This short guide shows how to change the battery without losing the settings on the Oberheim Matrix 1000.

The Matrix 1000 and Stereoping controller, together with a software update are an utterly mind blowing combination for bold, brash and upfront analogue synthesis. Multiple Matrix 1000 can also be used to increase polyphony to further increase the sound capabilities.

Popping The Hood

Remove all screws on top lid and marvel at the quality layout and engineering.

When undertaking a battery change, there is no point in losing the settings, simply add another battery in circuit via a resistor (470R to 10K) to the input of the diode. The one in the picture is stored in a bag to prevent short circuits and is simply an old battery from a JX10.

Whilst attaching the auxiliary battery, positive terminal first followed by ground to nearest test point. Ensure that the instrument is not connected to anything whilst performing this task, as the battery could be short circuited through the soldering iron.

Attach an auxiliary battery with series resistor to the Circuit node at junction R801 and D802, apologies for bad picture.

Remove the mains wiring shield, power connector, all screws and the 3 nuts holding the heat-sink in place.

Carefully lift the PCB whilst putting protection in place to prevent short circuits and damage to display cables and assembly.

The old battery is removed and a holder was put in place.

It was cheaper to obtain a holder and super long life Renata button cell than replace with original type. The chosen cell has been proven to last 30 years in Roland instruments, despite manufacturer claim of 10 years. We chose the CR2450N because it is likely that it will outlive myself. The holder was a little larger and required a small mod to the board to accommodate. Some clear silicone sealant was used to further secure the holder because the pins are fragile and could break if the battery was ever removed again. Silicone, rather than glue, can be easily removed later if needed.

Refit the board and fit the battery.

The battery and holder fit really nicely on this PCB, almost made for the job.

Remove the auxiliary battery, ground first followed by positive terminal. Ensure that the instrument is not connected to anything whilst performing this task, as the battery could be short circuited.

Test, refit the lid and off you go!

Copyright © 2021 Super Synth Projects, Guy Wilkinson