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Average Price: $545
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Description
The Casio CZ-1 is a classic synthesizer that remains a favorite among musicians for its unique approach to sound generation. Released in the mid-1980s, it was part of Casio's groundbreaking CZ series, known for utilizing Phase Distortion synthesis, a distinctive method that offered an alternative to the more common analog and FM synthesis of the time. This synth is celebrated for its versatility and ability to create rich, complex sounds that resonate with both nostalgic tones and modern music production needs.
The CZ-1 features a 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard with aftertouch, providing players with dynamic expression capability. With 8-stage envelopes and a dual-line display, the CZ-1 allows for precise control and detailed editing of sound parameters. Its 16-note polyphony lets you create lush, full chords without worrying about note dropouts. Musicians appreciate its programmable memory bank that holds up to 64 patches, ensuring that your favorite sounds are always at your fingertips. Whether you’re crafting dreamy pads, punchy basslines, or soaring leads, this synthesizer is equipped to handle a wide array of sonic explorations.
The Casio CZ-1's rugged build and user-friendly interface make it a reliable staple for any studio or live performance setup. Its ability to layer and split sounds further expands your creative possibilities, making it a versatile tool for both beginners and seasoned synth enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard with aftertouch
- Phase Distortion synthesis for unique sound creation
- 16-note polyphony
- 8-stage envelope generators
- 64 programmable memory patches
- Layering and splitting capabilities
- Dual-line display for easy editing
Product specs
| Brand | Casio |
| Model | CZ-1 61-Key Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1986 |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through |
| Number of Keys | 61 Keys |
| Polyphony | 16 Voices |
FAQs
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Is the Casio CZ-1 polyphonic or monophonic?
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The Casio CZ-1 is a polyphonic synthesizer with 16 voices, allowing you to play multiple notes simultaneously.
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What type of keyboard action does the Casio CZ-1 have?
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The Casio CZ-1 features a synth action keyboard, providing a smooth and responsive playing experience suitable for synthesizer performances.
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Does the Casio CZ-1 have MIDI connectivity?
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Yes, the Casio CZ-1 includes MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through, making it compatible with other MIDI-enabled devices for expanded musical integration.
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What sound synthesis method does the Casio CZ-1 use?
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The Casio CZ-1 utilizes phase distortion synthesis, offering a unique range of digital sounds that are often compared to Yamaha's FM synthesis.
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How many keys does the Casio CZ-1 have?
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The Casio CZ-1 is equipped with 61 full-size keys, providing a wide range for expressive playing and performance.
Videos
ProckGnosis
Demo of Casio CZ-1 Sounds
Reviews
PROS
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Unique sound character, distinct from other early digital synths
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Capable of strong basses and versatile sound manipulation
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User-friendly editing and parameter copying
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Built-in presets can be reinitialized without loss
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Features split and double mode with 64 patch memories
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Offers programmable Velocity and Aftertouch for expressiveness
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Easy to program, especially compared to FM synthesis models
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Compatible with external modulation effects for enhanced sounds
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Provides options for cross-modulation and envelope shaping
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Inspires creative approaches to songwriting and sound design
CONS
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Prone to technical issues like screen and battery failures
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Potential for bad capacitors, especially in power supply
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Large physical footprint may not suit all studio spaces
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Sound may not be as rich or varied as some analog synths
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No rack mount version available, limiting setup options
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Casio CZ-1.
Setup and maintenance
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Factory reset sets A=442 rather than A=440, an unusual tuning standard.
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Contact spray, like Contact 61, effectively fixes button and potentiometer issues.
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Internal memory battery failure causes gibberish on screen; replacing CR2032 battery resolves this.
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Issues with output relay contacts common; cleaning or replacing fixes sound output problems.
Source
Software and compatibility
Comparisons
Features and functionality
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The CZ-1 supports up to 8-part multi-timbrality via MIDI, allowing for complex layering and sound design.
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The CZ-1 includes a simple analog chorus, enhancing its sound capabilities with a warm effect.
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The CZ-1 is noted for its velocity-sensitive keyboard, a unique feature among the CZ series, making it stand out in terms of playability.
Source
Use cases and applications
User experience
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 3 Reviews and 17 Ratings
121
Like being trapped in a VHS
The tones that come out of this thing are so incredibly mellow. If you really try and program your own patches, you can get sounds far from the stock, cheesy 80s presets this thing ships with.
The options for cross-modulation make this a dream for pads, as well as the envelope shaping.
Artist usage
Add artist
At 8:48 he confesses his 'newest true love', although it's bleeped you can pretty much tell he says Casio CZ-1.
"I also remember using the Casio CZ-1 and a Roland sampler (can't remember the name). " This quote comes from an email responding to a question about Uematsu's gear, which was sourced from the "Video Game Composer Gear" spreadsheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Tc_iHgBA6JIrROgUV-Wd05tO9sTUT2uORhDXUTYPR7Y/edit?usp=sharing
In an article from The-black-hit-of-space, Phil Oakey of The Human League is listed as using the Casio CZ-1 synthesizer.
In this youtube video of Inner Wave playing at the Fonda Theater you can see them using a Casio CZ-1 at 12:29.
Orgue Electronique has incorporated the Casio CZ-1 synthesizer into his setup at Sternstudio. The CZ-1 offers several enhancements over the CZ-101, including additional user patches, chorus, velocity sensitivity, aftertouch, a modulation wheel, four modulation types, glide, and adjustable output levels for its two DCAs. While the CZ-1 can technically achieve 16 voices, practical use typically limits it to 8 voices, providing a richer sound palette than the CZ-101. Notably, it supports SysEx dumps and allows sound exchange with the CZ-101. Though the sound engine remains similar between the two models, the CZ-1's chorus adds a slightly warmer, albeit noisier, dimension. This information is detailed on Sternstudio's website.
One of the crews that participated were two very young DJs with a fast growing reputation, a Casio CZ-1, RZ-1 and a couple of decks - Andy Barker and Darren Partington, aka The Spinmasters.
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 CZ-1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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