Casio CZ-2000S (1985)
A battery-powered phase distortion synthesizer with 61 full-sized keys and built-in speakers, released by Casio in 1985.
Overview
The Casio CZ-2000S is a phase distortion synthesizer released in 1985 as part of Casio's CZ series, which spanned from 1984 to 1986. It was designed for musicians interested in creating and editing their own sounds, offering full sound editability despite its entry-level positioning. The CZ-2000S features 61 full-sized synth-style keys without touch sensitivity or aftertouch and includes built-in speakers and an amplifier, making it a self-contained instrument suitable for portable use. It supports both AC power and battery operation, enhancing its mobility.
Primarily marketed in Japan, the CZ-2000S is less commonly found in Europe and the United States, contributing to its relative rarity outside Asian markets. It shares its release timeframe with the CZ-101 and sits within a product lineup that includes the CZ-1000, CZ-3000, and flagship CZ-5000. While limited in features compared to higher-end models, its affordability and sound editing capabilities made it accessible to hobbyists and beginners.
Specifications
| Number of Keys | 61 |
| Key Weight | Synth |
| Key Size | Full |
| Touch Sensitive | no |
| Aftertouch | no |
| Number of Voices | 8 |
| Polyphony | 8 |
| Sound Generation | Phase Distortion |
| Sounds Editable | yes |
| Accompaniments | no |
| Recorder/Sequencer | no |
| Tutorials | no |
| MIDI | yes |
| USB | no |
| Tablet Connectivity | no |
| AC Power | yes |
| Batteries | yes |
| Speakers | yes |
| Audio Out | yes |
| Audio In | no |
| Sustain Pedal | yes |
| Soft Pedal | no |
| Expression Pedal | yes |
Design
It has 61 synth/organ style full sized keys without touch sensitivity or aftertouch. It has built-in MIDI capabilities. It has a built-in amplifier and speakers. It can run from both AC and battery power.
Context
The Casio CZ-2000S is a synthesizer released in 1985. It is aimed at musicians wanting to create and modify their own sounds. The CZ-2000S was primarily made for the Japanese market and as such isn't often seen in Europe or the US. It's a part of the CZ family of instruments, whose models spanned from 1984 to 1986. It's very much an entry level model. The CZ series includes the CZ-1000, CZ-3000, and CZ-5000. The CZ series expanded to include the full-size CZ-1000, the rack-mount CZ-1, and the flagship CZ-5000. The Casio CZ-2000S is listed as a synth released at a similar time to the Casio CZ-101.
Market
It's very much an entry level model, making it cheaper but also with fewer functions or lower quality sounds than more expensive keyboards.
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