MATRIXSYNTH: synth guts


Showing posts with label synth guts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label synth guts. Show all posts

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Linn Electronics LinnDrum FORAT RESTORED and full MIDI + Manual, Data Tape and more! LM2

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Pics of the inside below.

"This unit was originally owned by Skyline Studios, New York, NY and featured on dozens of records during the 80's and 90's.

Included is the original owners manual, original DATA Cassette tape, a copy of the cassette on CD, the Forat MIDI manual, and brand new wood end cheeks should you choose to install them for a beautiful Rosewood look (like the Yamaha DX1 Rosewood).

The LinnDrum is a digital drum machine designed by Roger Linn in the early 1980s, known for its realistic sampled drum sounds and its impact on 1980's pop music. It was a successor to the Linn LM-1, and was one of the first drum machines to use samples of real acoustic drums, rather than synthesized sounds.

Design and Functionality: The LinnDrum was designed to be a more affordable and widely available alternative to the LM-1. It featured a library of 8-bit digital samples of real drum sounds and allowed musicians to create and store their own drum patterns.

Key Features:

Sample-based sound generation: Unlike earlier drum machines that used synthesized sounds, the LinnDrum utilized samples of real acoustic drums, creating a more realistic and natural drum sound.

Sound sample changeability: The LinnDrum uses samples of real acoustic drums stored on eprom chips, these eprom chips are replaceable inside the unit giving the user the ability to buy or even make thier own and install thier own sounds/samples in the unit. Many are widely available on Reverb and elsewhere plus there are also people offering their services to custom make them for you.

Programmability: Musicians could program their own rhythms and sequences, rather than relying on pre-set patterns.

Individual outputs: Each drum sound could be routed to a separate output for further processing and mixing.

MIDI integration: Later versions and modifications of the LinnDrum included MIDI capabilities, allowing for greater control and integration with other instruments and recording equipment.

Impact on Music: The LinnDrum became a staple in 1980s pop music, appearing on countless hit records. Its realistic drum sounds and programmable features revolutionized the way music was produced and played. It's considered a landmark instrument in the history of electronic music and drum machines.

Successor to the LM-1: While the LinnDrum is sometimes mistakenly referred to as the LM-2, it was actually the successor to the Linn LM-1. The LM-1 was the first drum machine to use sampled sounds, but the LinnDrum was a more refined and better version."

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Nord Lead 3 – Full Pro Restoration + Custom Line Out Mod

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Pic of the inside below.

"Clavia Nord Lead 3 with Full Pro Restoration + Custom Line Out Mod. This one has been completely rebuilt. Studio-ready, sonically enhanced, and future-proofed. 1 year warranty with Invoice.

Full PSU rebuild, including replacement of X2 safety caps (RIFA issue permanently resolved)
Complete recap with high-grade parts: Panasonic FR/HD, Kemet PEGH, Nichicon MUSE, ELNA Silmic II
Unique Line Out Mod, deliberate hardware-based character shaping at the analog output stage:
• Outputs 1–2: Silmic II – warm, smooth character
• Outputs 3–4: MUSE – clean, punchy tone
Factory-original AD1865R R–2R multibit DACs and pure analog output signal path, no oversampling, no digital filtering. Fantastic transient response, vivid mid-range, deep and punchy low end.

100% working, clean condition. This is one of the very few NL3s on the market that has had its PSU, caps, and audio path completely upgraded with longevity and sound quality in mind."

Monday, July 14, 2025

Kurzweil K2000RS Rackmount Digital Workstation Sound Module W/Sampling Option

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Two pics of the inside below.

"Kurzweil K2000RS Rack Synthesizer w_sampling option (V3.87) – classic workstation module, Excellent condition. This unit has the latest firmware (v3.87) and is expanded with 32MB RAM for sampling at 48k. All MIDI, audio outputs, and floppy drive work perfectly. Note: The only issue is the internal FX engine is functioning with artifacts on the main outs only. (common in this run of Kurz units). This doesn’t affect the (8) direct outs and digital I/O, synthesis or sample-playback; Cosmetically, and internally, the rack unit is in fantastic shape. Comes with the original manual (which is considered the bible on how to design your own synth patches and beyond) and loads of floppy disks I've acquired along the way. The K2000RS is a legend – the piano presets are easily mistaken as the real thing considering the world of virtual pianos we have today. 16-part multitimbral, powerful V.A.S.T. synthesis."

Saturday, July 12, 2025

Fixing up a 1985 Oscar clone


video upload by Craig Barnes

"This is the repairs to my 1985/86 hand made Osc Oscar clone, the famous Moog Oscar from Sound on Sound June 2004. I finally received it back after around 38 years apart. It's had some refurbs and mods and travelled extensively. Europe and the states and eventually wound up in Berlin. I received it dead with no boot. MIDI board was loose, but it couldn't be that simple. No sound from the synth and after getting it to the panel mode and tweaking a few knobs I eventually got it to make a weak sawtooth sound. Lower half of the keybed was dead so I replaced the 5x 4051 chips that read the keyboard and the 7 that read the front panel. Then I removed the aux input mod and upgraded to the Tauntek midi board. A little scratchy in places but nothing that can't be fixed."

Friday, July 11, 2025

360 Systems MIDI Bass Sound Module (Eprom Based)

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Additional SYNTH CITY Listings

Pics of the inside below.

"Fully tested and ready to play those "real bass" sounds you've been looking for! Unit has two EPROMS installed; "SNAPPY" and 'PICK RW JAZZ 2' as shown.

Systems used the 'Real Bass In A Box' slogan for their advertising of this player due to the fact that it has "real" and not synthesized bass sounds. The MIDI Bass produces the exact sound of acoustic and electric basses and boasted some of the most popular bass sounds of its time. The included library of sounds had everything from Slapped & Popped Funk Bass, Flat Picked Roundwound Jazz Bass, Stand-Up Acoustic Bass, Bowed Bass, and much more. 360 Systems also praised the realism of the MIDI Bass as it is touch-sensitive, follows pitch bends, and responds to MIDI patch changes. As a result, it was marketed as the natural complement to digital drum machines and MIDI sequencer/synthesizer systems."

Wednesday, July 09, 2025

Linn LinnDrum LM2

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Pics of the inside below.

"FROM THE COLLECTION OF ACCLAIMED PRODUCER AND ENGINEER TOM MALLON.

1984 LINN DRUM IN EXCELLENT WORKING AND COSMETIC CONDITION.

TWO E-PROMS (OPEN HAT AND CRASH CYMBAL, EXIBIT STRANGE DECAY CHARACTERISTICS)"

1976 KORG Mini Pops Junior w/ Original Box & Cords SN 771425

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Interesting pic of the unit outside the wood case below. Pics of the inside below as well.

"A vintage 1976 Korg beatbox for the connoisseur. Comes in the original box with 1/4 cord and RCA adaptor cord.

These are perfect for laying down the vibe without taking up the whole studio. Looks good wherever it sits and sounds great. I opened it up, hit all the pots and switches and it is ready to go! 10 preset rhythms on two paths, Ballad, Cha Cha, Latin Beat, Rock 1, Polka, Waltz, Mambo, Bossa Nova, Rock 2, Fox Trot. You can push more than one for freaky beats. It has volume and tempo control as well. These were used by Roxy Music and others. A rare piece."

Friday, July 04, 2025

EMU PROTEUS 2500 w/ Original Box, Manual & CD

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this eBay listing

Pic of the inside below.

Wednesday, July 02, 2025

Keio/Korg Donca Matic Universal

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

This might be the first Donca Matic Universal to be featured on the site.

Two pics of the inside below.

"At Herscheid & the Headbangers: Super rare Keio Donca Matic Universal Drum Machine in fair condition.

Fair condition because some functionalities are not reliable like the start/stop button. (Unit is always on basically). When using it I would just flip the sound/silence switch.

Sign button responsible for the metronome and cue will engage about 80% of the time. I doubt that many musician today will be using that feature but still prefer to mention it.

There's also a clock / clicking sound when volume is past 60% - 70% so it would benefit further amplifying before next stage or unit

EQ in perfect working order

The magic solo feature is fully working

All potentiometers are turning smoothly without scratchy noises

Both high and low impedance outputs are functional. I couldn't test the (very) old speaker connector

Tempo knob and Tempo Matic / Common functionalities perfectly working

Every program / style is working, same for every instrument + their respective on/off switch

FOX SWING section super fun to use! In good working order. The normal/quick button is working but seems to be reversed. Swing / normal working and properly set.

ADLIB MANUAL: Nice feature but will not necessary replicate the notes shown (It's basically depending on if other settings are engage or no. I don't think it was designed like this, just the old age of some components most likely responsible for this behavior)"

Oberheim DMX Classic Vintage 8-Bit Digital Drum Machine Unique Custom Build

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Monday, June 30, 2025

ROLAND PROMARS MRS-2 COMPUPHONIC SYNTHESIZER SN 840678

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Pics of the inside below.

Saturday, June 28, 2025

1983 Sequential Prophet 5 Rev 3.2 61-Key 5-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer w/ MIDI Kit (Serviced) SN 4110

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Additional SYNTH CITY Listings

Pics of the inside below.

"The Prophet‑5 (Rev 3.2) captures the essence of that classic Sequential tonality—warm, bold, and musical—with the resilience of newer chipset reliability. Whether dialing rich analog basses, lush pads, or punchy leads, this unit delivers that unmistakable vintage vibe. Fully serviced and MIDI-ready, it’s ready for studio or stage. (Serial no. 4110)

Includes ATA flight case as pictured for safe shipping.

Service notes:

-Replaced secondary stage power supply caps
-Removed and cleaned panel board and controls
-Resoldered panel pots
-Cleaned chassis and internally
-Serviced key-bed: cleaned buss bar and key contacts
-Replaced memory battery and loaded preset data
-Checked all calibration and adjusted as necessary"

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

A Look At The Rare Cordovox CDX ( Moog White Elephant)


video upload by synthpro

"Hey Guys,

This is a video I made during the repair and service of the rare Cordovox CDX organ which featured the Moog Satellite. These are sometimes better known as the Moog White Elephant. I take you through a tour of the inside of this beast as well as give you a demo of the type of sound this instrument produces.

Note: weighed the unit after the video and it weighs in at 76lbs or 34.47Kg

Thanks for watching!

Sincerely,
Jareth"

Roland HS-60 *near mint* w/ Original Box

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this eBay listing

"There isn’t another HS-60 out there in better condition than this. All chips working. Both speakers new. Interior board you can eat off of.
Never been in a smoking environment. Comes with the original box and the sheet music holder and pedal.
Here’s what eBay’s AI has to say about it:

'The Roland HS-60 is a keyboard synthesizer with 61 keys, making it ideal for creating a wide range of sounds and music. With its analog design and built-in speakers, this synthesizer offers a classic and versatile sound experience. Made in Japan by the renowned brand Roland, the HS-60 is known for its durability and high-quality construction. Perfect for both beginner and experienced musicians, this keyboard synthesizer is a reliable choice for exploring the world of music creation.'"

Two pics of the inside.

Saturday, June 21, 2025

Oberheim OB-X 8-voice synthesizer w/ Encore MIDI SN 803405

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
video upload by Richie Vega

"Vintage 1980 Oberheim OB-X 8-voice synth FOR SALE [voice card demo] for Reverb listing"



via this Reverb listing

"Vintage (~1980) Oberheim OB-X [8-voice] with Encore MIDI installed!

This has been my personal holy grail analog synth for many years. The deluxe Encore MIDI kit was professionally installed and gives the unit full MIDI in/out/thru capabilities as well as improved OS system and the ability to store 120 factory patches (i.e. OB-Xa). The synth was serviced by a pro tech and working flawlessly until just recently. Currently, there is no audio being sent from the L/R Mono output jacks. The digital processing section appears to be working normally as the knobs and LED switches are still functional (see video demo link). The eight individual voice cards were all calibrated previously and were each in working order."

Friday, June 20, 2025

20 voice UDO Super 8+ // How to Upgrade Your Super 8


video upload by Starsky Carr

"4 extra voices for your UDO SUPER 8 to bring the total count to 20 voices, or 10 binaural voices to give it the same as the SUPER GEMINI It's a simple procedure if you follow the instructions:

Undo the crews at the back,
Under the front lip and
All but one at the sides (leaving one as a hinge),
Then a couple from the bottom.

Open the lid, and pop in the boards - just like memory boards in a PC. Then screw everything back together.

Upload the latest firmware
Calibrate the new voices

then you're good to go."

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Yamaha CS-80 Repair Part 2


video upload by Really Nice Audio

"Can we bring this Yamaha CS80 back to life? Did the fender Rhodes destroy it? Let's find out!
For some reason the audio goes slightly out of sync at the end not sure why?
As a Cs80 novice I did my best to check all its parameters however I feel I would need more time to realise how it works. So this video is more of a record of what I found after the repair. There is more work to be done with this poor synthesiser so a detailed inspection is needed.

This Yamaha CS80 is housed at the University Of West London.
https://www.uwl.ac.uk/study/study-fac..."

Part 1 here

Monday, June 16, 2025

Siel Orchestra Analog String Synthesizer SN 87/30

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this eBay listing

Pics of the inside below.

"Unfortunately, this unit was damaged in shipping. The power transformer has come unmounted from inside of the chassis, and while it was knocking around inside the synth it managed to damage two PCBs as well as the connector that ties it to the power PCB. We assume that several traces on both damaged PCBs have been broken. This was a great synth, and this could be a good project for anyone willing to dig into it. The synth was working perfectly before being shipped. At this juncture it's in poor working condition."

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Yamaha CS 80 Autopsy


video upload by Really Nice Audio

"As legend has it, when the Fender Rhodes was turned on the CS-80 blew up! Let us investigate what has happened to the Yamaha CS-80.
This CS-80 belongs to Pete Townshend and is housed at the University Of West London.

https://www.uwl.ac.uk/study/study-fac..."

Part 2 here

Monday, June 09, 2025

EMS Synthi AKS

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


via this Reverb listing

Pic of the boards below.

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