each pad to the underside of the Ribbon and the loop (softer) side to the keyboard.
This helps to prevent the hooks in the Velcro from collecting crud when you donÕt have the
ribbon attached.
Caution: The modular jack is designed for connection to the Kurzweil Ribbon Controller option only.
DonÕt plug any other modular plugs into the Ribbon jack.

2-6
Startup
Powering Up
Digital Output
With the PC2, you can take advantage of the growing number of digital recorders and mixers on
the market. Connect a 75-Ohm coaxial cable from the PC2Õs RCA Digital Out jack to the AES or
S/PDIF input of the receiving device. You may need an RCA-to-XLR adapter to connect with the
receiving device. If the receiving device receives only optical signals, youÕll need a converter as
well.
Powering Up
When youÕve made all your connections, turn on the PC2 by pushing the side of the power
switch marked with the vertical line. All of the lights on the front panel ßash, and the liquid-
crystal display (LCD) shows a series of messages. When the PC2 is ready to play, the display
looks like this:
Bank:0||Internal||1A
000|Stereo|Grand|
Before playing, we recommend that you slide the volume control nearly to the bottom and
gradually push the control up while playing the keyboard. This way you wonÕt cause any pain
or damage if thereÕs too much gain in your sound system.
Display (LCD)
The PC2Õs 40-character liquid-crystal display tells you whatÕs going on, whether youÕre playing
or editing. Depending on your viewing angle (and possibly the temperature), you may need to
adjust the contrast for better visibility. ThereÕs a small black knob on the rear panel, between the
MIDI ports and the Digital Out jack. Use a screwdriver or your Þngertips to turn the knob until
you can read the display easily.
LEDs
Most of the buttons on the PC2Õs front panel contain light-emitting diodes that indicate the
status of the features that the buttons control. They should all ßash red three times as the PC2
starts up.
Software Upgrades
The PC2 contains a type of reloadable computer memory called Flash ROM, which makes
software upgrades fast and easy. You can learn about new features from your Kurzweil dealer,
or from our website (www.youngchang.com/kurzweil). See Boot Block on page A-3 for software-
installation instructions.
Playing the Demo Sequences
1. Press Sound Select buttons 14 and 16 (Bass and Percussion) simultaneously to enter
Demo mode. Sound Select buttons 1Ð4blink (more than four of these buttons will blink if
youÕve added one or both of the Sound ROM expansion cards). Each button starts a
different demo sequence when you press it. If you want to stop the demo before it
Þnishes, press 14 and 16 simultaneously again.
2. When the demo Þnishes (or when you stop it), buttons 1Ð4start blinking again.