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Description

The 1987 Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar represents a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology from its era. This innovative instrument combines the versatility of an electric guitar with the advanced features of a digital synthesizer, offering musicians an expansive range of creative possibilities. The PG-380 was one of the first guitars to integrate MIDI capabilities, allowing players to interact seamlessly with synthesizers and other digital audio equipment. Its proprietary synthesizer engine gives it the ability to generate a wide variety of sounds, from classic guitar tones to electronic synth textures. The PG-380 is equipped with an onboard synthesizer module, which includes 64 preset tones that can be easily accessed and manipulated using the guitar's controls.

The ergonomic design of the PG-380 ensures comfortable playability, while its robust build provides durability for both studio and stage performances. The guitar's distinctive sound palette is further enhanced by its high-quality pickups, which capture every nuance of your playing. Additionally, the PG-380 features a sleek control interface, allowing for intuitive navigation through its various functions and sounds. This guitar stands as a testament to Casio's innovative spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression.

Key Features:

  • Integrated MIDI capabilities for versatile digital connectivity
  • Built-in synthesizer module with 64 preset tones
  • High-quality pickups for exceptional sound clarity
  • Ergonomic design for comfortable playability
  • Sleek control interface for easy sound manipulation

Product specs

Brand Casio
Model PG-380
Finish Black, White
Year 1987 - 1989
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, White
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What kind of MIDI capabilities does the Casio PG-380 guitar offer?

The Casio PG-380 features built-in MIDI capabilities, allowing it to control external synthesizers and sound modules. This makes it ideal for guitarists looking to integrate digital sounds into their performances or recordings.

How does the Casio PG-380's pickup configuration affect its sound?

The Casio PG-380 has an HSS (Humbucker-Single-Single) pickup configuration, offering a versatile range of tones. The humbucker provides a thicker, more powerful sound, while the single-coils deliver brighter and more articulate tones, suitable for various music genres.

Is the Casio PG-380 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Casio PG-380 is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its MIDI capabilities and versatile pickup configuration. Its locking tremolo bridge also helps maintain tuning stability during dynamic playing.

What type of bridge does the Casio PG-380 have?

The Casio PG-380 is equipped with a locking tremolo bridge, which allows for pitch bending and vibrato effects while maintaining tuning stability, making it a great choice for expressive playing styles.

How does the Casio PG-380's body material affect its tone?

The Casio PG-380 is made with an alder body, which is known for its balanced tone with a slight emphasis on midrange frequencies. This contributes to the guitar's overall versatility and suitability for various musical styles.

simonsezproduction

simonsezproduction

Casio Midi Guitar PG 380 for sale

Video thumbnail for Casio Midi Guitar PG 380   for sale by simonsezproduction

Casio Midi Guitar PG 380 for sale

simonsezproduction

simonsezproduction

Video thumbnail for Capacitor Replacement on a Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar by TomboLP

Capacitor Replacement on a Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar

TomboLP

TomboLP

Video thumbnail for Proba midi casio pg 380 by Goran Čolić OREOL & Guitar Studio GM

Proba midi casio pg 380

Goran Čolić OREOL & Guitar Studio GM

Goran Čolić OREOL & Guitar Studio GM

Video thumbnail for Jerry Garcia's Casio Guitar Synth PG-380 by ANALOGr

Jerry Garcia's Casio Guitar Synth PG-380

ANALOGr

ANALOGr

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar.

Mods and upgrades

  • A unique switch allows for MIDI blend on/off, offering versatility in sound combinations between MIDI and traditional guitar tones.

    Source
  • Modulus graphite necks are considered higher quality than Moses graphites, with fewer issues like shimming and cracks.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The PG-380 includes on/off toggles for each pickup and MIDI blending, enhancing control over sound output.

    Source
  • The PG-380 features a built-in synthesizer with 77 presets, offering a wide array of sound options directly from the guitar.

    Source
  • The guitar has two outputs; one for traditional guitar tones and another for MIDI/synth signals, allowing for versatile sound routing setups.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some Modulus necks on these guitars might have been seconds, identifiable by filled-in tuner holes and missing branding.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The synth patch "Emerald Blue" on the PG-380 is noted for achieving a unique, treble-heavy Bobby Weir sound, suitable for replicating his subtle style.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the PG-380's MIDI capabilities impressive, even decades after its release, making it a standout model for MIDI integration in guitars.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Casio PG380 (MT Sep 88)

muzines.co.uk

The Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar stands as a pioneering fusion of traditional guitar playability with built-in synth capabilities, offering seamless integration without external tools. Praised for its superior tracking and quality build reminiscent of a Strat, it impresses with versatile sounds and ease of use. However, the lack of sustain on synth voices and cumbersome battery changes may deter some. Despite these drawbacks, its standalone nature and rich sound layering make it a strong, innovative choice for adventurous guitarists looking to expand their sonic palette without the usual MIDI controller hassles.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jimmy_bergmooser

Fun Guitar

Got this on a trade a few years back when I was hoping for a mim strat. The MIDI unit on my guitar does not work, but it is still very fun to play. Pickups are not top notch, but the bridge and neck are very high quality.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Eric Clapton uses Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Bonhams

Eric Clapton's use of the 1987 Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar can be traced back to his interest in guitar synthesizers for creative inspiration. In a 1985 interview with Dan Forte, Clapton discussed how switching guitars helped him overcome creative blocks, specifically mentioning his use of a Roland guitar synthesizer during the recording of his album Behind the Sun. This approach underscores his openness to incorporating innovative technology, such as the Casio PG-380, into his music.

See how J.J. Cale uses Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar

J.J. Cale

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In the photo provided by Babelxxi, J.J. Cale is seen playing his 1987 Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar.

See how Peter Hammill uses Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar

Peter Hammill

Singer, Guitarist

Van der Graaf Generator

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo from Vandergraafgenerator, Peter Hammill is shown with his 1987 Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar, highlighting his use of this digital modeling instrument.

See how Graham Massey uses Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar

Graham Massey

Guitarist, Keyboardist

808 State

...
Verified via 808state

Used specifically during the Ex:El album. Can be seen played by Graham during the live performances of Cubik.

See how Emily Remler uses Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar

Emily Remler

Guitarist

...
Verified via Remembering the life and music of legendary jazz guitarist Emily Remler

But near the end of her career, as she was establishing her own style and playing with the new technology of the times, she did begin to venture into the electronic side of jazz music and her instrument of choice was the Casio PG-380 Synth Guitar.

Album Usage

The Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar 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 PG-380 MIDI Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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gianluigi_cavallo

gianluigi_cavallo

Gear IQ 132

gianluigi_cavallo

gianluigi_cavallo

Gear IQ 132

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