Casio SK-1

The Casio SK-1 is the cheapest sampler with a hip hop pedigree. Released in 1985 for under $100 and marketed as “the cheapest sampler in the world,” it’s a mini-key toy with a built-in microphone that could grab about a second and a half of sound.

How it works

It samples at 8 bits and 9.38 kHz into a single slot, so everything comes out crunchy and lo-fi. Four-voice polyphony, a few preset tones and drum patterns round it out. It has no MIDI, which later made it a favorite of circuit benders.

The hip hop connection

Large Professor told Complex that before moving on to the SP-1200, he had two turntables and “a Casio SK-1 that I was doing loops on. I was doing pause tapes.” For a generation of kids who couldn’t afford real gear, cheap Casio keyboards were the first sampler they ever touched.

Buying one today

SK-1s are cheap and common. Check that the microphone and sampling work, test the keys and check the battery contacts for corrosion. Many have been circuit-bent, so confirm whether a unit is stock.