Kurzweil K2000S

A 61-note synthesizer and sampler all-in-one with V.A.S.T. synthesis, built-in sampling, and 32-track sequencing

Overview

The Kurzweil K2000S is a synthesizer and sampler all-in-one, expanding on the base K2000 with a built-in sampler. It features a 61-note velocity- and aftertouch-sensitive keyboard, pitch and mod wheels, and an organized front-panel layout praised for its playability and build quality. The unit supports both synthesis and sampling workflows, with extensive connectivity for external storage and digital audio I/O.

Specifications

Product type	Synthesizer and sampler all-in-one
Synthesis	V.A.S.T. (Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology)
Internal processing	32-bit with 18-bit DACs
Sound-shaping algorithms	31
Keyboard	61-note velocity & aftertouch sensitive
Controls	Pitch and mod wheels
Sampler RAM	2MB standard, expandable to 64MB
Sampling inputs	Analog or digital (AES/EBU, S/PDIF)
Sampling capability	Stereo or mono, 16-bit
ROM	8MB of multi-samples
Storage	Built-in 3.5" disk drive, SCSI port for external drives or internal hard disk
Effects	Stereo multi-effects with up to four simultaneous effects (reverb, chorus, delay, multi-tap delay, flange, rotary simulation, and more)
Audio outputs	Up to six polyphonic outputs
Sequencer	32-track, 768 ppq resolution, nondestructive track editing, groove quantizing
Sequencer capacity	Expandable from 30,000 to 190,000 events
Operating system	Upgradeable

Design

The K2000S uses V.A.S.T. synthesis with 32-bit internal processing and 18-bit DACs, supporting 31 sound-shaping algorithms including resonant filters, EQs, amplitude modulation, waveshaping, LFOs, and oscillator mixing. It includes a stereo multi-effects engine capable of four simultaneous effects, a 32-track sequencer with 768 ppq resolution, and a full 16-bit sampler with analog/digital I/O and SCSI connectivity. The front panel includes a built-in 3.5" disk drive and dedicated controls, with high-quality pitch and mod wheels.

Context

The K2000S is a variant of the K2000 with added sampling capabilities. The K2000rs is the rack-mount version of the K2000S. Upgrades include the Orchestral Expansion Board (8 Mb) and Contemporary Expansion Board (8 Mb). Artists across electronic, rock, and ambient genres—including Robert Miles, Pink Floyd, Jean Michel Jarre, Depeche Mode, Tori Amos, Stevie Wonder, and Nine Inch Nails—have used the K2000 series in their work.

Market

The K2000S has been observed for sale at around 300 (currency unspecified, likely Euros), though no comprehensive market data or common failure patterns are documented.