Which Organ simulator keyboard would you recommend?

Question

I'm in the market for an organ sim, and can't make up my mind between several different models:

Korg CX-3 (vintage or new)

Roland VK-8

Roland VR-760

I already have a Clavia Nord Electro 73 but I'm unimpressed by the organ sounds. But the Rhodes and Wurly sound great...

I'm leaning more towards the Rolands because they contain other sounds (Piano/Rhodes/Synths)... I wonder if that effects sound quality in the organ sim, though.

Any feedback on these models or suggestions for others would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Wow, you really surprised me on this one.

I have a Clavia Electro2 61. When I was shopping around, I played every other B3 clone I could get my hands on. Korg, Roland, Hammond/Suzuki, Viscount & Clavia. The Clavia was the best sounding to me - when you get the right combination of effects and amp. It also had the best keyboard action of the group, which was important to me. You are also right in saying the Wurly & Rhodes sounds are very good, I use them often.

I also have a Hammond A-100. It's a B3 in a different cabinet. When comparing, the real truth is that none of the clones are really that close - even the Hammond/Suzuki's sound too clean. But there is no way I'm going to lug around a 400 lb organ to gigs!

The key to the clones seems to be what kind of amp and the effects you use with them. Just like with a real B3, you have all the Chorus/Vibrato settings and the percussion, and even the overdrive to dirty it up. There's a lot to work with just on the board itself. It may be worth experimenting with your Clavia before trading to a different model.