Casio CT-X700

The Casio CT-X700 is a 61-key arranger keyboard well-suited for beginners or hobbyists who want to learn, play along with backing tracks, and record their first compositions without a computer. Its 600 AiX sounds, 195 rhythms, and built-in lesson system offer more possibilities than a basic beginner keyboard. Weighing 4.3 kg and capable of running on batteries, it’s easy to move around.

Key Features

• 61 velocity-sensitive keys with 3 response levels to vary the nuances based on how hard you play.
• 600 AiX sounds and 195 rhythms to switch between piano, synthesizers, guitars, basses, strings, or full accompaniments.
• Step Up Lesson system with right-hand, left-hand, or two-hand exercises to progress song by song.
• 6-track MIDI recorder capable of storing up to 5 songs to gradually build an arrangement.
• 32 registrations to quickly recall sound, rhythm, and setting configurations.
• Weighs 4.3 kg and can be powered by 6 AA batteries for playing away from a power outlet.

Is the CT-X700 suitable for beginners?

The keyboard features 61 velocity-sensitive keys, with three sensitivity levels and the option to disable this feature. This allows you to practice nuances, unlike a keyboard where the keys always produce the same volume.

The Step Up Lesson system breaks songs down into steps and lets you practice the right hand, the left hand, or both hands. The screen displays fingering, chords, tempo, and various other useful information during exercises.

However, the CT-X700 is still an arranger keyboard with unweighted keys. To specifically practice acoustic piano technique on 88 keys with hammer-action mechanics, a digital piano would be more appropriate.

What can you do with the accompaniments?

The 195 built-in rhythms provide automatic accompaniment controlled via the keyboard. The 195 One Touch Presets automatically select settings tailored to the chosen rhythm, while the 310 Music Presets offer configurations that combine rhythm, tempo, and accompaniment parameters.

The Layer and Split functions allow you to layer two sounds or assign different sounds to the left and right halves of the keyboard, respectively. The arpeggiator offers 100 types, and the automatic harmonization feature offers 12 types to enrich certain passages you play.

Can you record your own songs?

The built-in recorder operates in MIDI mode and supports up to 6 tracks per song. This means you can record an initial part and then gradually add other tracks to build an arrangement directly on the keyboard.

Up to 5 songs can be recorded, with a stated capacity of approximately 40,000 notes per song. These are MIDI files, not audio files ready to be shared or played on a phone.

Can you save your favorite settings?

The CT-X700 has 32 registrations organized into 8 banks of 4 memories. These are used to save different playing configurations so you can quickly recall a set of settings without having to reprogram everything manually.

This feature is particularly useful when a song requires multiple sounds or when several accompaniments are used during the same session.

How do I connect the CT-X700 to a computer?

The USB TO HOST port enables MIDI communication with a computer or compatible device. The keyboard can thus serve as a MIDI controller for music software or receive compatible MIDI data.

This USB connection is not an audio interface. To record the actual sound from the CT-X700 in software, you must use its audio output with a compatible input on an audio interface or other recording device.

Can you play along with music from a phone?

A 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack AUDIO IN input allows you to connect an external audio source. The music is then played through the keyboard’s speakers so you can play along with it.

This is a wired connection. The CT-X700 does not have built-in Bluetooth audio.

Is it truly portable?

The CT-X700 measures approximately 94.8 x 35 x 10.9 cm and weighs 4.3 kg without batteries. It can therefore be moved regularly for lessons, rehearsals, or use in different rooms without the constraints of a cabinet piano.

It runs on the included AC adapter or 6 AA alkaline batteries. Casio specifies approximately 3 hours of battery life, though this may vary depending on usage conditions.