Korg SV1-73 (2009)
A 73-note stage piano with vintage-accurate sounds, real tube warmth, and immediate hands-on control.
Overview
The Korg SV1-73 is the 73-note version of the Korg SV-1 Stage Vintage Piano, introduced in 2009. It carries 36 sampled vintage keyboard sounds: German and Japanese grand pianos, classic electric pianos, tonewheel organs, Clavs, and analog synths. The whole front panel is live, with clearly labeled knobs, so there is no menu diving. It is built for the stage as a portable, maintenance-free alternative to vintage instruments.
Specifications
| Key options | 73 or 88 keys; SV1-73 is the 73-note version |
| Key action | Korg's RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action with graded hammer response |
| Number of sounds | 36 piano and vintage keyboard sounds |
| Sound categories | Grand Pianos, Electric Pianos (Tine, Reed, Plucked), Clavs, Organs (Tonewheel, Tube Console, Combo), String Machines, Synth Brass, Choir, and layered combinations |
| Amp modeling | Valve Reactor 12AX7 tube-driven amp modeling (6 models) |
| Effects chain | 6 Pre-FX (Compression, Boost, U-Vibe, Chorus/Vibrato, Tremolo, Wah); 6 Modulation FX (Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Rotary); 6 Reverb/Delay types (Room, Plate, Hall, Spring, Tape Echo, Stereo Delay); 3-Band EQ; Limiter |
| Inputs/outputs | Stereo 1/4" inputs and outputs, XLR balanced stereo outputs, headphone output |
| Included accessories | Damper pedal and music rack |
| Optional accessories | Assignable footswitch, assignable footpedal, collapsible black stand, rolling soft case |
| User interface | Direct-access front-panel knobs with illuminated LEDs; 8 Favorite presets savable via car-radio-style recall |
| Technology used | RX (Real eXperience) Technology with multi-velocity sampling including tine, key-off, damper, hammer, and cabinet resonance |
| Sustain pedal function | Wah effect controllable via sweep pedal (e.g., Korg EXP-2 or XVP-10) |
| Tap tempo | Includes tap tempo switch |
| Editor software | Adjustable via included computer editor/librarian software |
| Original price | $2700 |
Design
Housed in a sleek, curvaceous body, the SV1-73 features a front panel with rotary knobs that include illuminated LEDs for visibility on stage. The signal path is divided into six bypassable stages: Equalizer, Pre-FX, Amp Model, Modulation FX, Reverb/Delay, and Limiter. Korg's exclusive Valve Reactor circuitry uses a real 12AX7 tube to add warmth or grit, while the rotary speaker emulation is praised as one of the best available. The RX Experience sampling captures not just notes but mechanical nuances—key-off noise, hammer strikes, and cabinet resonance—for a three-dimensional, responsive feel.
Context
Korg positioned the SV-1 series as a direct answer for players who want vintage keyboard tones without the cost and upkeep of original instruments. The SV1-73 shares the line with the SV-1BK in matte black and the Limited Edition SV-1RV, which has a red body and reverse-color keys. All of them target performers and retro enthusiasts who value portability and stage reliability.
Market
The SV1-73 launched at $2700. Players still seek it out for its hands-on interface, tube warmth, and vintage sound accuracy. Its build quality and real tube circuitry help it hold appeal on the used market.
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