
Notable Particulars
- True vintage polyphonic analogue architecture > Enjoy the rich, organic sound of a genuinely rare late-1970s polyphonic analogue synth, with the depth, warmth and instability that make vintage machines so inspiring.
- Built-in resonator section > The resonators give the PS-3100 a uniquely vocal, acoustic-like character, helping you create everything from haunting pads to unusual, formant-like textures that stand apart from more conventional synths.
- Semi-modular patching capability > Its patch panel allows adventurous sound design and signal routing, giving you far more scope for experimentation than a standard fixed-architecture polysynth.
- Striking statement-piece design > With its large wood-clad cabinet, sloped control panel and imposing presence, the PS-3100 is not just an instrument but a centrepiece for any studio, collection or creative space.
- Extremely rare and collectible > 0The PS-3100 is a scarce and highly sought-after model, making it appealing not only as a creative instrument but also as a serious collector’s piece for vintage synth enthusiasts.
The Details
The Korg PS-3100 is one of the great early polyphonic analogue synthesisers: rare, imposing, and full of character. This example is a visually striking and largely complete vintage unit with a substantial amount of professional restoration work already undertaken, but it is not fully functional and is therefore being sold strictly as-is.
This is an ideal opportunity for a collector, studio owner, or experienced synth technician looking to acquire a very scarce PS-3100 at a lower entry price than a fully sorted example.
Service work already carried out
According to the accompanying service report, the following work has been completed:
2 x CD4069 ICs replaced
20 x JRC4558 ICs replaced
100 x 1uf 25v Vishay tantalum capacitors replaced
32 x Switchcraft mono sockets replaced
12 x MM5824N-compatible voice divider ICs replaced
10 x electrolytic capacitors replaced
F key sourced from Japan and fitted
Extensive labour including clean-up, keybed work, dry joint repair, oscillator PCB rebuilding and testing
The report states that approximately 75 hours of labour have already gone into the instrument.
Important condition note
Please note that the service report also records remaining unresolved issues, potentially including:
pitch bend circuit
keyboard issues
outputs including VCA1
patching system
These faults still require diagnosis and repair. This synthesiser is therefore being sold as a project / restoration candidate, not as a fully serviced or fully working instrument.
Cosmetic condition
Cosmetically, this PS-3100 presents well overall for its age, with an attractive woodgrain cabinet and strong visual presence. There are, however, clear signs of age and use throughout, including:
wear and veneer loss along the front lower wooden edge
scuffs and marks to the wood cabinet
age-related wear to the panel and hardware
general ageing to the keys and controls
Please study the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
Why buy this one?
Fully working PS-3100s are extremely scarce. The key appeal here is that this is a rare, visually presentable, and substantially worked-on example that still leaves room for a specialist buyer to complete the remaining restoration.
Included
Korg PS-3100 Polyphonic Synthesizer
service report / fault summary
Shipping
Due to the size, weight, age and rarity of this instrument, collection is preferred. Shipping may be possible by arrangement, but only with appropriate packing and courier service.
Please note
This item is sold strictly as-is, with no warranty, and returns are not accepted on the basis of the known faults described above.
The Essentials
- Mo's Secret Code: P256310