Ensoniq SQ80 Problem

Synth Repair
1

Hi everyone! I have the opportunity to purchase an Ensoniq SQ80 locally for $250 but it has a strange issue…

Specific notes do not work across the entirety of the keyboard

Example, all C notes are out, all Eb notes are out, etc… a total of 6 notes all out consistently across the keyboard.

What is this issue and can it be fixed?
Is this keyboard worth buying or will it require a lot of tlc and repair?

NOTE: I have already advised that the current owner do a factory reset, retune the filter chips, and recalibrate. No change.

Edit I checked and the current OS version
is 1.7

Edit 2 I am meeting the owner with one of my own keyboards and a midi cable to see if the problem still exists when using another keyboard to control the SQ80.

Thanks!
-woo

2

update I have fixed the keyboard! I took it apart and it appears the the ribbon cable connected to the keyboard was bent in a strange way… just repositioned it, put it the keyboard back together, and voila! Works perfectly now!

3

Hey, that’s great news! Did you unplug and replug the connectors? That may have been more the culprit than a bend in the cable - sometimes those connectors need a fresh start. But if you didn’t even unplug anything, then that’s a new one on me! If so, I’d be a little worried about a possible break in the wire - and if it starts doing the funny business again, you’ll probably want to replace that ribbon cable.

But in any case, I’m glad to hear the SQ-80 is singing again!

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