Casio has announced the XW-G1, a groove synthesizer that combines the functions of the various digital equipment used by club DJs in a single unit, and the XW-P1, a true performance synthesizer particularly designed for creating sounds for live performances and playing expressively.
Featuring a slim body and weighing only 5.4 kilograms, both models are equipped with nine sliders and four independent assignable knobs, making it intuitive and easy for users to control a wide array of sounds.
XW-G1 Groove Synthesizer
The XW-G1 is a synthesizer that lets users enjoy many of the features club DJs use on their digital equipment. The functions of various DJ gear are included in this all-in-one unit, including its Step Sequencer for selecting an array of rhythm patterns, Phrase Sequencer offering preset phrases that spice up DJ performances, and Sample Looper for digitally sampling rhythm patterns, keyboard performances, or externally input sound ,allowing overdubbing. Using the built-in 61-key keyboard, users can not only play the keyboard live while using rhythm patterns as backing tracks, but can also use the keyboard to call up features quickly while DJ-ing, giving them real-time control of the instrument’s cool club sounds.
XW-P1 Performance Synthesizer
The XW-P1 is a synthesizer particularly designed for creating sounds and playing expressively in live performances. This model features 620 preset tones, including Solo Synthesizer presets that reproduce vintage analog synthesizer sounds, Hex Layer ensemble sounds that comprise as many as six tones, and Drawbar Organ presets that can be controlled using nine sliders functioning as drawbars. A wide array of sounds can be created using the preset tones and a wide range of internal waves. Moreover, the XW-P1 is loaded with various functions to give discerning performers more power of expression, including the Performance function that allows performance setups to be independently assigned for up to four designated keyboard zones.
Both synthesizers are scheduled for release in spring 2012.
More information: Casio