Overall, this thing is a winner.

Sound
Overall, the tones are rich and realistic. Even the synth tones are super-fat and not casio-like at all. The tones will definitely shock all of those who are familiar with casio's older or lower-priced keyboards. There are lots of excellent acoustic and electric piano tones. The stereo grand and different rhodes pianos really stand out. I wanted something with realistic rhodes and wurlitzer electric piano tones and this thing delivers both with velocity sensitivity on the keys which gives a realistic sound and playing experience. The hammond tones are excellent--especially the "jazz organ" tones. Some of the organ tones have leslie simulation but your best bet is to run the keyboard through an effects processor so that you can adjust the depth and speed yourself. I use a digitech rp255 amp-modelling processor which works wonders. The percussive quality of the organ tones on this keyboard really makes them sound realistic. The other stand-out tones are the acoustic bass tones. They are very realistic in the lower register. The strings, brass, pads and synths are great too but I haven't used them much. Funny enough, this keyboard includes a bank of casio tones from lower-priced keyboards and so it's possible to compare them to the tones on the wk500. The difference is astounding. Just know that many of the tones on this keyboard are only on the wk-500 and the wk-3800. If you get a wk-110 or… read more a wk-200, you're just cheating yourself out of all the best tones. If you're wondering why I rated sound at 9 instead of 10, it's because the wurlitzer electric piano tone (called "60s e.p." on the casio) isn't exact. I mean, it's damn close but I'm very particular. Also, the jazz rhythms are very limited and not very good. I'm not big user of the rhythm function anyway though.

Features
This thing is loaded with features and I haven't used many of them. For example, there is an extensive learning program built in that I haven't used (although I probably should). Below, I will go over some of the features that I know and use. INPUT/OUTPUT options: USB, SD card slot, 1/8" audio IN, 1/4" mic IN, 1/4" stereo lines OUT, 1/4" headphones OUT (you will need an adapter for most headphones). There is also a 1/4" jack for a pedal (not included) which can be assigned for sustain, sostenuto, soft, and rhythm start/stop functions. Stereo Speakers: These are really excellent with only a tiny bit of distortion when cranked all the way. These speakers are fantastic. Keys: Unweighted but very comfortable to play. They do not feel cheap and have a bit more resistance than other casio and yamaha boards I've played. The velocity sensitivity is the best I've used and actually makes playing this keyboard very expressive For pianists, the keys will feel very light but after a few minutes, they will feel right at home due to the velocity sensitivity. Also, the keys are "waterfall" style and look sharp. Also, with 76 keys, you are getting a very versatile machine. I should also mention here that the entire keyboard can be detuned in any manner you like. Display: Large and nicely back-lit in a cool blue color. The text on the screen is very large. At the bottom of the screen, there is a keyboard which shows which notes are being played as you play them. At the top right of the screen there is a staff which shows which notes are being played as you play them. This is a great way to begin recognizing chords on sheet music. There is also a visible metronome at the top right of the screen. Contrast for the screen is adjustable. Pitch-bend Wheel: Smooth and usable. The reason that I didn't rate it a 10 is because without batteries in the machine, all your user settings are erased when you turn it off. What the heck?!

Ease of Use
You will definitely want to keep the user manual on hand in order to use all the features but you can begin playing and enjoying your keyboard before you ever read it.

Quality
The build quality is acceptable but you might not want to be loading this thing into your car every night without a case. It's made entirely of plastic so it can be damaged. For home or studio use, it is fine as long as you don't spill your coffee into it. This thing is definitely no "road warrior" though. An occasional open-mic night would be okay.

Value
This keyboard is an outstanding value. The tones are worth the price all by themselves but when you factor in the connect-ability of the keyboard as well as its many features, you are getting one hell of a deal for just over $300.00.

Manufacturer Support
Never had to use customer support.

The Wow Factor
The features are numerous and the tones are exceptional. The price is right. Who wouldn't want one of these? Also, it's a damn nice-looking keyboard. The only thing that would make it look sexier and sleeker would be reverse-colored keys (like on an old Vox Continental) but that's asking a bit much I suppose!

Musical Background:
owner of Pike Street Studio, active musician, recording engineer

Musical Style:
jazz, rock, blues, alternative, anything read less