Korg KRONOS 3 73-note Hammer Action Workstation Keyboard

Korg confirms that the current KRONOS 3 73 uses the same Japanese-made RH3 weighted, velocity-sensitive and aftertouch-capable keyboard as the 88-note version, but in a more compact format. 

The Korg KRONOS 3 73 is a flagship professional music workstation created for stage performers, composers, producers and keyboard players who need an extensive range of premium sounds within one powerful instrument. It combines nine specialist sound engines, deep sequencing and sampling capabilities, comprehensive performance controls and a responsive 73-note RH3 weighted keyboard.

The 73-key configuration offers the substantial feel required for expressive piano, electric piano and orchestral performance while remaining more compact than the full-size 88-note model. This makes it an excellent choice for professional players who want weighted keys without committing to the largest version of the KRONOS.

From acoustic pianos and tonewheel organs to analogue-style synthesis, FM textures, physical modelling and cinematic sound design, the KRONOS 3 73 is equipped to handle demanding live sets and complete studio productions from a single workstation.

At A Glance

Key Detail	Information
Brand	Korg
Model	KRONOS 3 73
Finish	Black
Product Type	Professional Music Workstation
Keyboard	73-Note RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action 3
Touch Response	Velocity Sensitive with Aftertouch
Sound Engines	Nine Specialist Synthesis Engines
Main Appeal	Flagship workstation power with a compact weighted keyboard
Best For	Live performance, touring, studio production, theatre and composition
Skill Level	Advanced to Professional

Why Choose the Korg KRONOS 3 73?

Weighted Performance in a More Compact Format

The 73-note RH3 keyboard provides the substantial graded hammer feel many pianists prefer while reducing the overall size compared with the 88-key model.

It is particularly attractive to touring players, theatre musicians and multi-keyboard performers who want authentic weighted response without carrying the longest version of the instrument.

Nine Dedicated Sound Engines

The KRONOS 3 does not rely on a single synthesis system. Its nine independent engines specialise in different forms of sound generation, giving each instrument category its own detailed architecture.

This allows the workstation to deliver expressive grand pianos, electric pianos, organs, virtual analogue synthesis, FM sounds, physical modelling, sample-based instruments and more from one keyboard.

Premium Acoustic Piano Performance

The SGX-2 piano engine provides detailed concert grand sounds with sympathetic resonance, pedal response and smooth dynamic transitions.

Combined with the RH3 weighted action, the KRONOS 3 73 can perform confidently as a premium stage piano as well as a production workstation.

Built for Demanding Live Sets

Set List mode lets musicians arrange sounds, combinations and songs into a clear performance order for quick access during a show.

Smooth Sound Transitions allow sustained notes and effects to continue naturally while changing sounds, helping performers move between sections without abrupt cut-offs.

Extensive Real-Time Control

A large control surface, vector joystick, ribbon controller, assignable switches and performance knobs provide immediate access to sound shaping during live performance.

These controls allow musicians to manipulate filters, effects, layers, dynamics and expression without relying entirely on menus.

Complete Production Environment

The KRONOS 3 includes MIDI sequencing, multitrack audio recording, sampling and extensive onboard effects, allowing complete arrangements to be developed within the instrument.

It can form the centre of a hardware studio, live production rig or computer-based recording setup.

Why Choose a 73-Key Weighted Workstation?

A 73-key weighted workstation sits between a compact synth-action keyboard and a full-size 88-note stage piano.

It provides enough range for demanding piano parts, layered performances and split keyboard setups while remaining easier to transport and position on smaller stages. For musicians who regularly move their equipment, this balance can be extremely valuable.

The weighted action also helps piano-focused performers maintain natural technique when playing acoustic piano, electric piano and orchestral sounds.

Who Is It For?

Beginner Players

The KRONOS 3 73 is more advanced than most beginners require. However, a highly committed new player interested in professional synthesis, production and live performance could grow into its extensive capabilities over many years.

Intermediate Players

Experienced intermediate musicians will appreciate the opportunity to consolidate several keyboards, software instruments and production tools into one powerful workstation.

Advanced and Professional Players

This is where the KRONOS 3 73 excels. It is designed for professionals who need dependable sounds, extensive control and sophisticated performance organisation for demanding stage and studio work.

Particularly Recommended For

• Touring keyboard players

• Theatre musicians

• Worship musicians

• Session players

• Film and media composers

• Progressive rock

• Pop and contemporary music

• Electronic music

• Jazz and fusion

• Studio production

• Sound design

• Multi-keyboard live rigs

Korg KRONOS 3 73 Compared with Popular Alternatives

Korg KRONOS 3 73 vs Korg KRONOS 3 88

Both models share the same workstation platform and RH3 weighted keyboard technology.

The 88-note model provides the full acoustic-piano range, while the 73-note version is shorter and easier to accommodate in touring rigs, studios and performance spaces.

Choose the 73-key model when portability and stage footprint are priorities. Choose the 88-key model when the complete piano range is essential.

Korg KRONOS 3 73 vs Korg NAUTILUS 73

The NAUTILUS offers much of Korg’s premium sound technology in a streamlined instrument.

The KRONOS 3 adds a more extensive physical control surface, Set List workflow, KARMA technology, ribbon control and deeper professional performance functionality.

Korg KRONOS 3 73 vs Yamaha MONTAGE M7

The MONTAGE M7 focuses strongly on modern motion control, AWM2 sampling and FM-X synthesis with a fast contemporary interface.

The KRONOS provides a broader collection of specialist synthesis engines alongside deeper integrated sequencing, sampling and workstation capabilities.

Korg KRONOS 3 73 vs Roland FANTOM 7 EX

The FANTOM 7 EX offers Roland’s modern ZEN-Core environment, strong pad-based workflow and close software integration.

The KRONOS 3 73 provides a weighted RH3 keyboard and nine distinct synthesis engines, making it particularly attractive to pianists who also require deep workstation functionality.

Korg KRONOS 3 73 vs Nord Stage 4 73

The Nord Stage 4 73 is built around fast access to piano, organ and synthesis sections for live performance.

The KRONOS offers a much deeper production environment with sequencing, audio recording, sampling and a considerably broader range of synthesis methods.

What Are Smooth Sound Transitions?

Smooth Sound Transitions, often shortened to SST, allow sustained notes, chords and effects tails to continue when the player selects another sound.

On a keyboard without this feature, changing patches can cause the previous sound to stop abruptly. During a live performance, this can make transitions feel unnatural.

With SST, a player can hold a piano chord, select a synth lead for the next section and allow the piano sound to decay naturally. This is especially valuable for theatre work, worship music, progressive rock and complex professional arrangements.

Looking for advice on choosing the right workstation keyboard, weighted synthesizer or professional stage setup? Our experienced keyboard team can help by phone, online or in our Birmingham showroom.

Story and Context

The original Korg KRONOS established itself as one of the most comprehensive professional workstations available, bringing several independent sound engines, detailed production tools and advanced live control into one instrument.

The KRONOS 3 continues that concept with refreshed hardware, a refined user experience, an expanded sound collection and improved operating speed while retaining compatibility with the wider KRONOS sound-library ecosystem.

The 73-key version occupies an important position within the range. It provides the weighted feel preferred by pianists while remaining more manageable than the full-size 88-note instrument.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Product Name	Korg KRONOS 3 73
Product Type	Professional Music Workstation
Keyboard	73-Note RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action 3
Keyboard Response	Velocity Sensitive and Aftertouch
Synthesis Engines	Nine
Piano Engine	SGX-2 Premium Piano
Electric Piano Engine	EP-1 MDS Electric Piano
Organ Engine	CX-3 Tonewheel Organ
Analogue Modelling	AL-1 and MS-20EX
FM Synthesis	MOD-7
Physical Modelling	STR-1
PCM Sound Engine	HD-1
Sequencer	16-Track MIDI Sequencer
Audio Recording	16-Track Audio Recorder
Sampling	Open Sampling System
Display	8-Inch Colour TouchView Display
Performance Organisation	Set List Mode
Sound Switching	Smooth Sound Transitions
Controllers	Joystick, Vector Joystick, Ribbon, Knobs, Sliders and Switches
MIDI Connections	MIDI In, Out and Thru
USB	USB Type-A and USB Type-B Connections
Main Audio Outputs	Left/Mono and Right
Individual Outputs	Four
Headphone Output	Yes
Digital Audio	Optical S/PDIF
Storage	Internal SSD

Power Requirements

Specification	Details
Power Supply	Internal AC Power Supply
Mains Connection	IEC Power Cable
Battery Operation	No
Power Consumption	40W

Pairs Perfectly With

• Korg DS-1H damper pedal

• Korg EXP-2 expression pedal

• Heavy-duty keyboard stand

• Adjustable keyboard bench

• Professional closed-back headphones

• Active studio monitors

• Stereo DI box

• Audio interface

• USB storage drive

• MIDI cables

• Balanced audio cables

• Padded keyboard case

• Professional flight case

• Sustain and expression pedal package

Fair Deal Music Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The Korg KRONOS 3 73 is an exceptional choice for professional keyboard players who want the expressive response of weighted keys in a more manageable format than an 88-note workstation.

Its nine sound engines, sophisticated live controls, Smooth Sound Transitions and complete production environment make it suitable for demanding touring, theatre, worship, studio and composition work. Fair Deal Music particularly recommends the 73-key version to pianists who need genuine hammer action but also value portability and a smaller stage footprint.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

Choosing Fair Deal Music means buying from a passionate team of musicians who genuinely understand the products we sell. Whether you're purchasing your first instrument, upgrading your current setup or searching for something special, we're here to help you make the right choice with friendly advice and expert support.

When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians

• Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment

• Competitive prices on leading music brands

• Secure UK-wide delivery

• Flexible finance options available, subject to status

• Friendly support before and after your purchase

• A trusted independent UK music retailer with decades of experience

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.

We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.

Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.

It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Korg KRONOS 3 73 have weighted keys?

Yes. It features Korg’s RH3 Real Weighted Hammer Action 3 keyboard, providing a graded piano-style response across its 73 keys.

Does the keyboard support aftertouch?

Yes. The KRONOS 3 73 responds to velocity and aftertouch, allowing additional expression to be introduced after a key has been pressed.

What is the difference between the 73-key and 88-key models?

Both use the RH3 weighted keyboard and share the same workstation features. The 73-key model is shorter and more manageable for transport, while the 88-key version provides the complete acoustic-piano range.

Is the KRONOS 3 73 suitable as a stage piano?

Yes. Its weighted keyboard, detailed acoustic piano engine, electric piano sounds and professional outputs make it an extremely capable stage piano.

Is it suitable for touring?

Yes. Set List mode, Smooth Sound Transitions and extensive real-time controls make it particularly well suited to complex professional live performances.

Can it replace several keyboards in a live rig?

For many performers, yes. Its broad range of piano, organ, orchestral, synthesizer and sampled sounds can reduce the need to transport several specialist instruments.

Can complete songs be produced on the KRONOS?

Yes. It includes MIDI sequencing, multitrack audio recording, sampling and onboard effects for arranging and producing complete pieces.

Can I load additional sounds?

Yes. The KRONOS supports compatible sound libraries and expansion content, allowing the onboard collection to be extended.

Is the KRONOS suitable for worship music?

Yes. Its layered sounds, Set List mode, smooth patch changes and broad selection of pianos, pads, organs and orchestral instruments make it highly suitable for worship environments.

Does it connect to a computer?

Yes. USB Audio and MIDI connectivity allow the KRONOS to integrate with compatible recording software and computer-based studio setups.

Is the 73-key version suitable for classical piano?

It offers a high-quality weighted action and premium piano sounds. However, players performing repertoire that regularly requires the full 88-note range may prefer the KRONOS 3 88.

Can I try the Korg KRONOS 3 73 in-store?

Please contact Fair Deal Music to confirm current showroom availability and arrange a demonstration with our keyboard team.