Rare 1987 Casio SK-8 8-bit sampling keyboard modified with a unique raised console featuring a 20 point ROM modulation patch bay, four illuminated preset effects switches and an illuminated pitch control. This is an otherworldly instrument which will inspire any alternative electronic musician and sound designer. Reed Ghazala named his modified SK units 'Aleatrons' due to their random, unexpected nature so nothing is obvious here- when the patch matrix is in use, the keyboard itself doesn't always function as you'd expect while the modifications open up a world of experimental audio possibilities, far outreaching Casio's original intentions. The pitch controller is switchable and can drop sampled sounds to crashing, aliasing lows.

When the patch matrix is implemented, an array of warped sounds and effects are generated; applying multiple connections produces an increasingly complex range of cyclic, pitch dropped, fractured, tonal, bit crushed, flanged, distorted, aliasing digital noise and bizarre sequences which affect any sound you record using the sampling feature. The SK 8 is also very good at producing complex drones and atmospheres which can be developed using the five included patch cables- these can also be stacked for further sonic manipulation. See the demo video above for sound examples.

Features:

-32 midsize keys.

-4 voice polyphony.

-Sampler: 4 sample capacity.

-Tuning.

-Reverse.

-Loop.

-6 different envelopes.

-Sequencer.

-ROM cartridge with pre-programmed songs.

-Four pads for playing samples.

-Eight PCM presets: piano, vibraphone, guitar, pipe organ, trumpet, violin, flute and clarinet.

-Ten rhythms: rock, disco, swing, 2 beat, 4 beat, bossa nova, beguine, march, slow rock and waltz.