KORG PA500
Arranger Keyboard
LIST PRICE: $1,899.00

The Korg Pa500 Arranger Keyboard is a 61-key arranger that features Korg’s EDS (Extended Definition Synthesis) technology for remarkably realistic sound reproduction. The Pa500 also features 80-note polyphony, 61 velocity-sensitive keys, and USB and MIDI connectivity for easy interfacing with computers and other instruments. The product can be connected to an amplifier or played through a PA system, while the onboard stereo speakers, which have bass reflex enclosures, are handy for playing and composing on the fly.

Korg’s main objective for the Pa500 is ease of use, and the company has done a remarkable job. Out of the box, the Pa500 can be up and running and creating music with little or no help from the manual (though the onboard Help section is a nice touch).

Navigating different functions of the arranger is easy with the touchscreen display and a four-way joystick. Two different modes, Easy and Expert, allow users to customize the way they interact with the keyboard. Easy mode, which is the standard, loads up as the default setting when the keyboard is turned on. It’s easy to navigate and the display is large and clear enough for use during live performance. Expert mode packs a little more into the screen, but allows the user to have full access to all of the arranger’s more powerful controls.

One of the most impressive features of the Pa500 is “Guitar Mode,” which essentially transforms your keyboard into the fretboard of a guitar. You can choose a chord and capo position and then play chords, picking patterns, hammer-ons, pull-offs and slides—all through effects and amp models that produce a realistic guitar sound. The amp models and effects are just some of the 128 total effects. Reverbs, delays, compressors, EQs and 56 different GM drum kits are some of the effects loaded onto the Pa500.

One unique feature Korg has built is functionality for loading up to four different sounds, which can then be split up and layered across the keyboard. For example, you could play piano, bass, organ, and acoustic guitar. Then, with the push of a single button, change the acoustic guitar sound to electric for a solo.

The Pa500 also includes a Song and Style mode. Style mode includes 320 preset styles with instrumentation and arrangements to back you up while you play. Often including bass/drum/percussion grooves—but also stretching all the way up to full orchestral arrangements—this mode follows your timing, chord changes, and voice leading in real time. Song mode allows for easy recall of song settings (effects, tempo, song title, genre) so that users can play along with popular songs. Lyrics can also be displayed in popular karaoke formats. The Pa500’s XDS Dual Sequencer allows you to load up new songs while the other is playing, and a cross-fader can be used to seamlessly transition to the next song.

Value and performance meet in the Korg Pa500. From stage to studio, or simply your living room, there’s not a whole lot that you can’t translate from your head to this keyboard.