Casio CT-S500

The Casio CT-S500 is a 61-key arranger keyboard designed for experienced amateur musicians looking for a portable instrument to practice, create arrangements, and perform on stage without having to switch to a much bulkier keyboard. Its 800 AiX sounds, assignable controllers, DSP effects, and stereo line outputs set it apart from keyboards primarily designed for learning. It remains self-contained thanks to its built-in speakers and battery-powered operation.

Key Features

• 800 sounds and a maximum polyphony of 64 notes, offering a wide range of sounds in a single keyboard.
• Two assignable knobs and a pitch bend wheel to adjust certain parameters in real time while playing.
• 100 DSP effects, including reverb, chorus, and delay, for applying effects directly from the instrument.
• Independent left and right line outputs (separate from the headphone jack) to connect the keyboard directly to a mixing console, powered speakers, or a PA system.
• 64 registrations to set up different configurations and quickly recall them during rehearsals or performances.
• WU-BT10 adapter included to add Bluetooth Audio and Bluetooth MIDI connectivity.

Connectivity and Stage Equipment

The CT-S500 features L/MONO and R LINE OUT outputs via 6.35 mm jacks. It can therefore be connected to a mixing console or PA system without using its headphone output. The L/MONO output also allows for a mono connection when only a single input is available.

There are two pedal jacks. The second jack can accommodate a compatible expression pedal, providing useful foot control when your hands are busy playing the keyboard.

Registrations and Real-Time Controls

The Layer and Split functions are used to layer sounds or split the keyboard between different sounds. The 64 registrations, organized into 16 banks of 4, allow you to save configurations so you can recall them without having to manually adjust each setting.

The two assignable knobs provide access to selected parameters while playing. They can be used to control compatible effects or sound parameters, while the pitch bend wheel directly affects the pitch of the notes.

DSP Effects and Sound Customization

The CT-S500 offers 100 DSP effects as well as reverb, chorus, and delay processing. It is therefore not limited to selecting a preset sound: various parameters can be adjusted, and certain controls can be assigned to the knobs for use during a performance.

The keyboard also includes a sampling function. A signal received through the audio input can be used to create a custom melodic sound or drum samples, and the instrument also supports importing compatible data from a WAV file.

Accompaniments and MIDI Recording

The 243 built-in rhythms provide automatic accompaniments for various styles, with the option to add up to 50 user rhythms. An arpeggiator with 150 types and an automatic harmonization function round out the tools available during performance.

The built-in MIDI recorder operates on 6 tracks and allows you to build a song by recording multiple parts. It stores performance data rather than an audio file: to record the final sound directly into software, you must use the keyboard’s audio outputs with appropriate recording equipment.

Bluetooth Audio and Bluetooth MIDI

The WU-BT10 wireless adapter is included with the CT-S500. It adds Bluetooth Audio to receive and play back sound from a compatible device through the keyboard, as well as Bluetooth MIDI to exchange MIDI data with compatible applications.

Bluetooth Audio operates in receive mode. It is not used to wirelessly transmit sound from the CT-S500 to Bluetooth headphones or speakers.

Compact Design and Portability

Measuring approximately 93 x 25.8 x 9.1 cm and weighing 4.7 kg without batteries, the CT-S500 remains clearly geared toward mobile setups despite its performance and control features. It can be used directly with its built-in stereo speakers when carrying a separate amplifier isn’t necessary.

It can be powered by AC or with 6 compatible AA batteries. For live performances, however, you’ll need at least a suitable stand and, depending on the setup, a footswitch, audio cables, and the necessary sound system.

A Versatile Keyboard for Rehearsal and Live Performance

The CT-S500 is particularly valuable for musicians who want to move beyond a beginner’s keyboard: setting up multiple configurations, using accompaniments, adjusting parameters in real time, creating or importing specific sounds, and connecting seamlessly to a sound system. All these features are packed into an instrument weighing less than 5 kg.

However, its 61 keys are not weighted like those of a digital piano with hammer action. If you want to focus primarily on developing your piano technique on an 88-key keyboard or experience the mechanical resistance of an acoustic piano, it’s best to choose a digital piano designed for that purpose.