Korg SV1 Keyboards

This is what we’ve all been waiting for – a compact, solidly built keyboard that encompasses an extraordinary array of authentic keyboard sounds from both the past and the present. Coming in 76 and 88 note versions, switching on the SV1 illuminates the control panel (ideal for dark corners) and fires up the analogue style live valve. The instrument’s weighted keyboard is very responsive with keys that are lighter in the treble and heavier in the bass. The control panel is exceptionally well laid out and centre stage is the bank of eight presets which are factory set from Preset 1-acoustic piano, through Preset 3-electric piano to Preset 6-organ and Preset 8-synths. To either side of the Preset bank are a series of “dial in” controls for sound colouring and texturing. One offers no less than

Korg SV88 Keyboard six amplifier models which are further enhanced by the 12AX7 tube driven valve Reactor Circuit, adding warmth and realism to the sound. We started with the Preset 1 and found a very authentic sounding Steinway and a no less believable Yamaha, which cut through in the usual way. With Preset 2, we played around with the EQ and found some very interesting electro/ acoustic sounds. Moving on to Preset 3, there was a very round, rich Rhodes, while Preset 4 transported us to the world of Wurlitzer. On Preset 6, you not only have a superb Hammond B3 along with an adjustable Lesley, but also a very authentic sounding period Farfisa/ Vox. Preset 7 enters the world of strings where a string quartet could be boosted to a full orchestra and playing with attack gave a very credible bowed violin sound. For more go to www.korg.com/sv1-video

Bassix Acoustic Travel Bass

A carbonfibre composite double bass may sound a little far fetched, but Bassix have come up with an extraordinary instrument that not only sounds good, but is virtually bomb proof! Perhaps, not unsurprisingly, in terms of acoustic response you wouldn’t give this bass a second look, but when plugged into our Gallien- Krueger and with a little tonal tweaking, she could be coaxed into producing a surprisingly natural full bodied bass sound. Effectively a three-quarter size instrument with an arched back, the Bassix comes with a detachable neck that can be removed so that the whole instrument can be packed down into a bespoke carrying case for travel. There are two allen keys that are supplied with the instrument, one for tensioning the

Bassix Acoustic Travel Bass soundpost and the other for adjusting the rake of the neck and by implication – the fingerboard. Where the former is necessary, the latter is really useful, as the individual player can adjust the string action of the instrument to suit their own playing style. Somewhat of a concern however was the profile of the fingerboard which is modelled on a perfect arc (a la bass guitar), rather than being ‘shot’ over the E and A as with a traditional instrument and this gave us some string buzz problems with pizzicato, especially when digging in. However, by complete contrast, playing arco proved to be a breeze. Intonation was good and the harmonics all popped out as expected. But perhaps its best selling point comes from the fact that the fabric and structure of the instrument is totally stable, potentially making it the ideal travelling companion if you’re touring the Tropics! For more go to www.bassix.co.uk