Casio MG-510 MIDI Guitar

NOTE: Used electric guitar from Casio. Good condition. See photos for cosmetic details. 6-month warranty.

Casio MG-510 MIDI Guitar

The Casio MG-510 is a solid-body electric guitar with built-in pitch-to-MIDI conversion, designed to give guitarists intuitive access to MIDI instruments. Unlike many early MIDI guitars, the MG-510 retains the ergonomics and feel of a traditional electric guitar while integrating MIDI controls into a dedicated panel next to the standard guitar knobs.

Classic guitar design with integrated MIDI features

The MG-510 features a basswood Strat-style body, maple neck, and a 22-fret rosewood fingerboard. It is equipped with three pickups—two single coils and one humbucker—alongside a five-way selector and a coil-tap switch. These options provide a wide tonal range even when using the guitar without MIDI. The slim, slightly wider neck profile offers fast, smooth playability with low action and minimal fret buzz.

Pitch-to-MIDI system

The guitar uses an onboard pitch-to-MIDI pickup mounted at the bridge. Each string’s MIDI sensitivity can be adjusted using individual trim screws on the rear of the body. Latency typically ranges between 25–30 ms, standard for pitch-tracking systems. A dedicated MIDI volume knob allows precise balance between guitar and MIDI sounds, and a three-position switch lets you choose guitar, MIDI, or both.

Flexible MIDI controls

The MG-510 includes three toggle switches for MIDI: guitar/MIDI selection, octave shift, and normal/chromatic mode. The octave selector extends the MIDI range for bass lines or low-register parts. Chromatic mode improves tracking of hammer-ons and pull-offs, while normal mode supports wide pitch-bending. Patch changes are performed by engaging a special switch position, playing a note, then switching back—allowing access to up to 95 patches.

DIP switches for advanced configuration

Additional settings are found beneath a rear rubber panel, including DIP switches for poly/mono mode, MIDI channel selection (binary), pitch-bend range, and tuning reference (440–443 Hz). These adjustments provide deep control but require removing the rear strip for access.

Practical construction and onboard tuner

Despite the integrated electronics, the MG-510 weighs no more than a standard solid-body guitar and balances well when strapped on. The tremolo arm is functional but non-locking, and the guitar lacks a locking nut. A built-in electronic tuner with dual LED indicators provides accurate tuning even in noisy environments.

Specifications

• Model: Casio MG-510
• Body: Basswood
• Neck: Maple, bolt-on
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 22 frets
• Body shape: Strat-style
• Pickups: 2× single coil, 1× humbucker
• Switching: 5-way switch, coil tap
• Controls: Volume, tone, MIDI volume
• MIDI: Built-in pitch-to-MIDI system
• MIDI controls: Guitar/MIDI/both, octave selector, normal/chromatic
• Patch changes: Up to 95 via onboard switch
• DIP switches: Poly/mono, MIDI channel, pitch-bend range, tuning 440–443 Hz
• Latency: Approx. 25–30 ms
• Tuner: Built-in LED tuner
• Tremolo: Standard, non-locking
• Power: 6× AA batteries or 9V DC

FAQ

What MIDI conversion method does the MG-510 use?

It uses pitch-to-MIDI conversion via an onboard bridge-mounted sensor.

Can the guitar and MIDI be played simultaneously?

Yes, a three-way switch lets you select guitar, MIDI, or both.

Does the MG-510 support mono and poly MIDI modes?

Yes, selectable via rear DIP switches.

How many patch changes can be selected from the guitar?

The guitar can select up to 95 patch numbers.