Kurzweil PC4 User Manual

It’s the

sound

™

Rev. B

Part Number 910587-002

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

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.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER.

NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

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.

IMPORTANT SAFETY & INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO THE RISK OF FIRE ELECTRIC SHOCK , OR INJURY TO PERSONS

WARNING: When using electric products, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:

1. Read all the Safety and Installation Instructions and Explanation of Graphic Symbols before using the product.

2. This product must be grounded. If it should malfunction or break down, grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock. This product is equipped with a power supply cord having an equipmentgrounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet which is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

DANGER: Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. Do not modify the

plug provided with the product – if it will not t the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualied electrician. Do not use an

adaptor which defeats the function of the equipment-grounding conductor. If you are in doubt as to whether the product is properly

grounded, check with a qualied serviceman or electrician.

3. 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.

4. This product should only be used with a stand or cart that is recommended by the manufacturer.

5. This product, either alone or in combination with an amplier 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 a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should consult an audiologist.

6. This product should be located so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation.

7. The product should be located away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, or other products that produce heat.

8. The product should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the product.

9. 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.

10. The power supply cord of the product should be unplugged from the 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.

11. Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.

12. The product should be serviced by qualied 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.

13. Do not attempt to service the product beyond that described in the user maintenance instructions. All other servicing should be

referred to qualied service personnel.

14. 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 re

hazard and/or personal injury.

RADIO AND TELEVISION INTERFERENCE

WARNING: Changes or modications to the instrument not expressly

approved by HDC-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 B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This instrument generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this instrument does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the instrument off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

• Increase the separation between the instrument and the receiver.

• Connect the instrument into an outlet on a circuit other than the

one to which the receiver is connected.

• If necessary consult your dealer or an experienced radio/television

technician for additional suggestions.

The normal function of the product may be disturbed by strong electromagnetic interference. If so, simply reset the product to resume normal operation by following the instructions in the manual. If normal function does not resume, please use the product in another location.

NOTICE

This apparatus does not exceed the Class B 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 B prescrites dans le Reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des Communications du Canada.

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 apparatus (including ampliers) 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. e wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not t into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete 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 specied by the manufacturer.

12) Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specied by the manufacturer, 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) Refer all servicing to qualied 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 re or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. Do not expose this equipment to dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects lled 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.

is product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. Remarks: As with most electronic equipment, the outer cables may contain phthalate and the copper alloy power plug contains lead.

©2019 HDC-Young Chang Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. Kurzweil® is a product line of HDC-Young Chang Co., Ltd. Kurzweil®, HDC-Young Chang®, V. A. S. T.®, PC4® and FlashPlay™ are trademarks of HDC-Young Chang Co., Ltd. All other trademarks and copyrights are property of their respective companies. Product features and specications are subject to change without notice.

U.S. Patents 6,806,413, 6,978,288, 8,263,849

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. HDC-Young Chang Co. retains ownership of all intellectual property represented by this document.

iii

Kurzweil International Contacts

Contact the Kurzweil oce listed below to locate your local Kurzweil representative.

US Customers:

American Music & Sound 925 Broadbeck Dr #220 Newbury Park, CA 91320

Tel: 800-431-2609 Fax: 818-597-0411 Email: info@americanmusicandsound.com

www.kurzweil.com

Customers outside the US:

HDC-Young Chang Co., LTD. 178-55, Gajwa-Dong, Seo-Ku Incheon, Korea Post Code: 404-714

Tel: +82-32-570-1576 Fax: +82-32-576-2340

support@kurzweil.com

www.facebook.com/kurzweilmusicsystems/

www.twitter.com/KurzweilMusic

www.youtube.com/user/KurzweilTutorials

Kurzweil International Contacts ......................................................iv

Getting Started ........................................... 1-1

Features .......................................................................................... 1-1

Software Updates .......................................................................... 1-2

Quick Start ..................................................................................... 1-3

The Front Panel ............................................................................. 1-5

The Rear Panel............................................................................... 1-8

PC4 Sounds ................................................................................. 1-12

Modes ........................................................................................... 1-14

Double Button Presses ............................................................... 1-16

Program Mode ............................................ 2-1

Selecting Programs ....................................................................... 2-1

Program Demo ............................................................................... 2-2

The Display .................................................................................... 2-3

Controllers ..................................................................................... 2-4

The Split and Layer Soft Buttons ................................................. 2-5

Changing the MIDI Channel .......................................................... 2-8

Panic ............................................................................................... 2-8

Save User Programs ..................................................................... 2-9

Program Edit Mode .................................... 3-1

Program Types ............................................................................... 3-1

Editing VAST Programs ................................................................ 3-2

Navigation ...................................................................................... 3-4

The PARAMS Page ........................................................................ 3-6

The FX Page ................................................................................. 3-13

The Layer FX (LYR FX) Page ...................................................... 3-16

The COMMON Page .................................................................... 3-17

The Arpeggiator (ARP) Page ...................................................... 3-21

The CC Sequencer (CC SEQ) Page ............................................ 3-34

The KEYMAP Page ...................................................................... 3-39

The LAYER Page .......................................................................... 3-44

The Wiring Algorithm (ALG) Page.............................................. 3-49

The DSP Control (DSP CTL) Page .............................................. 3-53

The DSP Modulation (DSP MOD) Page ...................................... 3-55

The OUTPUT Page ....................................................................... 3-57

The Amplitude Envelope (AMP ENV) Page ............................... 3-60

The Envelope 2 (ENV2) and Envelope 3 (ENV3) Pages............ 3-65

The LFO+ Page ............................................................................ 3-66

The Soft Button Functions ......................................................... 3-70

Editing VAST Programs With KVA Oscillators .......................... 3-73

Editing FM Layers ........................................................................ 3-81

FM MAIN Page .............................................................................. 3-81

FM Operator Page ........................................................................ 3-84

FM Layer Page ............................................................................. 3-90

FM Amp + Output Page ............................................................... 3-95

FM Alt Input Page ........................................................................ 3-98

Editing KB3 Programs .............................................................. 3-105

KB3 Editor: Navigation ............................................................. 3-107

KB3 Editor: The Parameters (PARAMS) Page ........................ 3-107

KB3 Editor: The Program FX (FX) Page .................................. 3-107

KB3 Editor: The COMMON Page ............................................. 3-107

KB3 Editor: The Drawbars (DRAWBAR) Page ........................ 3-109

KB3 Editor: The Tone Wheels (TONEWL) Page ...................... 3-110

KB3 Editor: The PITCH Page .................................................... 3-112

KB3 Editor: The AMP Page ....................................................... 3-112

KB3 Editor: The EQ Page .......................................................... 3-113

KB3 Editor: The PERC Page ..................................................... 3-113

KB3 Editor: The KEYCLICK Page ............................................ 3-115

KB3 Editor: The LFO+, ARP and CC SEQ Pages .................... 3-117

The Effects Chain Editor ........................... 4-1

The MAIN Page .............................................................................. 4-2

The MOD Pages ............................................................................. 4-3

FXLFO+ page ................................................................................. 4-5

INFO page ....................................................................................... 4-6

The Chain Utility Soft Buttons ...................................................... 4-7

Effects Parameters ........................................................................ 4-9

Keymap and Sample Editing ..................... 5-1

The Keymap Editor ........................................................................ 5-1

Building a Keymap ........................................................................ 5-8

Editing Samples ........................................................................... 5-10

Multi Mode .................................................. 6-1

Selecting Multis ............................................................................. 6-1

The Display .................................................................................... 6-2

Controllers ..................................................................................... 6-3

The Split and Layer Soft Buttons ................................................. 6-6

Save User Multis ............................................................................ 6-9

Recording A Multi To Song Mode .............................................. 6-11

Multi Edit Mode ........................................... 7-1

Navigation ...................................................................................... 7-1

OVERVIEW Page ............................................................................ 7-3

MAIN Page ...................................................................................... 7-5

CONTROLS Page ......................................................................... 7-13

FX Page ........................................................................................ 7-27

ARP Page ..................................................................................... 7-29

CC Sequencer (CC SEQ) Page ................................................... 7-30

RIFF Page ..................................................................................... 7-31

COMMON Page ............................................................................ 7-40

Audio In FX (AUDIO IN) Page ..................................................... 7-41

The Soft Button Functions ......................................................... 7-42

vii

Song Mode .................................................. 8-1

The TRANSPORT Section ............................................................. 8-2

The Save Changes Dialog ............................................................. 8-3

The MAIN Page .............................................................................. 8-5

The MIXER Page .......................................................................... 8-14

The MISC Page ............................................................................. 8-17

Soft Button Functions ................................................................. 8-19

The FILTER Page ......................................................................... 8-20

The FX Page ................................................................................. 8-22

The TRACK Page ......................................................................... 8-23

The EVENT Page .......................................................................... 8-36

Global Mode ................................................ 9-1

About Global Mode ........................................................................ 9-1

MAIN1 Page .................................................................................... 9-1

MAIN2 Page .................................................................................... 9-8

FX (Master FX Page) .................................................................... 9-15

FILE (Storage Page) .................................................................... 9-16

MIDI Page ..................................................................................... 9-22

OBJECTS Page ............................................................................ 9-26

SAMPLES ..................................................................................... 9-27

MIXER ........................................................................................... 9-28

TEMPO .......................................................................................... 9-29

INFO .............................................................................................. 9-29

TOOLS Page ................................................................................. 9-30

RESET Page ................................................................................. 9-32

Troubleshooting ....................................... 10-1

Maintenance ................................................................................. 10-1

Common Problems ...................................................................... 10-1

viii

MIDI Problems .............................................................................. 10-5

Pedal Problems............................................................................ 10-6

Other Problems ............................................................................ 10-6

MIDI Implementation ..................................A-1

Specications ............................................. B-1

Index ............................................................. I-1

Chapter 1 Getting Started

is chapter will give you a quick overview of the PC4.

Features

Getting Started

Features

Sounds

• FlashPlay technology utilizing 2GB of instrument samples including:

• Optimized German D and Japanese C7 Pianos, Triple Strike Piano, 73 Electric Piano, Clavinets, Harpsichords, Celeste, Bowed and Hit Crotales, Vector Synthesis Waveforms

• Updated Rock, Synth and Orchestral sounds from Kurzweil’s SP6, PC3, and KORE64

• 13 Categories of Programs (Piano, E. Piano, Clav, Organ, Strings, Pad, Synth, Brass/Wind, Ensemble, Hybrid, Guitar/Bass, Drum/Perc, Misc)

• 2GB of user sample memory for loading samples from WAV, AIF, P3K, and K series les

• KB3 ToneReal ™ organ simulations with 9 sliders as drawbars

• KSR: Kurzweil String Resonance (piano string resonance simulation)

• FM: Classic 6 operator FM synthesis

• Half-Damper pedal support (for piano “half pedaling” sustain techniques)

• Kurzweil’s highly acclaimed VAST Synthesis and FX engine

• More than 1000 Factory Programs divided into 13 Categories

• More than 150 Factory Multis

• More than 4000 User IDs to save your own Programs and Multis

• Audio input jacks with FX (one 1/8” stereo line-in and 1/4” stereo line-in pair)

• 256 voices of polyphony

• 16 Zone MIDI controller in Multi Mode for Splits and Layers

• 16 MIDI Tracks in Song Mode

• Arpeggiator with dedicated front panel controls (up to 16 simultaneous in Multi Mode)

1-1

Getting Started

Software Updates

Keyboard and Controllers

e PC4 has an 88-key semi-weighted hammer action keyboard that provides you with a piano-like feel. e array of physical controllers includes:

• 9 assignable sliders

• 9 assignable knobs

• 10 assignable switch buttons

• Pitch Wheel and assignable Modulation Wheel

• Tap tempo button and tempo knob

• 2 Transpose buttons

• Monopressure (Aftertouch)

• 2 assignable switch pedal jacks (supports up to 4 switch pedals with 2 pedals per jack)

• 2 assignable CC pedal jacks

• Assignable ribbon controller jack

Pedals (Optional)

e PC4 has four jacks on the rear panel for optional pedal controllers.

Two switch pedal jacks are typically used to control two-state (i.e., on / o) parameters such as sustain, sostenuto, and soft pedal. A Half Damper pedal (also known as a continuous switch pedal) can be used to allow for “half pedaling” sustain techniques when playing PC4 piano programs. Each jack also supports dual switch pedals, allowing up to 4 switch pedals to be used.

Two continuous control (or CC) pedal jacks are typically used to control continuous parameters such as volume and wah.

Your Kurzweil dealer stocks the following pedals:

• KP-1 Single piano-style switch pedal

• KP-1H Single piano-style Half Damper pedal

• CC-1 Continuous pedal

Software Updates

Be sure to check the Kurzweil website at www.kurzweil.com for new sounds, documentation and software updates. See the Info page in Global mode to check the currently installed OS version.

1-2

Quick Start

Setting Up the PC4

1. If your PC4 has been out in the cold during shipping, give it time to warm up to room temperature before powering it on, since condensation may have formed inside.

2. Place the PC4 on a keyboard stand or on a hard, at, level surface.

3. Connect the DC power adaptor to the PC4 DC Power jack.

4. Make sure your power outlet is compatible with the included power adaptor, then plug the power cable into the power outlet.

5. Plug the included Switch Pedal into the SW1 (SUSTAIN) jack on the PC4 rear panel.

6. If you have an additional switch pedal, plug it into the SW2 jack for Sostenuto control.

7. If you have a MIDI CC pedal (also known as a MIDI expression or volume pedal), plug it into the CC1 (VOLUME) jack for volume control.

Getting Started

Quick Start

8. If you are using speakers, turn the master volume all the way down on your amplier or mixer. Using standard (1/4-inch) audio cables, rst plug into the input jacks of your amplier or mixer, then plug the other end of the cables into the PC4 AUDIO OUT A jacks. (Connecting in this order minimizes the possibility of static discharge damage.) For a mono signal, only use the LEFT (MONO) A jack, and leave the RIGHT A jack unplugged. Balanced (“TRS” or “Stereo”) cables are recommended if your mixer or amp supports balanced inputs.

9. If you are using headphones, connect stereo headphones to the headphone jack on the rear panel.

10. Move the PC4 VOLUME slider (on the far left side of the front panel) to the minimum (closer to the keys).

1-3

Getting Started

Quick Start

Powering On the PC4

1. Power on the PC4 by pressing the POWER button on the right rear panel.

2. If you are using speakers, turn up the volume on your amplier or mixer.

3. Slowly turn up the PC4 VOLUME Slider and play some notes to check the volume

4. If you are using speakers and the PC4 is not loud enough, turn up the volume on your

5. If you are using a mixer and hear distortion, reduce the gain level on the mixer, or use

6. After using the PC4, if you are using speakers, turn the master volume all the way down

level. (If you have a CC pedal plugged into the CC (VOLUME) jack, make sure it is set to the maximum volume position).

amplier or mixer.

the mixer’s Pad button if it has one (a button that typically decreases the audio input level by 20dB).

on your amplier or mixer before powering o the PC4.

Auditioning PC4 Sounds

1. e PC4 starts up in Program Mode. Use the PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons, Alpha Wheel, or CATEGORY buttons to select a dierent Program. See PC4 Sounds on page

1-12 for more details on selecting Programs or Multis.

1. To hear a Program Demo song for the current Program, press the 0/MISC and ENTER buttons simultaneously.

2. To hear the capabilities of the PC4, you can play the multi-channel demo songs. Press the USER and 0/MISC buttons simultaneously to listen to a multi-channel demo song.

3. To switch between auditioning Programs or Multis, press the PROGRAM or MULTI Mode button under the MODE label to the right of the display.

Automatic Power Saving

e PC4 has an automatic power saving feature (Auto Power O) that can automatically power o the PC4 after a period of inactivity, in order to conserve electricity. e Auto Power O feature is enabled by default. e default Power O Time is 8 hours, which will cause the PC4 to power o after 8 hours of inactivity.

A count down timer warning will be shown in the display a few minutes before the PC4 is powered o. At any time, touching any PC4 control or playing a note will cause the PC4 to remain powered on, until the PC4 has been inactive for the set Power O Time.

1-4

Auto Power O can be disabled in Global Mode. e Power O Time can also be adjusted in Global Mode.

The Front Panel

TRANSPOSE Buttons

The Rear Panel

TEMPO Section

Use the TEMPO section to set the tempo of the Arpeggiator, the rate of tempo synced FX (such as Delay), or the tempo of the current Multi or Song. To set the tempo press the TAP button a few times at the desired rate, or use the TEMPO knob.

TRANSPORT Section

Use the buttons in the TRANSPORT section to control recording and playback in Song mode.

SAVE Button and EDIT Button

ese buttons are used when editing Programs, Multis, or other User objects. In Program Mode, press the SAVE button to save a User Program with the current controller settings.

EXIT Button

Press the EXIT button to exit the current editor. Press the EXIT button repeatedly to return to Program Mode.

CHANNEL/LAYER/ZONE/TRACK Buttons

Use the CHANNEL/LAYER/ZONE/TRACK buttons to change the current MIDI Channel in Program Mode, the current Layer in Program Edit Mode, the current Zone in Multi Edit Mode, or the current Track in Song Mode.

The Rear Panel

POWER Button

Press the POWER button to power the PC4 on or o.

1-8

DC Power Jack

Plug the included power adaptor into the DC Power jack.

MIDI IN and OUT Ports

Use the MIDI ports to communicate with other MIDI modules and controllers. e OUT port is the MIDI transmitting port, and the IN port is the MIDI receiving port.

To use the PC4 as a MIDI controller for another sound module, use a MIDI cable to connect the PC4’s MIDI OUT port to the MIDI input port of the module that you want to control.

To control the PC4 using another MIDI controller, use a MIDI cable to connect the PC4’s MIDI IN port to the MIDI output port of the controller that you will be using.

LCD Knob

Use the LCD knob to control the display brightness.

USB Ports

Getting Started

The Rear Panel

Use the USB ports to connect the PC4 to a computer/tablet or USB hard drive in order to do the following:

• Use the PC4 as a MIDI controller to play software instruments on a computer/tablet.

• Use a computer/tablet to sequence multi-channel songs on the PC4.

• Backup and restore User objects with a USB hard drive.

• Update the software and sounds of the PC4 with a USB hard drive.

SW1 (SUSTAIN) and SW2 Jacks

Use the SW1 (SUSTAIN) and SW2 jacks to connect switch pedals. One switch pedal is included with the PC4.

In Program Mode, SW1 (SUSTAIN) defaults to controlling Sustain, and SW2 defaults to controlling Sostenuto. (For KB3 Organ Programs, SW1 (SUSTAIN) defaults to controlling the Rotary Speaker speed, changing between fast and slow. is assignment can be changed in Global Mode. e LCD display shows “KB3” when a KB3 Program is selected.)

In Multi Mode, pedal assignments can vary per Multi. Pedal assignments can be adjusted for each Zone by using Multi Edit Mode.

Global Mode can be used to set pedal overrides, which can change the pedal assignments for all Programs and Multis.

Note: Switch pedals must be plugged in before powering on the PC4. Do not to step on the

switch pedals when powering on the PC4, as the state of the pedals is detected as part of the start up sequence.

1-9

Getting Started

The Rear Panel

Dual Switch Pedals

e SW1 (SUSTAIN) and SW2 jacks can be connected to dual switch pedals (2 pedals per jack), allowing up to four switch pedals to be used. Compatible pedals should use a single 1/4 inch tip-ring-sleeve plug.

Pedals plugged into the SW1 (SUSTAIN) jack are referred to as SW1a and SW1b, and pedals plugged into the SW2 jack are referred to as SW2a and SW2b. In Program Mode the default assignments are:

SW1a Sustain

SW1b Sostenuto

SW2a Sostenuto

SW2b Soft Pedal

To emulate the 3 pedals of an acoustic piano, plug a single switch pedal into the SW1 (SUSTAIN) jack, and a dual switch pedal into the SW2 jack.

Continuous Switch Pedals (Half-Damper)

e SW1 (SUSTAIN) jack is also compatible with continuous switch pedals (Half-Damper) that use a 1/4 inch tip-ring-sleeve plug (such as the Kurzweil KP-1H). When connected to the SW1 (SUSTAIN) jack, a Half Damper pedal enables ner control of Sustain than a standard switch pedal. Half Damper control is enabled for Programs in the Piano category. Programs outside of the Piano category will respond to a Half Damper pedal as if it is a standard switch pedal.

CC1 (VOLUME) and CC2 Jacks

Use the CC1 (VOLUME) jack to connect a MIDI CC pedal (also known as a MIDI expression or volume pedal). By default this pedal is assigned to control Program and Multi volume (pre-FX).

For KB3 Organ Programs, the CC1 (VOLUME) pedal controls organ swell. Organ swell is similar to Program volume, except volume can not be turned all the way down to silence. e LCD display shows “KB3” when a KB3 Program is selected.

1-10

For User Programs and Multis, the CC1 (VOLUME) and CC2 pedals can be assigned to dierent functions by using Program Edit or Multi Edit Mode.

Getting Started

The Rear Panel

e optional Kurzweil CC-1 continuous control pedal will work best with the PC4, but it is also possible to use third-party continuous control pedals designed for keyboards. Compatible pedals should use a 10 kΩ linear-taper potentiometer, with a 1/4 inch tip-ringsleeve (stereo) plug with the wiper connected to the tip.

RIBBON Jack

Use the RIBBON jack to plug in the optional Kurzweil Ribbon Controller. By default the ribbon controls pitch bend, but you can also program the ribbon controller to send other MIDI messages. To use the ribbon controller, just press it, and slide your nger along the ribbon to change the value of the message it’s sending.

You can congure 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 congure it to have three sections, each section sends its highest values at the end closest to the cable.

Caution: e modular jack is designed for connection to the Kurzweil Ribbon Controller

option only. Don’t plug any other modular plugs into the Ribbon jack.

AUDIO IN LINE/LEFT/RIGHT Jacks

Use the AUDIO IN jacks to mix external audio sources with the sounds of the PC4. is is useful for playing along with backing tracks from a portable music player, computer, or other electronic instrument. e LINE jack accepts a stereo 1/8” plug at line level, suitable for input from MP3 players and computers. e LEFT and RIGHT jacks each accept a 1/4” plug at line level, suitable for input from mixers and electronic instruments. Sources that are not line level (typically guitars and microphones) should be amplied with a pre-amp, mixer, audio interface or other device. Input volume and FX can be adjusted in Global Mode.

AUDIO OUT LEFT (MONO) and RIGHT A/B Jacks

Use the AUDIO OUT A/B jacks to connect to an amplier or mixer. See Quick Start on

page 1-2 for details.

HEADPHONE Jack

Use the HEADPHONE jack located on the left rear panel of the instrument to listen to the PC4 on stereo headphones. You will need a 1/8-inch-to-1/4-inch adapter in order to use headphones that have a smaller mini plug connector.

When headphones are plugged in, audio is still transmitted from the AUDIO OUT jacks.

1-11

Getting Started

PC4 Sounds

e PC4 contains Programs and Multis. A Program is typically a single instrument sound such as a Piano, Organ, or Synth. Programs are organized by instrument type in 13 categories.

A Multi is a combination of Programs arranged as layers and/or splits across the keyboard. Multis are not categorized by instrument type, so the KEYPAD button is always on when in Multi Mode.

Selecting Programs

In Program Mode, use any of the methods below to select a Program.

Browse All Programs

Make sure the USER button is o, then use the Alpha Wheel or PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons to select a Program from all of the available Programs.

Select a Program by Category

Make sure the KEYPAD button is o, then press one of the CATEGORY buttons to select the rst Program of a category (or the current Category Default Program). e selected CATEGORY button will turn on. Use the Alpha Wheel or PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons to select Programs from the selected category.

Select a Previously Saved User Program

Press and turn on the USER button, then use the Alpha Wheel or PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons to browse only User Programs. To return to browsing Factory and User Programs, press and turn o the USER button.

Select a Program by ID Number

Press and turn on the KEYPAD button. e keypad button allows you to use the numbers labeled on the CATEGORY buttons to select Programs or Multis by ID number. Type an ID number followed by pressing the ENTER button to select the associated Program.

Select a Category Default Program

Each category has a Category Default Program (the Program which is selected when each CATEGORY button is pressed). By default the Category Default Program is set to the rst Program of each category. To set a dierent Category Default Program, select a Program, make sure the KEYPAD button is o, then press and hold the currently lit CATEGORY button.

1-12

Selecting Multis

In Multi Mode, use any of the methods below to select a Multi.

Browse All Multis

Make sure the USER button is o, then use the Alpha Wheel or PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons to select a Multi from all of the available Multis.

Select a Multi by ID Number

Use the CATEGORY buttons to type an ID number followed by pressing the ENTER button.

Select a Previously Saved User Multi

Press and turn on the USER button, then use the Alpha Wheel or PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons to browse only User Multis. To return to browsing Factory and User Multis, press and turn o the USER button.

Getting Started

PC4 Sounds

Controllers

e Sliders, Knobs, Buttons, Wheels, and Pedals can control each of the Factory Programs and Multis, to produce variations to the sound. Don’t forget to try these out as you explore the Factory sounds on the PC4.

Generally, each control will perform the assignment labeled on the front panel, although some controls may have dierent assignments per Program or Multi. When a controller is moved, the name of the current assignment is shown in the display. Controller assignments can be adjusted in Program and Multi Edit Mode.

Splits and Layers

e Split and Layer function can be used to Split or Layer the current Program or Multi. Dierent keyboard regions can play dierent Programs, or multiple Programs can be played from the same region. To Split or Layer a Multi, it must contain at least one Zone which is unused (O).

In Program or Multi Mode, press the SPLIT or LAYER soft button to view the Split or Layer Page. You will then be able to congure up to three additional Programs to create a Split or Layered Multi containing up to four Programs.

Press the SAVE button once to view the Save Dialog. e Save Dialog allows you to choose an ID number and name for the Split/Layer Multi you are saving. On the Multi Save Page,

press the SAVE button again to save the Split/Layer Multi. After saving the Split or Layer as a Multi, additional Multi Controller and FX settings can be edited in Multi Edit Mode.

1-13

Getting Started

Modes

Program Mode

e PC4 always powers up in Program Mode, where single instrument sounds can be played directly from the keyboard, or multitimbrally via MIDI.

Saving Programs

If you make changes to the current Program using any of the controllers (Knobs, Wheels or Buttons), the SAVE button turns on to indicate that a change has been made to that Program.

To save a copy of the Program with the changes you’ve made, press the SAVE button once to view the Save Dialog. e Save Dialog allows you to choose an ID number and name for the Program you are saving. On the Program Save Page, press the SAVE button again to save the

Program as a User Program.

Program Edit Mode

Program Edit Mode allows you to select parameters for the assignable knobs, sliders and buttons, adjust the current Program’s Arpeggiator settings, and adjust many other Program parameters.

Multi Mode

Multi Mode allows you to play Multis, which are arrangements of up to 16 Programs split and/or layered in Zones across selected ranges of the keyboard.

By default the volume of the Program in the rst 4 Zones can be easily adjusted while playing by using the sliders 1-4, and each Zone can be turned on or o by using the buttons below these sliders. e remaining controls are typically assigned to FX and Synth parameters. Controller settings can be adjusted in Multi Edit Mode.

Multi Edit Mode

Multi Edit Mode is used to modify the many parameters that make up Multis, including Program Selection, Key Range, Volume, Pan, and Controller assignments. Use Multi Edit Mode to create custom sound combinations.

1-14

To save a copy of the Multi with the changes you’ve made, press the SAVE button once to view the Save Dialog. e Save Dialog allows you to choose an ID number and name for the Multi you are saving. On the Multi Save Page, press the SAVE button again to save the Multi as a User Multi.

Song Mode

Song Mode allows you to record and play back songs, using up to 16 tracks of Programs.

Global Mode

Use Global Mode to adjust common settings that are shared between all Modes, such as velocity sensitivity and power saving options. Global Mode is also used for storing or loading User backup les, and restoring Factory default settings. Some of the more common settings are summarized below.

Info

e Info Page shows the currently installed operating system and sound object versions. Use this page to check if your PC4 is up to date with the most recent software and sounds posted at www.kurzweil.com.

Reset

Getting Started

Modes

You can return the PC4 to the Factory default state by doing a Reset.

Caution: Reset will delete all User objects, so it is important to back up your User objects

before doing a Reset. Factory objects are not deleted.

Saving to External Storage

User objects that you have created can be saved to a USB Flash Drive.

Loading from External Storage

User objects can be loaded onto the PC4 from a USB Flash Drive. is allows you to load new sounds from Kurzweil or other developers, or to load sounds that you have previously saved.

1-15

Getting Started

Double Button Presses

Reset Transposition

To reset the current Program or Multi transposition to 0, simultaneously press both of the TRANSPOSE -/+ buttons, or the OCTAVE+ and OCTAVE- soft buttons.

Program Demo

In Program Mode, to hear a Program Demo song for the current Program, press the 0/MISC and ENTER buttons simultaneously.

Song Demo

To hear the capabilities of the PC4, you can play the multi-channel demo songs. Press the USER and 0/MISC buttons simultaneously to listen to a multi-channel demo song.

Panic

Pressing the ENTER and KEYPAD buttons simultaneously deactivates all sounding notes by sending an “all notes o” message on all 16 MIDI channels.

Select Channel / Layer / Zone / Track 1

In Program Mode, pressing both of the CHANNEL/LAYER/ZONE/TRACK buttons simultaneously will select MIDI channel 1.

In Program Edit Mode, pressing both of the CHANNEL/LAYER/ZONE/TRACK buttons simultaneously will select Layer 1.

In Multi Edit Mode, pressing both of the CHANNEL/LAYER/ZONE/TRACK buttons simultaneously will select Zone 1.

In Song Mode, pressing both of the CHANNEL/LAYER/ZONE/TRACK buttons simultaneously will select Track 1

Select Next Unused ID

When selecting an ID number to save a previously saved User object, press the PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons simultaneously to jump between selecting the previously used ID number, and the next unused ID number.

1-16

e Search page allows you to nd any term or series of characters within the currently selected list or range of values. Hold the ENTER button and press one of the numeric buttons 1-9 to view the Search page.

On the search page, use the category buttons to type the term you want to nd, then press the ENTER button to search. For example, if the program list is selected and you want to nd all programs containing the word “Horn,” you would type h-o-r-n followed by the ENTER button. e Search page is not case-sensitive; it will nd upper and lower case characters regardless of what you type.

After typing a term and pressing the ENTER button, the search page nds and selects the rst instance of the term in the list (if it exists in the list). To nd and select the next or previous instance of the term in the list, hold the ENTER button and press one of the NEXT or PREVIOUS button to search for the next higher-numbered or previous lower numbered object that contains the search term.

Getting Started

Double Button Presses

Note: Each combination of the ENTER button and a numeric button 1-9 allows you store a

dierent search term. For example, hold the ENTER button and press the 1 button, then search for a term like “piano”. e term “piano” will now be available whenever you hold the ENTER button and press the 1 button. Next, hold the ENTER button and press the 2 button, then search for “string”. e term “string” will now be available whenever you hold the ENTER button and press the 2 button. A dierent term can be stored for each of the numeric buttons 1-9. ese terms are stored until power o.

1-17

Chapter 2 Program Mode

Use Program Mode to play a Program directly from the keyboard, or to play up to 16 Programs multitimbrally via MIDI. Programs typically contain a single instrument sound, although some Programs may contain multiple instrument sounds.

e PC4 always powers on with Program Mode selected. To enter Program Mode from another Mode, press and turn on the PROGRAM Mode button, or press the EXIT button repeatedly until you reach Program Mode.

Program Mode

Selecting Programs

e PC4 powers on with Program 1 selected, or the Program that was selected the last time Global Mode was exited.

Selecting Programs

In Program Mode, use any of the methods below to select a Program.

Browse All Programs

Make sure the USER button is o, then use the ALPHA WHEEL or PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons to select a Program from all of the available Programs.

Select a Program by Category

Make sure the KEYPAD button is o, then press one of the CATEGORY buttons to select the rst Program of a category (or the current Category Default Program). e selected CATEGORY button will turn on. Use the ALPHA WHEEL or PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons to select Programs from the selected category.

2-1

Program Mode

Program Demo

Select a Previously Saved User Program

Press and turn on the USER button, then use the ALPHA WHEEL or PREVIOUS and NEXT buttons to browse only User Programs. To return to browsing Factory and User Programs, press and turn o the USER button.

Select a Program by ID Number

Select a Category Default Program

Each category has a Category Default Program (the Program which is selected when each CATEGORY button is pressed). By default the Category Default Program is set to the rst Program of each category. To set a dierent Category Default Program, select a Program, make sure the KEYPAD button is o, then press and hold the currently lit CATEGORY button.

Program Demo

To hear a Program Demo song for the current Program, press the KEYPAD and ENTER buttons simultaneously.

2-2

The Display

In Program Mode, the top line of the display shows the current Mode, MIDI transposition, MIDI In/Out activity indicators, and MIDI channel. If Quick Access view is selected, the current Quick Access Bank number will be shown instead of the current MIDI channel.

If the currently selected Program is a User Program, the User button will be lit and the “USER” indicator will appear to the right side of the name. If the currently selected Program is a KB3 Organ Program, the “KB3” indicator will appear to the right side of the name.

Program Mode

The Display

VIEW Soft Button

Press the VIEW soft button to switch between the default Large view, List view, and Quick Access view.

MIDI In/Out Activity Indicators

MIDI In/Out activity indicators are displayed at the top of the screen (shown as 2 MIDI port symbols with “I” for “in” and “O” for “out”). ese indicators briey light up when MIDI has been recently sent to or received by the PC4’s MIDI/USB ports. If the symbol is green, this indicates there has been MIDI activity on that port in the last few seconds. If the symbol is red, this indicates there has been communication with the external software editor on that port in the last few seconds. If the symbol is grey, this indicates there has been no MIDI activity on that port in the last few seconds.

2-3

Program Mode

Controllers

In Program Mode, you can use the PC4 physical controllers (the Knobs, Sliders, Buttons, Wheels, Pedals, and Ribbon) to modify an instrument sound during a performance to add variation or expression.

Note: Assigned parameter names are not visible in List view, or if the Global Mode “Show

Controllers” parameter is set to No.

If you make changes to the current Program using any of the controllers, the SAVE button lights up to indicate that a change has been made to that Program. For more information on the SAVE button, see Save User Programs on page 2-9.

VAST Program Controller Assignments

In each of the Factory VAST Programs, each control will usually perform the assignment labeled on the front panel between the Knobs and Sliders. Some controls may have dierent assignments per Program. When a controller is moved, the name of the current assignment is shown in the display. Controller assignments can be adjusted in Program Edit Mode.

KB3 Program Controller Assignments

In each of the Factory KB3 Organ Programs, each control will usually perform the assignment labeled on the front panel below the Sliders. e display shows “KB3” when a KB3 Program is selected. When a controller is moved, the name of the current assignment is shown in the display. Controller assignments can be adjusted in Program Edit Mode.

TRANSPOSE Buttons

e TRANSPOSE buttons can be used to change the tuning of notes played on the PC4 keyboard in semitones (also known as half steps). is is a convenient way to change the key of a song without learning to play it in a dierent key.

e current transpose amount is shown in the LCD display (for example, the default is “Xp:0st”). Press both TRANSPOSE buttons simultaneously to reset the transposition to 0.

e TRANSPOSE buttons also transpose MIDI notes sent to the USB and MIDI Out ports.

2-4

+ 305 hidden pages

Kurzweil PC4 User Manual

Kurzweil International Contacts

Table of Contents

Features

Getting Started

Software Updates

Quick Start

The Front Panel

The Rear Panel

PC4 Sounds

Modes

Double Button Presses

Program Mode

Selecting Programs

Program Demo

The Display

Controllers