Yamaha CS30
This time, a true legend landed on my workbench: the Yamaha CS30. Those who follow my work know that I generally don’t like working on analog synthesizers and normally don’t repair them. However, this project was something completely different.
The owner supplied a dedicated MIDI interface for the instrument, manufactured by Tubbutec – the Cees model. My task was to install this upgrade, which wasn’t particularly difficult thanks to the exceptionally detailed installation manual provided by the manufacturer. What’s more, the Yamaha CS30 is built according to the old-school philosophy and practically invites servicing. Everything is easily accessible thanks to its hinged construction, the individual modules and connectors are clearly labeled, beautifully organized, and thoughtfully laid out. Simply a joy to work on.
In addition, I replaced the Balance potentiometer, which had become intermittent due to age-related wear and broken conductive tracks. Even though analog synthesizers aren’t really my thing, this job was an absolute pleasure.
