Casio releases a synthesizer that adjusts the notes you play to the song in real time

Musical instrument maker Casio has introduced a new portable synthesizer, the Casiotone CT-FS1, with 61 keys. Its main feature is a smart function called “Feel Sync”, which analyses the song being played in real time and adjusts the sound of the keys the player presses so that it fits the harmony of the piece. As a result, wrongly pressed notes can still blend into the music. In Europe the device is available for 399 euros.

How Feel Sync works

The synthesizer connects to a mobile app for iOS and Android through the included “WU-BT10” wireless MIDI and Bluetooth audio adapter. The app analyses the chord progression, melody and rhythm of the track being played, while Casio's algorithm corrects the pressed keys accordingly. The player keeps full control over rhythm, dynamics and the number of notes pressed.

The app contains a catalogue of 70 songs, and users can also import their own MP3, WAV or AIFF files. Streaming services are not supported.

Technical specifications

The CT-FS1 is built on the popular CT-S1 platform. It has an “AiX Sound Source” sound processor, 61 tones including acoustic and electric pianos, organs and synthesizers, 64-note polyphony and the option to layer two tones. The built-in sound system consists of two 2.5 W speakers with bass reflex ports. Effects include reverb, chorus, delay and an equalizer.

The instrument weighs 4.5 kg and runs either from a mains adapter or on six AA batteries, which provide about three hours of operation. Buyers can choose between a black (“Midnight Black”) and a white (“Alpine White”) single-colour finish.