Casio Unveils a Nostalgic Sampler for Retro Gaming Fans

Casio made a splash at NAMM this year with a prototype sampler called the SX-C1, which looks like a mashup of a Game Boy and an SP-404. The top features a directional pad and four buttons reminiscent of a game controller, alongside a 1.3-inch OLED display. At the bottom, you’ll find 16 rubberized pads for triggering samples, each marked with pixelated numbers.

The model showcased on the floor was still a work in progress, so specifications may change. Casio has indicated that the final version will support 16 voice polyphony and record samples at 16-bit / 48kHz. It will include 10 banks of samples, totaling 160 slots, all backed by 64GB of internal storage. Plus, it will come preloaded with sounds from classic Casio instruments.

There are also two effects slots, as shown by the thumbwheels labeled FX1 and FX2. While the specific effects and their implementation are still under wraps, a bitcrusher and delay can be heard in the demo clip.

The SX-C1 features a grid-style step sequencer that channels serious TR-707 vibes, though details on its specs are currently unavailable. One confirmed feature is proper sample trimming with a visible waveform, similar to what you find on the Roland SP-404MKII, a capability not present in more budget-friendly samplers like the Teenage Engineering PO-33 or PO-133.

This sampler will come equipped with a built-in mic and speaker, and it can run on AAAs for true portability. Additionally, it includes 1/8-inch line-in and line-out jacks, a headphone jack, and two USB-C ports. These USB ports can handle both power and audio, allowing you to connect directly to your computer to sample your favorite clips.

This marks Casio’s return to the sampler scene after a long hiatus. Their ’80s models, like the FZ-1 and SK-1, were legendary, but there’s been a quiet period since then. As for when the SX-C1 will hit the market, its price, and whether it will be available in the US, those details are still up in the air, but inquiries have been made for more information.