The SK-PRO 61 is a high-quality keyboard from the brand Hammond. Hammond is an American company that has been producing keyboard instruments for over 80 years. They were among the first to develop electronic keyboard instruments, including some of the earliest digital organs. As a result, they have exceptional expertise in keyboard design. The SK PRO 61 is no exception — it is a high-quality, highly versatile keyboard. This model is part of Hammond’s SK series; the SK-PRO 73 is also available. 

Operation and Use

The SK-PRO 61 features 61 velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keys. This ensures that the keys don’t feel too light, making the instrument a great choice for players who are used to acoustic keyboard instruments. With 61 keys, the keyboard is compact yet highly versatile. Weighing only 9.3 kilograms, it’s also very lightweight and easy to transport – making it the perfect keyboard for musicians who travel or perform frequently. Hammond has done everything to make the SK series an excellent line of stage keyboards, and the SK PRO models are no exception. They are incredibly versatile in use. The keyboard features a large color display, making all functions and settings clearly visible – even in low-light environments.

In addition, the SK PRO 61 is equipped with pitch bend and modulation wheels, making it quick and easy to alter sounds or toggle functions on and off. This allows players to smoothly switch between different parts while performing, significantly reducing the time usually needed to change functions or sounds during a set. Furthermore, the keyboard includes four built-in sound engines, which can be used either independently or simultaneously.

Sounds and Features

The SK PRO 61 is suitable for virtually any application. This model includes a tonewheel organ, but can also be used effectively as a piano or synthesizer. In addition, it allows for layering different sounds and functions, enabling, for example, simultaneous use of both piano and synthesizer voices. Switching between sounds or functions while playing is also made easy with the dedicated selection buttons. Up to four different voice sections can be used at the same time. The SK PRO 61 also includes a wide range of patches. Patches allow users to save and recall custom sound combinations and settings. The keyboard can store up to 200 organ, 400 piano, and 200 synthesizer patches. You can also connect a USB stick to expand the memory. Additionally, these patches can be layered, split, or customized, and up to 200 of these combinations can be saved for easy access. The SK PRO 61 comes with a broad selection of pre-programmed sounds, including the authentic tone of a grand piano as well as high-quality digital piano sounds.

Connections

Finally, this model offers a wide range of connection options. As mentioned earlier, you can connect a USB stick to expand the memory. The SK PRO 61 features both a USB-A and a USB-B port, which also allow you to connect to a PC or laptop. It is also possible to create a MIDI connection using a USB-MIDI cable. Furthermore, the keyboard is equipped with left and right jack outputs, allowing you to connect an amplifier in either mono or stereo, as well as a headphone jack with a dedicated volume control. Additional connections include pedal inputs and an 11-pin Leslie connector (Leslie cable sold separately). In short, a very versatile keyboard for the enthusiastic keyboard player!

Please note: The SK PRO 61 is sold without pedals or stand.