Pricing and availability
Average Price: $950
Standard/Professional
$500
$1501+
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High-end
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Description
Unleash your creativity with the Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard, a remarkable blend of vintage charm and modern functionality. This versatile MIDI controller, first introduced in the late 80s, is celebrated for its lightweight design and unique keytar form factor, making it perfect for live performances or studio sessions. With 41 velocity-sensitive keys, the AZ-1 offers a responsive touch that caters to dynamic playing styles.
The AZ-1 is designed to seamlessly integrate with your existing MIDI setup, providing comprehensive control over your MIDI-compatible devices. Its intuitive interface includes pitch bend and modulation wheels, as well as an array of programmable buttons that allow you to customize your setup to suit your specific needs. Whether you're crafting intricate synth lines or leading a band on stage, the AZ-1 delivers unparalleled flexibility.
An ergonomic neck strap and battery operation add an extra layer of mobility, allowing musicians to perform with freedom and flair. The AZ-1 also features a MIDI OUT port that ensures compatibility with a wide range of gear, making it a reliable choice for both seasoned professionals and budding musicians alike.
Key Features:
- 41 velocity-sensitive keys for expressive playing
- Classic keytar design for stage-ready performance
- Pitch bend and modulation wheels for dynamic control
- Programmable buttons for customized MIDI setups
- MIDI OUT port for versatile connectivity
- Battery operation for portable performance
- Ergonomic neck strap for comfortable playability
Product specs
| Brand | Casio |
| Model | AZ-1 41-Key MIDI Controller Keytar |
| Finish | White |
| Year | 1980s |
| Categories | Keytar MIDI Controllers |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Output |
| Number of Keys | 41 Keys |
FAQs
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What kind of power supply does the Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller require?
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The Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller is powered by six AA batteries or an optional AC adapter, providing flexibility for both stage and studio use.
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How does the Casio AZ-1 connect to other MIDI devices?
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The Casio AZ-1 features a MIDI output, allowing it to connect to other MIDI-compatible devices such as synthesizers, sound modules, and computers for versatile control.
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Is the Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Casio AZ-1 is designed as a keytar, making it ideal for live performances. Its lightweight design and shoulder strap allow for mobility on stage.
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How many keys does the Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller have, and what is the action type?
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The Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller features 41 full-size keys with synth action, offering a responsive playing experience suitable for various music styles.
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Can the Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller be used with modern DAWs?
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While the Casio AZ-1 is an older model, it can still be used with modern DAWs via MIDI connections, though additional adapters may be required for USB-MIDI conversion.
Videos
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Mainstage 2 Demo - Casio AZ-1, Macbook Pro (Aron Romhanyi, 2012) (Speech edited)
Mainstage 2 Demo - Casio AZ-1, Macbook Pro (Aron Romhanyi, 2012) (Speech edited)
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Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard.
Setup and maintenance
User experience
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Owners note that malfunctioning pitch bend and modulation controls can send erratic MIDI signals, leading to unexpected off-pitch changes.
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Features and functionality
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The AZ-1's aftertouch, a significant feature, may not fully deactivate once engaged, causing continuous unintended effects.
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Value and pricing
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Despite difficulties, the AZ-1 is rare and valued, often selling above $500; fixing common power issues can restore its functionality affordably.
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Comparisons
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The Pianobox Pro provides a 64-tone bank that aligns with the AZ-1's patch select options, similar to Yamaha KX-5 and Roland RK-100.
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Use cases and applications
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Pianobox Pro is highlighted as an affordable sound module option for portable use with the AZ-1, priced around $150.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
in this photo you can see Snoop with a Casio AZ-1
In the provided image, Teddy Riley is seen with a Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard.
In the video titled "Magdalena Bay cover David Bowie’s ‘Ashes to Ashes’ for Like A Version" on YouTube, Mica Tenenbaum is clearly seen playing the Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard. This is confirmed by the distinctive make name printed on the top right of the instrument, along with its recognizable shape, color, and knob size.
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In a photo accompanying an article by Jay Akbar in the Daily Mail, Ulf Ekberg is seen holding a Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard.
As seen at 1:35s in Anders/Fahrenkrog's music video for "No More Tears On The Dancefloor".
Vitalij Kuprij is confirmed to have used a Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard, as evidenced by a post on his Facebook account.
"Hi there everybody - just a little something for the keyboard people out there ! Here's a list of gear that I have owned from 1970 to now - all lot of it I don't have anymore but there's still quite a lot that I do have ! Click on the image to see all - Enjoy.......🙂" straight from Didge's Facebook page.
At 25:31 you can see Bobby playing a Casio AZ-1.
Mark Stanway is seen using a Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard at the 15-second mark of the YouTube video titled "Magnum - extremely rare & un-released instrumental 'BLACK NIGHTS'," uploaded by Mark Stanway.
In this image, Sam Hollander can be seen with a Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard.
Album Usage
The Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Casio AZ-1 MIDI Controller Keyboard, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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