U N DER T H E HOOD
Casio America Inc.’s Casiotone CT-S1, CT-S400 and LK-S450 By Brian Berk
Sales of keyboards are red hot right now, as consumers continue to purchase a product that is excellent for at-home use. In fact, in recent interviews the Music & Sound Retailer has conducted with retailers, we have heard a common refrain. “I wish I could receive more keyboards because I will sell them.” Well, help has arrived from Dover, N.J.-based Casio America Inc via its release of three new Casiotone models: the CT-S1, CT-S400 and LK-S450. Casio’s minimalist design, sound quality and connected features in each keyboard are intended to bring to life the company’s concept of “Make Music, Anytime, Anywhere.” “Casio is passionate about bringing the joys of making music to as many people as possible,” said Stephen Schmidt, vice president of Casio’s Electronic Musical Instruments Division. “Staying true to that, our new Casiotone models have broad appeal that spans generations and skill levels and are designed CT-S1 to seamlessly fit into users’ increasingly diverse lifestyles. Sometimes, players just want to play for the pure joy of playing; that’s what our newest Casiotone introductions will inspire.” The new Casiotone models have a slim, minimalist chasCT-S400 sis and design that seamlessly integrates with the style of users’ homes. Simplicity is the key — 61 keys, built-in speakers, multi-functional buttons and weighing only nine pounds. The CT-S1 is ideal for players of varying skill levels and convenient for casual play at any time, stated Casio. Ensuring LK-S450 a great fit in any space, the CT-S1 also arrives in three color variations, white, black and red, with 38
a matching fabric speaker net that adds to the overall clean and simplistic design, the company added. Similarly, the CT-S400’s selection of buttons is intended to provide superior operability while featuring an LCD screen with sharp visibility. Geared for beginners, the LK-S450 features a similarly slim profile, as well as step-up lessons and a key lighting system that guides users as they practice at their own pace. The new Casiotones have built-in strap locks to equip a guitar strap and convert the keyboard to a keytar, intended to bring even more enjoyment for the end user. Despite the slim designs, each new Casiotone model boasts Casio’s AiX Sound Source to ensure sounds come to life with clarity and expression previously unparalleled in portable keyboards, stated the company. (continued on page 45) MAY 2021
