The Korg Pandora PX4D

Another tool I use regularly is the Korg Pandora PX4D. It is not as full featured for accompaniment purposes as Band-In-A-Box. Yet, it is extremely portable, intuitive, and considerably less complicated for impromptu use.

The features I use most are:

Metronome ( actually a rhythm-enhanced metronome including Blues, Jazz-Swing, Bossa, and other styles )

A Jam Function that allows you to generate a rhythm track of from 1 -to- 24 measures depending on the rhythm and tempo selected. A 12-bar blues backing track is a piece of cake(ie. no problem) to create. A 32-bar Popular Song comping track at a tempo greater than 80 beats per second may have to be broken down into 8 bar sections.

Here is a picture of the PX4D:

Pandora PX4D

A key difference for me in using the PX4D in comparison with BIAB(Band-In-A-Box) is that I supply the Chords for the loop. So, I get continuous feedback on how my comping is sounds and know immediately if there are places where I need to clean up my chording technique.

Also, my own chords naturally have a more human feel than the BIAB generated accompaniment. So, my solo practice will respond to that as well.

A set of 4 AA batteries will last 3-4 weeks of daily use if I remove one battery(to eliminate idle circuit drain ... only real problem I find on my PX4D) when storing the unit. I store the unit in a small velour pouch.

Korg also has an upgraded model, the Pandora PX5D, which allows longer loops. It also has a usb port for backing up loops to the computer.I haven't had opportunity to review this unit yet. The PX4D still apears to be a popular unit and as far I know Korg has no plans to discontinue its production.

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