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Average Price: $772

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$500

$1501+

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Description

The Casio HT-6000 is a compelling choice for musicians seeking a versatile synthesizer that balances classic digital sounds with modern functionality. Introduced during the late 1980s, this synthesizer is a hidden gem known for its unique hybrid synthesis capabilities. It combines Digital Phase Distortion (DPD) with traditional subtractive synthesis, offering a distinctive sound character that sets it apart from other synthesizers of its era. With 61 touch-sensitive keys, the HT-6000 is designed to respond dynamically to your playing style, making it suitable for both studio recording and live performances.

The HT-6000 features a straightforward user interface, allowing musicians to easily navigate through its various sound parameters. Equipped with 8-stage envelope generators and a variety of modulation options, this synth provides extensive sound-shaping possibilities for both beginners and seasoned professionals. Additionally, it includes built-in effects such as chorus and vibrato, which enhance the richness of its sound.

One of the standout features of the HT-6000 is its 4-part multi-timbral capability, enabling users to layer sounds and create complex, textured compositions. The sequencer and arpeggiator options further expand its creative potential, making it a powerful tool for crafting intricate musical pieces.

Key Features:

  • 61 touch-sensitive keys
  • Digital Phase Distortion (DPD) synthesis
  • 4-part multi-timbral capability
  • Built-in effects: chorus and vibrato
  • 8-stage envelope generators
  • Sequencer and arpeggiator functions
  • User-friendly interface for easy navigation
  • Modulation options for intricate sound design

Product specs

Brand Casio
Model HT-6000 61-Key Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1980s
Made In Japan
Categories Portable Keyboards
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 8 Voices

FAQs

What synthesis engine does the Casio HT-6000 use?

The Casio HT-6000 utilizes a digital synthesis engine with four digital oscillators offering 48 waveforms, providing a diverse sound palette for creative music production.

How many keys and voices does the Casio HT-6000 have?

The Casio HT-6000 features a 61-key full-size keyboard with 8-voice polyphony, allowing for rich and layered sound compositions.

Does the Casio HT-6000 support MIDI connectivity?

Yes, the Casio HT-6000 includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it compatible with various MIDI setups for extended control and integration.

What are the standout features of the Casio HT-6000's sound engine?

The Casio HT-6000's sound engine includes an analog resonant low-pass filter, ADSR envelopes for both filter and amplifier per voice, and a stereo chorus effect, enhancing its sound design capabilities.

Is the Casio HT-6000 suitable for live performances?

With its full-size keyboard and comprehensive MIDI capabilities, the Casio HT-6000 is well-suited for live performances, offering versatile sound manipulation and control.

Raymond Young

Raymond Young

CASIO HT-6000 SD sound source synthesizer

Video thumbnail for CASIO HT-6000 SD sound source synthesizer by Raymond Young

CASIO HT-6000 SD sound source synthesizer

Raymond Young

Raymond Young

Video thumbnail for Casio HT-6000 demo by ikworgek

Casio HT-6000 demo

ikworgek

ikworgek

Video thumbnail for Casio HT-6000 Demo (a few custom patches) by GJC Synths

Casio HT-6000 Demo (a few custom patches)

GJC Synths

GJC Synths

Video thumbnail for CASIO HT-6000: User and Factory Presets Demo (Sounds Only) by wolfgang S vukan

CASIO HT-6000: User and Factory Presets Demo (Sounds Only)

wolfgang S vukan

wolfgang S vukan

Video thumbnail for CASIO HT-6000 - Casio's Best Analog Filter Hybrid Synth (Scum Night) by Vulture Culture

CASIO HT-6000 - Casio's Best Analog Filter Hybrid Synth (Scum Night)

Vulture Culture

Vulture Culture

Video thumbnail for Casio HT-6000 Some custom patches by Najvrtson

Casio HT-6000 Some custom patches

Najvrtson

Najvrtson

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Casio HT-6000.

Features and functionality

  • The Casio HT-6000 has 8 discrete analog VCFs, but they are considered quite anemic by some users.

    Source
  • The HT-6000 offers true 8-voice polyphony with four oscillators per voice, providing a broader selection of waveforms compared to the Poly-800's paraphonic setup.

    Source
  • Programming the HT-6000 is reportedly challenging due to its reliance on an alpha wheel and single-parameter adjustments, complicating sound design efforts.

    Source
  • The HT-6000's lack of MIDI controller compatibility and rare, expensive memory cards limit its ease of use and expandability for saving patches.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The HT-6000's MIDI implementation is very limited, lacking support for external editing and SysEx.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Unlike the CZ-1, the HT-6000 does not feature phase distortion (PD) synthesis but includes analog filters that some users find impressive.

    Source
  • The HT-6000 is compared to the CZ-101 in discussions about polyphony, with users noting the importance of maintaining full polyphony in potential reissues.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner reported some feature buttons not working, yet the instrument still delivers great sound.

    Source
  • Owners express frustration with the limited articulation options, wishing for more real-time controls to enhance performance flexibility.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users have created detuned analog-style patches, showcasing the synth's unexpected sound capabilities.

    Source
  • Despite limited fame among A-list artists, the HT-6000 is valued by enthusiasts for its unique sound capabilities, which remain underappreciated in popular synth culture.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners mention the HT-6000 as more resilient and less prone to needing repairs compared to the Poly-800, which often suffers from capacitor issues.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The HT-6000 has been observed to sell between $700 to $1000 recently, contrasting with past deals around $250, suggesting a steep increase in its market value.

    Source
  • The rarity of the HT-6000 is highlighted, with some buyers spending extensive time searching across various online platforms before securing one, indicating high demand and scarcity.

    Source
Add

3.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
dsr
dsr

137

Spectrum Dynamic synth

This synth, even with 4 DCOs and analog filter, cannot make bass sounds AT ALL. However if you want lush pads, trancey plucks and strange ppg-like waveforms this is a nice instrument to have (nowdays is pretty hard to find one btw).

jimmarchi1

what did you pay for yours.... sounds like the sort of mutant I like to add to the herd when I can find one cheap enough!

dsr
dsr

137

I paid just 150 euros for mine, it was in decent condition but there were almost no screws on the bottom side (idk why but it's a pretty common problem with HT synthesizers). BTW includes also a completely programable PCM drum machine (similar to the Casio RZ-1)

zwoervleis

the 80's have called, they want it back...

used as an extra masterkeyboard here, the sounds are very 80's, not a very exciting synth but hey, it's a nice toy to have!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Roger Joseph Manning Jr. uses Casio HT-6000

Roger Joseph Manning Jr.

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Loser

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram video, Roger can be seen with a Casio HT-6000.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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