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Description

The Casio MG-510 is a versatile addition to any guitarist's arsenal, seamlessly blending traditional electric guitar craftsmanship with innovative digital technology. Perfect for those looking to expand their sonic palette, this digital modeling guitar offers a unique playing experience by integrating Casio’s advanced MIDI technology. This allows musicians to control MIDI devices directly from the guitar, opening up a world of possibilities for live performances and studio sessions alike.

Crafted with precision, the MG-510 features a 22-fret neck that ensures smooth playability, while its thoughtfully designed body provides comfort for extended playing sessions. The onboard pickup system captures classic electric tones, which can be further enhanced with the guitar’s digital modeling capabilities. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, the MG-510 offers both the familiarity of a traditional electric guitar and the cutting-edge versatility of modern digital technology.

For those who thrive in a creative environment, the MG-510’s ability to send MIDI signals paves the way for integrating with synthesizers, samplers, and recording software, making it a powerful tool for composing and live performances. This unique feature sets the MG-510 apart, making it an essential instrument for the modern musician.

Key Features:

  • Advanced MIDI technology for seamless integration with MIDI devices
  • 22-fret neck for smooth playability
  • Onboard pickup system for capturing classic electric guitar tones
  • Digital modeling capabilities for a wide range of sound options
  • Ideal for both live performances and studio recording
  • Perfect for musicians seeking both traditional and modern soundscapes
TomboLP

TomboLP

Casio MG-510 Guitar: A MIDI Masterpiece from the 1980s

Video thumbnail for Casio MG-510 Guitar: A MIDI Masterpiece from the 1980s by TomboLP

Casio MG-510 Guitar: A MIDI Masterpiece from the 1980s

TomboLP

TomboLP

Video thumbnail for CASIO MG-510 1987 Japan Fujigen Midi Guitar Souncheck by Tamás Pógyor

CASIO MG-510 1987 Japan Fujigen Midi Guitar Souncheck

Tamás Pógyor

Tamás Pógyor

Video thumbnail for Casio midi guitar.MG510 ground breaking affordable late 80’s guitar synth. by Pete Hambrook

Casio midi guitar.MG510 ground breaking affordable late 80’s guitar synth.

Pete Hambrook

Pete Hambrook

Video thumbnail for Casio MG-510 Midi Guitar 1989 Japan Soundcheck by Tamás Pógyor

Casio MG-510 Midi Guitar 1989 Japan Soundcheck

Tamás Pógyor

Tamás Pógyor

Video thumbnail for Casio MG 510 MG-510 midi guitar 1987 Ibanez by Art, Cars and Guitars -Scott M Fischer

Casio MG 510 MG-510 midi guitar 1987 Ibanez

Art, Cars and Guitars -Scott M Fischer

Art, Cars and Guitars -Scott M Fischer

Video thumbnail for Casio MG-510 MIDI Guitar / Mini Grand Piano Setting by johnnyangel69

Casio MG-510 MIDI Guitar / Mini Grand Piano Setting

johnnyangel69

johnnyangel69

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Casio MG-510.

Build quality

  • The MG-510 is a well-made Strat copy, reputedly built in the same factory as Ibanez, featuring a flat fretboard radius and a C-shaped neck.

    Source
  • Original packaging, brochures, or cases can significantly increase the guitar's resale value, especially if in pristine condition.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MIDI section can be laggy, but it integrates well with the guitar's sound, allowing for interesting layering.

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  • The hexaphonic pickup uses 12 low-impedance coils to detect strings individually, allowing for precise analog and digital processing.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Capacitor replacement might be necessary due to age, but once addressed, the guitar performs reliably.

    Source
  • Users report that replacing the guitar's capacitors is often necessary due to failure, with Nichicon and Wurth being suitable modern replacements for the original Panasonic caps.

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  • Capacitor C42 appears critical for the B string's functionality, highlighting the need for careful troubleshooting with schematics and potentially an oscilloscope for accurate repair.

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  • Some owners suggest leaving original capacitors unless failure is confirmed, as modern electrolytics might not significantly improve performance unless there is a specific issue.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At 90€, it's considered a good deal, especially given its quality build, even outside the MIDI functionality.

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  • MG-510 models in non-black colors are less common and potentially more valuable, influencing resale price.

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  • Typical resale price ranges from $400 to $700, heavily dependent on condition and functionality.

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Use cases and applications

  • Works well for live performance setups when combined with software like Cubase and Absynth for diverse soundscapes.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users report the MG-510 as their favorite among a collection due to its unique features and playability.

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  • The guitar's PCBs are praised for their aesthetic and build quality, indicating a level of craftsmanship not commonly found in modern boards.

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Comparisons

  • The MG-500 model has identical electronics but features a more modern body shape, often commanding a higher price.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It's recommended to use capacitors with a 105°C temperature rating for longevity, and ensuring proper fit by matching the pin spacing and lead orientation with the original.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
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1 star
m0ritsch

Really neat

The Midi processor is onboard. You can use this guitar as a midi controller with a direct 5-pin midi cable. If you have a wireless midi system, you can power the midi part by batterys and your are completly wirless. Best electric-midi guitar if you search an alternative to the 13pin Roland system.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Vince Clarke uses Casio MG-510

Vince Clarke

Keyboardist, Composer

Depeche Mode

...
Verified via Photo

Photo of Vince Clarke playing a Casio MG-510, from the December 1988 issue of Sound on Sound.

See how Tátrai Tibor uses Casio MG-510

Tátrai Tibor

Guitarist

godfater.

...
Verified via YouTube

Tátrai Tibor used the Casio MG-510 extensively throughout his career. In a video by Mátyás Richárd featuring the Hobo Blues Band's "Rossz vér," it's noted that he and a friend crafted a new guitar using the electronics from this Casio. This new guitar features a bright-sounding DiMarzio pickup in the bridge and retains the Casio's pickups in the neck. Notably, Tibor does not utilize the MIDI functionality of the MG-510, choosing this instrument for its perceived shortcomings to achieve the best sound.

See how Andy Booth uses Casio MG-510

Andy Booth

Guitarist, Keyboardist

The Cassandra Complex

...
Verified via The Cassandra Complex
Color/Finish: Black

Andrew (Andy) William Booth is confirmed to use the Casio MG-510, as listed on The Cassandra Complex's gear page, provided by the source author, Rodney.

Album Usage

The Casio MG-510 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 MG-510, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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Gear IQ 145

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