The "How does it sound in the room" is such an important consideration when talking about these entry keyboards and I'm glad you went to the effort of filming that.
I recently purchased the CT-S1 keyboard. It is a wonderful sounding instrument, with just the right number of sounds/voices for those of us who really don't like to "tweak" - and the tones sound great! However I'm having a strange issue with one of the patches: I'm getting a weird "overtone" when I'm using the Cathedral Organ patch (no. 32). When I set this patch and press F5 (you have to raise the keyboard an octave or two to play F5, so this is the scale note of F5, NOT the physical F5 keyboard layout as referenced in the user guide) I can distinctly hear a strange "overtone" pressing this key/note. If you start by pressing D5, then E5, F5, G5, you can tell something ain't quite right. It actually sounds like it is playing/sounding F5 and the F4 upper/higher drawbar notes. The same behavior also occurs at F6 (again, raising the keyboard by an octave, NOT the physical F6 keyboard layout). If owners of this keyboard could test this and let me know, that would be great. I want to know if it's just my keyboard or a defect/bug in the keyboard - Thanks.
I love this guy! What an enthusiasm! Love your playing, love the sounds! For the price, I think there are no competition! I am totally going to buy this!
Alright, so it's a Casio and it kiiind of looks like a laser printer from the 90s, but it looks and sounds a lot classier than a lot of beginner keyboards filled to the brim with tacky marketing features and overly slick demo songs that would be impossible to actually create on the keyboard itself (ahem YAMAHA). They stuck to the basics and focused on getting a few quality sounds, and I would have much rather had this lying about at home when I was a kid than the old PSRs with 500 awful general midi samples.
I almost pre-ordered the CT-S1 just because it’s so clean, but I went ahead for the CT-S400 just because I genuinely enjoy The classic Casio Chord accompaniment and drums.
@@HubertEtAlice Is that right? Ive got the manuals for each and was trying to determine that. I assumed that the S400 had all the same sounds and capabilities as the S1, just a few more features and added complexity. I’m not familiar with the X800 (my most recent Casio was the XW-P1). But if that’s the case, I’m a little sad. I just wrote elsewhere last night that “One thing that always drove me a little nuts with the typical Casio keyboard back in the day was that it always seemed to be one feature short of perfection, something that might have been on the last model or the next model (which would inevitably be missing something different). But these latest models look like “you can have it all.”” But based on what you’re saying, the curse continues lol
@@RobertSaintJohn I have the CT-X800 and I noticed the S400 exactly has the same sounds and features. The only differences are 1) a much better ergonomy and user interface, 2) Bluetooth connectivity both for MIDI and audio but since it uses a dongle I suppose the CT-X800 might be able to use that dongle, too, 3) the possibility to adjust the volumes of the main, layer and split voices, a feature which is curiously missing on the CT-X800. I feel as you do... the CT-X800 is missing this balance feature and the S400 will be missing the “premium” sounds of the S1. Aaahhh that tape flute and that VL-1 violin...
@@HubertEtAlice Well I’ll never admit I preordered both last night (did I say that aloud?) so either I’ll love them both or it’ll be thunderdome. It’s just a shame, I really would have paid somewhat more to have that one perfect modern Casiotone (very into my vintage ones). Still, I have to keep reminding myself that I’m not the target market any longer, and I suspect most users have no idea what we’re talking about
Excellent review - I'm putting my order in today. Incidentally, I have bought a few things from Andertons and find them an excellent company to deal with. Your playing is really good. Thanks. (best wishes from a bass player)
I would have liked to hear all the organ presets. Other demos of this keyboard mention a layering feature. I'd like to know specifically what that involves.. for example, does that mean you can select a preset organ sound, and then add other presets that will play along with that preset? It was also mentioned that you can adjust the volume on the layer you are adding. How many layers can you add to a preset? OR does layering refer to an internal digital recording, where you record a song and add other presets to what you've recorded?
Hello! I'm also one of the owners of this keyboard and yes, you can layer sounds here, tho you can only layer 2 of them, also yep, the volume for each layer is controlable, just need to do some specific button + key combination
@@jamesivanmarionrosete3039 Thank you for reply. What a great feature to be able to layer a voice on your preset, plus control the volume and sustain. I ordered one today, having had this feature confirmed. God bless and many thanks !
Loved the video, thanks for posting it for all of us. I am an adult learner (in my late 30s) who is looking to start playing the digital piano. Wanted all your advice on whether I should be opting for this as a starter instrument before 'graduating' to a full size digital piano?
Keys are full size with decent semi-weighted feel. You shouldn't have a problem with transitioning to weighted keyboard (on the lighter side) in the future. BTW. Did you get one in the end?
Got mine today from Andertons , it's great , really like the electric pianos & organs, Just what I wanted , thanks Jack . the Keybeds really nice , much better than any other in this price range from other companies that have lightweight portable battery powered keyboards . Great sounds , easy to access , I like the tone variation buttons you can find sounds quickly & I prefer to have more electric pianos than acoustics , so that was a plus. there's a really quirky funky eastern sound too, which I really like & will use. I'm really impressed & it comes with mains power supply , I wasn't sure but it does . so you only need batteries , when you are back packing the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, where I shall be later.
I shall use it on some gigs , as My Korg D1 is a heavy beast & if you only have a 45 minute set , this is quick & easy , it's got guitar strap buttons too , so you can key tar it for one song spots, save having a stand.
Problem is the CTS1 does NOT support half dampening with a sustain pedal (which is really just an on/off switch, shaped like a pedal..) so, IDEA FOR FUTURE VIDEO = How about making a video that covers what are the portable battery powered digital pianos (made by ANYONE) that DO support 1/2 damper (1/2 sustain) function? As far as i know (there are a thousand digital keyboard videos on youtube, but NONE of them cover this topic. It would also make for a good video and a good comparison video is there are several to choose from.. Cheers!
Another great review, Jack. A little disappointed there's no L & R line out especially if one of it's selling points was the sound quality. Just how much would it have increasd the cost to include stereo outputs?
Hi Daniel, thanks for watching and for asking Brother. The Minijack style Headphone Out is a relatively modern connector type so History is on the side of 1/4 Inch L&R Outputs and also means that most live or recording situations will be setup to accommodate the more “Traditional” “Jack” style connector type. “Aux” Style MiniJack are often the headphone output so they tend to have a much “Hotter” and Louder signal level (To drive the Headphones) that, without care, can be problematic; again, in in traditional Live and Recording environments. Audibly though, could I tell the difference in a blind test with everything “properly” set up and gain matched? Probably not - they’re might be a higher noise floor due to the “Hot” Output of the Headphone out but that would only be noticeable under super critical listening environments and certainly not noticeable at a gig. Sorry for all the “””” and different nomenclature but that in itself should show you how this is all up for debate and so there’s no real right and wrong on the subject. I certainly wouldn’t let the lack of Quarter Inch L&R outputs stop me from buying a keyboard if I liked the sound of it, was the right price just because it only had a Headphone/Aux style output. Hope that helps mate ✊
@@jackduxbury1632 So how did you rigg it for the video? Is there some other output on it other than a small head phone jack? Great video and love your vibe dude
We go out of the used a cable like this…www.andertons.co.uk/recording/recording-studio-accessories/studio-cables-and-leads/andertons-pro-sound-35mm-stereo-mini-to-2-x-mono-jacks-2m Out of the Headphones and then into 2 DI Boxes that then when in at Line Level to an Audio Interface ✊
How is the CT-S1's classic plucked Bass tone (amped or with headphones, I'm not talking about the internal speakers)? Next to its 2 vintage Bass tones, I can only find the Bass/Piano tone. With this Bass/Piano tone, can you change the split point to have some more bass notes, or are you restricted to only those 2 lower octaves of classic upright bass sound? Thanks for any tip!
You’d be surprised, their workstations sound amazing and the feature set is interesting. They are at least half the price of the Roland/Yamaha equivalent.
Would that be the Jeremy See review that talks about Casio's new $200 keyboard? Bear in mind US prices are without sales tax and the quoted UK ones are incl VAT. Still a big difference though.
No way is this $100. Around 250-300 seems reasonable given the quality & competition. It's about the same price as the Roland GO:keys and cheaper than similar Yamahas.
You are the first person who has demonstrated this Casio keyboard showings the true sounds and what it sounds like. Thank you so much! Hope you do more Casio keyboard demos. Perhaps the ctx3000?
I have 4 keyboards, but now I gotta have this one too! Lol. Update: I just Bought this keyboard and I am blown away by the different sounds! The sounds are so realistic, worth every penny.
The first keyboard in this price range that you can take out for a gig, it even works on batteries. Great sounds! I wanted to buy the ct x700 but it was just too bulky. This is something you can easily carry around, play while sitting on a couch,... Can't wait to get one.
Ah, I just wish I had the musical talent to make such a thing worth purchasing. I went through a phase of being really "into" music, but it ended when I reached the sad realisation that I was never, ever going to be any good at it. Much as I love music, I plainly suck at performing it. One thing I did learn, though, is that instruments do not make musicians. You can have a good musician play a cheap toy keyboard and it'll sound better than 99% of the population playing a Steinway. The music isn't in the instruments. Or, indeed, in me. :-)
Great sound and feel at a super reasonable price. Good way to learn and have some fun. I'm still rocking a much older Casio keyboard that feels like home to my hands.
This video is what sold me on the CT-S1! The piano and electric piano (Rhodes) are just KILLER! Sounds better than some of my synths that are $600-$1K! Perfect practice piano, and being a sucker for Casio (Because I still have an HT-6000) this was perfect. The only things I don't like are the lousy combo 3.5mm output and the "Quacky" Clav that is just not any good. But, if those are the only negatives, you are doing light years better than you could before this came out. Well worth $400, but for $200? Sold.
I am beginner in pianos, and I bought a Cts1 days ago. I thanks your review a lot, it shock me what this little piano can do. And I congratulate myself for my choice ha. Not bad decision for a piano beginner. Thank you very much you do a great job and you are not boring, really interesting reviews. Greetings from Argentina Republic.
For $200 US this is a great sounding bread and butter keyboard! Hell i think it smokes a lot keys in the $700+ range Great demo! really enjoyed your playing! the Surround demo was a really nice touch
Loved every second of this video! It is so much fun but also informative. You shared particular and super special features of this keyboard that I hadn’t found in any other review videos. Really worth it! I ordered the red one and now I’m even more excited and happy than before! ❤️✨🎹
@@nostalkingzone I've had one for about 6 months and am really pleased with my purchase. If what you want is a piano-like keyboard (but not actually a proper weighted digital piano) then definitely go for it. It's a tremendous amount of insturment for the money. Every single time anyone has heard it they've been shocked how good it sounds.
Great video, Jack. It's probably not going to be anyone's main gigging board but as a second keyboard or something for travelling etc this could be a winner. There'll be a tonne of cork-sniffers and brand fanbois but I actually really like a lot of the sounds in here for the price.
okay this made me decide, am definitely buying this one, first, i can use this as a midi controller for fl studio, 2nd, its portable, 3, it sounds good for its price.
Super cool demonstration. Love your enthusiasm and great playing skills. And the keyboard sounds amazing. I have a Roland Juno X and a yamaha stage piano, but I am definately going to have this one TODAY :-) great for practicing an writing songs at the sea or where ever. Thanks for a great demo. I'll be buying mine locally in Denmark and are on my way to the shop. But Casio should give you royalties for the sale :-) cause it is your demo that talked me into buying it :-)
Have always appreciated your honest and thorough reviews. I have my white Casio CT-S1 on preorder. Thanks again for your most pleasurable reviews and great playing. Greetings from sunny California. -Deb
@Dale Macarena Yes, infact I used to have the Yamaha PSR-373. It’s big on various and numerous voices, like a synth keyboard but since I’m not into all that and just want the basics (piano, electric piano, organ and strings) which is enough for me. I’m a senior who used to rock on Jimi Hendrix, Cream and Led Zepplin back in the day but now study classical piano so I don’t need all the other sound producing voices. Plus it all takes up so much real estate on the keyboard. I like plain but excellent basics which the Casio CT-S1 has. I also purchased it for the portability. I love it. Perhaps depending on your age you might like the Yamaha PSR-373, it is a great keyboard but not what suits my needs.
@Dale Macarena LOL, yes Dale I do still rock to Led Zepplin and will love listening to them as long as I’m alive! Great that you want to play classical piano as learning classical lays the basic foundation of music. I also have a digital 88 key Yamaha P-515 which I use to practice and a Yamaha P-125. I’m lucky to have a fantastic professional classical piano teacher who is also a an opera singer. Her musical knowledge blows me away and at each weekly lesson I learn so much from her. If you haven’t started lessons already I’d strongly advise you to shop around for a piano instructor who focuses on classical piano and has a degree in music from a reputible school or university with years of professional experience. It will certainly pay off. Good luck to you in your piano endeavors. The piano is a precious and beautiful instrument.
Hi Deb, even I am contemplating starting out with learning a piano. I was wondering should I be buying this keyboard or an basic 88 key digital piano to start off with? I could probably upgrade my instrument after a year or so. What are your thoughts? Thanks :)
I'm excited about this. Been looking to replace my old hand-me-down Privia with something small enough to set on my desk and use for transcribing/composing but that also is fun to play as a stand-alone piano and I think this will fit the bill.
I'm a guitarist who has played a little (very little keyboard in the past). My grandson asked me for my thoughts on this keyboard for a friend so I looked for a review online. I have bought a few things from Andertons in the past so I shared this review with my grandson. I told him that I already have GAS (Guitar Acquistion Syndrome) but this review is in danger of adding KAS (Keyboard Acquistion Syndrome) to my list too! Loved the jam over the Stevie Wonder song at the end too! Thanks for a great review!!
I was learning with a Yamaha PSR-50, it was sorta of a family heirloom at this point, saw this video and decided to buy the CT-S1. Best decision I've made, this keyboard is amazing for the price! Maybe I'm biased because I was playing with a 30yo piano. Great video btw. Cheers.
Agree. And in Australia it's $500 AUD ..like you guys we are also charged far more than the US. But it's not just Casio it's all the large manufacturers. At $500 AUD it's no longer that cheap "let's grab one" price for a couch keyboard.. For that price I'd think a 73 or 88 note version more befitting.
@@russellhooke9791 , i bought a used roland go keys mint condition for 200$ and it s very good, i m very happy with it. The pianos are ok, ep is acceptable, organ is quite lame. The feeling of the keyboard is great for E piano
I bought four keyboards...now I need this one!!!!!! For portability of course! Do not tell my husband! I have them stashed here and there to be able to play at all of my grandkids houses!
Thank you for the review, but there are a couple of things to mention about this video. This wasn't a full review of the keyboard and its standard and optional equipment. There is a section of the video titled "Specs", but no specs were given. The sustain pedal, Bluetooth Midi and power adapters are all optional equipment. I don't understand how you can sell an ELECTRONIC piano without a power adapter, but I guess Casio has their reasoning.
On a similar note, I'd be curious to hear what the keyboard sounds like as played through its onboard speakers (because most beginning players aren't going to have amplifiers).
Thanks for a wholesome review of this! I’m curious, how long until I need 88 keys? I’m a very beginner, no music background adult, learning piano as a hobby. Not intending to get any certification. Goal would be to read and play any sheet music I come across, sing along with it and be able change/transpose keys (female keys to male keys). This piano caught my eye at the shop bcos it looks really nice! At a similar range, there’s Korg Liano with 88 keys.
I bought one of these on the strength of this video as I was unable to visit a music store to try one (I live a long way from a city). Oh my goodness, save your money. It's TERRIBLE. It's horrible to play. I didn't expect it to feel like a piano, but it's possibly the worst synth I've played. The keys feel like they are pushing up against your fingers. The sounds are "OK"ish, but you can absolutely hear where the sample changes from note to note. I really wish I had have just added another couple of hundred dollars and got a budget electric piano - like a Korg B2 or something like that. THis is soooo disappointing.
If you want a very elegant and clean look, go for white, if you are in for a fun and funky look, go for red, just my opinion tho, the decision is yours
Holy crap! I'd been hung up about getting a Reface CP, but they seem to be unonbtanium now, then thought a Roland Go Piano might suit. Then I saw this. I'd pretty much buy it for the Rhodes and Wurli sounds, but add in decent organ and Clav sounds and I'm sold!
