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Average Price: $100

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Description

Step back in time with the charming Casio PT-20, a staple of the early digital keyboard era. This compact keyboard is perfect for both aspiring musicians and collectors of vintage musical gear. Despite its retro design, the PT-20 offers surprisingly modern features, making it a delightful fusion of old and new. With its 32 mini keys, this portable keyboard provides a playful and accessible platform for music creation. Its simplicity and portability make it an excellent choice for beginners or anyone looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use instrument.

The Casio PT-20 comes with a selection of pre-programmed rhythms and sounds that capture the nostalgia of the 80s while still being relevant for today's music scene. Whether you’re playing at home or jamming with friends, this keyboard's intuitive layout ensures a seamless musical experience. The built-in speaker provides clear sound output, and the headphone jack allows for private practice sessions.

Embrace the simplicity and charm of this classic instrument, and let your creativity flow.

Key Features:

  • 32 mini keys for a compact and portable playing experience
  • 8 preset tones to explore a variety of sounds
  • 8 rhythms to add a dynamic background to your music
  • Built-in speaker for immediate sound output
  • Headphone jack for silent practice sessions
  • Battery-powered operation for ultimate portability

Product specs

Brand Casio
Model PT-20 Mini Synthesizer
Finish White
Year 1980s
Made In Japan
Categories Portable Keyboards
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Mini
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 29 Keys
Polyphony 4 Voices

FAQs

Is the Casio PT-20 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Casio PT-20 is ideal for beginners due to its simple interface and compact size. It features 29 mini keys and basic sound options, making it easy for new players to explore keyboard fundamentals.

What type of sounds does the Casio PT-20 produce?

The Casio PT-20 offers a selection of preset digital sounds typical of early 1980s keyboards. It features basic tones suitable for practicing melodies and experimenting with simple compositions.

How many keys does the Casio PT-20 have?

The Casio PT-20 has 29 mini keys, which are smaller than standard keys, making it a compact and portable option for casual playing and practice.

Is the Casio PT-20 polyphonic?

Yes, the Casio PT-20 is polyphonic and can play up to 4 voices simultaneously, allowing for simple chord playing and accompaniment.

Does the Casio PT-20 have built-in accompaniment features?

Yes, the Casio PT-20 includes polyphonic accompaniment features, which can be played using special chord keys and stored in the built-in sequencer.

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Casio PT-20 | Resampling, Lofi Beatmaking | Gear Demos [Episode 05]

Video thumbnail for Casio PT-20 | Resampling, Lofi Beatmaking | Gear Demos [Episode 05] by into.cassette

Casio PT-20 | Resampling, Lofi Beatmaking | Gear Demos [Episode 05]

into.cassette

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Video thumbnail for Vintage Casio PT-20 Electronic Musical Instrument Demo by Beyond Soup by Jaed Arzadon

Vintage Casio PT-20 Electronic Musical Instrument Demo

Beyond Soup by Jaed Arzadon

Beyond Soup by Jaed Arzadon

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Casio PT-20.

Setup and maintenance

  • Proper cleaning of switches and battery bay can restore full functionality in vintage units, even if initially listed as non-working.

    Source
  • When replacing transistors, match the ID number (e.g., D734) and consult data sheets for equivalent parts to ensure correct installation.

    Source
  • Incorrect voltage adapters can cause detuning and shutdown, indicating potential damage to internal components like transistors or capacitors.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The PT-20's sequencer allows note/chord separation from phrasing, a surprisingly intuitive feature not commonly found in modern keyboards.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The PT-30 offers 8 memory banks of 63.5 steps each, unlike the PT-50 which provides 1000 steps in a single bank with automatic sound switching.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Consider adding a "trigger in" to the PT-20 by tapping into the "one key play" buttons for integration with other gear.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • When run through a series of effect pedals, the PT-20's sound is significantly enhanced, making it suitable for creative audio exploration.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners with limited electronics experience find sourcing and replacing specific components challenging, suggesting a steep learning curve for DIY repairs.

    Source

Critic Reviews

New Casio Keyboards (EMM Mar 83)

muzines.co.uk

The Casio PT-20 is a compact, budget-friendly keyboard that offers straightforward functionality with its genuine sprung keys and monophonic sound. It's equipped with seven voices and a surprisingly powerful chord button feature resembling a church organ when amplified. The rhythm section is a step up from its predecessor, the VL-1, with 12 patterns and improved sound quality. However, the PT-20's memory function is limited, allowing only a single playthrough on auto mode. While it provides a good entry point for beginners with its ease of use and affordability, at £59.95, it lacks the versatility and rich sound palette of more advanced keyboards, making it a basic option for casual musicians or learners.

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3.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 5 Ratings

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johntycannon

The baby brother of the PT-30

It's tiny and limited, but has a lot of potential for modification.

ben_liss

Fine

It's pretty outdated and kinda crap but it's ok

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Stewart Copeland uses Casio PT-20

Stewart Copeland

Singer, Guitarist

The Police

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Verified via Photo

Visible in this photo of Stewart Copeland's "hotel rig" (or "suitcase studio") from around the Synchronicity tour, featured in the Police Vintage gallery section of his website.

From Down Beat magazine May 1984 issue:

On the road Copeland figures out his new charts on his "suitcase studio" - a Yamaha HandySound HS-5O1 polyphonic mini-synth, a Casio PT2O monophonic mini-synth (that also plays chords), a BOSS Dr Rhythm, the Scholz Rockman (for studio effects), a Fostex X-15 Multi-tracker cassette recorder, Sanyo C mini-monitor speakers, and Sony headphones, plus a Fender Stratocaster for that dose of heavy metal.

See how Tyson Ritter uses Casio PT-20

Tyson Ritter

Singer, Bassist

The All-American Rejects

...
Verified via YouTube

Tyson uses it in the music video for wtwcd

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 PT-20, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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