Casio CT-6500 (1986)
A 61-key preset synthesizer and MIDI arranger, positioned as a successor to the CT-6000 series.
Overview
The Casio CT-6500 is a keyboard synthesizer produced in 1986, identified as a successor to the high-end PD home keyboard CT-6000. It functions as a preset synth with built-in sounds and features, including MIDI capability for sequencing and arrangement. The unit includes 61 keys and is associated with the Casiotone series branding. It is noted for having sounds and features not commonly found on other Casio keyboards of the era.
Specifications
| Keyboard | 61 keys |
| Polyphony | 10 notes |
| Oscillators | 2 per voice |
Design
The CT-6500 is a preset synthesizer based around the architecture of the Casio CZ-5000. Its design shares similarities with the 4-voice polyphonic PT-30 keyboard.
Context
Positioned as a successor to the CT-6000, the CT-6500 continued Casio's line of home-oriented PD keyboards. It introduced features like Scratch Sound, which anticipated later innovations such as the Rapman. The model was marketed toward users seeking advanced sound manipulation and arrangement capabilities in a home keyboard format.
Market
Units have appeared in the secondhand market, often described as being in good condition or already sold. A common issue reported is malfunctioning buttons and lights. Some users note the keyboard is large in size, impacting portability despite its capabilities.
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