Win the Incredible A Casio CT-X700 Keyboard!

NOTE: Competition has now closed and our winner is Tony B from Wales! Thanks to all who took part.

As many of you will know by now Casio introduced a new line of portable keyboards earlier this year and now with our very easy to enter competition you have a chance to win one for yourself. Read the review and then enter the competition.

One of the most impressive keyboards released this year was the Casio’s entry level CT-X700. At just $175 it is not too much of an overstatement to say that it changed my perceptions of what a keyboard at this price level can do. In fact I would go so far as to say if you were hearing the CT-X700 without knowing what it was you would assume it costs a whole lot more than it does.

There are three keyboards in the range. The CT-X700, CT-X3000 and CT-X5000 and with the top of the range CT-X5000 costing just over £400 here in the UK I think other manufacturers may just be reviewing their own offerings pretty soon.

I was lucky enough to get some extensive “hands-on” time with the CT-X700 and my overriding first impressions were that (a) this cannot possibly cost so little and (b) what are other manufacturers going to do to be able to catch up? Casio has really pushed the envelope on this one.

Thanks to the AiX (Acoustic Intelligent Expression) sound engine the quality of the acoustic pianos for example are way beyond anything you would expect at this price point. The same can be said of all the other sounds I have tried.acoustic guitars are more expressive, pianos are more nuanced and synths are punchy and dynamic. Also the quality of the keys was surprising. I had expected the usual springy, wobbly keys that normally find their way into budget keyboards but the keys on the CT-X700 are as good as you will find on most keyboards costing at least three times as much.

As if the keyboard itself were not already incredible value for money Casio have also included in the box a free digital download from Rockschool which gives you access to one of their learning books, so you can learn to play a wide range of instruments such as acoustic guitar, piano, drums and ukulele. There are also lesson on vocals and music production available.

Rockschool provides a wide range of training and music qualifications for the contemporary musician. From introductory grades all the way up to university-level degrees they ensure your hard work is rewarded by a valuable qualification regardless of your age or musical ability.

For an example of the sound quality on offer check out these videos where Casio’s Mike Martin unboxes, gives a tour and demonstrates the new CT-X700 portable keyboard.