Kurzweil PC3 User manual

Getting Started Guide
©2008 All rights reserved. Kurzweil ® is a product line of Young Chang Co., td. Young Chang®, Kurzweil ®, V. A. S. T. ®, PC3®, KDFX®,
Pitcher®, and aserVerb®, KSP8 ™, K2661™, K2600™, K2500™, and K2000™ are trademarks of Young Chang Co., td. All other products
and brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Product features and specifications are subject to
change without notice.
You may legally print up to two (2) copies of this document for personal use. Commercial use of any copies of this document
is prohibited. Young Chang Co. retains ownership of all intellectual property represented by this document.
910511 – Preliminary / Subject to Change – June 12, 200

ii
IMPORTANT SAFETY & INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO THE RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS
WARNING: When using elect ic p oducts, basic p ecautions should
always be followed, including the following:
1. Read all of the Safety and Installation Inst uctions and Explanation
of G aphic Symbols befo e using the p oduct.
2. This p oduct must be g ounded. If it should malfunction o b eak
down, g ounding p ovides a path of least esistance fo elect ic
cu ent to educe the isk of elect ic shock. This p oduct is equipped
with a powe supply co d having an equipment-g ounding
conducto and a g ounding plug. The plug must be plugged into an
app op iate outlet which is p ope ly installed and g ounded in
acco dance with all local codes and o dinances.
DANGER: Imp ope connection of the equipment-g ounding
conducto can esult in a isk of elect ic shock. Do not modify the
plug p ovided with the p oduct - if it will not fit the outlet, have a
p ope outlet installed by a qualified elect ician. Do not use an
adapto which defeats the function of the equipment-g ounding
conducto . If you a e in doubt as to whethe the p oduct is p ope ly
g ounded, check with a qualified se viceman o elect ician.
3. WARNING: This p oduct is equipped with an AC input voltage
selecto . The voltage selecto has been facto y set fo the mains
supply voltage in the count y whe e this unit was sold. Changing
the voltage selecto may equi e the use of a diffe ent powe supply
co d o attachment plug, o both. To educe the isk of fi e o elect ic
shock, efe se vicing to qualified maintenance pe sonnel.
4. Do not use this p oduct nea wate - fo example, nea a bathtub,
washbowl, kitchen sink, in a wet basement, o nea a swimming
pool, o the like.
5. This p oduct should only be used with a stand o ca t that is
ecommended by the manufactu e .
6. This p oduct, eithe alone o in combination with an amplifie and
speake s o headphones, may be capable of p oducing sound
levels that could cause pe manent hea ing loss. Do not ope ate fo
a long pe iod of time at a high volume level o at a level that is
uncomfo table. If you expe ience any hea ing loss o inging in the
ea s, you should consult an audiologist.
7. The p oduct should be located so that its location o position does
not inte fe e with its p ope ventilation.
8. The p oduct should be located away f om heat sou ces such as
adiato s, heat egiste s, o othe p oducts that p oduce heat.
9. The p oduct should be connected to a powe supply only of the type
desc ibed in the ope ating inst uctions o as ma ked on the p oduct.
10. This p oduct may be equipped with a pola ized line plug (one blade
wide than the othe ). This is a safety featu e. If you a e unable to
inse t the plug into the outlet, contact an elect ician to eplace you
obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety pu pose of the plug.
11. The powe supply co d of the p oduct should be unplugged f om the
outlet when left unused fo a long pe iod of time. When unplugging
the powe supply co d, do not pull on the co d, but g asp it by the
plug.
12. Ca e should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids a e not
spilled into the enclosu e th ough openings.
13. The p oduct should be se viced by qualified se vice pe sonnel
when:
A. The powe supply co d o the plug has been damaged;
B. Objects have fallen, o liquid has been spilled into the p oduct;
C. The p oduct has been exposed to ain;
D. The p oduct does not appea to be ope ating no mally o
exhibits a ma ked change in pe fo mance;
E. The p oduct has been d opped, o the enclosu e damaged.
14. Do not attempt to se vice the p oduct beyond that desc ibed in the
use maintenance inst uctions. All othe se vicing should be
efe ed to qualified se vice pe sonnel.
15. WARNING: Do not place objects on the p oduct’s powe supply
co d, o place the p oduct in a position whe e anyone could t ip
ove , walk on, o oll anything ove co ds of any type. Do not allow
the p oduct to est on o be installed ove co ds of any type.
Imp ope installations of this type c eate the possibility of a fi e
haza d and/o pe sonal inju y.
RADIO AND TELEVISION INTERFERENCE
WARNING: Changes o modifications to this inst ument not exp essly
app oved by Young Chang could void you autho ity to ope ate the
inst ument.
IMPORTANT: When connecting this p oduct to accesso ies and/o othe
equipment use only high quality shielded cables.
NOTE: This inst ument has been tested and found to comply with the
limits fo a Class B digital device, pu suant to Pa t 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits a e designed to p ovide easonable p otection against
ha mful inte fe ence in a esidential installation. This inst ument
gene ates, uses, and can adiate adio f equency ene gy and, if not
installed and used in acco dance with the inst uctions, may cause
ha mful inte fe ence to adio communications. Howeve , the e is no
gua antee that inte fe ence will not occu in a pa ticula installation. If
this inst ument does cause ha mful inte fe ence to adio o television
eception, which can be dete mined by tu ning the inst ument off and on,
the use is encou aged to t y to co ect the inte fe ence by one o mo e
of the following measu es:
• Reo ient o elocate the eceiving antenna.
• Inc ease the sepa ation between the inst ument and the eceive .
• Connect the inst ument into an outlet on a ci cuit othe than the one
to which the eceive is connected.
• If necessa y consult you deale o an expe ienced adio/television
technician fo additional suggestions.
NOTICE
This appa atus does not exceed the Class B limits fo adio noise
emissions f om digital appa atus set out in the Radio Inte fe ence
Regulations of the Canadian Depa tment of Communications.
AVIS
Le p esent appa eil nume ique n’emet pas de b uits adioelect iques
depassant les limites applicables aux appa eils nume iques de la
class B p esc ites dans le Reglement su le b ouillage adioelect ique
edicte pa le ministe e des Communications du Canada.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
The lightning flash with the a owhead symbol,
within an equilate al t iangle, is intended to ale t
the use to the p esence of uninsulated
"dange ous voltage" within the p oduct's
enclosu e that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a isk of elect ic shock to pe sons.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
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 equilate al
t iangle is intended to ale t the use to the
p esence of impo tant ope ating and
maintenance (se vicing) inst uctions in the
lite atu e accompanying the p oduct.
CAUTION

iii
Important Safety Instructions
1) Read these instructions
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
7) Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appara-
tus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug
has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a
third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obso-
lete outlet.
10) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12) Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manu-
facturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when
moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long
periods of time.
14) CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same
or equivalent type (CR2032).
15) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus
has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain
or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
Warning - To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or mois-
ture. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects filled with
liquids, such as vases, are placed on the equipment.
To completely disconnect this equipment from the AC Mains, disconnect the power supply cord
plug from the AC receptacle.

iv
Kurzweil International Contacts
Contact the Kurzweil office listed below to locate your local Kurzweil representative.
Kurzweil Music Systems
19060 S. Dominguez Hills Dr.
Rancho Dominguez
California 90220 USA
telephone: [phone]
fax: [phone]
http://www.kurzweilmusicsystems.com
Kurzweil Co., TD
iPark Building #102, Floor 9
Jeongja-Dong 9, Bundang-Gu
Soungnam-Shi, Gyeonggi-Do 463-859
South Korea
http://www.ycpiano.co.kr
http://www.youngchang.com

TOC-i
Kurzweil International Contacts .....................................................................................................................................iv
Chapter 1 Introduction
Keeping Current...............................................................................................................................................................1-1
Overview of the PC3 .......................................................................................................................................................1-2
How the PC3 Works ........................................................................................................................................................1-2
VAST Synthesis ................................................................................................................................................................1-3
KB3 Tone Wheel Emulation............................................................................................................................................1-3
VA-1 Programs .................................................................................................................................................................1-3
How to Use This Manual................................................................................................................................................1-4
Do I Have Everything?....................................................................................................................................................1-4
Boot oader.......................................................................................................................................................................1-4
Battery................................................................................................................................................................................1-4
Options ..............................................................................................................................................................................1-5
Sound ROM Cards....................................................................................................................................................1-5
Pedals .........................................................................................................................................................................1-5
Ribbon Controller .....................................................................................................................................................1-5
Breath Controller ......................................................................................................................................................1-5
Chapter 2 Startup
Make Connections ...........................................................................................................................................................2-1
Make Music.......................................................................................................................................................................2-1
Startup—the Details ........................................................................................................................................................2-2
Before You Start.........................................................................................................................................................2-2
Connecting the Power Cable ( ine Cord) .............................................................................................................2-2
Connecting Audio Cables........................................................................................................................................2-2
Connecting MIDI ......................................................................................................................................................2-3
Pedals .........................................................................................................................................................................2-4
Breath..........................................................................................................................................................................2-4
Ribbon ........................................................................................................................................................................2-5
Switching On the Power..........................................................................................................................................2-5
xD Cards ....................................................................................................................................................................2-6
USB Port.....................................................................................................................................................................2-6
Setting the Clock .......................................................................................................................................................2-6
PC3 Programs...................................................................................................................................................................2-7
Selecting Programs...................................................................................................................................................2-7
Program Mode Display............................................................................................................................................2-7
VAST Programs.........................................................................................................................................................2-8
KB3 Programs............................................................................................................................................................2-8
Setups ................................................................................................................................................................................2-9
Quick Access.....................................................................................................................................................................2-9
The Other Modes ...........................................................................................................................................................2-10
Software Upgrades ........................................................................................................................................................2-10
Chapter 3 User Interface Basics
Mode Selection .................................................................................................................................................................3-1
Mode Buttons ...................................................................................................................................................................3-2
Bank Buttons.....................................................................................................................................................................3-2

TOC-ii
Sliders ................................................................................................................................................................................3-2
Program and Category Buttons .....................................................................................................................................3-4
Pitch Wheel and Mod Wheel .........................................................................................................................................3-5
Navigation ........................................................................................................................................................................3-6
The Display................................................................................................................................................................3-6
Pages...........................................................................................................................................................................3-6
The Top ine..............................................................................................................................................................3-6
The Bottom ine........................................................................................................................................................3-6
The Soft Buttons........................................................................................................................................................3-7
The Cursor Buttons ..................................................................................................................................................3-7
The Chan/ ayer Buttons.........................................................................................................................................3-7
The Edit Button .........................................................................................................................................................3-8
The Exit Button .........................................................................................................................................................3-8
Data Entry.........................................................................................................................................................................3-9
The Alpha Wheel ......................................................................................................................................................3-9
The Plus/Minus Buttons .........................................................................................................................................3-9
The Alphanumeric Pad............................................................................................................................................3-9
Double Button Presses ...........................................................................................................................................3-10
Intuitive Data Entry.......................................................................................................................................................3-11
Changing the Current ayer in Multi- ayer Programs ....................................................................................3-11
Search...............................................................................................................................................................................3-12
Quick Song Recording and Playback..........................................................................................................................3-12
Chapter 4 The Operating Modes
What the Modes Are........................................................................................................................................................4-1
Selecting Modes ...............................................................................................................................................................4-1
Finding Square One..................................................................................................................................................4-2
Using the Modes ..............................................................................................................................................................4-2
Program Mode ..........................................................................................................................................................4-3
Setup Mode................................................................................................................................................................4-3
Quick Access Mode ..................................................................................................................................................4-3
Effects Mode..............................................................................................................................................................4-3
MIDI Mode ................................................................................................................................................................4-3
Master Mode .............................................................................................................................................................4-3
Song Mode.................................................................................................................................................................4-4
Storage Mode ............................................................................................................................................................4-4
Chapter 5 Editing Conventions
Introduction to Editing ...................................................................................................................................................5-1
What’s an Object? .....................................................................................................................................................5-1
Object Type and ID ..........................................................................................................................................................5-2
Saving and Naming.........................................................................................................................................................5-2
ROM Objects..............................................................................................................................................................5-3
Memory Objects........................................................................................................................................................5-4
Keyboard Naming ....................................................................................................................................................5-4
Deleting Objects ...............................................................................................................................................................5-5
Dependent Objects ...................................................................................................................................................5-5
Saving and oading Files—Storage Mode...................................................................................................................5-5
Special Button Functions ................................................................................................................................................5-6

TOC-iii
Chapter 6 Program Mode
VAST and KB3 Programs................................................................................................................................................6-1
VAST Program Structure ................................................................................................................................................6-2
KB3 Program Structure ...................................................................................................................................................6-4
KB3 Mode ..................................................................................................................................................................6-4
Real-time Controls in KB3 Mode............................................................................................................................6-5
Playing KB3 Programs .............................................................................................................................................6-5
KB3 Mode Buttons (Mute Buttons)........................................................................................................................6-5
MIDI Control of KB3 Programs..............................................................................................................................6-6
The Program Mode Page ................................................................................................................................................6-9
Control Setup ............................................................................................................................................................6-9
The Soft Buttons in Program Mode......................................................................................................................6-10
Alt Input for Algorithms (Cascade Mode).................................................................................................................6-10
Syncing FOs..................................................................................................................................................................6-10
Controller Entry Values in Program Mode ................................................................................................................ 6-11
Chapter 7 Setup Mode
The Control Setup............................................................................................................................................................7-2
Riffs ....................................................................................................................................................................................7-2
RIFF1...........................................................................................................................................................................7-2
RIFF2...........................................................................................................................................................................7-4
For More Information......................................................................................................................................................7-6
Chapter Quick Access Mode
Quick Access Editor.........................................................................................................................................................8-2
Chapter 9 Basic Effects Mode
Introduction......................................................................................................................................................................9-1
Chains................................................................................................................................................................................9-1
FXMODS ...........................................................................................................................................................................9-2
For More Information......................................................................................................................................................9-2
Chapter 10 MIDI Mode
The TRANSMIT Page....................................................................................................................................................10-1
Control Setup ..........................................................................................................................................................10-2
Destination...............................................................................................................................................................10-2
Channel ....................................................................................................................................................................10-2
Transpose .................................................................................................................................................................10-2
Velocity Map—Transmit (VelocMap)...................................................................................................................10-2
Pressure Map—Transmit (PressMap) ..................................................................................................................10-3
Program Change (PChng) .....................................................................................................................................10-3
Change Setups (ChgSetups)..................................................................................................................................10-3
The RECEIVE Page........................................................................................................................................................10-3
Basic Channel ..........................................................................................................................................................10-4
MIDI Receive Mode (MIDI Mode).......................................................................................................................10-4
All Notes Off............................................................................................................................................................10-4
Program Change Mode (PrgChgMode) ..............................................................................................................10-4

TOC-iv
Velocity Map—Receive ..........................................................................................................................................10-5
Pressure Map—Receive .........................................................................................................................................10-5
System Exclusive ID (SysExID) ............................................................................................................................10-5
Bend Smooth ...........................................................................................................................................................10-5
ocal Keyboard Channel ( ocalKbdCh) .............................................................................................................10-5
Bank Select...............................................................................................................................................................10-5
The Channels Page ........................................................................................................................................................10-6
Enable .......................................................................................................................................................................10-6
Program....................................................................................................................................................................10-6
Pan ............................................................................................................................................................................10-7
Volume .....................................................................................................................................................................10-7
Program ock, Pan ock, Volume ock ..............................................................................................................10-7
Program Change Formats.............................................................................................................................................10-7
Extended Program Changes .................................................................................................................................10-8
QAccess....................................................................................................................................................................10-8
The Soft Buttons in MIDI Mode.................................................................................................................................10-11
Program Change (PrgChg)..................................................................................................................................10-11
Reset Channels (RsetCh)...................................................................................................................................... 10-11
Panic .......................................................................................................................................................................10-11
Chapter 11 Master Mode
The Master Mode Page .................................................................................................................................................11-1
Tune .......................................................................................................................................................................... 11-2
Transpose ................................................................................................................................................................. 11-2
Velocity and Pressure Touch (VelTouch and PressTouch).................................................................................11-2
Intonation.................................................................................................................................................................11-2
Intonation Key (IntonaKey) ..................................................................................................................................11-3
Digital Output Mode..............................................................................................................................................11-3
Numeric Entry.........................................................................................................................................................11-3
The Soft Buttons in Master Mode (Page 1 and Page 2) ............................................................................................ 11-4
Save...........................................................................................................................................................................11-4
Object........................................................................................................................................................................11-4
Clock......................................................................................................................................................................... 11-4
oader.......................................................................................................................................................................11-4
Reset.......................................................................................................................................................................... 11-4
Object Utilities ................................................................................................................................................................11-4
Rename.....................................................................................................................................................................11-4
Delete........................................................................................................................................................................ 11-5
Chapter 12 Song Mode
Getting Started with the Sequencer.............................................................................................................................12-1
What is a Sequencer?..............................................................................................................................................12-1
Song Mode’s Main Screen .....................................................................................................................................12-1
Volume Control.......................................................................................................................................................12-1
For More Information ............................................................................................................................................12-1
A Word about the ocal Keyboard Channel.......................................................................................................12-2

TOC-v
Chapter 13 Storage Mode
Storage Mode Page ........................................................................................................................................................13-1
Using xD Cards.......................................................................................................................................................13-1
Directories.......................................................................................................................................................................13-2
Path ...........................................................................................................................................................................13-2
Disk Drive Information..........................................................................................................................................13-3
Storage Mode Soft Buttons....................................................................................................................................13-3
File ist Dialog ...............................................................................................................................................................13-3
Soft Buttons in the File ist Dialog.......................................................................................................................13-3
Creating Directories.......................................................................................................................................................13-4
Creating a Directory From the Storage Mode Page...........................................................................................13-4
Creating a Directory in the Save Dialog..............................................................................................................13-4
The Directory Selection Dialog ....................................................................................................................................13-5
Storage Mode Functions ...............................................................................................................................................13-6
oading Files ...........................................................................................................................................................13-6
oading Individual Objects...................................................................................................................................13-6
Shortcuts when oading Objects..........................................................................................................................13-7
Selecting Multiple Files to oad ...........................................................................................................................13-8
Aborting a Multiple File oad ..............................................................................................................................13-8
Saving Files .....................................................................................................................................................................13-8
Soft Buttons in the Save Selection Dialog............................................................................................................13-9
Saving Individual Objects .....................................................................................................................................13-9
Shortcuts when Saving Objects ............................................................................................................................13-9
More Features of the Save Dialog.......................................................................................................................13-10
Auditioning Objects in RAM ..............................................................................................................................13-10
The Name Table ....................................................................................................................................................13-11
Not oading the Name Table..............................................................................................................................13-12
The Multiple Object Selector Page.............................................................................................................................13-12
Using the Multiple Object Selector: An Overview...........................................................................................13-12
Operating Modes: The Select Parameter...........................................................................................................13-12
Multiple Object Selector Soft Buttons................................................................................................................13-13
Entering Selection Criteria in the Multiple Object Selector............................................................................13-15
Appendix A MIDI Implementation Chart
Appendix B PC3 Bootloader
Using the Bootloader Menu ................................................................................................................................... B-1
Updating PC3 Software and Objects .................................................................................................................... B-2
PC3 Diagnostics ....................................................................................................................................................... B-3
System Reset............................................................................................................................................................. B-3
File Utilities............................................................................................................................................................... B-3
Restoring the PC3 File System............................................................................................................................... B-4
Appendix C Changing PC3 Voltage
Removing the fuse holder ......................................................................................................................................C-1

TOC-vi

Introduction
Keeping Cu ent
Preliminary - Subject to Change 1-1
Chapter 1
Introduction
Greetings. Your new PC3 offers amazing acoustic, electric, and synthesizer sounds, combined
with advanced programming features that will let you create almost any sound you can
imagine. The PC3 comes loaded with 64 MB of ROM sounds, powered by Kurzweil’s newest
custom chip set – cutting edge technology that nobody else has. In addition to the great sounds
and programming features, the PC3 is fully equipped with performance features you’ll use at
every gig. For example, there are nine conveniently situated sliders for accurately emulating the
drawbars on a tone wheel organ such as a Hammond B3™. And the PC3’s 24 dedicated sound
select buttons, along with its Quick Access banks will let you instantly choose and change
sounds whenever you like.
If you’ve used other Kurzweil gear, you’ll have no trouble getting up and running quickly. Bear
in mind, however, that the PC3’s beauties are more than skin-deep; you’ll want to read this
manual, as well as the materials at the www.kurzweilmusicsystems.com website to take full
advantage of your instrument.
Keeping Current
Check for new documentation and operating system upgrades before you start using your
instrument. When new software is available for the PC3, it will be posted at
www.kurzweilmusicsystems.com. You’ll use the PC3’s Boot oader (described in this manual)
to upgrade your instrument to use the new software.
Pictured below is the 88-key PC3x.

1-2 Preliminary - Subject to Change
Introduction
Ove view of the PC3
Overview of the PC3
The PC3’s 800+ programs include the Orchestral and Contemporary sound blocks, General
MIDI (GM), Stereo Triple Strike Piano, Classic Keys for realistic vintage electric piano sounds,
and new String Sections. Multi-zone performance setups are also provided; many of these
setups use note triggers to play factory-recorded songs that provide grooves and arpeggiation
that make great templates for performance or recording. An on-board 16-track sequencer with
front panel transport buttons lets you record your ideas any time inspiration strikes. This
sequencer (Song mode) lets you play back MIDI type 0 or 1 sequences, record and play back
your own songs, and record multi-timbral sequences received via MIDI.
Before we get into explaining VAST, here are a few of the features that by themselves make the
PC3 an impressive stage and studio machine. It has 128-voice polyphony and is fully multi-
timbral, so that different programs can be played on each MIDI channel. There’s an on-board
digital effects processor providing multiple simultaneous effects, including real-time effects
control, internally or via MIDI. In fact, the PC3 offers more effects processing power than
Kurzweil’s much-lauded KSP8 studio effects processor.
In addition to the standard stereo audio output pair, there are two additional balanced analog
outputs, as well as a digital output. All of the outputs are available to you simultaneously. For
backup, storage, and moving files, there’s an xD card slot on the back panel of the PC3. The
provided USB port lets you connect the PC3 to a computer for file transfer and MIDI.
How the PC3 Works
The PC3 integrates three MIDI-driven components: a MIDI controller (the keyboard, or an
external MIDI controller), a sound engine, and a global effects processor that employs the same
effects used in Kurzweil’s KSP8. The sound engine responds to the MIDI events generated by
the MIDI controller, and turns them into sounds that are processed within the variable
architecture of the algorithms—or by oscillators for KB3 programs. The resulting sound can then
be routed through the PC3’s effects and to the audio outputs.

Introduction
VAST Synthesis
Preliminary - Subject to Change 1-3
VAST Synthesis
The PC3’s Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology (V.A.S.T.) lets you build sounds from
realistic instrumental samples and sampled synth waveforms—then modify the nature of those
sounds through a wide variety of digital signal-processing (DSP) functions. The PC3 also
generates its own synth waveforms, which can be combined with the samples or used on their
own.
While many other synthesizers may offer a fixed set of DSP tools (typically filtering, pitch, and
amplitude modulation) the PC3’s Variable Architecture lets you arrange a combination of DSP
functions from a long list of choices. The functions you choose define the type of synthesis you
use.
Each layer of every program has its own DSP architecture, which we call an algorithm . Within
each algorithm, you can select from a variety of DSP functions. Each function can be
independently controlled by a variety of sources including FOs, ASRs, envelopes, a set of
unique programmable functions (FUNs), as well as any MIDI control message. The many
different DSP functions and the wealth of independent control sources give you an extremely
flexible, truly vast collection of tools for sound creation and modification.
New with the PC3 are powerful editing features we call Dynamic V.A.S.T. and Cascade Mode .
• Dynamic V.A.S.T. allows you to “wire” your own algorithms, combining different DSP
functions in any order you like, including parallel and serial configurations.
• Cascade Mode lets you route any layer of a program into the DSP of any other layer. Any of
the 32 layers of a program can go into any other layer.
When you’re ready to jump in and start creating programs, turn to Chapter 6.
KB3 Tone Wheel Emulation
In addition to VAST synthesis, the PC3 offers many oscillator-based programs that give you the
classic sound of tone-wheel organs like the Hammond B3. KB3 mode, as we call it, is completely
independent of VAST, and has its own set of editing procedures. Nine dedicated sliders on the
PC3’s front panel give you real-time drawbar control over these organ sounds. The blue ED in
the KB3 button will light when the current program is a KB3 program.
VA-1 Programs
The VA-1 (Virtual Analog Synthesizer) programs included with the PC3 offer realistic
emulations of classic analog synthesizers, built from Kurzweil’s unique anti-aliased DSP-
generated oscillators. The PC3’s power-shaped oscillators let you transition smoothly from one
waveform into another in real time, without using cross-fades.
VA-1 programs are scattered throughout the PC3. ook for them in the Synth Category and the
Classic Keys Bank. You’ll see “KVA Oscillator” appear in the Keymap screen on the left hand
side of the display.

1-4 Preliminary - Subject to Change
Introduction
How to Use This Manual
How to Use This Manual
This manual describes how to connect and power up your PC3, getting around the front panel,
and a brief description of the operating modes. For information on editing and advanced
programming features, refer to additional material provided on the Kurzweil website:
http://www.kurzweilmusicsystems.com
The best way to read this manual is with your PC3 in front of you. By trying the examples we
give to illustrate various functions, you can get a quick understanding of the basics, then move
on to the more advanced features.
Do I Have Everything?
Your PC3 shipping carton should include the following in addition to your instrument:
• Power cable
• Sustain pedal
• USB cable
• Getting Started manual (this book)
• Removable Quick Reference sticker for top of keyboard
• Warranty card
If you don’t have all of these components, please call your Kurzweil/Young Chang dealer.
You may also want to purchase an xD memory card for storage (32MB – 256MB will work, Type
S or no type stated, formatted FAT16), and an xD card interface for your computer, if one is not
built in.
Boot Loader
When you need to update the PC3’s software or run diagnostic tests, you’ll use the Boot oader.
To bring up the Boot oader, hold down the Exit button (below the cursor buttons, to the right of
the display) while powering on your PC3. Refer to Appendix B for details on the Boot oader.
Battery
The PC3 uses a CR2032 battery to power its clock. The battery should last five years, and a
message will tell you when the battery needs replacing. The access panel on the bottom of the
PC3 (which you can easily remove with a screwdriver) allows you to get at the battery for
removal and replacement.
CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only ith the same or
equivalent type (CR2032).

Introduction
Options
Preliminary - Subject to Change 1-5
Options
Ask your Kurzweil dealer about the following PC3 options:
Sound ROM Cards
The PC3 has sockets for 64 MB and 128 MB ROM expansion cards that you can install yourself
(the expansion kits come with complete instructions).
Pedals
The PC3 has jacks for three switch pedals (for functions like sustain or program/setup changes)
and two continuous pedals (for functions like volume control and wah). 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
There’s a dedicated modular jack (like a telephone jack) on the rear panel of the PC3 for
connecting this 600-mm (24-inch) ribbon controller. You can configure the PC3 to use the ribbon
as a single large controller, or a three-section controller with independent settings for each
section.
Breath Controller
You can plug a Yamaha (or equivalent) breath controller into the dedicated jack on the PC3’s rear
panel.

1-6 Preliminary - Subject to Change
Introduction
Options

Startup
Make Connections
Preliminary - Subject to Change 2-1
Chapter 2
Startup
If hooking up new gear is familiar to you, and you just want to get going, here’s a quick
description of what you need to get started with your PC3. If you need more information,
thorough descriptions of each step follow.
Make Connections
1. Set the keyboard on a hard, flat, level surface. Make sure to leave plenty of room for
ventilation.
2. Four adhesive-backed rubber feet are provided with your PC3. If you want to attach them
to the bottom of the PC3 (recommended to prevent scratching your tabletop), carefully
turn the keyboard over, remove the paper backing from the rubber feet and attach them
now, near each corner.
3. Connect the power cable.
4. Make sure your sound system is at a safe volume level. Also make sure that the PC3’s
MASTER VO UME slider (on the far left side of the front panel) is all the way down.
5. Plug in a pair of stereo headphones or run standard (1/4-inch) audio cables from your
amplifier or mixer to the MIX audio outputs on the PC3. (Use the Main eft out for mono.)
Balanced (“TRS” or “Stereo”) cables are recommended.
Make Music
1. Power up your PC3, raise the level of the MASTER VO UME slider, and check out some
of the programs and setups. The PC3 starts up in Program mode by default. Press one of
the mode buttons to the left of the display to switch modes.
2. If you hear distortion, reduce the gain on your mixing board, or use the pad if it has one.
3. Scroll through the program list with the Alpha Wheel, or the dedicated Category and
Program buttons, and try the PC3’s many sounds.

2-2 Preliminary - Subject to Change
Startup
Sta tup—the Details
Startup—the Details
This section walks you through the hookup of your PC3. We’ll take a look at the rear panel, then
describe the power, audio, and other cable connections.
Before You Start...
Don’t connect anything until you make sure your PC3 is properly and safely situated. Also, if
your PC3 has been out in the cold, give it time to warm up to room temperature before starting
it, since condensation may have formed inside the PC3. It is normal for the rear panel near the
MIDI jacks to become warm after a while.
Connecting the Power Cable (Line Cord)
The PC3 runs on AC power: 100, 120, 230, or 240 volts at 50–60 Hz. Your dealer will set the
voltage switch to match the voltage in your area. The voltage level is set with a selector on the
rear panel of the PC3. Unless you are sure it needs to be changed, you shouldn’t adjust this.
When you’ve connected the cable at the PC3 end (as you face the back of the PC3, the power
connection is at the right), plug it into a grounded outlet. If your power source does not have the
standard three-hole outlet, you should take the time to install a proper grounding system. This
will reduce the risk of a shock.
Connecting Audio Cables
Analog
After you’ve turned down the level on your sound system, connect the PC3’s analog audio
outputs to your sound system using a pair of stereo or mono audio cables. Mono cables will
always work, but if you’re going into balanced inputs, use stereo cables for a better signal-to-
noise ratio. The PC3’s analog outputs are balanced, and generate a “hotter” signal than some
previous Kurzweil instruments.
You’ll find four 1/4-inch balanced audio output jacks on the rear panel. For now, connect one
end of each audio cable to your mixing board or PA system inputs, and connect the other end to
the jacks marked Main eft and Right on the rear panel of the PC3. If you have only one input
available, use the PC3’s Main eft output to get the full signal in mono.
The Aux outputs duplicate the Main Outs, and are useful for monitoring and other operations.
They are always in stereo, as is the headphone out.

Startup
Sta tup—the Details
Preliminary - Subject to Change 2-3
Digital
For digital audio output from the PC3, connect a 75-Ohm coaxial cable from the PC3’s RCA
Digital Out jack to the AES or S/PDIF input of the receiving device. You may need an RCA-to-
X R adapter to connect with the receiving device. If the receiving device receives only optical
signals, you’ll need a converter as well. The PC3’s Master Page (press the Master mode button)
lets you select a range of useful sample rates for the digital output.
The RCA jack labeled “Sync In” allows you to send a digital clock signal to the PC3 when it is
being slaved to another device. Digital audio is not received by this input.
Connecting MIDI
The simplest MIDI configuration uses a single 5-pin MIDI cable: either from the MIDI Out port
of your PC3 to the MIDI In port of another instrument, or from the MIDI Out port of another
MIDI controller to the MIDI In port of the PC3. There are all sorts of possible configurations,
including additional synths, personal computers, MIDI effects processors, and MIDI patch bays.
Depending on your system, you may want to use the PC3’s MIDI Thru port to pass MIDI
information from a MIDI controller to the PC3 and on to the next device in your system. You can
also connect MIDI devices to the PC3’s MIDI Out port, which can send channelized MIDI
information from the keyboard or through the PC3 from your MIDI controller.
The MIDI Thru port can be configured to serve as an additional MIDI Out by sliding the nearby
switch to the Out position.
You can also use the PC3’s USB port to send and receive MIDI.
USB MIDI and 5-pin MIDI can be used at the same time; the MIDI signals will be combined into
a single 16-channel MIDI stream.

2-4 Preliminary - Subject to Change
Startup
Sta tup—the Details
Pedals
Plug your switch or continuous pedals into the corresponding jacks on the PC3’s 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 specifications (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
with the wiper connected to the tip.
If you use a third-party (non-Kurzweil) switch pedal, make sure it’s connected before you turn
on your PC3. This ensures that the pedal will work properly (it might function backward—off
when it’s down and on when it’s up—if you turn on your PC3 before plugging in the pedal).
Similarly, don’t press any of your switch pedals while powering up, because the PC3 verifies
each pedal’s orientation during power up. If you’re pressing a pedal, you might cause it to work
backward.
The pedals are independently programmable within each zone of every setup. Here are the
default settings for the five pedals you can use with the PC3:
Switch Pedal 1 Controller 64 ( Sustain )
Switch Pedal 2 Controller 66 ( Sostenuto)
Switch Pedal 3 Controller 67 (Soft)
Continuous Control Pedal 1 Controller (Expression)
Continuous Control Pedal 2 Controller 4 (Foot Pedal) produces a “ ah” effect in many setups
Breath
The 3.5mm jack labeled Breath accepts a standard breath controller, which sends standard MIDI
Breath (MIDI 2) messages. The PC3’s preset programs and setups don’t respond to breath, but if
you have other instruments that do respond to Breath, you can control them from the PC3 via
MIDI.
You can also program the PC3 so that the breath controller sends a different MIDI message. This
would enable you to use a breath controller to affect the PC3, but then other instruments
receiving MIDI from the PC3 would no longer respond to the PC3’s breath controller (unless
you also programmed them to receive the same MIDI Controller that the PC3’s breath controller
is sending).