@b3groover ha ha yup ...you maybe right there...I've played a few wrecks myself...that's why I always try to use my own.....well in the UK at least!...the thing about all the digital Hammonds is not just the rather bland "oh here I am don't I sound like a real Hammond" sounds.....but the total lack of swell when you open the throttle....a real Hammond doesn't just get louder [ I'm sure you know:) ]....but fatter...thicker....just pure POWER!...Everyone should try one!
Hmmmm close but no cigar! Keyboard player for more years than I care to admit [have '59 A100] and the XK 3 is nowhere near a decent Hammond sound!! No soul..no guts...no power..anyone that's really flown a Big Hammond on stage with afterburners on will know what I'm saying! :-) typical digital poo..Ok for a studio when the organ sound is lost in the mix but hopeless live..a bit like driving a Suzuki instead of a Ferrari!
Big Hammond = BREATH TAKING...XK3 sound the same? Don't hold yr breath!
@davidjohan99 I've played all over the world. Many times the backline Hammonds have very little juice behind them. Just two days ago I played the house organ at BB Kings in Orlando and the busbars were so bad on the top manual, I couldn't use it at all. I had to do everything on the lower manual. In those situations, I'd much rather have the XK3. I know what I'm getting every time. Sure, a perfectly maintained B3 and two Leslies is preferrable, but that's an anomaly out here on the road.
Ive commented before great video love watching it. I am in a bit of a spot. I am having trouble selling my concord hammond Id love to take the money from that to get this. Do you know or anyone where I can sell it or how I live in Ohio. Thank you
By the way, if anyone is interested I have an additional Hammond xk3 that I would be willing to let go of. Great condition, as if I just bought it from the store. And I'm looking forward to a nice video of a break down in changing the tonewheels, and editing, just as in the video you explained that could be done. I'm factory right now and would love to break free!!!
As fast if a response as possible from Root Doctor player, or anyone that knows; How would you, in detail change the tone wheels as explained you could in this video? I managed to change the key click and it's already a world of difference, but I want the chance to edit those tone wheels. I have a xk3 just as in the video. And by the way, brother , I'm gonna call u brother cause if you play that good ole Hammond, you are my brother or sister in any case. You have some really nice runs that you
I think I might be getting this keyboard when I trade in the concord. Hope you had a great holiday season. Does this have overdrive and would you be able to do a quick video of it? Thank you
Honestly, the difference so microscopic. Comparing the differences between these two wonderful instruments is splitting hairs. The difference is in the player.
Is easy (in a relative way) to get an XK3? Or I have to sell by balls to get one? And also if I want to learn to play this is, if I start with a synthetizer or a piano, will I be prepared.
I am from Colombia and I am 14 years old. I will appreciate an answer.
@Magnificent881 I don't know how easy it is to obtain an XK3 in Columbia. Here in the USA, they are easy to come by. You could try to get an XK1. They are less expensive but sound great.
As for how to play like that, it begins and ends with Jimmy Smith. :)
@b3groover Hi how are you hope you had a good Christmas. Can you edit the XK1? I found a video on here its called XK3 Hack can you do that with the xk1 Thank you
Hello was wondering if you could play a full song on the xk3 for another video? I am trying to learn to play booker t green onions if you could do that I would appricate it.
Can you explain the mic technique with the MXL's? It looks like you have one pointing to the left side of the Leslie and the other pointing to the back of that mic. Is this an optical illusion or just a technique I don't know? thanks.
@TheNorthernSoulKing You will never get a B3 sound from the concorde its transistor but it can sound good but it has its own sound and its not bad but its not a B3 but it still sounds good.
@Denvermorgan2000 I got cheated liers just wanted to make a quick buck I didnt know much about Hammonds thinking the one I have would be the B3 now I know. Soon as I learn to play it I am getting a B3.
@TheNorthernSoulKing Dont feel bad i been there too i got cheated myself when i bought my first hammond clone i know how the sales men are they will say anything to make a sale.
@Denvermorgan2000 Did you learn by yourself? The people the sold me the organ are also teachers but they are not very good. Where would I go to find one? Do churches still use organs?
@TheNorthernSoulKing I been playing since i was a child if you want to get good sounding organ you could get an hammond xk3c or check around you can find vintage organs like the A100 or C3 they are internally identical to the B3 and can be had much cheaper ebay usaully has some posted also check craigslist
but just be careful if you buy online many churches still use organs by the way all the ones i attend have them.
@Denvermorgan2000 Thank you for being very helpful. You know of a place that has better teachers or is it better for me to learn on my own? I love jazz funk and rock music and Id like to learn those types of songs. I have no musical background. Once I learn a few songs I will sell the concord and get a B3 or clone model.
very very close to the b3 i think the xk3c got it as close as i have heard so far but very very very good job in the comparisons of the 2 instruments:)
i'm thinking about getting one of the XK3's I may find a used XK3, if so i'll need your setting emailed to me. If not i'll probably save up and get the XK3c which you said already has most of the setttings fixed. My email is funkymotifteacher@yahoo.com.
Hi Jim Thanks for a great, well thought out review here. Just got my Xk3 on the way. Here is a question for you. Please can I have a recomendation form you for the best type of stage amp to play and gig the XK3 / XLk3 through ? I will be using it through the Leslie Sim the vent. What works the best with these ? Thanks
Love your playing and thanks for sharing your knowledge. I have both a 1959 B3 with a pair of hot roded 251's and just got the XK3-C...and a Leslie 3300 will your set work with the XK3-C? If so how can I get a copy?
Really enjoyed the video and the comparisons between the B3 and XK3. I have a 1955 B3 and 122RV at home which I greatly enjoy. I am gigging with a Korg BX3 and use a Leslie 21 and I am considering moving onto an XK3 to save weight and bulk. You have put forward a really convincing argument for the XK3, thanks.
@romill1 You're welcome! If you decide to go with the Hammond, get the newer XK3c. The onboard Leslie sim is much improved and sounds really good. You can use it without a real Leslie and it still sounds great, something that you cannot do with the original XK3, unfortunately. It either needs a real Leslie or a Leslie simulator like the Neo Instruments Ventilator.
WOAH man...you are GOOD at matching sounds on those beasts!!! (Jeez, with your eyes closed you just can't tell which is which...)
I want one, but I'm skint...hey - I'm starting to get into bands with organs in them, not checked out your stuff yet but I'm kind of into garage-indie (Strokes, Rocket Science...) - could you recommend me one of your recordings to check out?
My mother had a B-3 {Church model) With the big cabinet and tall leslie.. I Have never seen another.. I've got my heart set on getting another. I almost bought one in a music store in maryland for a hundred bucks. The guy didnt know how to Start the thing and thought it was broke What am I looking at price wise for the XK3?
okay i am a kid [i played for the church since i was 1] and my b3 sounds nothing like that. we get it serviced every month.AND THE ONLY WAY FOR THE B3 TO SOUND LIKE THAT IS BECAUSE OF HIS SETTINGS.Not becasue the sound alike the percusion had to be on when he recorded this .AND THIS IS NOT NEGATIVE JUST SAYING SO DO NOT BLOW MY INBOX UP.thanks and have a blessed day
Good Job Jim.... Just wondering out of curiosity how many B3's do you or have you owned in your life? and between the '58 vs. '74, which do you prefer?
@Segs79 Just saw this comment, sorry. I've owned three B3s in my life including the two you mention and a '56. I won't lie: The 50's B3s are the best. They have THAT tone, the one everyone wants. That said, the '74 I have sounds really good. It's just more "modern" and clean sounding.
I'm a Hammond dealer (and a repair technician) and I've been playing for 50 years - since I was 12. One thing I can tell you folks for dead sure is that cats who have spent lots of time on the "real thing" are much better at achieving killer tone with an XK3 (or 3-c) than synth players or pianists. It's also *vital* to have an excellent sound system to play it through, or a real Leslie. I prefer the 3 over the 3c because the newer organ uses a different waveform for the percussion - way too hot.
When I owned an XK-3 a few years back, I didn't like the way the preset keys worked. When you change presets during a sustained chord, the sound is killed. That definitely isn't like a real Hammond, where changing presets during a sustained chord is a fairly common technique.
@bionerdz I'll tell you what's up with that (explanation for everyone): If you have a different set of wheels selected on the destination preset than on the current one, the sound engine hiccups when shifting between the two sets. For instance, current preset using "MELLOW" and destination preset using "REAL B3" wheels. If you make it a rule to use the same wheelset for each bank, the transition between presets will be seamless - just like the real thing. No mention of this in the manual.
Thanks for posting this though Jim -- good job. The only thing I would do to improve this would be to sustain a few chords with the chorus vibrato on. As the former owner of an XK-3, I will confirm what others have said about the C3 chorus. It isn't even close to any real Hammond I've ever played, new or old. This was the main reason I sold mine.
Thanks Jim for this very usefull and good review. It helped me a lot in making the correct choice, being a rather purist for the B3. And yeah, the Xk3c sounds just like the B3, especially if hooked up to a real leslie. In my case a HL822: it works perfectly together. But even without a real leslie, it remains good and convincing. Yeah, I like it. Rudy
1958 hammond to a updated xkb give props it was made in 1958 and the xkb has updated systems to make it sound like a unit from 58 they did not have that then and it sounded great now give props to the old school remember you want new school to sound like old school
Jim, thank you for taking the time and effort to do the XK3/B3 comparison. I have a C3 that unfortunately was dropped a little over 4 years ago and I haven't started it ever since. I did buy the Hammond XM-2 with the XMC-2 controller a couple years back. I was wondering if some of your patches with the edits you made to your XK-3 would be compatible with the XM-2 and if so if you would be willing to share. I haven't been quite happy with the XM-2 as it is out of the box. Thank you so much.
@DuckFarmStudios Sorry no, the file is only compatible with the XK3. It's not even compatible with the new XK3c. The XM2 is nice. I have one, too. It sounds REALLY good through the Neo Instruments Ventilator.
I recently bought a new XK3c and run that through my trusty, stock, Proline 330 Leslie bought new in 1976, a winning combination. Just finished recording a LIVE session in the studio with my blues band and I just can't say enough about it. I am using the B3 voice with the most xtalk and noise it can make. Wonderful. Did a customized keyclick that is NOT overdone. The comment about the chorus vibrato is a bit 'harsh' in my opinion.. A blindfold test for OHOrgan is in order (O:
@gsmith160 I agree it would be nice to get some of these people who are against the xk3c and give em the blind fold test and just see if they really can pick out the xk3c or not i suspect they wont be able to tell.
@Denvermorgan2000 You are are more than invited to make a blind fold test. This is too easy (even when comparing only the sound without the chorus). Please don't get me wrong. I OWN and love the XK3c, I don't have nord or any of the other clone. This is (except for the New B3 MkII) the best clone overall. But like on any of the vintage hammonds I've played on or listened to on a recordings (including my restored 1957 C3), the chorus is a totally different effect...
Great Video! Can you send me the link to the downloadable CUSTOM TONE WHEEL setting? Will that take care of the bright key click sound that (in my opinion) is too loud? Thanks!
Hello Jim, thank you very much for the really impressive demonstration and comparsion. Would you please send me the link to download the CUSTOM TONE WHEELS. thanks a lot in advance. regard Bernd
Jim: If you get time, please e-mail me at: bpnorman@comcast.net. Interested in some of these patches / mods you were talking about. Let me know, too, when you're back in the Flint area. Thanks, Brad
Jim: I was going to send Don Korth your comparison video of the German-built stomp box (Leslie simulator - name fails me, now), but after seeing this, I think I'll send this one as well. Just bought the Leslie 2101 mk-2 and love it. You may remember I also bought the XK-3. Am interested in the patches you were mentioning, if you have the time. My e-address is: bpnorman@comcast.net Hope to see you in the Flint area soon. Brad
Jim: I was going to send Don Korth your comparison video of the German-built stomp box (Leslie simulator - name fails me, now), but after seeing this, I think I'll send this one as well. Just bought the Leslie 2101 mk-2 and love it. You may remember I also bought the XK-3. Am interested in the patches you were mentioning, if you have the time. My e-address is: bpnorman@comcast.net Hope to see you in the Flint area soon. Brad
Jim...nice video. I was going to send Don Korth your comparison video of the German-built stomp box (Leslie simulator - name fails me, now), but I'll send this one, too. Just bought the Leslie 2101 mk-2, and love it (as you may remember, I also bought the XK-3). Am interested in the patches you were talking about. My e-address is: bpnorman@comcast.net Hope to see you around the Flint area, soon. Brad
would you know what settings stevie hill had on his b3 in the group bloodrock. i just think that the b3 he played was just awsome. could that sound be emulated on a xk-1. thx in advance.
You mention in your video that the reverse color keys on the XK-3c CAN send midi data to a module, but another YT video claims this is not possible. If these keys can send MIDI data, how do you enable this feature?
Also, another video shows how to unlock eight additional onboard sounds including Rhodes, vibes, and synths, but it requires a special reboot procedure to access them. Is there any way to save the Rhodes sound as a preset so it's accessible during normal operation? THNX!
The thing is, every Hammond B3 sounds different! Do to what shift they were made or what year There is no such thing as the perfect sounding Hammond or Hammond clone. You just have to fined the one, that has the sound you have always been looking for:) Mine is a 1964 A100 that kicks the shit out of my old 1959 B3. I traded it for the A100. I have a Roland VR 760 that I like better than the Nords or even the new Roland VR700. I l Do Like the new Hammond xk3c. I would like to try the new KeyB
Seems like this guy figured out what to do to get more out of the XK3. To my admittedly untrained ears, there's only the slightest difference between the two. The stock B3 doesn't seem to have the "brightness" present in the tones produced on the XK3, but they're so close that I could easily be thinking that they're identical if he wasn't explaining it.
Thank you for this tutorial. I've decided now to sell my Hammond A100 and get a XK3c. My a100 sits in my garage unused, because it is too wide to fit into any of the doors my house.
Jim did get a real close single note tone out of the XK3 compared to his B3. He's right not every TG sounds the same. At least he had something good for which to compare. The XK3 did not sound as full as the B3, had less bottom end on each note. Perhaps that can be adjusted. As he said.."close."
To add to this, I just realized Jim uses the same mics on his leslie as I do. 603's on top and a 2001 large diaphragm on the bottom. Synchronicity! Come to find out recently during a backline session, the MXL microphones even stock is being used by pro FOH guys. Gordon Mack used the stock 603 on leslie top for John Legend's keyboardist as well as for drum overheads. Not bad for a free two-fer from Musician's Friend some years back.
I watched this video several times. You are a great player. I own a 1957 C3 and XK3c. As I commented a few weeks ago, the chorus on the XK is not there, period. But it is clear from this vided (which is great) that the B3 is responding to your hand - what and how you play. You will play it 10 times, and it will sound different every time. The XK is synthetic and doesn't respond to your feel, this is the soul that so many people say the XK lacks.
The same problem with clones vs. the real thing. Triggering! Your fingers on the XK look like they're having a harder time playing the same licks you can play on the B3. Another thing is the XK sounds out of tune in some chord clusters. The digital B3 is a clone of the TG B3 and even the digital B3 suffers from the same triggering problems. Hammond has strayed from its original TG sound and key feel. Close, but coming from Hammond it should be spot on, not just "close."
@dragongoff I've never noticed any tuning problems with the XK and I tune pianos professionally. Concerning triggering, it might be because the XK3 is on top of the B3 and that makes for a rather uncomfortable reach.
That said, the XK3 is certainly different than a real B3 in terms of triggering. It is much faster. That takes some time to get used to.
@b3groover I've seen the same story with many clone players. Joey D playing his variety of clones reacts the same way even with him sitting properly at the board. You could hear the out of tune harmonics within the chords Jim was playing in this clip. Piano harmonics are brief compared to an organ's which linger and bang up against eachother at some point. Another issue is the XK3 does not have a B3's 9-stack and yes it triggers "faster" but only because it's not really behaving like a true TG.
@dragongoff And a digital piano won't behave like an acoustic piano. We make compromises since it is not practical for most of us to use "real" instruments on stage. Re: tuning - I'd like to know how you determined the harmonics are out of tune when it's going through a Leslie, which changes both the amplitude and the frequency of the signal every time it spins. Piano harmonics are not brief, they just require a well-trained ear due to inharmonicity. The organ is in tune.
@b3groover@b3groover I understand the portability issue. No one mentioned a digital piano. You tune acoustic pianos? What I meant by brief is that the ADSR on a piano's sound dies quickly while an organ's is steady so the harmonics have more time to overlap. Playing a real B3 for a long time and if you can hear when harmonics lock or beat you can hear when an organ is out of tune within itself. Fine doing one note solos but not playing certain chords.
@dragongoff It is a fact that the Hammond tonewheel organs are not tuned in equal temperament, which is the standard tuning for all keyboard instruments. So, if you put a Hammond B3 next to a precisely tuned concert grand piano, the B3 will be "out of tune".
It is possible that Hammond-Suzuki "fixed" this with the XK series. I'd have to check to see if it's true. If so, they should let the user tune each note.
@b3groover When using a real B3 you must tune to the organ. The piano must be tuned to that B3 as well. Easier to you use a digital piano where you can pitch it to the organ. On a guitar, all the open strings are in tune but then play chords up & down the neck and you have to retune if possible for the song more so if the guitar is made to sustain under distortion. Granted being able to tune a clone is nice but as with guitar, is it in tune with itself is the issue, & not being A-440 precise.
There is one problem, Youtube greatly reduces the sound quality of anything uploaded to a point where it all sounds average... The XK3 and XK3c sound like the tone wheel Hammond they sampled which is the one they have in the factory at Addison Illinois. There were so many variances in the way a Hammond sounded over the years because of the slight differences in the tone wheels, filtering on the tone generator and quality of the electronics in the preamplifier.
@Xerox6085I Hammond-Suzuki bares the name "Hammond" therefore it is not a clone, it's a REAL Hammond with state of the art technology. The original Hammond company went bankrupt partially due to it's inability to keep up with it's competitors.
hi jim you play great man keep up the funky thing can you please tell me some good organ players to start with cause im new to this music(from all the eras)
Hi Jim, for me, one of the biggest problems with the sound of the new XK-3/XK-3c is the poor chorus/vibrato. I tried tweaking it (3c) and there is no way it sounds even close. What do you think about it?
@originalhammonorgan It depends on what organ you're comparing it to. The sound of the Hammond chorus changed over the years. The chorus in my 1974 B3 sounds radically different than the chorus in my 1958 B3. The 1974 sounds more like the XK3. The XK3 certainly isn't perfect, but I don't think anything ever will be, since we all have our own idea of what the perfect B3 sounds like.
@b3groover You are right, they are all sounds different, the XK CAN be in a different league only if the guys in the Hammond-Suzuki will provide a simple parameter which sets the balance between the vibrato and source signals.
@originalhammonorgan Agreed. I wish HamSuz would listen a bit more to folks like you and I. There are several small changes they could make that would give the user more control over the sound.
@originalhammonorgan I agree that the XK3c needs a parameter for the chorus effect to adjust what would be the mix between the direct and vibrato signals in an old B3 (the effects on the XK3c are created digitally). After experimenting with the parameters on my XK3c, I found the defaults to be about right, but the chorus still sounds slightly too intense to me. When I asked Hammond Suzuki about this, they said that they "hope the chorus effect will be improved in the future."
@ozmusicman88 Half way done, Hammond Suzuki knows that the chorus is not perfect, I guess someone is working on it now... :). Compared to the old consoles, the chorus at first sounds very similar, on a direct A/B comparison the difference is clear. A good way to understand how much it's different is to compare the V3 on both the XK and the console. The vibrato on the vintage console is very deep and rich (pitch and amplitude), and on the XK it sounds flat and dull (on any settings).
Question: you said you are through a 122, right? I have a 122, and it's not an 11-pin. from what I know, the XK is 11 pin. Is it a "universal" sort of an 11-pin thingie, or what?
@ForestCinema No, you would need a device that converts the 11pin output of the XK3 to a 122-style 6pin output. I use the 1122 kit from Hammond Suzuki.
@aztecastuprovideos I never really cared for the B4, both the original version and II. But I heard a recording the other day, just guitar, drums, and "organ" where the player was using the B4 II and it sounded really good.
Again, for me it's all about control. I need real drawbars.
I'm a Hammond/Leslie tech as well as a player, and I can fully understand your preference for the more Hammond-style controls on the XK3. However, I still think the best digital copy out there at present soundwise is the Nord C1/C2. I wonder if there are patent issues involved in the lack of physical drawbars on the Nord.
@southerner66: Why would that be? Patents run out after 20 years, so the drawbar patent was already done for in 1954. There are dozens of organs with real drawbars.
I think they did it so that the drawbars can take over stored presets, and the drawbars therefore always have the setting you are hearing at the moment. Physical ones can't do that.
@MVanthoor Regardless of why they did it, that's the major sticking point with me and the Nords. If you ever see my play, you'll see me constantly grabbing and messing with the drawbars. Little buttons just don't cut it.
@b3groover Agreed. I like the Nord's sound. I really do. It's price is right too.
I don't even consider a Nord because it hasn't got real drawbars and I really dislike the layout and red color. Put a decent layout on that organ (drabwars, an LCD and large buttons) and finish it in glossy black, create a nice stand for it, and you have an XK-3C killer with that price.
Hey, Some smokin riffs you've got there. I have my self an XK-3c and I love it! The difference i find between Vintage B3's and the new ones is that the old B's are more scratchy in their sound because of the physical tone wheels and the new ones are of course digital.
@alvin01 I've had a korg cx3 for about 2 yrs. At first, I loved it , but I realized that the xk's are much more better and decided to sell it. I don't know what to say about the nord. It may sound very close to the b3, but I would'n buy that because of the lack of feel (no drawbars, digital controls...)
I have played the XK-3 (non-modified), the "new b-3" and the Nord C2. Personally, I like the sound and feel of the C2 better than hammond's clones, to me it sounds and feels more like an original hammond, HOWEVER the cabinet and controls are quite unattractive imo, as where the XK-3 has a much nicer look. (btw im a church/cogic organist) thanks for the video!
@apostolicholinessguy Yup. The biggest porblem I have with Hammond is that they really only cater to the Jazz settings. The higher drawbars aren't as good. They have gotten better, but not as close as Nord. Also, the Chorus and Vibrato don't work well with the Leslie. It's like one or the other, but not both.
@TheMadMusicMan Chorus and vibrato sound good if you tweak them. When I first connected the XK3 to my 122 the chorus didn't sound right. I played with the speed settings until I found one that sounded best. When I started using the 3300 with the XK3, I had to adjust the chorus again.
Hello Jim: Great You Tube video!!. Checked out your other videos and really enjoyed your playing! Nice to hear a "young guy" play they way the hammond organ was make to be played in a group setting.
Great job on the FAIR comparison. Although, as you say, NOT perfect...it's close enough to gig with in a live situation and save your roadies' backs...500 lbs is a LOT of difference.
The Leslie 122 I'm sure makes a huge difference in making the two sound alike.
To whomever wanted to know about my opinion concerning the digital Leslie vs real Leslie in a recording situation... I apologize. I accidentally removed your comment when I meant to hit reply.
Anyway, a real Leslie trumps a digital simulation in any circumstance I can think of, including recording. Of course if you don't have a real Leslie, use what you have and do your best! :)
I still hear a 'digitalness' in your XK3 and it lacks the dephts and richness of the B3. But trough the vintage Leslie it sounds acceptable indeed. The Nord C1/C2/Electro3 still sound much better if played with Leslie simulation only. The XK3/XK3c leslie simulator sucks.
@tomkittelkey The Leslie sim in the XK3 is bad. I mention that in the video. However, the one in the XK3c is quite good. As good or better than the Nord.
I own a 50 year old Hammond C-3 that looks like it's still on the show-room floor. Every service person has offered to buy it from me. The unfortunate truth is that today, 99.9% of all individuals listening to your comparison have no ability to discern the difference between the instruments you showcase. Only true professionals can ascertain that quality: today's tone-deaf guitar hero audience doesn't care and has no desire to understand true quality. Knightsix
This might interest more viewers than just me: how did you achieve Hammond/Leslie growl at such a low volume?? I cranked up the preamp gain on my A102, but get no noticable growl.
@Carmel2505 Just saw your comment, sorry. The growl is due to the XK3 slightly overdriving the Leslie input. The XK3 has a very hot output. In order to get both the XK3 and the B3 through the Leslie at the same time, I had a direct line from the B3 running into the "return" jack of the XK3, so both the B3 and the XK3 are going into the Leslie with a hot signal.
Dear Jim Alfredson, I have a question? Hammond artist as well as players of genres such as Gospel, Rock, Pop, R&B , Soul and hip hop have been using the new Hammond XH-272 and is beggining to get some praise for its capability for reporducing the original tonewheel organ. I would like to since you are a representative of hammond, if you would play a demonstration of the Xh-272 organ with hammond showing the organ flutes being played.
Many people say that its better than that B-3 and XK-3
I have no experience with that model. If I run across one I'll let you know. I am a Hammond endorsed artist but that doesn't mean I get to play all their cool products! :)
@b3groover You won't find a new XH-272. It seems RoyalOrgans is spamming about this model all over YouTube.
The XH-272 and others in it's line are not new. They are from 1998, and use the same hardware and software as the XM-1 drawbar module from 1997. These organs went out of production in late 2006, and are only on Hammond's site because some will be in warranty till 2011 / 2012.
I know, because I owned the XM-1, and now the XH-200. (XH-200 = European version of XH-272, different cabinet.)
@b3groover I don't know. Search for Hammond stuff on YouTube, and you'll see him always mentioning XH-272. I just wanted to say that the XH-272 Elegante is far from new.
The leaflet says: "Faithfully captures the B3 sound", but that's just not true. When put through a Leslie, and even on their own speakers with Leslie sim, the XH-272 has an instantly recognizable Hammond drawbar sound, but it doesn't sound like a B3. It has no need to either IMHO, because it -isn't- a B3.
Best comparison ever! Our organ usage is nowhere near the killer sounds you incorporate, so it's overkill to us... for now... but man did I ever love listening to you play. Off to listen to more of your stuff now!
Very helpful video and, good goobley-goop can you play! Thanks, Jim.
theantiantihero 2 weeks ago
@b3groover ha ha yup ...you maybe right there...I've played a few wrecks myself...that's why I always try to use my own.....well in the UK at least!...the thing about all the digital Hammonds is not just the rather bland "oh here I am don't I sound like a real Hammond" sounds.....but the total lack of swell when you open the throttle....a real Hammond doesn't just get louder [ I'm sure you know:) ]....but fatter...thicker....just pure POWER!...Everyone should try one!
davidjohan99 2 weeks ago
@davidjohan99 The XK3 and XK3c can do that. The trick is to use a real Leslie.
b3groover 2 weeks ago
Hmmmm close but no cigar! Keyboard player for more years than I care to admit [have '59 A100] and the XK 3 is nowhere near a decent Hammond sound!! No soul..no guts...no power..anyone that's really flown a Big Hammond on stage with afterburners on will know what I'm saying! :-) typical digital poo..Ok for a studio when the organ sound is lost in the mix but hopeless live..a bit like driving a Suzuki instead of a Ferrari!
Big Hammond = BREATH TAKING...XK3 sound the same? Don't hold yr breath!
davidjohan99 2 weeks ago
@davidjohan99 I've played all over the world. Many times the backline Hammonds have very little juice behind them. Just two days ago I played the house organ at BB Kings in Orlando and the busbars were so bad on the top manual, I couldn't use it at all. I had to do everything on the lower manual. In those situations, I'd much rather have the XK3. I know what I'm getting every time. Sure, a perfectly maintained B3 and two Leslies is preferrable, but that's an anomaly out here on the road.
b3groover 2 weeks ago
Ive commented before great video love watching it. I am in a bit of a spot. I am having trouble selling my concord hammond Id love to take the money from that to get this. Do you know or anyone where I can sell it or how I live in Ohio. Thank you
TheNorthernSoulKing 3 weeks ago
Great Demo Moe!! Just what I needed to see.
pswcne 4 weeks ago
How do I describe the wonderful B3 organ sounds Ian Maclagan was able to produce for Rod Stewart and the faces in the early 70's?
PhilipK100 1 month ago
Are the caps on your B3 TWG and chorus line original?
sfpratt1954 1 month ago
By the way, if anyone is interested I have an additional Hammond xk3 that I would be willing to let go of. Great condition, as if I just bought it from the store. And I'm looking forward to a nice video of a break down in changing the tonewheels, and editing, just as in the video you explained that could be done. I'm factory right now and would love to break free!!!
protools3076 1 month ago
As fast if a response as possible from Root Doctor player, or anyone that knows; How would you, in detail change the tone wheels as explained you could in this video? I managed to change the key click and it's already a world of difference, but I want the chance to edit those tone wheels. I have a xk3 just as in the video. And by the way, brother , I'm gonna call u brother cause if you play that good ole Hammond, you are my brother or sister in any case. You have some really nice runs that you
protools3076 1 month ago
I think I might be getting this keyboard when I trade in the concord. Hope you had a great holiday season. Does this have overdrive and would you be able to do a quick video of it? Thank you
TheNorthernSoulKing 2 months ago
Honestly, the difference so microscopic. Comparing the differences between these two wonderful instruments is splitting hairs. The difference is in the player.
funkphenomena1 3 months ago
Is easy (in a relative way) to get an XK3? Or I have to sell by balls to get one? And also if I want to learn to play this is, if I start with a synthetizer or a piano, will I be prepared.
I am from Colombia and I am 14 years old. I will appreciate an answer.
Magnificent881 3 months ago
@Magnificent881 I don't know how easy it is to obtain an XK3 in Columbia. Here in the USA, they are easy to come by. You could try to get an XK1. They are less expensive but sound great.
As for how to play like that, it begins and ends with Jimmy Smith. :)
b3groover 3 months ago
@b3groover Hi how are you hope you had a good Christmas. Can you edit the XK1? I found a video on here its called XK3 Hack can you do that with the xk1 Thank you
TheNorthernSoulKing 2 months ago
Hello was wondering if you could play a full song on the xk3 for another video? I am trying to learn to play booker t green onions if you could do that I would appricate it.
thank you
TheNorthernSoulKing 5 months ago
Can you explain the mic technique with the MXL's? It looks like you have one pointing to the left side of the Leslie and the other pointing to the back of that mic. Is this an optical illusion or just a technique I don't know? thanks.
togglescratch 6 months ago
@togglescratch They are in a X/Y configuration.
b3groover 6 months ago
@b3groover usually in an XY, I try to make the mics coincidental. this setup just looks a little haphazard, I guess.
togglescratch 6 months ago
@b3groover Hello I have a Hammond Concord and have been trying to get the B3 sound from the Concord and have not gotten it. Is this the wrong organ?
TheNorthernSoulKing 6 months ago
@TheNorthernSoulKing You will never get a B3 sound from the concorde its transistor but it can sound good but it has its own sound and its not bad but its not a B3 but it still sounds good.
Denvermorgan2000 5 months ago
@Denvermorgan2000 What if I hook up a Lesiley to it? The company the sold it to me said that it can get the B3 sound should have gone with this one
TheNorthernSoulKing 5 months ago
@TheNorthernSoulKing Im sure you can hook up a leslie to it and it would sound good
the thing to remember is this is not a tonewheel organ its transistor so its going to have a
different sound the only way to get the real b3 sound is to get a B3 or A100 ect that have tone wheel generators in them or a modern clone.
Denvermorgan2000 5 months ago
@Denvermorgan2000 I got cheated liers just wanted to make a quick buck I didnt know much about Hammonds thinking the one I have would be the B3 now I know. Soon as I learn to play it I am getting a B3.
TheNorthernSoulKing 5 months ago
@TheNorthernSoulKing Dont feel bad i been there too i got cheated myself when i bought my first hammond clone i know how the sales men are they will say anything to make a sale.
Denvermorgan2000 5 months ago
@Denvermorgan2000 Did you learn by yourself? The people the sold me the organ are also teachers but they are not very good. Where would I go to find one? Do churches still use organs?
TheNorthernSoulKing 5 months ago
@TheNorthernSoulKing I been playing since i was a child if you want to get good sounding organ you could get an hammond xk3c or check around you can find vintage organs like the A100 or C3 they are internally identical to the B3 and can be had much cheaper ebay usaully has some posted also check craigslist
but just be careful if you buy online many churches still use organs by the way all the ones i attend have them.
Denvermorgan2000 5 months ago
@Denvermorgan2000 Thank you for being very helpful. You know of a place that has better teachers or is it better for me to learn on my own? I love jazz funk and rock music and Id like to learn those types of songs. I have no musical background. Once I learn a few songs I will sell the concord and get a B3 or clone model.
TheNorthernSoulKing 5 months ago
Excellent comparison, thanks
luvchoclabs 6 months ago
very very close to the b3 i think the xk3c got it as close as i have heard so far but very very very good job in the comparisons of the 2 instruments:)
crazykeyscj34 8 months ago
i'm thinking about getting one of the XK3's I may find a used XK3, if so i'll need your setting emailed to me. If not i'll probably save up and get the XK3c which you said already has most of the setttings fixed. My email is funkymotifteacher@yahoo.com.
Thanks for a Wonderful comparison.
fbarbin1 8 months ago
awesome review! I'm loving that left hand during the demo at the end of the video man! Damn I love that , what are you doing there?
GrewalMichael 8 months ago
I play this organ Xk3,too.
my name is SUZUKI,too.
please show me!!!! from japan.
ysuzuki1773 8 months ago
really good playing !
lukuntri 9 months ago
Someone please help me, My xk3c is too muddy and bassy. I need a simple solution since I am gizmo challenged. Thanks....Craig
MrCraigDNelson 9 months ago
Hi Jim Thanks for a great, well thought out review here. Just got my Xk3 on the way. Here is a question for you. Please can I have a recomendation form you for the best type of stage amp to play and gig the XK3 / XLk3 through ? I will be using it through the Leslie Sim the vent. What works the best with these ? Thanks
marinemanagements 10 months ago
the real B sounds much better, even thru the laptop speakers. nice demo, great player.
rockizoid 10 months ago
Great demo and great playing! Can we hear some songs? FF
FrancisFurtak 10 months ago
The B3 wins.
angie4josh 11 months ago
Hammond is watching you Jim, Hammond is watching...MUAHAHAHAHAHA!
angie4josh 11 months ago
Jim
Love your playing and thanks for sharing your knowledge. I have both a 1959 B3 with a pair of hot roded 251's and just got the XK3-C...and a Leslie 3300 will your set work with the XK3-C? If so how can I get a copy?
Cheers
Al
bluzplayer1 11 months ago
@bluzplayer1 Someone converted my tonewheel set for the XK3c on the Yahoo Users Group Hammond_XK3 group. You can download it there.
b3groover 11 months ago
can you email me the settings thanks
chootrian 11 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Hello you are a great player I have a concord and was wondering what drawbarsettings are used for Booker T and Jimmy Smith style? Thank you
TheNorthernSoulKing 11 months ago
tonewheels rulz
tuqui1502 1 year ago
Really enjoyed the video and the comparisons between the B3 and XK3. I have a 1955 B3 and 122RV at home which I greatly enjoy. I am gigging with a Korg BX3 and use a Leslie 21 and I am considering moving onto an XK3 to save weight and bulk. You have put forward a really convincing argument for the XK3, thanks.
romill1 1 year ago
@romill1 You're welcome! If you decide to go with the Hammond, get the newer XK3c. The onboard Leslie sim is much improved and sounds really good. You can use it without a real Leslie and it still sounds great, something that you cannot do with the original XK3, unfortunately. It either needs a real Leslie or a Leslie simulator like the Neo Instruments Ventilator.
b3groover 1 year ago
Will your tonewheel set work on trhe xk1
musmin7 1 year ago
@musmin7 No, unfortunately.
b3groover 1 year ago
WOAH man...you are GOOD at matching sounds on those beasts!!! (Jeez, with your eyes closed you just can't tell which is which...)
I want one, but I'm skint...hey - I'm starting to get into bands with organs in them, not checked out your stuff yet but I'm kind of into garage-indie (Strokes, Rocket Science...) - could you recommend me one of your recordings to check out?
addylewis 1 year ago
@addylewis Check out our latest, Alive & Kickin'. It's pretty funky. :)
b3groover 1 year ago
@addylewis The latest organissimo, Alive & Kickin', is my favorite. Lots of funky goodness on there. It's on Amazon, CDBaby, iTunes, etc.
b3groover 1 year ago
thanks for the video! how do we download your tonewheel??? tubatj@aol.com if you are sending an email, I would be most pleased!
ariserootstv 1 year ago
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ariserootstv 1 year ago
My mother had a B-3 {Church model) With the big cabinet and tall leslie.. I Have never seen another.. I've got my heart set on getting another. I almost bought one in a music store in maryland for a hundred bucks. The guy didnt know how to Start the thing and thought it was broke What am I looking at price wise for the XK3?
izzynutz2000 1 year ago
I got your 1958 B3 Tonewheel set in my Xk3. Amazing Thank you
Gruntos 1 year ago
I got you 1958 B3 Tonewheel set in my Xk3. Amazing Thank you
Gruntos 1 year ago
Excellent, EXCELLENT comparison video.
theironfreak 1 year ago
okay i am a kid [i played for the church since i was 1] and my b3 sounds nothing like that. we get it serviced every month.AND THE ONLY WAY FOR THE B3 TO SOUND LIKE THAT IS BECAUSE OF HIS SETTINGS.Not becasue the sound alike the percusion had to be on when he recorded this .AND THIS IS NOT NEGATIVE JUST SAYING SO DO NOT BLOW MY INBOX UP.thanks and have a blessed day
dayday303 1 year ago
Dziękuję ! Thank You !
prohammond 1 year ago
Good Job Jim.... Just wondering out of curiosity how many B3's do you or have you owned in your life? and between the '58 vs. '74, which do you prefer?
Segs79 1 year ago
@Segs79 Just saw this comment, sorry. I've owned three B3s in my life including the two you mention and a '56. I won't lie: The 50's B3s are the best. They have THAT tone, the one everyone wants. That said, the '74 I have sounds really good. It's just more "modern" and clean sounding.
b3groover 1 year ago
I'm a Hammond dealer (and a repair technician) and I've been playing for 50 years - since I was 12. One thing I can tell you folks for dead sure is that cats who have spent lots of time on the "real thing" are much better at achieving killer tone with an XK3 (or 3-c) than synth players or pianists. It's also *vital* to have an excellent sound system to play it through, or a real Leslie. I prefer the 3 over the 3c because the newer organ uses a different waveform for the percussion - way too hot.
LordValve 1 year ago
Is there a big difference between the xk-1 and the xk-3? ^^
Pianodrum95 1 year ago
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Segs79 1 year ago
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Segs79 1 year ago
When I owned an XK-3 a few years back, I didn't like the way the preset keys worked. When you change presets during a sustained chord, the sound is killed. That definitely isn't like a real Hammond, where changing presets during a sustained chord is a fairly common technique.
bionerdz 1 year ago
@bionerdz I'll tell you what's up with that (explanation for everyone): If you have a different set of wheels selected on the destination preset than on the current one, the sound engine hiccups when shifting between the two sets. For instance, current preset using "MELLOW" and destination preset using "REAL B3" wheels. If you make it a rule to use the same wheelset for each bank, the transition between presets will be seamless - just like the real thing. No mention of this in the manual.
LordValve 1 year ago
Thanks for posting this though Jim -- good job. The only thing I would do to improve this would be to sustain a few chords with the chorus vibrato on. As the former owner of an XK-3, I will confirm what others have said about the C3 chorus. It isn't even close to any real Hammond I've ever played, new or old. This was the main reason I sold mine.
bionerdz 1 year ago
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Segs79 1 year ago
Thanks Jim for this very usefull and good review. It helped me a lot in making the correct choice, being a rather purist for the B3. And yeah, the Xk3c sounds just like the B3, especially if hooked up to a real leslie. In my case a HL822: it works perfectly together. But even without a real leslie, it remains good and convincing. Yeah, I like it. Rudy
RudyVallaeys 1 year ago
1958 hammond to a updated xkb give props it was made in 1958 and the xkb has updated systems to make it sound like a unit from 58 they did not have that then and it sounded great now give props to the old school remember you want new school to sound like old school
juanron69 1 year ago
Jim, thank you for taking the time and effort to do the XK3/B3 comparison. I have a C3 that unfortunately was dropped a little over 4 years ago and I haven't started it ever since. I did buy the Hammond XM-2 with the XMC-2 controller a couple years back. I was wondering if some of your patches with the edits you made to your XK-3 would be compatible with the XM-2 and if so if you would be willing to share. I haven't been quite happy with the XM-2 as it is out of the box. Thank you so much.
DuckFarmStudios 1 year ago
@DuckFarmStudios Sorry no, the file is only compatible with the XK3. It's not even compatible with the new XK3c. The XM2 is nice. I have one, too. It sounds REALLY good through the Neo Instruments Ventilator.
b3groover 1 year ago
I recently bought a new XK3c and run that through my trusty, stock, Proline 330 Leslie bought new in 1976, a winning combination. Just finished recording a LIVE session in the studio with my blues band and I just can't say enough about it. I am using the B3 voice with the most xtalk and noise it can make. Wonderful. Did a customized keyclick that is NOT overdone. The comment about the chorus vibrato is a bit 'harsh' in my opinion.. A blindfold test for OHOrgan is in order (O:
gsmith160 1 year ago
@gsmith160 I agree it would be nice to get some of these people who are against the xk3c and give em the blind fold test and just see if they really can pick out the xk3c or not i suspect they wont be able to tell.
Denvermorgan2000 1 year ago
@Denvermorgan2000 You are are more than invited to make a blind fold test. This is too easy (even when comparing only the sound without the chorus). Please don't get me wrong. I OWN and love the XK3c, I don't have nord or any of the other clone. This is (except for the New B3 MkII) the best clone overall. But like on any of the vintage hammonds I've played on or listened to on a recordings (including my restored 1957 C3), the chorus is a totally different effect...
originalhammonorgan 1 year ago
Great Video! Can you send me the link to the downloadable CUSTOM TONE WHEEL setting? Will that take care of the bright key click sound that (in my opinion) is too loud? Thanks!
kturn5953 1 year ago
Hello Jim, thank you very much for the really impressive demonstration and comparsion. Would you please send me the link to download the CUSTOM TONE WHEELS. thanks a lot in advance. regard Bernd
bernd630119 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Jim: If you get time, please e-mail me at: bpnorman@comcast.net. Interested in some of these patches / mods you were talking about. Let me know, too, when you're back in the Flint area. Thanks, Brad
pianorman 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Jim: I was going to send Don Korth your comparison video of the German-built stomp box (Leslie simulator - name fails me, now), but after seeing this, I think I'll send this one as well. Just bought the Leslie 2101 mk-2 and love it. You may remember I also bought the XK-3. Am interested in the patches you were mentioning, if you have the time. My e-address is: bpnorman@comcast.net Hope to see you in the Flint area soon. Brad
pianorman 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Jim: I was going to send Don Korth your comparison video of the German-built stomp box (Leslie simulator - name fails me, now), but after seeing this, I think I'll send this one as well. Just bought the Leslie 2101 mk-2 and love it. You may remember I also bought the XK-3. Am interested in the patches you were mentioning, if you have the time. My e-address is: bpnorman@comcast.net Hope to see you in the Flint area soon. Brad
pianorman 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Jim...nice video. I was going to send Don Korth your comparison video of the German-built stomp box (Leslie simulator - name fails me, now), but I'll send this one, too. Just bought the Leslie 2101 mk-2, and love it (as you may remember, I also bought the XK-3). Am interested in the patches you were talking about. My e-address is: bpnorman@comcast.net Hope to see you around the Flint area, soon. Brad
pianorman 1 year ago
I'm not an organist, but it was a pleasure just listening to and watching your licks!
mightlife 1 year ago
would you know what settings stevie hill had on his b3 in the group bloodrock. i just think that the b3 he played was just awsome. could that sound be emulated on a xk-1. thx in advance.
dirkatuan 1 year ago
It looks, that the B3 sounds far better than any clone. Only the old Hammonds have the magic...
haduroboros 1 year ago
@haduroboros My XK3c sounds and plays more like my old B3 than anything else I could find, lift and afford.
ozmusicman88 1 year ago
@haduroboros "looks"
If you closed your eyes, you would know the difference.
antimarxism 10 months ago
@antimarxism I play Xk33c...
haduroboros 7 months ago
Hey Jim -
You mention in your video that the reverse color keys on the XK-3c CAN send midi data to a module, but another YT video claims this is not possible. If these keys can send MIDI data, how do you enable this feature?
Also, another video shows how to unlock eight additional onboard sounds including Rhodes, vibes, and synths, but it requires a special reboot procedure to access them. Is there any way to save the Rhodes sound as a preset so it's accessible during normal operation? THNX!
tommccaff 1 year ago
You said you were going to do very simple runs right? Haha great comparison video!
HeroineandtheHeroes 1 year ago
The thing is, every Hammond B3 sounds different! Do to what shift they were made or what year There is no such thing as the perfect sounding Hammond or Hammond clone. You just have to fined the one, that has the sound you have always been looking for:) Mine is a 1964 A100 that kicks the shit out of my old 1959 B3. I traded it for the A100. I have a Roland VR 760 that I like better than the Nords or even the new Roland VR700. I l Do Like the new Hammond xk3c. I would like to try the new KeyB
BoogieWoogieDuffBeer 1 year ago
Awesome demo man, very inspiriring...
also could you help me out.?
i just got a 63 L-102 and cant find a nice drawbar settings for the top and even the bottom that would sound good.
is there any drawbar settings that can get a sound remotely close to a b3?
thanks!
ItsEvan23 1 year ago
Seems like this guy figured out what to do to get more out of the XK3. To my admittedly untrained ears, there's only the slightest difference between the two. The stock B3 doesn't seem to have the "brightness" present in the tones produced on the XK3, but they're so close that I could easily be thinking that they're identical if he wasn't explaining it.
YusakuJon3 1 year ago
Thank you for this tutorial. I've decided now to sell my Hammond A100 and get a XK3c. My a100 sits in my garage unused, because it is too wide to fit into any of the doors my house.
RayManzarekGod 1 year ago
Jim did get a real close single note tone out of the XK3 compared to his B3. He's right not every TG sounds the same. At least he had something good for which to compare. The XK3 did not sound as full as the B3, had less bottom end on each note. Perhaps that can be adjusted. As he said.."close."
dragongoff 1 year ago
Love those MXL603 (btw same as MXL991 and MXL551). Just curious what is the small Peavey guitar amp for .
is it part of the signal chain in anyway ?
buenosaires4u 1 year ago
Just curious about if XK-3 settings (not XK-3c) are also usable for a XK-1 Hammond digital organ. Any tip is highly appreciated.
buenosaires4u 1 year ago
To add to this, I just realized Jim uses the same mics on his leslie as I do. 603's on top and a 2001 large diaphragm on the bottom. Synchronicity! Come to find out recently during a backline session, the MXL microphones even stock is being used by pro FOH guys. Gordon Mack used the stock 603 on leslie top for John Legend's keyboardist as well as for drum overheads. Not bad for a free two-fer from Musician's Friend some years back.
dragongoff 1 year ago
I watched this video several times. You are a great player. I own a 1957 C3 and XK3c. As I commented a few weeks ago, the chorus on the XK is not there, period. But it is clear from this vided (which is great) that the B3 is responding to your hand - what and how you play. You will play it 10 times, and it will sound different every time. The XK is synthetic and doesn't respond to your feel, this is the soul that so many people say the XK lacks.
originalhammonorgan 1 year ago
The same problem with clones vs. the real thing. Triggering! Your fingers on the XK look like they're having a harder time playing the same licks you can play on the B3. Another thing is the XK sounds out of tune in some chord clusters. The digital B3 is a clone of the TG B3 and even the digital B3 suffers from the same triggering problems. Hammond has strayed from its original TG sound and key feel. Close, but coming from Hammond it should be spot on, not just "close."
dragongoff 1 year ago
@dragongoff I've never noticed any tuning problems with the XK and I tune pianos professionally. Concerning triggering, it might be because the XK3 is on top of the B3 and that makes for a rather uncomfortable reach.
That said, the XK3 is certainly different than a real B3 in terms of triggering. It is much faster. That takes some time to get used to.
b3groover 1 year ago
@b3groover I've seen the same story with many clone players. Joey D playing his variety of clones reacts the same way even with him sitting properly at the board. You could hear the out of tune harmonics within the chords Jim was playing in this clip. Piano harmonics are brief compared to an organ's which linger and bang up against eachother at some point. Another issue is the XK3 does not have a B3's 9-stack and yes it triggers "faster" but only because it's not really behaving like a true TG.
dragongoff 1 year ago
@dragongoff And a digital piano won't behave like an acoustic piano. We make compromises since it is not practical for most of us to use "real" instruments on stage. Re: tuning - I'd like to know how you determined the harmonics are out of tune when it's going through a Leslie, which changes both the amplitude and the frequency of the signal every time it spins. Piano harmonics are not brief, they just require a well-trained ear due to inharmonicity. The organ is in tune.
b3groover 1 year ago
dragongoff 1 year ago
@b3groover @8:09;8.11;815 there are out of tune harmonics.
Has nothing to do with the leslie, but the core sound of the
chords because the
B3 did not present that problem running through the same leslie.
Jim did say he adjusted the TG params?
Maybe that caused it or its inherent.
Just like the XK2 gets weird on the higher octaves and more so thru a leslie.
You would think Hammond-Suz had ears to prevent that. Lots of former B players notice Hammond-Suz clones don't do as well.
dragongoff 1 year ago
@dragongoff It is a fact that the Hammond tonewheel organs are not tuned in equal temperament, which is the standard tuning for all keyboard instruments. So, if you put a Hammond B3 next to a precisely tuned concert grand piano, the B3 will be "out of tune".
It is possible that Hammond-Suzuki "fixed" this with the XK series. I'd have to check to see if it's true. If so, they should let the user tune each note.
b3groover 1 year ago
@b3groover When using a real B3 you must tune to the organ. The piano must be tuned to that B3 as well. Easier to you use a digital piano where you can pitch it to the organ. On a guitar, all the open strings are in tune but then play chords up & down the neck and you have to retune if possible for the song more so if the guitar is made to sustain under distortion. Granted being able to tune a clone is nice but as with guitar, is it in tune with itself is the issue, & not being A-440 precise.
dragongoff 1 year ago
how much do those cost?
Nicholasr1996 1 year ago
There is one problem, Youtube greatly reduces the sound quality of anything uploaded to a point where it all sounds average... The XK3 and XK3c sound like the tone wheel Hammond they sampled which is the one they have in the factory at Addison Illinois. There were so many variances in the way a Hammond sounded over the years because of the slight differences in the tone wheels, filtering on the tone generator and quality of the electronics in the preamplifier.
Xerox6085I 1 year ago
@Xerox6085I Hammond-Suzuki bares the name "Hammond" therefore it is not a clone, it's a REAL Hammond with state of the art technology. The original Hammond company went bankrupt partially due to it's inability to keep up with it's competitors.
Xerox6085I 1 year ago
I love the xk3 and xk3c gimme drawbars. not buttons i just got my xk3c
and its awesome i was really surprised but both of them sound great but
i felt the chorus was better on the xk3c and the leslie was a lot better
Jim that is some great playing i enjoy hearing you play i hope you come
to norway sometime so i can hear you in person.
Denvermorgan2000 1 year ago
hi jim you play great man keep up the funky thing can you please tell me some good organ players to start with cause im new to this music(from all the eras)
MPOURNOUZIS 1 year ago
@MPOURNOUZIS It begins and ends with Jimmy Smith. :)
b3groover 1 year ago
its as closs as the b3 and your a great player too
overnationmusic 1 year ago
Hi Jim, for me, one of the biggest problems with the sound of the new XK-3/XK-3c is the poor chorus/vibrato. I tried tweaking it (3c) and there is no way it sounds even close. What do you think about it?
originalhammonorgan 1 year ago
@originalhammonorgan It depends on what organ you're comparing it to. The sound of the Hammond chorus changed over the years. The chorus in my 1974 B3 sounds radically different than the chorus in my 1958 B3. The 1974 sounds more like the XK3. The XK3 certainly isn't perfect, but I don't think anything ever will be, since we all have our own idea of what the perfect B3 sounds like.
b3groover 1 year ago
@b3groover You are right, they are all sounds different, the XK CAN be in a different league only if the guys in the Hammond-Suzuki will provide a simple parameter which sets the balance between the vibrato and source signals.
originalhammonorgan 1 year ago
@originalhammonorgan Agreed. I wish HamSuz would listen a bit more to folks like you and I. There are several small changes they could make that would give the user more control over the sound.
b3groover 1 year ago
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ozmusicman88 1 year ago
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ozmusicman88 1 year ago
@originalhammonorgan I agree that the XK3c needs a parameter for the chorus effect to adjust what would be the mix between the direct and vibrato signals in an old B3 (the effects on the XK3c are created digitally). After experimenting with the parameters on my XK3c, I found the defaults to be about right, but the chorus still sounds slightly too intense to me. When I asked Hammond Suzuki about this, they said that they "hope the chorus effect will be improved in the future."
ozmusicman88 1 year ago
@ozmusicman88 Half way done, Hammond Suzuki knows that the chorus is not perfect, I guess someone is working on it now... :). Compared to the old consoles, the chorus at first sounds very similar, on a direct A/B comparison the difference is clear. A good way to understand how much it's different is to compare the V3 on both the XK and the console. The vibrato on the vintage console is very deep and rich (pitch and amplitude), and on the XK it sounds flat and dull (on any settings).
originalhammonorgan 1 year ago
You sir have great fingers :)
evileyeball 1 year ago
Just wanted to say thanks for posting such a helpful and well-played video. Also, I downloaded a your tonewheel set: it sounds great. Thanks again.
bruhjun 1 year ago
Question: you said you are through a 122, right? I have a 122, and it's not an 11-pin. from what I know, the XK is 11 pin. Is it a "universal" sort of an 11-pin thingie, or what?
ForestCinema 1 year ago
@ForestCinema No, you would need a device that converts the 11pin output of the XK3 to a 122-style 6pin output. I use the 1122 kit from Hammond Suzuki.
b3groover 1 year ago
The B3 still sounds way better.
PartScavenger 1 year ago
@PartScavenger if you heard the xk3 though a real leslie it would change your
mind no its not exact but its darn good
Denvermorgan2000 1 year ago
The B3 sounds so much more "organic". :)
Sycsa 1 year ago
The newer clones are incredable. The real Hammonds can almost be retired to museams.
trustratplaya 1 year ago
Hello Jim: I'd like to ask what's your oppinion about the B4 II software. Have you tried it? Thank you!!
aztecastuprovideos 1 year ago
@aztecastuprovideos I never really cared for the B4, both the original version and II. But I heard a recording the other day, just guitar, drums, and "organ" where the player was using the B4 II and it sounded really good.
Again, for me it's all about control. I need real drawbars.
b3groover 1 year ago
Fantastic overview. Suzuki really did their homework.
stryker1999 1 year ago
I'm a Hammond/Leslie tech as well as a player, and I can fully understand your preference for the more Hammond-style controls on the XK3. However, I still think the best digital copy out there at present soundwise is the Nord C1/C2. I wonder if there are patent issues involved in the lack of physical drawbars on the Nord.
southerner66 2 years ago
@southerner66 I dont agree at all i have an xk3 and i have played the nord and i think the xk3 is closer.
Denvermorgan2000 2 years ago
@southerner66 Hammond's drawbar patent expired a while ago.
JTcheatwood 1 year ago
@southerner66: Why would that be? Patents run out after 20 years, so the drawbar patent was already done for in 1954. There are dozens of organs with real drawbars.
I think they did it so that the drawbars can take over stored presets, and the drawbars therefore always have the setting you are hearing at the moment. Physical ones can't do that.
MVanthoor 1 year ago
@MVanthoor Regardless of why they did it, that's the major sticking point with me and the Nords. If you ever see my play, you'll see me constantly grabbing and messing with the drawbars. Little buttons just don't cut it.
b3groover 1 year ago
@b3groover Agreed. I like the Nord's sound. I really do. It's price is right too.
I don't even consider a Nord because it hasn't got real drawbars and I really dislike the layout and red color. Put a decent layout on that organ (drabwars, an LCD and large buttons) and finish it in glossy black, create a nice stand for it, and you have an XK-3C killer with that price.
MVanthoor 1 year ago
Hey, Some smokin riffs you've got there. I have my self an XK-3c and I love it! The difference i find between Vintage B3's and the new ones is that the old B's are more scratchy in their sound because of the physical tone wheels and the new ones are of course digital.
Cheers
mum0003 2 years ago
I don't like the nord at all, I miss some things, I personally like the keyb, and the suzukis better.
hammondizer 2 years ago
anoyne out there have a Korg CX3 and know how it compares with he Nord and Hammond XK3/XK3c ?
alvin01 2 years ago
@alvin01 I've had a korg cx3 for about 2 yrs. At first, I loved it , but I realized that the xk's are much more better and decided to sell it. I don't know what to say about the nord. It may sound very close to the b3, but I would'n buy that because of the lack of feel (no drawbars, digital controls...)
cosminfarcas 2 years ago
I have played the XK-3 (non-modified), the "new b-3" and the Nord C2. Personally, I like the sound and feel of the C2 better than hammond's clones, to me it sounds and feels more like an original hammond, HOWEVER the cabinet and controls are quite unattractive imo, as where the XK-3 has a much nicer look. (btw im a church/cogic organist) thanks for the video!
apostolicholinessguy 2 years ago
@apostolicholinessguy Yup. The biggest porblem I have with Hammond is that they really only cater to the Jazz settings. The higher drawbars aren't as good. They have gotten better, but not as close as Nord. Also, the Chorus and Vibrato don't work well with the Leslie. It's like one or the other, but not both.
TheMadMusicMan 2 years ago
@TheMadMusicMan Chorus and vibrato sound good if you tweak them. When I first connected the XK3 to my 122 the chorus didn't sound right. I played with the speed settings until I found one that sounded best. When I started using the 3300 with the XK3, I had to adjust the chorus again.
b3groover 1 year ago
Hello Jim: Great You Tube video!!. Checked out your other videos and really enjoyed your playing! Nice to hear a "young guy" play they way the hammond organ was make to be played in a group setting.
TheJimkaylor 2 years ago
@TheJimkaylor Thank you!
b3groover 1 year ago
Great job on the FAIR comparison. Although, as you say, NOT perfect...it's close enough to gig with in a live situation and save your roadies' backs...500 lbs is a LOT of difference.
The Leslie 122 I'm sure makes a huge difference in making the two sound alike.
bluzplayer1 2 years ago
To whomever wanted to know about my opinion concerning the digital Leslie vs real Leslie in a recording situation... I apologize. I accidentally removed your comment when I meant to hit reply.
Anyway, a real Leslie trumps a digital simulation in any circumstance I can think of, including recording. Of course if you don't have a real Leslie, use what you have and do your best! :)
b3groover 2 years ago
I still hear a 'digitalness' in your XK3 and it lacks the dephts and richness of the B3. But trough the vintage Leslie it sounds acceptable indeed. The Nord C1/C2/Electro3 still sound much better if played with Leslie simulation only. The XK3/XK3c leslie simulator sucks.
tomkittelkey 2 years ago
@tomkittelkey The Leslie sim in the XK3 is bad. I mention that in the video. However, the one in the XK3c is quite good. As good or better than the Nord.
b3groover 2 years ago
I own a 50 year old Hammond C-3 that looks like it's still on the show-room floor. Every service person has offered to buy it from me. The unfortunate truth is that today, 99.9% of all individuals listening to your comparison have no ability to discern the difference between the instruments you showcase. Only true professionals can ascertain that quality: today's tone-deaf guitar hero audience doesn't care and has no desire to understand true quality. Knightsix
60knightsix 2 years ago
Used to carry around a B3 playing in the rock clubs in Detroit. Watching this made me wish I was still in the biz. Save my back and pack it in a car!
eg244 2 years ago
This might interest more viewers than just me: how did you achieve Hammond/Leslie growl at such a low volume?? I cranked up the preamp gain on my A102, but get no noticable growl.
Carmel2505 2 years ago
@Carmel2505 Just saw your comment, sorry. The growl is due to the XK3 slightly overdriving the Leslie input. The XK3 has a very hot output. In order to get both the XK3 and the B3 through the Leslie at the same time, I had a direct line from the B3 running into the "return" jack of the XK3, so both the B3 and the XK3 are going into the Leslie with a hot signal.
b3groover 1 year ago
Dear Jim Alfredson, I have a question? Hammond artist as well as players of genres such as Gospel, Rock, Pop, R&B , Soul and hip hop have been using the new Hammond XH-272 and is beggining to get some praise for its capability for reporducing the original tonewheel organ. I would like to since you are a representative of hammond, if you would play a demonstration of the Xh-272 organ with hammond showing the organ flutes being played.
Many people say that its better than that B-3 and XK-3
Royalorgans 2 years ago
I have no experience with that model. If I run across one I'll let you know. I am a Hammond endorsed artist but that doesn't mean I get to play all their cool products! :)
b3groover 2 years ago
@b3groover You won't find a new XH-272. It seems RoyalOrgans is spamming about this model all over YouTube.
The XH-272 and others in it's line are not new. They are from 1998, and use the same hardware and software as the XM-1 drawbar module from 1997. These organs went out of production in late 2006, and are only on Hammond's site because some will be in warranty till 2011 / 2012.
I know, because I owned the XM-1, and now the XH-200. (XH-200 = European version of XH-272, different cabinet.)
MVanthoor 1 year ago
@MVanthoor Weird. Why is he spamming people about that organ?
b3groover 1 year ago
@b3groover I don't know. Search for Hammond stuff on YouTube, and you'll see him always mentioning XH-272. I just wanted to say that the XH-272 Elegante is far from new.
The leaflet says: "Faithfully captures the B3 sound", but that's just not true. When put through a Leslie, and even on their own speakers with Leslie sim, the XH-272 has an instantly recognizable Hammond drawbar sound, but it doesn't sound like a B3. It has no need to either IMHO, because it -isn't- a B3.
MVanthoor 1 year ago
Best comparison ever! Our organ usage is nowhere near the killer sounds you incorporate, so it's overkill to us... for now... but man did I ever love listening to you play. Off to listen to more of your stuff now!
blindsidedpoets 2 years ago
Where can I get the custom tonewheels?
JTcheatwood 2 years ago
@JTcheatwood Shoot me an email via the organissimo website.
b3groover 1 year ago
don't even need to watch the video to say the hammond should and will win!!!
samworskett 2 years ago