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CLASSIC SYNTH CORNER: CASIO SK-1

Written 1999/05/10

The reason the tiny Casio SK-1 is a classic is because it brought digital sampling to a whole new level of affordability. I remember when I was a kid seeing one on display at the mall. It cost about $80-$100 back then. It was my first encounter with sampling and I was amused and fascinated, even though I had no musical inclinations at the time. Just recently I found one in perfect condition at a second-hand store for $15. Needless to say, I snatched it up right then and there.

As one might expect from a keyboard that borders on being simply a toy, the sampling and the sounds in general are fairly limited, especially by today's standards. Unless you use the mic or line in, you can expect the beginning of your sample to be clipped off.

The SK-1 does have good attributes though. Your sample can be looped and have preset amplitude envelopes applied to it. It's four-part polyphonic. One of the onboard sounds called "human voice" is quite interesting indeed. The rhythm patterns use drum sounds so cheesy (the kick is a square wave!) they have enormous retro appeal. There's also a simple additive synthesis feature where you can add varying degrees of nine harmonics. It's even got primitive sequencing.

The SK-1 may just be only a toy, but when it came out around 1986 it was a groundbreaking one.

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