CT-S1 RD Casiotone Piano-Keyboard

Product Information

The Casio CT-S1 comes with two 5.1″ speakers, each powered by a 2.5 W amplifier. So, on the size and power of the speaker system, it’s about average for the price point, perhaps slightly ahead.

There are 61 sounds in total, which is more than enough for any beginner. The core sounds are the acoustic pianos, and they are fantastic. You get multiple variations of acoustic piano voices, ranging from darker, richer tones to brighter, modern tones. You can cycle through variations on each tone with repeated presses of the aptly named Tone Variation button, or select further tones (listed in the manual but not on the unit itself) with a combination of button and note presses. It’s possible to layer tones, too, and adjust the relative volume of the layers. The HPM1000 headphones from Behringer are ultra-affordable, offering high resolution sound at an amazing price point. Audio Versatility To be fair, the build quality of keyboards in this price range is typically pretty similar. So, in that sense, there are no red flags or major complaints.

The CT-S1's AiX Sound Source delivers sound quality that you'd expect from a keyboard costing hundreds, if not thousands more. Power on the CT-S1, and you'll be presented with a dynamic, expressive German concert grand piano placed in a virtual concert hall. You'll also find essentials like electric pianos, organs, strings, synths, and more, with Advanced Tones adding complex layers that react to your playing. A collection of vintage keyboard sounds is also included, featuring recreations of timeless, sought-after keyboard instruments. We've even included classic Casio sounds from our VL, VZ and CZ series. Small Size, Huge Sound The app makes learning fun and easy with notation and piano rolls. You can even use the app to loop audio or change key. It’s an ideal practice companion. Built-in effects Compatible with Android and iOS devices, Chordana Play connects via USB or optional Bluetooth dongle and teaches you to play in a fun, visual way. Select from a library of over 50 traditional songs or import any MIDI file you choose. Follow the music score or piano roll notation at your own pace, with the app guiding you through each step. Interactive Online Learning Included A combination of oval ear cups and a comfortable headband ensure that you can use the HPM1000 headphones for extended sessions, without encountering listening fatigue! Each cup features crystal clear capsules too, which really helps to project every single detail of your sound. Features

In 1980, the original Casiotone CT-201 allowed anyone to make music, regardless of skill level or budget. With the CT-S1, its spiritual successor, we've raised our own bar. The Casiotone CT-S1 is a great-sounding, stylish, ultra-portable keyboard designed for anyone to enjoy playing. Its incredible sound quality makes it an ideal musical partner for beginners and seasoned players alike, and its sleek, portable design makes it fun to play anytime, anywhere. Fortunately, your favourite setup can be saved for easy recall later on, as can your favourite tones. Performance & Verdict Another decent option if you're looking for a piano-style entry-level keyboard, the NP-12 is lightweight and portable, and sounds great.

Small Size, Huge Sound

Compatible with the optional Bluetooth dongle for wireless audio and MIDI functionality (sold separately). Like one or two other beginner keyboards, the CT-S1 has the potential to act as a rehearsal keyboard for a more advanced player. I’m not suggesting you should buy it for that purpose, but it does sound good enough to be a reliable, lightweight substitute. Build quality 4.7 There are three ways to experience the CT-S1's amazing sound quality at its best. First, the bass-ported stereo speaker system delivers eyebrow-raising punch and clarity throughout the entire volume range. Second, plug in a good set of headphones for personal play. Third, press the SURROUND button, and the sound from the speakers will place you right in the middle of your music.

I would be much happier if Bluetooth come as standard, but it’s an optional extra right now. In use 4.8 The other thing I like is the design; it’s simple and not intrusive. The speaker bar is smooth; there are no chunky, outdated, in-your-face speaker grills. Keyboard feel 4.5 It might have a very competitive price tag, but any fears that the Casiotone CT-S1 is a ‘cheap’ keyboard are dispelled the moment you start playing it. It’s at its best as a practice keyboard at home, and it’s very light, so moving it around the house won’t be a problem, even for younger kids. As I said above, it can be battery-powered, so you can easily take it anywhere with you.

Comparing Products

The Casio CT-S1 isn’t the best-sounding keyboard in its class. The Yamaha NP-12 beats it for grand pianos and the more expensive Roland Go:Keys potentially outdoes it, too. What I need to make clear is that it’s a close call, and the Casio CT-S1 is one of just a few exceptional keyboards at this price.

And then there are the speakers, which - we’ll admit - sound far better than we thought they would, even at higher volumes. There’s little or no evidence of distortion; in fact, if you connect up a smartphone (either via the audio input or Bluetooth adapter) they’re good enough to be used for music listening, too. You can, of course, play along with any steamed- or wired-in audio - a very welcome feature.

Reviews

It features powerful built-in speakers that are perfect for showing off what you’ve learned to friends and family. When friends and family have heard enough, you can always use headphones. One of the reasons that the grand pianos sound so good on the CT-S1 is that they are rendered in virtual concert halls. You have a few concert halls to choose from, each adding its own unique acoustics to the piano. Chordana Play app Roland's take on the portable keyboard concept features 61 keys, more than 500 sounds, onboard Bluetooth and a Loop Mix feature. Listen to your favourite tunes, mix and master your recordings and monitor a variety of different instruments. These cans can do it all. Thanks to a high dynamic range and a wide frequency response, you get high resolution performance – no matter the scenario. Comfort and Clarity The CT-S1 comes with 37 built-in effects in total, which is quite a lot. The effect types included are Reverb, Chorus, Delay, DSP, and Master EQ. Battery power