Jazzman Posted September 9, 2001 Share Posted September 9, 2001 Hi all, Has anyone tried out the new KARMA keyboard yet. I'm thinking about getting one for the studio. I've played on one at Guitar Center in MI. I think it sounds cool. I came up with a couple of new tunes just fooling around with one in the store. What are the pros and cons? Does anyone own one of these? Thanks in advance http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/smile.gif Jazzman http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/cool.gif Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dr Nursers Posted September 9, 2001 Share Posted September 9, 2001 yeah I would love to hear comments too, am on the verge of picking one up.... ------------------ www.mp3.com/thirdstoreystory The Keyboard Chronicles Podcast My Music: Stainless Fields Check out your fellow forumites in an Apple Music playlist Check out your fellow forumites in a Spotify playlist Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The T Dot Posted September 9, 2001 Share Posted September 9, 2001 KARMA PROS: has the KARMA feature has TRITON synth engine & sounds easy access to expansion bay KARMA CONS: has cheap keyboard feel compared to Triton lacks Triton sampler & touchscreen interface no ribbon controller Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SlopHappy Posted September 10, 2001 Share Posted September 10, 2001 The Karma? I own one, and love it. It's a blast to play. Go with what your experience tells you though. If you like it, great, go buy it from someone that has a 30-day return policy and it's a win/win scenario. One thing that I really wish was different with the keyboard is I wish it had sampling and SCSI like the Tritons. I wouldn't say it's a major problem though. I will probably buy a Triton Rack though so I can have this capability, but I'm a fan of the Triton engine, so it's a no-brainer for my writing direction. The keybed? Well, I wish it had the Yamaha action like on the Triton 61key version. Again, it's not a major problem though, just a preference...I've gotten use to the Karma keybed, and like it now. In some ways it's quite easy to play. Please bare in mind there is no "perfect" keyboard, and these are what I consider minor detractors from an otherwise excellent keyboard. I could tell you in all fairness that I don't care for the keybed in my Kurzweil K2vx even moreso. I prefer Yamaha synth action keybeds myself. On the other hand, I prefer the weighted action in my 88key Kurzweil K2500XS to most other weighted action keybeds I've played, including a lot of those from Korg, Yamaha and Roland. Funny thing is, Fatar makes the keybeds that are in the Karma, K2vx and the K2500XS, so different models from the same manufacturer I judge individually. There is a lot more info on this subject, but the bottom line is, what do you like? I think the Karma is great. If someone else disagrees, what do I care? You shouldn't either. I say go for it, if it's right for you... SlopHappy Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Goldberg Posted September 10, 2001 Share Posted September 10, 2001 Hey, what is this special Karma technology I've been hearing about anyway? What makes the board special? "Bach is ever new"-Glenn Gould Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
surfjazz Posted September 11, 2001 Share Posted September 11, 2001 Originally posted by Jazzman: Hi all, Has anyone tried out the new KARMA keyboard yet. I'm thinking about getting one for the studio. I've played on one at Guitar Center in MI. I think it sounds cool. I came up with a couple of new tunes just fooling around with one in the store. What are the pros and cons? Does anyone own one of these? Thanks in advance http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/smile.gif Jazzman http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/cool.gifhi jazzman, its surfjazz here, about the karma.... it kicks butt. if i hadnt stumbled on a yamaha cs2x for $150.00 i would have gone poor buying it. oh well .. fixing my adat is more important... but if you have the money get it you will be tickled pink just lookin at it... enjoy!!!!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jazzman Posted September 11, 2001 Author Share Posted September 11, 2001 Bummer surfjazz, I know what it feels like fixing recording units, It cost me $300.00 to fix a $9.00 plastic cam part for one of my DA88's!!!!!!!! Tape stuck in the unit. http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/mad.gif The Karma keyboard has a unique way of combining cords, lead, drums and base( when selected as a combo). It's amazing how it can recognize changes in the cord, melody, bass, and drum parts. My bass player went to the store with me, and while I was playing, he just shook his head when he heard the base runs and all of the changes going on. This unit can be a great tool in the studio! http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/biggrin.gif Very cool indeed. "To The Moon Alice, To The Moon!" The purchased cost is $1,700.00 I believe? Unless you get discounts. The price should come down by next year I hope My fade out.............. Jazzman http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/cool.gif Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stub303hotmail.com Posted September 11, 2001 Share Posted September 11, 2001 I've been playing with the demos in the store for about 2 months and finally decided to pick one up on last week. GC had a mint used one for $1350. So i played with it for 2 more hours and decided, what the hell. So after getting it wrapped up w/ a new case, headphones (since ALL of my gear is in storage while I move), the sales guy comes back and says "Oh sorry. since its used, we have to hold on to it for 10 days to make sure its not stolen". GRRRRRRRRR. Oh well, I talked to a manager and am picking it up tonight, but I told him, you shouldn't put gear out for sale with a price tag, if you can't buy it! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jazzman Posted September 11, 2001 Author Share Posted September 11, 2001 stub303, I'm jeleous now. http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/frown.gif I think the unit is boss, and you paid a very cool low price for it to boot!!!. http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/biggrin.gif It's hard to keep them in the stores. I went back one week later and it was gone off of the shelf. I'm sure you'll have a blast with it. I think it's worth every penny. You only need to produce one tune on it that makes some $$$, and it pays for itself in time, not counting the fact that it's fun to use. I play by ear that's probably why I can identify with it. I like the sound pallet, really sweet indeed. Who else out there is buying one? If you have one how do you like it? stub303, the best..........and much success with it. Jazzman http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/cool.gif Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DailyGrind Posted September 11, 2001 Share Posted September 11, 2001 Originally posted by Striker1080: Hey, what is this special Karma technology I've been hearing about anyway? What makes the board special? http://www.karma-lab.com/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
surfjazz Posted September 19, 2001 Share Posted September 19, 2001 Originally posted by Jazzman: Bummer surfjazz, I know what it feels like fixing recording units, It cost me $300.00 to fix a $9.00 plastic cam part for one of my DA88's!!!!!!!! Tape stuck in the unit. http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/mad.gif The Karma keyboard has a unique way of combining cords, lead, drums and base( when selected as a combo). It's amazing how it can recognize changes in the cord, melody, bass, and drum parts. My bass player went to the store with me, and while I was playing, he just shook his head when he heard the base runs and all of the changes going on. This unit can be a great tool in the studio! http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/biggrin.gif Very cool indeed. "To The Moon Alice, To The Moon!" The purchased cost is $1,700.00 I believe? Unless you get discounts. The price should come down by next year I hope My fade out.............. Jazzman http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/cool.gifhey, dont we all pay for the little things in life? the 1,700$ price is the discount! it has a list of sumthin like 2,800! daddys junky music and musicians friend both sell the karma for the discount... good luck and keep your fingers on the keys- surfjazz Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
R_dup1 Posted September 20, 2001 Share Posted September 20, 2001 The Karma is a very special board. It's so much more than a "groovebox" like so many of the products designed to assist in the composing process. The GE's (generated effects) are simply stunning and cover a very broad range of musical styles. There are something like 1,000 of these GE's in the Karma and there is currently talk of software to allow you to create your own GE's. The first night I got and played mine I stayed up almost all night playing. The ideas just kept coming and the GE's were there to help polish them. It's a great board and the Triton sound engine is very nice as well. Roland Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stub303hotmail.com Posted September 21, 2001 Share Posted September 21, 2001 Originally posted by R: The first night I got and played mine I stayed up almost all night playing. I called in sick to work the day after getting mine and played with it for almost 9 hours straight. I'm liking it more and more. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
R_dup1 Posted September 22, 2001 Share Posted September 22, 2001 Originally posted by stub303@hotmail.com: I called in sick to work the day after getting mine and played with it for almost 9 hours straight. I'm liking it more and more. I wish I'd bought mine the day before a workday too!! http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/biggrin.gif It just keeps getting better. I just got the two card orchestra expansion. I can't wait to see how that sounds in there!! Roland Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TRiToN Posted September 22, 2001 Share Posted September 22, 2001 karma makes me more productive more than the Triton (which I sold A month ago). P.s I don't let the Karma control my Music! I control it! Vic:) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
R_dup1 Posted September 22, 2001 Share Posted September 22, 2001 I can't wait until they come out with the software that allows you to make your own GE's. That should be very interesting. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bucktunes Posted September 22, 2001 Share Posted September 22, 2001 The Karma intrigues me, but I already have a Triton so another keyboard with the same synth engine would be kind of redundant for me. Besides, I really don't like the way the keyboard feels. Does anyone know if Korg (or Stephen Kay) plans to release some sort of Triton expansion with the Karma software? Maybe as an external box with the knobs? THAT I would buy! Peace all, Steve ><> Steve Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
industriac Posted September 22, 2001 Share Posted September 22, 2001 SWBuck1074 - I dont think there can be anytype of KARMA upgrade for the Triton, cuz the KARMA, now this is where I forgot what it was, I think, CPU or other chips that are about 3x faster than the Tritons. So, the Triton CPU wont be able to handle the amount of data the KARMA produces. The cool thing about the KARMA is the amount of GE's there are so youre able to mix and match patches with different GE's. Ive spent countless hours doing that...too bad I keep forgetting to write down what GE sounds good with what patch. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CuzCutz Posted September 22, 2001 Share Posted September 22, 2001 Hi guys & gals, I like the features of the Karma, but I have a Triton rack so I think the Karma would be redundent so... I'm waiting for the new... "Karma Box"...you know, the controls near the upper-lefthand corner that define the Karma keyboard...in a separate unit, that way I could use the power of "karma control" on all of my modules! it's got to happen soon...no? D. Cousins Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jazzman Posted September 25, 2001 Author Share Posted September 25, 2001 Hi folks again, I was out of town and away from this thread. WOW, you guys are really kicking it up a notch with the Karma unit. Looks like some of you are not eating too good playing with this baby!!!!! Out-a-site! I didn't get a chance to read the manual, is it easy to follow? Has anyone put a song together with this unit yet? If so, what style? What do the expansion cards sound like? This is a bump up to the top. Jazzman http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/cool.gif Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jazzman Posted September 25, 2001 Author Share Posted September 25, 2001 Hi folks again, I was out of town and away from this thread. WOW, you guys are really kicking it up a notch with the Karma unit. Looks like some of you are not eating too good playing with this baby!!!!! Out-a-site! I didn't get a chance to read the manual, is it easy to follow? Has anyone put a song together with this unit yet? If so, what style? What do the expansion cards sound like? This is a bump up to the top. Jazzman http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/cool.gif Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Goldberg Posted September 26, 2001 Share Posted September 26, 2001 I had a thread a few days ago asking about the Karma and it's usefulness in a band. However it went down the drain. So, is the Karma and it's features good for use in a band? I take it it is also a good studio keyboard too, right? I am looking for something that I can compose classical type music, in the studio, yet play different types in a band, possibly jazz, classic rock, or rock...so do you guys think it would be a good one to go check out? "Bach is ever new"-Glenn Gould Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The T Dot Posted September 26, 2001 Share Posted September 26, 2001 Originally posted by Striker1080: I had a thread a few days ago asking about the Karma and it's usefulness in a band. However it went down the drain. So, is the Karma and it's features good for use in a band? I take it it is also a good studio keyboard too, right? I am looking for something that I can compose classical type music, in the studio, yet play different types in a band, possibly jazz, classic rock, or rock...so do you guys think it would be a good one to go check out? It is, but I'd reccomend the Triton. This message has been edited by Chris100 on 09-26-2001 at 04:21 PM Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stub303hotmail.com Posted September 27, 2001 Share Posted September 27, 2001 Originally posted by Jazzman: I didn't get a chance to read the manual, is it easy to follow? Not at all. The manual consists of 4 manuals (well one's a GE guide, the other is a prog/comi list) but the main manual is less than desirable. It explains the way things work in too much detail. All i want is a straight forward "every day situation" type guide. Oh well, the FAQ list off www.karma-lab.com has been very helpful. This message has been edited by stub303@hotmail.com on 09-26-2001 at 09:02 PM Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
karmadude Posted September 27, 2001 Share Posted September 27, 2001 You can DL the manual in .pdf from www.korg.com. Stephen Kay's site has the ultimate reference materials for this instrument and his presence at the Yahoo! Karma Groups site is invaluble. I did DL the manuals awhile back as I'm getting a Karma very soon. Writing style similar to Roland, but I like reading manuals, I guess. RTFM rules! Jim Sievers ------------------ ************************ "...I'm not saying that we're better or greater, or comparing us with Jesus Christ as a person or God as a thing or whatever it is. I just said what I said and it was wrong. Or it was taken wrong. And now it's all this." --John Lennon, Chicago, August 11, 1966 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Marvster Posted October 3, 2001 Share Posted October 3, 2001 I'm going to take the Karma plunge. Anybody have opinions on the EXB-MOSS board? Thanks, Marv Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jazzman Posted October 7, 2001 Author Share Posted October 7, 2001 Hi Marvster, What is the EXB-Moss board, who makes it, I never heard of it. What does it have on it? Nice to see that your going to take the plunge for the KARMA. I know that there are pro's and con's for this unit that others have stated in this thread, but for the price, it is an outstanding piece of equipment. It really allows you to use your imagination. I compose and play jazz in my studio. I plan on picking up one of these as soon as I can get some extra $$$$$. Too much of my cash is going out on other gear right now. Good luck with the unit, let us know what you think. My fadeout.......... Jazzman http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/cool.gif Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
industriac Posted October 7, 2001 Share Posted October 7, 2001 the EXB-MOSS is an expansion board made by KORG for the Triton or the KARMA. If you install it, you pretty much get a little Z1 in your triton or karma with, I think, 6 voice polyphony. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
IanD Posted October 8, 2001 Share Posted October 8, 2001 I played the Karma for the first time over the weeked having read a lot about it. I found it a little un-nerving for me to only be hold a few notes down and hearing someone elses tune comming out. The KARMA effects are nice but i would imagine they take some getting used to Ian http://www.hypertracker.com/go/iandixon/KC1/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bobro Posted October 8, 2001 Share Posted October 8, 2001 I played with the Karma the other day- had to wait in line! Something I hadn't realized was that at this particular store at least the Karma is the exact same price the Motif 6. ($2,070 at current exchange rates) Afterward I read many user comments on the internet- it's a very controversial synth. Personally, I suspect that those who are insecure about the integrity and individuality of their own music are the ones who worry about the robots taking over. Real musicians just use the tools at hand as they see fit. Impressions- looks better in real life than in pictures, the color and sleek profile don't come across in photos. Pitiful screen, but that's a common complaint. Keys...well there's better and worse, judge for yourself. Within a minute I determined that the joystick is very important for the Karma engine, and it is physically "lite"- if you can move with purpose but stay gentle it's fine, some players use heavy physical movement as part of their rhythm, I don't think the synth in general is built for them. I don't like the raw Triton sounds in general so no comment there, there's expansion boards, midi out, tweaking, etc. The Karma engine itself- first of all, it does NOT take a long and mysterious process to tweak it into doing something new. I had a rubbery space-baroque thing going in a couple of minutes, bearing no resemblance to any auto-accompniment keyboard. That's an understatement. http://www.musicplayer.com/ubb/smile.gif I think the synth is going to sell to a variety of people- many who want to tickle a robot into making pretty sounds for them, some who have a lot of music to write on a deadline and can take an inspiration and run with it, and some who have the skill and vision to dominate the synth into a lightning fast non-linear midi sequencer. A Karma master controller, bundled with software, great keys, a forest of of knobs, USB and SCSI interface, no onboard sounds, would be great IMO. As it is, it's an introduction to the inevitable synth of tomorrow. Anybody want to bet against Casio having "Algorithmic Accompniment!" in a couple of years? Or Karma copies with names like "HEAD-Human Expression Algorithmic Device"? The current Karma isn't for me- I'd want bundled software with access to every parameter, no presets and no onboard sounds, more knobs, etc., but it's a good compromise between the practical expression of algorithmic composition, which has been cooking in academia for a couple of generations, mass marketability, practicality, etc. There's going to be a lot of cheese made with this synth, and some really cool stuff as well. Hm, sounds like the story of any new synth. Just a couple of thoughts. -CB Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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