Kurzweil Artis 7 stagepiano

Recently bought this keyboard as a replacement for an older workstation. I didn't need sequencing or sampling but wanted good piano/organ and synth sounds, 73 keys, good keybed, not too heavy and had to have a pitch/wheel for those synth solos!



Pros: The Artis ticked all the boxes at a lower price point than its competitors (like the red one from sweden) while providing most of the same functionality. The build quality is very nice with a metal feel and rubbery knobs/pots , it provides a bit less controls than a Nord but has the essentials (pitch bend and wheel, drawbars, key clicks on/off, rotary on/off etc.) with a very decent collection of sounds. I had read comments about the keyed being too springy but i like it, heavy enough for piano but no so much that you can play organ or synth leads on it. Black keys are also very slightly matte (very subtle) which i personally like. The favorite sounds shortcuts are very handy and all the controls well thought out.

It is also provided with a solid sustain pedal and a pair of audio cables which is a nice touch.



Cons: The only issue I have is that the iPad app mentioned on the Kurzweil website doesn't work! It is simply not supported on latest IOS. I have reached out to both Kurzweil and Soundtower, who promised an imminent upgrade but alas according to forums they have been saying this for years.. :-( Not the end of the world as the Mac app works but still, misleading advertising on Kurzweil's part.

The distinctive side panels do not entirely cover the keys which sticks out a little bit (see pictures). Might consider having some custom wooden side panels done.



All in all, a very well build and nice sounding instrument. I am surprised that it is not mentioned more often as a competitors to the Nords. Yes it doesn't have all the controls and sample import from the Nord but you get access to the Kurzweil's well respected PC3 library of sounds and a very useful set of controls (including pitch bend and wheel for the synth solos) in a compact and reasonably light package. Shame about the lack of iPad app though.