Casio has just unveiled a retro gaming-inspired sampler that is set to bring nostalgia for old-school electronic music enthusiasts and nostalgic gamers alike. The new device, dubbed the SX-C1, resembles a love child of classic game consoles like the Game Boy and the legendary SP-404 sampler from Roland.
The Casio SX-C1 boasts a sleek design with a directional pad, four buttons reminiscent of a controller, and a 1.3-inch OLED screen on top. However, the real fun begins at the bottom where there are 16 rubberized pads, each adorned with pixelated number labels, allowing users to trigger samples in a tactile and immersive way.
According to Casio, the final version of the SX-C1 will boast 16 voice polyphony and be able to record samples at 16-bit / 48kHz. It will come preloaded with samples sourced from classic Casio gear and feature two effects slots, with some familiar sounds like a bitcrusher and delay audible during the demo clip.
The sampler also boasts a grid-style step sequencer that echoes the legendary TR-707, albeit without specific specs for now. Other notable features include proper sample trimming, a visible waveform similar to Roland's SP-404MKII, as well as built-in mic and speaker capabilities with power options through AAAs or via USB-C ports.
Casio's return to the sampler market after a long hiatus is a welcome one, especially considering their iconic '80s models like the FZ-1 and SK-1. However, the release date, pricing, and potential availability in the US remain shrouded in mystery at this time, leaving fans eagerly awaiting more information from the company.
As a gamer-turned-electronic-musician, I am thrilled to see Casio revisiting its roots with such an innovative device that combines the best of retro gaming aesthetic with cutting-edge sampling capabilities.
The Casio SX-C1 boasts a sleek design with a directional pad, four buttons reminiscent of a controller, and a 1.3-inch OLED screen on top. However, the real fun begins at the bottom where there are 16 rubberized pads, each adorned with pixelated number labels, allowing users to trigger samples in a tactile and immersive way.
According to Casio, the final version of the SX-C1 will boast 16 voice polyphony and be able to record samples at 16-bit / 48kHz. It will come preloaded with samples sourced from classic Casio gear and feature two effects slots, with some familiar sounds like a bitcrusher and delay audible during the demo clip.
The sampler also boasts a grid-style step sequencer that echoes the legendary TR-707, albeit without specific specs for now. Other notable features include proper sample trimming, a visible waveform similar to Roland's SP-404MKII, as well as built-in mic and speaker capabilities with power options through AAAs or via USB-C ports.
Casio's return to the sampler market after a long hiatus is a welcome one, especially considering their iconic '80s models like the FZ-1 and SK-1. However, the release date, pricing, and potential availability in the US remain shrouded in mystery at this time, leaving fans eagerly awaiting more information from the company.
As a gamer-turned-electronic-musician, I am thrilled to see Casio revisiting its roots with such an innovative device that combines the best of retro gaming aesthetic with cutting-edge sampling capabilities.