Aging CX-3's

[Robert May <wfrb@miworld.net>]

    Yikes! Yet another capacitor subject!

I posted a few weeks ago about aging electrolytic capacitors in a Korg CX-3.
Since then, I replaced all the electrolytics in the organ.

Results:  A "clearer sound"...this is subjective, but the organ just sounds 
"better".
Percussion decay longer, key click noise louder, better lows, less hum and 
noise, all drawbars back to full strength, even the DC supplies and audio 
output look cleaner on a scope.

In the past I fixed these individual problems with the organ, all related to 
bad caps.
Dead noise source (for key click effect), dead 1" drawbar, very short 
percussion decay.

This time I decided to take the bull by the horns, and eliminate a bunch of 
future troubles just by replacing all electrolytics. A majority of the removed 
caps were starting to leak where the leads exited the body, causing corrosion.
As I was replacing the capacitors, I had to repair some circuit board traces 
due to this corrosion.

It would be a good idea for owners of these organs (and similar vintage 
instruments) to get these parts replaced...or buy a new instrument...or dust 
off that B that you used to carry around (of course, it will probably need new 
electrolytic and other capacitors, as well).

Just my opinion,
   -Rob