Music Technologies Group
Yamaha DX7 SuperMAX+
Installation Guide
Installation Guide Version 2.20
November 2018
1: Introduction
The SuperMAX+ is a very powerful do-it-yourself option that provides increased memory and
greater control of the DX7.
While the installation is fairly simple, it still requires patience and general electronics
knowledge. We accept no responsibility for the work you perform on your DX7. Read over
the following installation description and if you feel you are not capable of the work
required, turn the project over to a qualified technician.
All Lithium battery repairs must be done by a qualified technician due to the explosive
nature of the CR2032 battery.
Precautions!
High Voltage Safety Warning
Turn the DX7 power switch OFF and disconnect the AC power cable before opening the DX7.
ESD Precautions and Proper Handling Procedures
You should observe standard static-safe handling behavior when working with sensitive electronic
equipment such as synthesizers:
o Avoid carpets in cool, dry areas.
o Dissipate static electricity before handling any system components by touching a
grounded metal object.
o If possible, use anti-static devices, such as wrist straps and floor mats.
o Take care when installing the board. A damaged pin can render the board unusable.
o Prevent damage to the connectors by aligning connector pins before you apply pressure.
A damaged pin can render the board unusable and can cause damage to system
components at power-on.
o If disconnecting a cable, always pull on the cable connector, not on the cable itself.
Tools Required (SuperMAX installation NOT including battery holder)
o Standard flat-head screwdriver (small).
o Standard Philips screwdriver.
Condition of DX7
While the SuperMAX+ will replace the functionality of damaged or missing EPROM and/or SRAM
chips, it will not correct other problems your vintage synthesizer may have. It is recommended
that the synth be in otherwise good condition before beginning the installation. For instance, the
battery voltage should be checked and the battery replaced/repaired by a tech if necessary.
Sockets for the EPROM and SRAM chips should be in good working order and not be dirty,
oxidized, rusted or otherwise compromised. If repair is required, do it before installing
SuperMAX+.
2: Installation
Back up your patches if they are important to you!
Open the DX7
Using a Philips head screwdriver, remove the 5 screws from the front panel. Two are located
on the left front. Two are located on the right front. A final one is located on the right rear. Set the
screws aside, noting that the rear panel one is the shortest.
DX7 SuperMAX+ Page 2 of 7 Install
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(Re)Move the Keybed & Remove the Keyboard Rail
It can be difficult to see the delicate pins when installing the SuperMAX+ board. By moving the
keybed (the chassis with the keys) and removing the silver keyboard rail, you will have better
sight lines and freedom of movement when installing the SuperMAX+ board.
Remove the 4 large external screws from the underside of the keyboard along the front
edge. The photo below shows the inside front edge of the empty case bottom. The photo
illustrates the location of the 4 screws. You will, of course, be unscrewing from the underside.
Loosen the 3 internal screws at the extreme right and left ends that hold the keybed in
place. It is not necessary to extract them from the holes they reside in.
Carefully lift the keybed slightly up and out (toward yourself) an inch or so.. You don't need
to move it much. You will probably need to free up one or more cables to accomplish it. Or if you
prefer, disconnect the cables and completely remove the keybed.
This will give you access to the 3 screws holding the silver keyboard rail in place. Remove those
three screws and set aside the silver keyboard rail. (Shown below with keybed removed).
DX7 SuperMAX+ Page 3 of 7 Install
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