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Average Price: $20
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$500
$1501+
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Description
The Casio CZ-3000 is a classic synthesizer that has captivated musicians with its unique sound and versatile features since its introduction in the mid-1980s. Known for its Phase Distortion synthesis, the CZ-3000 offers a rich palette of tones, from bright and percussive to lush and atmospheric. Perfect for both studio work and live performances, this synth provides an excellent balance between simplicity and depth, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced sound designers.
Equipped with a 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, the CZ-3000 gives players a responsive touch, enhancing expressive playability. Its programmable memory bank allows for storing custom patches, facilitating a wide range of sonic exploration. With an intuitive interface, users can easily navigate and tweak parameters to craft their desired sound.
The built-in chorus effect adds depth and dimension to your patches, while the onboard modulation options, including an LFO and envelope generators, provide further creative possibilities. Additionally, the synth's MIDI capabilities ensure seamless integration with modern digital setups, making it a timeless addition to any musician's arsenal.
Key Features:
- Phase Distortion synthesis for diverse sound creation
- 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard for expressive play
- Programmable memory bank for custom patches
- Built-in chorus effect for added depth
- Onboard LFO and envelope generators for modulation
- MIDI compatibility for integration with digital setups
Product specs
| Brand | Casio |
| Model | CZ-3000 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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What synthesis method does the Casio CZ-3000 use?
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The Casio CZ-3000 uses Phase Distortion synthesis, which is a digital method that allows for complex sound design similar to FM synthesis, but with a unique character.
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How many voices of polyphony does the Casio CZ-3000 have?
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The Casio CZ-3000 features 16 voices of polyphony, allowing for rich, layered sounds and the ability to play multiple notes simultaneously.
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Does the Casio CZ-3000 have MIDI capabilities?
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Yes, the Casio CZ-3000 is equipped with MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it compatible with other MIDI-equipped instruments and devices for enhanced connectivity and control.
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How is the keyboard action on the Casio CZ-3000?
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The Casio CZ-3000 features a synth action keyboard with 61 full-size keys, providing a responsive and comfortable playing experience suitable for both beginners and experienced players.
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Is the Casio CZ-3000 suitable for live performances?
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The Casio CZ-3000 is well-suited for live performances due to its robust build, comprehensive MIDI connectivity, and the ability to produce a wide range of sounds with its Phase Distortion synthesis.
Videos
WilliamSalmela
Cosmo Synth (Casio CZ-3000)
Reviews
PROS
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Perfectly engineered fader caps for easy replacement
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Unique retro sound with standout chorus and vibrato features
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Comparable to Yamaha DX7, but with a rawer, edgier tone
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Ideal for vintage synth enthusiasts and collectors
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Great introductory synth for beginners with intuitive sound exploration
CONS
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Potential for malfunctioning keys upon delivery
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Unexpected repair costs not covered by the seller
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Casio CZ-3000.
Features and functionality
Setup and maintenance
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Requires AA batteries for memory retention; memory resets without them during power cycles.
Source
User experience
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Notably heavy and large, some use it as a stable surface for other equipment.
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Owners highlight the difficulty in programming but appreciate the biting, edgy, and ringy sounds achievable with the CZ-3000.
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Controls on the CZ-3000 are sometimes described as "cheesy," though keys and pitch/mod wheels are satisfactory.
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Use cases and applications
Software and compatibility
Comparisons
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Some users feel the CZ series has a unique "magic" absent in the later VZ series.
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Value and pricing
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$300 is considered the maximum reasonable price for a CZ-3000, contingent on perfect working condition.
Source
4.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings
156
Zlobivé děcko z Japonska
Je to opravdu pozoruhodný digitální synth, který je často zvukově přirovnáván k Yamaha DX7. A protože DX7 mám ve studiu, můžu toto přirovnání hodnotit, že ano, tak trochu je to zvukově k DX7, ale Casio CZ-3000 je proti tomu opravdu zlobivé děcko. Zvuk je syrovější, drsnější, velmi mě baví. Vintage stroj z roku 1986 mě prostě nemůže zklamat. Tento nástroj mám v mém nahrávacím studiu Sunteem records.
Artist usage
Add artist
In 2020 naiv studios redesigned Skee Mask's studio space. in one of the several pictures provided we can see that it houses a Casio CZ-3000 of which multiple angles of it are visible in the photos provided.
See timestamp (7:49) in this behind-the-scenes video, showing Solange playing the Casio CZ-3000 during the songwriting process. You can tell it's the 3000 series of Casio's CZ by the orange 'Power' button (far right) and the red 'Write' button (left side) – each iteration of the CZ series synthesizers have distinctive appearances.
Album Usage
The Casio CZ-3000 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 CZ-3000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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