Casio CT-X800

The Casio CT-X800 is a 61-key arranger keyboard suitable for beginners and hobbyists who want to learn, play along with backing tracks, and start creating their own arrangements. Its 600 AiX sounds, 195 rhythms, 6-track recorder, and USB port for storage devices offer more possibilities than a basic beginner’s keyboard. Weighing 4.4 kg and capable of running on batteries, it’s also suitable for regular use in classes or on the go.

Key Features

• 61 velocity-sensitive keys with 3 sensitivity levels to adjust the dynamic response to your playing.
• 600 AiX sounds and 195 rhythms with auto-accompaniment to explore different styles without additional equipment.
• 6-track MIDI recorder to record multiple parts separately and build an arrangement directly on the keyboard.
• 32 registrations to save configurations of sounds, rhythms, and settings and recall them quickly.
• USB TO DEVICE port for using a compatible USB flash drive in addition to the USB-MIDI port for connecting to a computer.
• Pitch Bend wheel to adjust the pitch of notes in real time on compatible sounds.

Is the CT-X800 suitable for learning?

The 61 keys are velocity-sensitive and offer three sensitivity levels. The keyboard can therefore reproduce different nuances depending on the force of the keystroke, which is useful for beginning to work on dynamics rather than playing every note at the same volume.

The Step Up Lesson system draws on the 160 built-in songs and allows you to practice the right hand, the left hand, or both hands separately. The backlit LCD screen displays chords, tempo, and other necessary information during exercises.

However, the CT-X800 uses unweighted keys and is not a substitute for an 88-key digital piano with hammer-action keys. For learning that focuses primarily on the piano repertoire and acoustic piano technique, an 88-key weighted-key model will be more suitable.

What do the rhythms and presets offer?

The 195 rhythms provide automatic accompaniment controlled via the keyboard. The 195 One-Touch Presets select settings tailored to the chosen rhythm, while the 310 Music Presets offer various combinations of rhythm, tempo, and accompaniment parameters.

The Layer and Split functions are used, respectively, to layer two sounds or to assign different sounds to the left and right zones. The CT-X800 also features 100 arpeggiator types and 12 types of automatic harmonization.

What is the Pitch Bend wheel used for?

The pitch bend wheel temporarily changes the pitch of the notes as you play. In particular, it allows you to reproduce glissandos or pitch variations characteristic of certain guitar, synthesizer, or wind instrument parts.

It is controlled directly with the left hand and returns to its center position when released. Its usefulness therefore depends on the sound and style being played, rather than on classical piano training.

Can you record an arrangement without a computer?

The built-in MIDI recorder offers up to 6 tracks. You can record a first part and then add other elements separately to build a song directly from the CT-X800.

The keyboard can store up to 5 songs, with a stated capacity of approximately 40,000 notes per song. The recording consists of MIDI data, not an audio file of the final output.

What is the difference between the two USB ports?

The USB TO HOST port is used to exchange MIDI data with a computer or compatible device. The CT-X800 can thus be used with music software or as a MIDI input keyboard.

The USB TO DEVICE port serves a different purpose: it accepts a compatible USB storage device. This connection allows you to save or load certain compatible data without using a computer.

The USB TO HOST port does not transmit the keyboard’s audio signal like a USB audio interface. To record the CT-X800’s audio signal directly, you must use its audio output with appropriate recording equipment.

Can I play along with music from a phone?

The AUDIO IN input (stereo mini-jack) allows you to connect an external audio source and play its content through the keyboard’s speakers. This lets you play a song from a compatible device while playing the keyboard at the same time.

The audio connection is wired. The CT-X800 does not have built-in Bluetooth audio.

Can you quickly recall your settings?

The 32 registrations are organized into 8 banks of 4 memories each. They are used to save different configurations so you can quickly switch from one set of settings to another without having to reselect each sound, rhythm, or parameter.

This feature is useful when multiple songs use different configurations or when a single song requires several preset configurations.

Is it suitable for travel?

The CT-X800 weighs about 4.4 kg and can run on AC power or 6 AA batteries. It is therefore light enough to be transported regularly between home, classes, or rehearsals.

Its battery life is rated at around 3 hours with alkaline batteries, depending on usage conditions. The built-in speakers allow you to play without having to carry an external amplifier every time.