Electronic keyboards have long been a popular alternative for the piano. As a beginner, you can use it for extra practice at home to improve your skills.
As for those in the intermediate level, let your imagination come to life by creating new tunes and songs with just one portable workstation.
Manufacturers have introduced various products on the market with all types of designs and price ranges.
It can be difficult to decide on the right keyboard that you should bring home. Casio is currently one of the best brands you can find.
In this Casio WK-245 review, you will dive into the details about the latest product, according to the research by our experts. Let’s begin now!
Specifications
Here’s a breakdown of the Casio WK-245 specs:
Sounds
76 touch-responsive keys, which is more than the average electronic keyboard but comes with a reasonable price.
Includes:
- 600 tones
- 180 rhythms
- 48 notes of polyphony
- 152 songs
Display
A large backlit LCD supports you in tracking your performance, including music notation.
Connectivity
- USB port
- MIDI port
- Sound FX sampler with audio inputs
- An Aux input to connect with other devices such as the MP3
Dimension And Weight
Package dimensions: 49 x 18.5 x 7.4 inches
Weight: 39.1 pounds (17.7 kg)
Features
Spacious storage with the 32 registration memory
6-track recorder with audio input
Power Supply
Includes batteries and an additional AC adapter
User Manual
A full manual with illustrations on details about the installation steps, user’s guide, safety precautions, etc.
Our Casio WK-245 Review
The first thing you will notice about this product is the keyboard.
It is designed to simulate the piano keys, with the same size and feel.
What makes the Casio WK-245 stands out is the 76 touch-sensitive keys.
A touch-sensitive, also known as dynamic, or, the velocity-sensitive key is the type that can produce the sound according to how softly or firmly you play the key.
In other words, the sound can be soft or loud, depending on the pressure you put on the keyboard.
This feature makes music production easier and quicker for you because you can adjust the sound without using the equalizer.
You can also start by warming up with the integrated step-up lesson system.
Bring the band straight to your home with 600 different sounds, which comes from drums, grand piano, and so on.
It means you can follow inspiration and create as many new tunes as you like, or help you with finding your signature playing style.
Plus, up to 180 rhythms and 48 notes of polyphony are created to let you experiment with new ideas freely.
The number of polyphony notes generally presents how many that can sound at once.
The Virtual Hall effects can add echo and volume to the sound by simulating the real music hall.
Up next is the LCD. Everything is shown in crystal clear quality thanks to the backlights.
It does not only provide enough information for you while playing but also avoid distractions.
The workstation is ready to serve your creativity with the 6-track recorder, meaning it can record up to 6 tracks on only one sound recording session, before requiring you to export them.
But that’s not the best part of this Casio WK-25 review. You can even sample the recorded song right on the spot.
Start by creating custom sounds just the way you imagine it, listen to the result right away, polish it by using the control board until you have the final result.
The onboard digital FX is another helpful assistant for the process.
With this electronic keyboard, the possibilities are endless.
The keyboard comes with built-in speakers, but you also have the option to connect the headphone.
Note that by doing this, it will automatically deactivate the speakers.
It can be a convenient feature if you want to block out distractions.
As for people who live in an apartment, or wants to practice at night, it offers a better choice to avoid causing troubles for the neighbors.
Aside from the headphone, you can connect the workstation with other devices without going through the hassle of downloading drivers, thanks to the MIDI port.
MIDI, or Musical Instrument Digital Interface, basically allows instruments to work with a computer.
Typically, the keyboard will need a MIDI cable and notation software to sync the device’s compatibility with it. The same thing goes with iOS devices.
With the built-in MIDI port, you can say goodbye to the cables and software as iPad, tablets and all kinds of laptops can now work with your keyboard.
The Casio WK-245 can run on batteries or with the AC adapter, which can be a great help in case the former doesn’t work.
The manufacturer has carefully considered adding the AC adapter to the box so that you can get both the batteries and additional power supply with just one purchase.
Not to mention the price is surprisingly low.
Another feature included in the Austin Bazaar bundle is the 19” bench, allowing you to play the keys or create new songs in great comfort.
Correct hand position and no backache are the fundamental qualities.
The adjustable and stable stand comes along to give you extra support so learners of all ages – children, teenagers, and adults – can use it.
An Austin Bazaar instructional DVD is included with tips to aid you in the process of getting to know the instrument.
For the maintenance, a polishing cloth is also packed in the box to help you keep the keys clean and shiny.
The manual explains everything in great details, so you don’t have to worry about taking a lot of time to get to know the features.
Overall, the Casio WK 245 has been chosen to be one of the best Casio pianos in our list.
We summarize the features of the Casio WK-245 in the table below:
- Comes with an AC adapter that can work as an alternative to the batteries
- Offers a wide range of tones, rhythms, and built-in songs
- Connect to other devices without requiring a driver
- Lightweight
- Can fit in a small space, making it easy for storage
- There have been feedbacks from customers that the mic plug may not work.
Casio WK-245 Vs. Yamaha YPG-235
Still not convinced that you should buy the Casio WK-245? Are you considering other products as well?
The Yamaha YPG-235 can be considered as the only electronic keyboard that is in the same class as the Casio WK-245.
They have features that are quite similar to each other, plus they are in the same price range.
The Casio WK-245 vs. Yamaha YPG-235 comparison is in the following table:
Features | Casio WK-245 | Yamaha YPG-235 |
|---|---|---|
Product |  |  |
Brand | Casio | Yamaha |
Keyboard |
|
|
Ports | Audio and microphone plug-in | No audio and microphone plug-in |
Computer Connectivity | Connects the workstation directly to the computer via the MIDI port | Requires an additional driver to connect to the computer |
Power Supply | AC adapter included in the box | Batteries only, an adapter would cost an extra budget |
Recorder |
|
|
Other Features | Adjustable stand, bench, sustain pedal, polishing cloth |
The Yamaha is useful for beginners, plus another major drawback is the extra budget you will need to get additional features.
At first, both keyboards may sound similar to each other. But the Casio WK-245 sounds more natural.
It is no doubt that Casio WK-245 is the winner of the competition.
This lightweight workstation is perfect for learners of all levels, comes with various features, letting you experiment ideas freely.
We got a review for the Yamaha YPG 235, make sure you check it to know more details.
Psst, another option to consider if you don’t like both Yamaha YPG 235 and Casio WK 245 is the Casio WK 6600. It might the one you need.
Conclusion
Reading online reviews is one of the best ways to learn more about a product before you buy it.
We hope that our Casio WK-245 review can help you search for your ideal electronic keyboard.
This is a great product for beginners or intermediate learners of playing the piano.
Features like the rich resource of sounds and effects can be used through simple controls.
Imagine composing your tunes, songs and experiment with sounds like you’re working in a professional studio.
Aside from the resource, Casio has also included an AC adapter, the extra power supply without costing an additional budget.
With the MIDI port, feel free to connect the workstation with your computer or iOS devices.
