Back in 1985, this synth arrived as Casio's clever riposte to the pricey FM kings like the DX7, packing phase distortion magic into an affordable package with full-size keys that the mini-keyed CZ-101 lacked.
Phase distortion synthesis drives its digital heart, twisting sine waves through DCOs—up to two per voice for thicker tones at 4-note polyphony or eight clean voices solo—modulated by three 8-stage envelopes for pitch (DCV), phase angle (DCW, mimicking filters), and volume (DCA). You'll dial in sounds via membrane buttons and a basic two-line LCD, with vibrato from a versatile LFO offering triangle, square, ramp up/down shapes, plus portamento, noise, ring mod, and onboard chorus/reverb. The 49-key velocity-less board sits in a lightweight 5kg plastic-and-metal grey chassis, powered by batteries (six D-cells for ~5 hours), AC adapter, or car plug; MIDI In/Out handles 4-part multitimbral duties, a sequencer captures ideas, and 16 presets join 16 internals plus cartridge slots for more.
Owners cherish its punchy basses, crisp percussion, and glassy 80s bells that cut through mixes, often citing the envelopes as a standout for expressive digital weirdness. That said, the steep programming curve and scant user memory frustrate some, though its battery portability and value keep it a vintage gem for tinkerers.
