Casio CT-S1RD - rouge

The Casio CT-S1RD is a 61-key keyboard designed for musicians who prioritize simplicity, sound quality, and portability over the accompaniment features of a traditional arranger keyboard. Its 61 AiX sounds, velocity-sensitive keyboard, and weight of 4.5 kg make it an ideal instrument for practicing at home, playing with headphones, and regular travel. This RD version features a red finish.

Key Features

• 61 velocity-sensitive keys with 3 response levels to vary nuances based on playing strength.
• 61 AiX sounds, including 10 Advanced Tones and 12 Casio Classic Tones, covering pianos, keyboards, and sounds from Casio’s history.
• Layer function to overlay two sounds across the entire keyboard.
• 2.5 W + 2.5 W stereo speakers and headphone/line output for playing directly or practicing quietly.
• Built-in MIDI recorder with a capacity of up to approximately 40,000 notes to save a performance without a computer.
• Bluetooth Audio and Bluetooth MIDI available with the optional WU-BT10 adapter.

Which musicians is the CT-S1RD best suited for?

The CT-S1RD is ideal for a beginner or hobbyist who is primarily looking for a simple keyboard to play piano, keyboard, and other instrument sounds without having to navigate through numerous rhythms or accompaniment functions. Its interface is intentionally minimalist and emphasizes direct playing.

It is not a full-featured arranger with a large library of automatic rhythms. To automatically accompany the right hand with drums, bass, and chords, a model from the CT-S or CT-X series designed for arranging would be more appropriate.

Is this keyboard suitable for learning the piano?

The 61 keys are velocity-sensitive with three sensitivity levels. The volume and character of the sound can therefore vary depending on how hard you strike the keys, allowing you to work on nuances right from your first pieces.

However, the keys are not weighted like those of a digital piano with hammer action, and the keyboard covers only 61 notes. For learning focused on piano technique and a repertoire requiring 88 keys, a weighted digital piano will be more suitable.

What sounds does the CT-S1 offer?

The AiX engine provides 61 sounds, including acoustic and electric pianos, organs, strings, synthesizers, and other instruments. The 10 Advanced Tones and 12 Casio Classic Tones round out this selection with specific sounds from different generations of Casio instruments.

The maximum polyphony is 64 notes. This capacity is useful when multiple notes continue to resonate with the sustain pedal or when two sounds are layered using the Layer function.

Can the sound be customized?

The CT-S1 offers 24 types of reverb as well as various chorus, delay, and DSP effects associated with compatible sounds. Ten general EQ settings also allow you to adjust the overall sound balance.

The Surround function affects the sense of space produced by the built-in speakers, while Volume Sync EQ adjusts the frequency balance as the volume changes. These functions apply to the keyboard’s sound system and are not a substitute for external audio processing.

Can you record what you play?

The built-in recorder stores a performance as MIDI data, with a capacity of approximately 40,000 notes. It allows you to listen back to a practice session or a musical idea directly on the instrument.

It does not produce an audio file of the final sound. To record the CT-S1’s audio output into software, you must use its audio output with appropriate recording equipment.

How does Bluetooth work?

The CT-S1RD is compatible with the Casio WU-BT10 wireless adapter, sold separately. This adapter adds Bluetooth Audio to stream sound from a smartphone or tablet through the keyboard’s speakers, as well as Bluetooth MIDI to communicate with compatible apps.

Bluetooth Audio operates in receive mode. It does not allow you to wirelessly send sound from the CT-S1 to Bluetooth headphones or speakers.

Can it be used with a smartphone or computer?

The USB Micro-B port enables MIDI communication with a compatible computer or mobile device. In particular, the keyboard can be used with CASIO MUSIC SPACE to access the features available in the app.

Depending on the smartphone, tablet, or computer you’re using, an additional cable or adapter may be required. The USB connection should not be confused with a USB audio interface.

Is it really easy to carry?

The CT-S1RD weighs approximately 4.5 kg and measures approximately 93 x 25.8 x 8.3 cm. Its compact size makes it easy to set up on a desk, in a bedroom, or in a mobile setup.

It can be powered by AC or 6 AA batteries. The built-in speakers allow for playback without external amplification, which reduces the amount of equipment you need to carry for simple use outside the home.