Yamaha CK 61

The Yamaha CK61 is a 61-key semi-weighted stage keyboard that combines sounds from Yamaha’s CP series (pianos and electric pianos) and YC series (organs and synths). It’s ideal for musicians who rehearse or perform on stage and want to switch from a piano to an organ without changing instruments. Its nine drawbars set it apart from stage keyboards focused on the piano.

Highlights of the Yamaha CK61

• The piano and electric piano sounds from the CP series are complemented by the organs and synths from the YC series, allowing you to transition between different musical styles on a single keyboard.
• The FSB keyboard features 61 semi-weighted keys, with less resistance than a fully weighted action, making it suitable for fast organ or synth passages.
• Nine drawbars allow you to adjust the organ’s registers in real time, just like on a drawbar organ.
• The pitch bend and modulation wheels are used to vary the pitch and expression of a sound while playing.
• The built-in speakers allow you to play and practice without external amplification.
• The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport to a rehearsal space, studio, or stage.

61-key semi-weighted FSB keyboard

The CK61 features an FSB-type keyboard, with keys that offer medium resistance. This light touch facilitates fast passages, synth pads, and organ parts, while still allowing for control over the intensity of the keystroke.

With 61 keys—spanning five octaves—the range is suitable for stage keyboard repertoires. It remains limited for a classical two-handed piano repertoire, which often requires more keys.

CP and YC Sounds with the AWM2 Sound Engine

Yamaha’s AWM2 sound engine is based on sampling. The CK61 uses it to reproduce pianos, electric pianos, organs, and synths. This allows you to switch from a piano sound to a synth pad depending on the song.

Organ stop sliders, pitch bend, and modulation

Each slider adjusts the level of an organ stop. This lets you change the tone while playing, without having to navigate through a menu.

The pitch bend wheel shifts the pitch of a note up or down. The modulation wheel adds an effect, such as vibrato, depending on the selected sound.

Built-in speakers, headphone output, and MIDI and USB connections

The built-in speakers are sufficient for practicing at home or in small groups. The stereo headphone output lets you play without disturbing others. For a room sound system, you’ll need to connect the keyboard to an amplifier or a mixing console.

The MIDI and USB connections are used to connect the CK61 to other MIDI devices or music software, depending on the equipment you’re using.

An Easy-to-Transport Stage Keyboard

Compact and lightweight, the CK61 fits easily into a vehicle and can be quickly set up on a stand or table. It’s ideal for musicians who frequently travel between rehearsals, the studio, and concerts.