The Roland KC-400 first appeared on our recommended list for Keyboard Amps when we published the first edition in May 2016 and its strong ratings have kept it here ever since.
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm’s adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.
<div class=”pros-and-cons”> <div class=”cons”> <h4>Cons</h4> <ul> <li>Lacks modern features being an old release</li> <li>Loses clarity when volume is set too high</li> </ul> </div>
<div class=”pros”> <h4>Pros</h4> <ul> <li>4-Channel Keyboard Amp, viable for monitor use</li> <li>Time-tested build quality and reliability</li> <li>Clear sound and loud projection</li> <li>Detailed highs and good low-end depth</li> </ul> </div> </div>
Peavey is known for gig-worthy amps like the KB series, which even pros like Peter Keys from Lynyrd Skynyrd use. The KB 2 is part of this line, but with a more compact profile while carrying the same mini-PA system capable features.
It has 4 independent channels, with the first 2 channels having 1/4″ instrument inputs with 2-band EQ. Channel 3 has both XLR and 1/4″ inputs with 3-band EQ, and channel 4 is for using KB 2 as a monitor with dedicated level control. All these features go beyond the usual 2-channel amps that most musicians work with, which means that you get more value for the money with this keyboard amp.
At 45W, this amp can go loud, good enough for small venues, as long as you don’t push it too hard for long periods of time. It sports a 10″ coaxial full-range speaker, where the tweeter is positioned in front of the woofer. This way, it can produce the full range of frequencies while retaining a portable and compact profile. And more importantly, it helps the amp produce detailed highs that are needed by keyboards.
Peavey designed the cabinet to help enhance the low end, and it does the job really well, providing good low-end depth. Note that since it has a small 10″ woofer, the low end tends to become muddy when the volume is set too high. Anyway, you can make use of the KB 2’s clarity in bigger venues and stages by using it as a monitor.
Given its clarity and multiple input options, this keyboard amp is also a favorite among singers, electronic drummers, acoustic guitarists, and those who use amp modelers and effects. Speaking of effects, it has effects send/return loop and a balanced XLR main out for plugging into a <a href=”/guides/pa-mixing-consoles”>PA Mixing Console</a>.
Having been released by Peavy back in 2004, quality and reliability are time-tested. This also shows that the amplifier needs of keyboardists haven’t changed much. Still, being an old release means that it will lag behind recent releases in terms of modern features and connectivity.
If you’re looking for a 45 Watt versatile keyboard piano amp that also serves as a small PA system, then this is a great choice.
<h4>Specifications</h4> <ul> <li><b>Output Power:</b> 2 output channels – internal is 45 Watts, and the output channel is 12 Watts into 8 Ohms.</li> <li><b>Number of Inputs Channels:</b> 4.</li> <li><b>Inputs:</b> 2 x 1/4″ on first 2 channels, 1/4″ & XLR on channel 3, and channel 4 is 1/4″ monitor with level control.</li> <li><b>Outputs:</b> Main: XLR, Headphone: 1/4″, Send: 1/4″.</li> <li><b>Speakers:</b> 10″ coaxial with crossover at 3.5 kHz.</li> <li><b>Tone Control:</b> 2-band EQ on channels 1 & 2 and 3-band EQ on channel 3.</li> <li><b>Frequency Response:</b> 20Hz to 20 kHz.</li> <li><b>Size:</b> 17.75″ x 17″ x 12.5″.</li> <li><b>Weight:</b> 34 lbs.</li> <li><b>Manufacturer Warranty:</b> <a href=”https://peavey.com/PDFs/Peavey-Electronics-Factory-Warranty.pdf” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>2 years</a>.</li> </ul>
<table> <caption style=”text-align: left;”><h4>Rating Source Highlights</h4></caption> <tr> <td><b>Website</b></td> <td><b>Source</b></td> <td align=”right”>*<b>Rating Value</b></td> </tr> <tr> <td><a href=”https://en.audiofanzine.com/keyboard-amplifier/peavey/kb-series-kb2/user_reviews/r.34554.html” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Audiofanzine</a></td> <td>LéoMoldo</td> <td align=”right”>80/100</td> </tr> <tr> <td><a href=”https://www.hunterharp.com/gear-report-peavey-kb2-keyboard-amppa/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>HunterHarp</a></td> <td>Richard Hunter</td> <td align=”right”>94/100</td> </tr> </table> <div style=”font-size: 75%; margin: -1em 0 1em 0; clear: left;”>*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm’s adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.</div>
