Korg Forums Forum Index Korg Forums
A forum for Korg product users and musicians around the world.
Moderated Independently.
Owned by Irish Acts Recording Studio & hosted by KORG USA
 
 FAQFAQ   SearchSearch   MemberlistMemberlist   UsergroupsUsergroups   RegisterRegister 
 ProfileProfile   Log in to check your private messagesLog in to check your private messages   Log inLog in 

KRONOS 88 or Kronos 61 w/ 88-Key MIDI Controller?

 
Post new topic   Reply to topic    Korg Forums Forum Index -> Korg Kronos
View previous topic :: View next topic  
Author Message
Kevbo



Joined: 03 Mar 2019
Posts: 40

PostPosted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 12:14 pm    Post subject: KRONOS 88 or Kronos 61 w/ 88-Key MIDI Controller? Reply with quote

Hey, everyone. I was wondering what you may feel is better? I enjoy a full-88 keyboard, especially for piano sounds. What idea would be better?

1. Spending the $4,000 on a Kronos 88, OR

2. Purchasing a 61-key Kronons, and getting a light-weight, 88-key MIDI controller to control the Kronos with?


Is it pretty straight forward to play the Kronos sounds from another keyboard? I would also think with the second setup, if I were to join a band again, I can have the 61-key Kronos with the synth-action for leads, but I can still have a full-sized piano for my piano sounds, etc. Can this easily be done for gigging? Thinking something like piano sound of Kronos going to MIDI keyboard, and splitting the Kronos keybed into strings and brass. I don't know. Just throwing a potential set list out there.

Thank you!
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
geoelectro
Platinum Member


Joined: 14 Sep 2012
Posts: 1037
Location: Texas

PostPosted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 12:26 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

This is how I do it. I have a Yamaha P80 which is old but has the same action that the Motif series etc. So I bought the K61. That way, if I only need to play organ/strings etc. I can just bring the K61. If I need to cover piano etc. I bring the P80 as well.

You do have to "set up" so both keyboards work properly etc. but once that's done it's all good. I created an initial setup (combi) that I use as a template for new combinations. Having the two boards does give you two actions, light and heavy, and a lot of real estate for zoning different sounds.

Geo
_________________
Kronos 61 : 3GB RAM 120GB 2nd Drv.
Kronos 2 61
Synthesizers.com Custom Modular
N.I. Komplete 11, Omnisphere 2, VB-3.
HP i7 8GB Win 10
Yamaha P-80 Weighted Keyboard. NanoPad2
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Visit poster's website
Liviou2004
Platinum Member


Joined: 20 Feb 2017
Posts: 1150
Location: France

PostPosted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 2:27 pm    Post subject: Re: KRONOS 88 or Kronos 61 w/ 88-Key MIDI Controller? Reply with quote

Kevbo wrote:
Hey, everyone. I was wondering what you may feel is better? I enjoy a full-88 keyboard, especially for piano sounds. What idea would be better?

1. Spending the $4,000 on a Kronos 88, OR

2. Purchasing a 61-key Kronons, and getting a light-weight, 88-key MIDI controller to control the Kronos with?


Is it pretty straight forward to play the Kronos sounds from another keyboard? I would also think with the second setup, if I were to join a band again, I can have the 61-key Kronos with the synth-action for leads, but I can still have a full-sized piano for my piano sounds, etc. Can this easily be done for gigging? Thinking something like piano sound of Kronos going to MIDI keyboard, and splitting the Kronos keybed into strings and brass. I don't know. Just throwing a potential set list out there.

Thank you!


1°) If you purchase a Kronos 61, you will get a semi-light keys keyboard. So if you purchase a Light keys 88 notes KB, you will have two light KB !! And so, no heavy weight keys for playing Piano. Plus, I guess it will cost you more (as a good 88 notes KB is very expensive)

2°) If you play many piano parts, It would be better to buy a Kronos 88 (or 73 if you think it'll be enough), and add a second KB with a light touch and aftertouch, for playing some leads on the Kronos.
It's not too hard to find used 61 keys synths, not too expensive, and connect it to the Kronos.

(That's what I did : a Kronos 73, and a Studio Logic Sledge 2 for a second synth.)

Then, in Combi Mode, you could get a Piano sound on the fisrt track, played bu the Kronos KB itself, and other sounds opn other tracks, played by the external keyboard. It's very convenient and easy to do.


Last edited by Liviou2004 on Thu Jul 11, 2019 2:33 pm; edited 1 time in total
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Kevbo



Joined: 03 Mar 2019
Posts: 40

PostPosted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 2:33 pm    Post subject: Re: KRONOS 88 or Kronos 61 w/ 88-Key MIDI Controller? Reply with quote

Liviou2004 wrote:
Kevbo wrote:
Hey, everyone. I was wondering what you may feel is better? I enjoy a full-88 keyboard, especially for piano sounds. What idea would be better?

1. Spending the $4,000 on a Kronos 88, OR

2. Purchasing a 61-key Kronons, and getting a light-weight, 88-key MIDI controller to control the Kronos with?


Is it pretty straight forward to play the Kronos sounds from another keyboard? I would also think with the second setup, if I were to join a band again, I can have the 61-key Kronos with the synth-action for leads, but I can still have a full-sized piano for my piano sounds, etc. Can this easily be done for gigging? Thinking something like piano sound of Kronos going to MIDI keyboard, and splitting the Kronos keybed into strings and brass. I don't know. Just throwing a potential set list out there.

Thank you!


1°) If you purchase a Kronos 61, you will get a semi-light keys keyboard. So if you purchase a Light keys 88 notes KB, you will have two light KB !! And so, no heavy weight keys for playing Piano. Plus, I guess it will cost you more (as a good 88 notes KB is very expensive)

2°) If you play many piano parts, It would be better to buy a Kronos 88 (or 73 if you think it'll be enough, and add a second KB with a light touch and aftertouch, for playing some leads on the Kronos.
It's not too hard to find used 61 keys synths, not too expensive, and connect it to the Kronos.

(That's what I did : a Kronos 73, and a Studio Logic Sledge 2 for a second synth.)

Then, in Combi Mode, you could get a Piano sound on the fisrt track, played bu the Kronos KB itself, and other sounds opn other tracks, played by the external keyboard. It's very convenient and easy to do.


Sorry, I meant light as in all together light weight for portability. I would still get a piano-action fully-weighted keyboard. But yes, I guess I could go the other way, too, getting Kronos 88 and a MIDI synth board.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Liviou2004
Platinum Member


Joined: 20 Feb 2017
Posts: 1150
Location: France

PostPosted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 2:41 pm    Post subject: Re: KRONOS 88 or Kronos 61 w/ 88-Key MIDI Controller? Reply with quote

Kevbo wrote:
Sorry, I meant light as in all together light weight for portability. I would still get a piano-action fully-weighted keyboard. But yes, I guess I could go the other way, too, getting Kronos 88 and a MIDI synth board.


Oh, yes, I see what you mean. The portability is a point I have not considered.

I do not play in gig, but if I had to, for sure, I will buy a flight case with wheels. It's an extra charge, but it worths it. For two reasons :

1°) Kronos protection
2°) Protection of my back !!
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Kevbo



Joined: 03 Mar 2019
Posts: 40

PostPosted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 2:43 pm    Post subject: Re: KRONOS 88 or Kronos 61 w/ 88-Key MIDI Controller? Reply with quote

Liviou2004 wrote:
Kevbo wrote:
Sorry, I meant light as in all together light weight for portability. I would still get a piano-action fully-weighted keyboard. But yes, I guess I could go the other way, too, getting Kronos 88 and a MIDI synth board.


Oh, yes, I see what you mean. The portability is a point I have not considered.

I do not play in gig, but if I had to, for sure, I will buy a flight case with wheels. It's an extra charge, but it worths it. For two reasons :

1°) Kronos protection
2°) Protection of my back !!


I already have a soft-shell case for my Korg Triton that has wheels and extra cushion and protection with some hard plastic pieces weaved in. I'd probably get a hard-shell if I started gigging again with a Kronos.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
psionic311
Platinum Member


Joined: 14 Nov 2014
Posts: 1046
Location: Orlando, Florida USA

PostPosted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 4:33 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

I also use a K61 with other controllers for gigging. The Kronos is a very flexible MIDI controller and sound module. It has both regular MIDI as well as USB, so you have nearly unlimited options for your 2nd board.

The K61 is fairly portable. Still kinda heavy for some at 35lbs, but totally giggable with a soft case, which is what I do. Both the 73 key and 88 key are fairly cumbersome to lug around, but many do gig with them. Try lifting one at a music store.

Another thing to consider is the action. Some really like Korg's RH3 action, some not. By getting a K61 and another 88 key controller, you have a lot more options.

Finally, your overall cost can be lower getting a K61 + 88key. A used K61 for around $2000-2500 plus the great action 88 key like the Privia PX-5S for $700-1000 is a great bargain.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Liviou2004
Platinum Member


Joined: 20 Feb 2017
Posts: 1150
Location: France

PostPosted: Thu Jul 11, 2019 8:13 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

psionic311 wrote:
Some really like Korg's RH3 action, some not.


It's exactly the same point with the Casio Privia PX-5s : some like it and some don't. For example many complain about it's noisy keys.

psionic311 wrote:
By getting a K61 and another 88 key controller, you have a lot more options

Not more or less options than the opposite config, K88 and a 61 keys controller, especially if this 61 keys controller is not only a controler but a synthesizer. This can add a second sound source with a second color.

Here is an ad for a 2,200 $ used Kronos 2 88 : https://www.sweetwater.com/used/listings/211-used-korg-kronos-88-kronos
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
psionic311
Platinum Member


Joined: 14 Nov 2014
Posts: 1046
Location: Orlando, Florida USA

PostPosted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 12:20 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

The OP mentioned he might be gigging. Personally, I'd groan before every gig breaking down the 88 key Kronos from the studio, putting it in a big bulky case, then hauling it out to the vehicle, and squeezing it in. It's so big and heavy, at 54 pounds and 57" long. It might not even fit in the OP's car (my SUV only holds 56" in the passenger seat), especially if you use a hard case, which adds even more length and weight.

Breaking down that beast late night after the gig, and loading it in the car, then driving home and unloading it again to take out from the case and set back up in the studio... no thanks, too heavy, not worth it for me, but then I only occasionally need the full 88 key range on my gigs. It may be different if the OP plays a lot of piano heavy songs instead of more typical pads/organ/brass/bass/synthy stuff.

A lightweight 88 key controller + a K61 is my choice of a giggable combo.

Which is better is up to the OP --
Option A) 60 lbs of Kronos 88 ($3800) and 15 lbs of MODX6 ($1300)
Options B) 35 lbs of Kronos 61 ($3100) and 31 lbs of MODX8 ($1900)
(And half the cost if he shops around)

Weight is a very important consideration when loading and unloading by yourself. I'd choose Option B. Cheaper, lighter.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
19naia
Platinum Member


Joined: 29 Nov 2012
Posts: 1216

PostPosted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 3:04 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

Buying an 88 RH3 key Kronos and then adding a 61 key controller, may be better.

Only reason to do it the other way, is if you value portability over the best 88 key action for the price.

More portable to get 61 key Kronos and a lighter weight 88 key controller which will not have as good key action as Kronos.

Kronos 88 key action is the heaviest in its class, compared to FA-08 or Montage-88.

Play the Kronos 88 RH3 key version and then decide what you want.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Kevbo



Joined: 03 Mar 2019
Posts: 40

PostPosted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 12:44 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Thank you, all! Definitely some stuff to think about. As far as gigging, I haven't been in a band since my daughter was born almost 6 years ago, and my wife and I also have a special needs 2-year-old boy. My wife actually had to resign from her teaching job of 14 years to take care of our son. We're managing, and doing out best.

I mention all this, because as much as I would like to be in a band again, I don't see that happening anytime soon. I do, however, have my own "studio" at home, and I do enjoy recording a lot. I use my Triton with a lot of VSTs, but would like to have an all-in-one board, too. I know there are other options, but I have always been intrigued by Korg. Still wondering if anything will proceed the Kronos SE, but only time will tell.

Thanks again, everyone! Very much appreciated the feedback.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Xenophile
Senior Member


Joined: 14 Nov 2017
Posts: 340

PostPosted: Fri Jul 12, 2019 10:01 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

If you're don't have to move it around, I would get the Kronos 88 with a 61-key synth-action controller. I have a Roland A-800PRO that is quite nice.
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Perilous
Junior Member


Joined: 29 Jul 2015
Posts: 77

PostPosted: Sat Jul 13, 2019 2:52 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

I started out with the Kronos 88 alone. Dead simple, one keyboard, no extra gadgets. It may have been the most efficient setup--for me.

Then I added the Roland A-800 Pro and found it super useful for controlling all the drawbars of the Kronos CX-3 organ engine. I added more and more keyboards and found that if I were stacking synths upon synths, it would make more sense to put a lighter Kronos 61 on top instead of hiding the control surface and the touchscreen beneath all the upper tiers.

So then I went with the Kronos 61 and the Casio PX-5S combo. Hated the PX-5S action. Now I'm using the Kawai ES-110 as the 88-key controller. Tried the Korg D1, Dexibell Vivo S1, Roland A-88, but the Kawai is best for me. Things are more complicated with more devices, more cables, more splits, more programming, but it's so nice not having to lift a keyboard over 35lbs. The ES-110 is comfortably light and has an action I like more than the Korg RH3.

I'd say don't get just a controller. Your smallest keyboards can be the heaviest, your biggest keyboard should be the lightest. Don't limit yourself to always having to bring two keyboards where ever you go or when ever you play. Get keyboards that can stand on their own but also can serve as a controller.
Keep it simple, keep it light!
_________________
Need CX-3 sysex help?
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
Poseidon
Senior Member


Joined: 08 Jul 2018
Posts: 373

PostPosted: Sat Jul 13, 2019 3:25 am    Post subject: Re: KRONOS 88 or Kronos 61 w/ 88-Key MIDI Controller? Reply with quote

Kevbo wrote:
... I enjoy a full-88 keyboard, especially for piano sounds. What idea would be better?


If 88 keys and Piano is your main interest, consider

Kawai MP11SE

Grand Feel Wooden key action with let-off, triple sensor detection,
and Shigeru Kawai concert grand added in SE models.
Amazing unit!
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message
V-man
Junior Member


Joined: 18 Aug 2020
Posts: 73
Location: Umeå, Sweden

PostPosted: Tue Oct 27, 2020 10:40 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

Hi, picking up this thread since I'm in the exact same decision process. This will be a long story. Smile

I need to replace my whole keyboard rig and since I need to have duplicate 88 keyboards (one at home and one at the rehearsal studio to save my back). It has truly been tempting but it feels just over the top to buy two Kronos 2-88's. Instead I'm leaning towards having a Kronos 2-61 as top-tier and build up the new rig completely around the Kronos as the core for both sound and control. This accompanied with whatever 88 main keyboard as long as it have a superior keybed and midi. Of course it would also be nice if the 88 have some good piano sounds if I just need to bring a piano on some smaller gig.

Since I'm essentially a pianoplayer the quality of the keybed of the 88 that I choose is very important and I have the latest year evaluated keybeds from almost all vendors, Korg, Kawai, Roland, Yamaha etc.

First, even how hard I try I just can't get to appreciate the Korg GH3 action. I think it has a kind of dense and sluggish action that make fast repetitions harder to accomplish and I think there is a kind of strange velocity/dynamics feeling.

One thing that IMO is important to remember when it comes to digital piano keybeds is that no matter how hard the vendors try, a digital piano will never be able do imitate the feel of a real grand piano, except may be for the Kawai flagships like the MP11SE, but then you also need to buy a truck to move it around. And also you need to ask yourself the question of what the purpose is for the 88 key digital piano? Often you do not solely play acoustic piano sounds on your stage piano. You need sometimes be able to play organs and other synth sounds, and this is why my opinion is that you need to find a 88 keybed that is the most "playable" for many purposes and not a perfect copy of a acoustic grand. Still the 88 of course need to provide for a great feel when playing the acoustic piano sounds.

My conclusion based on this reasoning and evaluation of many 88 keyboards is that I will probably try to find a pair of used Yamaha S90ES's, which IMO still has one of the absolutely best and most playable keybeds ever made. And even if they have been around for many years they still possess truly state of the art piano sounds (like the legendary S700). I will use the S90ES as the main 88 keybed accompanied with a Kronos 2-61 as top-tier keyboard. With this rig I get the best of two worlds IMO. A powerful workstation as the core sound generator and controller with a great 61 keybed and a solid 88 key stagepiano controller with a great multipurpose keybed and state of the art piano sounds when needed.
_________________
Yamaha S90ES, Kronos 2 61, Roland D50, Roland Integra 7, Roland D-05
Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Visit poster's website
Display posts from previous:   
Post new topic   Reply to topic    Korg Forums Forum Index -> Korg Kronos All times are GMT
Page 1 of 1

 
Jump to:  
You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum


Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2005 phpBB Group