Essential Information About the Behringer CZ-1 Mini Synthesizer
- Phase-distortion engine inspired by Casio CZ, featuring 2 DCOs and 8 waveforms for retro and modern tones.
- 24 dB resonant analog low-pass filter: warmth, roundness, and precise sound sculpting unprecedented on historic CZs.
- 27 touch-sensitive keys, 16-step sequencer, 3-pattern arpeggiator, and built-in chorus for instant creation.
- Modern connectivity: USB-C (power + MIDI), MIDI DIN In, and "Sync" input for seamless integration in studio and on stage.
A Modern Tribute to the 80s CZs, in an Ultra-Portable Format
The CZ-1 Mini reinterprets the cult sound aesthetic of 1980s Casio synths and condenses it into a compact chassis designed for today's production. It retains the characteristic phase-distortion grain, here enriched with a true 24 dB analog filter that adds body and organic musicality. The result: an instrument that respects the CZ DNA while offering today's tools for stage and studio.
Who Is It For and What For?
Ideal for mobile producers, live performers, and sound designers, the CZ-1 Mini suits beginners to advanced users. Its palette covers electro, techno, synthwave, ambient, pop, and soundtrack music. In the studio, it integrates as a source of vintage colors or sonic experimentation; live, its sequencer and arpeggiator enable reactive and inspired sets.
Features and Innovations
At the heart of the instrument, the
phase-distortion synthesis is built around
2 DCOs per voice and
8 waveforms, modulated by "
DCW " circuits to bend phase and generate rich, metallic, crystalline, or silky textures. The
3-voice polyphony opens the door to chords and compact pads, while the
24 dB analog resonant filter offers expressive sweeps. The
8-stage envelopes, filter-dedicated envelope, and
LFO provide fine dynamic control. On the performance side, the
16-step sequencer and
3-pattern arpeggiator speed up ideation; the built-in
chorus instantly thickens the sound. Immediate playability is ensured via the
27 touch-sensitive keys. Modern connectivity guarantees frictionless integration:
USB-C for power and MIDI,
MIDI DIN In for hardware setups, and "
Sync " input to sync your drum machines. For advanced control, the
MIDI NRPN/CC implementation is comprehensive, and
SysEx compatibility with the Casio CZ range facilitates importing iconic sounds.
Technical Specifications
Below is a detailed overview of the specifications to fully understand what this hybrid synthesizer offers.
Sound Architecture
- Voices: 3-voice polyphony (hybrid)
- Oscillators: 2 DCOs per voice, 8 classic waveforms
- Phase-distortion: DCW engine for phase modulation, rich timbre
- Filter: 24 dB resonant analog low-pass filter
- Envelopes & modulation: Filter-dedicated envelope + LFO, 8-stage envelopes for pitch/timbre/amplitude
Controls & Sequencer/Arpeggiator
- Keyboard: 27 touch-sensitive (capacitive) keys
- Sequencer: 16-step programmable
- Arpeggiator: 3 built-in patterns
- Effect: Studio-quality built-in chorus
Connectivity & Power
- Connectivity: MIDI DIN In, USB-C (bus power + MIDI)
- Sync Input: for external synchronization (drum machine, other synth)
- Power Supply: via USB-C (smartphone, power bank, or computer)
Compatibility & Formats
- SysEx: Compatible with original Casio CZ SysEx files
- MIDI: Full NRPN/CC implementation for exhaustive parameter control
en 
