Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $119

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step into the world of electronic music with the Casio CT-101, a retro-inspired synthesizer that brings a touch of vintage charm to modern soundscaping. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned musicians, this synthesizer offers a blend of classic tones and contemporary versatility. The Casio CT-101 boasts 49 full-sized keys, providing ample room for creative expression and dynamic play. With its intuitive interface, this synthesizer allows musicians to explore a wide range of sounds, from warm analog tones to vibrant digital textures.

The CT-101 is equipped with a variety of built-in rhythms and tones, making it a versatile tool for live performances or studio sessions. Its simple layout ensures that musicians of any skill level can easily navigate through its features, fostering an environment of creativity and experimentation. Additionally, its lightweight design ensures portability, allowing you to create music wherever inspiration strikes. Whether you're crafting ambient soundscapes or energetic pop hits, the Casio CT-101 is a reliable and inspiring companion.

Key Features:

  • 49 full-sized keys for expansive playability
  • Built-in rhythms and tones for versatile sound creation
  • Intuitive interface for easy navigation and seamless performance
  • Lightweight and portable design for music on-the-go
  • Retro-inspired aesthetics with modern functionality

Product specs

Brand Casio
Model CT-101 Casiotone 49-Key Synthesizer
Finish Black / Natural
Year 1980s
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 49 Keys
Polyphony 8 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Casio CT-101 use?

The Casio CT-101 utilizes digital synthesis, which was innovative for its time, offering a variety of preset sounds and tones.

How many keys does the Casio CT-101 have, and what is the key size?

The Casio CT-101 features 49 full-size keys, providing a comfortable playing experience similar to traditional pianos.

What is the polyphony of the Casio CT-101?

The Casio CT-101 offers 8-voice polyphony, allowing you to play up to eight notes simultaneously.

Is the Casio CT-101 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Casio CT-101 is beginner-friendly due to its straightforward interface and manageable 49-key layout, making it easy for new players to explore and learn.

Does the Casio CT-101 have built-in speakers?

While specific details on speakers are not provided, many models from the Casiotone series include built-in speakers for convenient, portable playing.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Casio CT-101.

Features and functionality

  • The CT-101 is limited in patch editing, only allowing vibrato or sustain adjustments, which can be restrictive for users wanting more control.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • When paired with guitar pedals, the CT-101 can create unique sounds, such as organ sounds with overdrive for blues rock and piano sounds with reverb for ambient pads.

    Source
  • Sampling the CT-101 for digital keyboards, like the Nord Electro, is a strategy used to preserve its unique sound without needing to transport the physical unit.

    Source
  • Owners have created Kontakt instruments from the CT-101, indicating its potential for digital integration.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some owners have acquired the CT-101 for as low as $30, making it an affordable option for vintage sound enthusiasts.

    Source
  • Despite rising prices, the CT-101 can still be found affordably on second-hand platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace in the UK.

    Source

User experience

  • Its simplicity and distinct vintage sound keep users returning for the unique sonic "special sauce" it adds to recordings and performances.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Circuit bending can add unique features like GLTC (glitch), BTCH (bitcrush), and POLY (mono-gate function) to the CT-101.

    Source
  • An octave down mod (8VE) and direct DAC output enhance the CT-101's versatility.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Harold Budd uses Casio CT-101

Harold Budd

Music Producer

...
Verified via Muzines

Used on The Pearl, as per attached article.

See how Leslie Hardy uses Casio CT-101

Leslie Hardy

Bassist, Keyboardist

Hole

...
Verified via Photo

Leslie Hardy played a Casio CT-101 with the Murder City Devils in the years following their initial reunion.

Album Usage

The Casio CT-101 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 CT-101, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

EMT 250 Digital Reverb
EMT 250 Digital Reverb Effects Processors
1
NED Synclavier II
NED Synclavier II Synthesizers
1
Yamaha DX7
Yamaha DX7 Synthesizers
1

More Casio Synthesizers

Casio HT-700

 

 
Sly Stone Synkro
2 artists using
Casio SK-8

$19.99 - $194.10

 
OMFG Dan Deacon Brian Borcherdt
3 artists using
Casio CT-201

 

 
The BBC Radiophonic Workshop Malcolm Clarke
2 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides