PRESS RELEASE
31. July 2009


Developed With Virtuosity. For Virtuoso Play.
CASIO presents a completely new CELVIANO line-up


Again CASIO has come a great deal closer to its aim of rendering a genuine grand piano sound as realistically as possible. The current CELVIANO series – AP-620, AP-420, AP-220 – substantiates the entire expertise and rich experience CASIO has acquired in developing high-end digital pianos. The advanced AiF sound source now renders the complete dynamic range of rich grand piano sounds reaching from pianissimo to fortissimo without discolorations. The sampling technology applied is called “Linear Morphing”. In addition, the repetition characteristics of the Scaled Hammer Action keyboards have been enhanced, now allowing for sophisticated playing techniques by applying three sensors.

Emulating authentic concert grand piano sounds presents a genuine challenge as numerous parameters affect the rich sound range. The solution applied by CASIO is called “Linear Morphing Aif sound source”. The complex AiF sound generation technology featuring 128-note polyphony has been improved considerably with regard to dynamics. Hence the elaborate stereo samples now command four instead of three dynamic layers with transitions (Velocity Switch) dissolved beyond competition into 128 levels. The range, reaching from piano to forte, can now be played over all intermediate steps without discolorations or perceivable jumps in the sound. The result of this new Linear Morphing sampling technology for detailed and dynamic grand piano sounds is a completely new experience, bringing players yet a step closer to the perfect sound of the original instrument.

A new loudspeaker system meets the demands of this sound enrichment: The natural sound radiation of the acoustic model was applied by CASIO developers in order to create an ambient sound that naturally unfolds in all three dimensions. The new loudspeaker design and the optimised installation points perfectly support the new sound generation system in displaying its full potential over the entire sound range. The loudspeakers no longer radiate out frontally towards the player, but also to the rear or downward, depending on the respective model.

And also the keyboard has been advanced substantially. By implementing a third sensor the repeating keys are registered so precisely that even fast passages can be played in unbelievable precision. A note can be played anew without the key having to return completely to its initial position. Thanks to this new ”Tri-Sensor” concept, not a single note will be lost in future.

Additionally, AP-620 and AP-420 feature an “Ivory Touch” keyboard surface. The mattfinished keys offer a pleasant surface designed to prevent fingers from slipping. This enhancement, too, was modelled on the optical and haptic properties of the original instrument.

As usual the CELVIANO range interprets classical piano design in its own individual, elegant manner. AP-620 and AP-420 sport a slim console featuring frontal support legs harmoniously suited for an elegant, modern living environment. AP-620 is delivered in classical black (BK), AP-420 is delivered in black (BK) or brown (BN), AP-220 comes in warm brown.

Highlights shared by all models of the new CELVIANO series
  • New Linear Morphing AIF Sound Source technology enables natural reproduction of rich, grand piano tones from pianissimo to fortissimo
  • Tri-sensor Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard uses three sensors to detect fine keystroke movement, so the same note can be played again without fully releasing the key
  • Cabinet-type design provides stability during performances and a body that enhances sound presence
  • Acoustic Resonance System reproduces the resonant effect of a grand piano damper pedal
  • 60-tune Music Library for listening enjoyment or lessons
  • Duet mode allows two people to play within the same range on the left and right sides of the keyboard
  • Slide-type cover to protect keys from dust
AP-620 – the stylish top model with extended features
  • Traditional upright piano featuring an elegant design
  • Refined matte keyboard finish („Ivory Touch“) creates a comfortable surface for fingertips
  • Powerful high output amp (30 W + 30 W) and four 2-way speakers (16 cm x 2 and 5 cm x 2) recreate rich tones across the sound spectrum
  • Continuous half-pedal operation for a finely-controlled damper effect
  • Equipped with an SD memory card slot, convenient for tune data storage and moving data to and from a computer
  • Full dot LCD screen with backlight for easy viewing
  • Features 250 tones, including GM tones, for a variety of instruments such as strings, guitar, bass and others
  • 16-track recording feature for music composition
  • Multiple jacks including Line IN / OUT for expanded connectivity
  • Registration feature to record tone and rhythm settings for instant recall during play
  • 180 rhythms including pop, jazz, Latin, and ballads, with an auto-accompaniment feature
  • Rhythm Editor to edit internal rhythms
AP-620BK RRP 1.499,– Euro

AP-420 – the advanced model for abitious music students
  • Elegant design with front legs
  • Available in black wood or oak wood finishes to match almost any room in the home
  • Refined matte keyboard finish („Ivory Touch“) creates a comfortable surface for fingertips
  • High output (20 W + 20 W) amp and four 2-way speakers (12 cm x 2 and 5 cm x 2)
  • Continuous half-pedal operation for a finely-controlled damper effect
  • Equipped with an SD memory card slot, convenient for tune data storage and moving data to and from a computer
AP-420BK/AP-420BN RRP 1.299,– Euro
AP-220 – the sonorous basic model for pure piano pleasure
  • Essential functionality and simple design for beginning pianists
AP-220BN RRP 1.099,– Euro

All new CELVIANO models are prospectively available at authorized CASIO music partners from November 2009.

CASIO in general:
CASIO is a leading international manufacturer of consumer electronics. In line with the principle of “creativity and contribution,” the company has been dedicated to developing products that stand out for their cutting-edge technology and innovative design ever since it was founded, in 1957.

Today, the product palette of CASIO around the world includes watches, digital cameras, mobile phones (not in the EU), electronic dictionaries, calculators, musical instruments, projectors, cash register systems, handheld terminals, and electronic components such as LCDs (not in the EU). In total, CASIO Computer Co., Ltd. employs a staff of more than 12,300 people worldwide. The company ships more than 100 million products each year, and in the fiscal year from April 2008 to March 2009 alone, CASIO posted net sales revenue of 518 billion yen (about 3.8 billion Euros).

For enquiries or further information please contact:
Werbewerkstatt GmbH • Friedensallee 27A • D-22765 Hamburg
Phone: +49 40 380 379 44 • Fax: +49 40 380 379 40
eMail: presse.emi@werbewerkstattgmbh.de