CASIOTONE keyboards
CASIOTONE has been synonymous with cult keyboards since 1980. The first model—the CT-201—was developed with the intention of giving everybody the opportunity to enjoy playing the keys — beginners and advanced players, sound enthusiasts and rhythm fans alike. The current CASIOTONE models continue in this tradition, enhancing instruments with modern features such as connectivity to tutorial apps* and Dance Music Mode*, where players can try their hand at crafting the next chart hit.
*Selected models only
Keyboards with 61 keys — small instruments for big demands
While pianos and grand pianos usually have 88 keys, the number of keys on keyboards varies depending on the target group and area of use. Besides keyboards with 88 keys, instruments with 76 and 61 keys have also become common standard sizes. The 61-key keyboards owe their popularity, among other things, to their compact design, easy handling and many professional features. CASIO Music provides an overview of the range of CASIO keyboards with 61 keys and outlines the advantages of each instrument. 61-key keyboards are available in categories that include High Grade, Standard and CASIO CTX keyboards , as well as illuminated keyboards.
Perfect instruments for beginners
Although 61-key keyboards are often categorized as entry-level keyboards, this variant is actually also very popular in the professional sector. People who want to learn to play the piano and take their first steps with a keyboard instrument can quickly become overwhelmed by a digital piano or a keyboard with the traditional range of 88 keys. CASIO provides an extensive selection of 61-key keyboards for this target group. These instruments feature 36 white and 25 black piano-style, touch-sensitive keys that span a range of four-and-a-half octaves and have an authentic feel.
CASIO also offers typical entry-level illuminated keyboards that have 61 keys. The instruments have a built-in function for learning songs and tunes using pre-programmed, illuminated keys. Thanks to a unique concept based on the latest findings in modern music education—and given a certain amount of diligence and perseverance—beginners can play smaller pieces or accompany other musicians on a keyboard with illuminated keys from CASIO after just a few hours of practice. Integrated practice pieces with learning function provide additional support.
Compact and flexible for mobile use
61-key keyboards are also very popular in the professional sector. Professional musicians praise the flexibility that a compact keyboard with 61 keys has to offer. Flexibility is an important criterion for many musicians when deciding to buy an instrument. Keyboard players who tour frequently or use their instrument in a variety of settings—be it at home, in a rehearsal room or on stage—appreciate having a keyboard that is light and compact and therefore easy to transport.
Although the instruments actually only cover four-and-a-half octaves, pianists do not have to forgo the familiar performance spectrum and range of functions offered by larger instruments with 76 or 88 keys. A keyboard with 61 keys and touch sensitivity provides an authentic playing feel, just like on a concert grand piano. Many models make it possible to add the missing octave range with the help of settings or directly via buttons on the device, meaning the full range of notes can be played.
Like all CASIO instruments, 61-key keyboards leave nothing to be desired
Like all keyboard instruments from CASIO, the 61-key keyboards also impress on account of their technical refinements and innovative effects. Typical CASIO features such as polyphony, automatic accompaniment with several hundred rhythms and up to 700 impressive tones will win over even the most demanding keyboardist. In addition, depending on the model, a variety of digital effects are incorporated. Integrated, partially coloured LCD displays show which functions are currently active. Powerful integrated speakers provide impressive and rich sounds, while recording and playback functions, a mixer, and various layers and sampling functions round out the spectrum of creative possibilities from this keyboard category.
The many connectivity options speak for themselves. Here, too, CASIO does not make any concessions for 61-key keyboards. Depending on the model, different interfaces such as USB-TO-HOST and/or USB-TO-DEVICE, microphone and headphone connection or MIDI controller are integrated.