Casio CZ-1000 Repair

The Casio CZ-1000 is a digital synthesizer that uses Phase Distortion (PD) synthesis, a unique method for creating a wide variety of sounds. Released in 1985 and discontinued by 1989, it offers 8-voice polyphony, MIDI support, built-in Chorus and Reverb effects, a sequencer for recording and playback, and the ability to program sounds or use preset tones. The device was compact and portable, making it suitable for both home studios and live performances, and was priced around $300–400 USD, making it an affordable alternative to more expensive analog synthesizers. While Casio didn’t release exact production numbers, the CZ series was popular in the 1980s among hobbyists and electronic musicians, and the CZ-1000 was available worldwide, including North America, Europe, and Japan.

The synthesizer gained a strong following within electronic music communities, though it did not receive mainstream media attention. Common issues with the device include battery failure (leading to memory loss), key/button contact problems, and LCD display dimming over time. Despite these issues, the CZ-1000 was praised for its affordability, unique sound creation, and MIDI capabilities. It was part of the larger Casio CZ series, which also included the smaller CZ-101 and the higher-end CZ-5000, with the latter offering enhanced features like 16-voice polyphony. The CZ-1000 represented a shift in Casio’s approach, moving away from its home keyboard line and toward more professional synthesizers, though it did not directly replace a specific model.

The Casio CZ-1000 keyboard can best be identified by the text “CASIO CZ-1000” printed on the top left of the board case. That text is located on the top face; the same side as the piano keys! If the text in that location is worn or unreadable, you can also identify the CZ-1000 from other Casio keyboards by size and color. The keyboard is rectangular; no rounded sides or edges. The CZ-1000 has black and white piano keys and multiple different colors of buttons on the panel overlay.

• Keyboard: 49 keys/4 octaves (standard keys)
• Sound Source: PD (Phase Distortion) Sound Source System
• Voices: 8 (using 1 DCO) or 4 (using 2 DCO)
• Tone Memories (Preset): Bank of 16 (PRESET)
• Tone Memories (Programmable): Bank of 16 (INTERNAL)
• External RAM Memories: Bank of 16 (CARTRIDGE option)
• Connection Terminals: Line Out, Phones, DC9V, MIDI (IN/OUT)

• AC Adapter: AC 100, 117, 220, or 240V (+/- 10V)
• Car Adapter: Car Battery
• Battery: Quantity 6, Dry, D-Size batteries
• Battery Life: Approximately 5 hours

Source: Casio CZ-1000 Operation Manual

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