Maxim MDS-1000 Drum Synthesizer - As Is

Simmons SDSV clone from 1987

The Maxim MDS-1000 is a vintage Japanese rack-mount analog drum synthesiser from the 1980s, created by Maxim. It was designed as a near-exact clone of the iconic Simmons SDS V drum brain, replicating its voice architecture and sound character. Users report that each voice module includes a SSM2044 low-pass filter chip, mirroring the originals. It offers adjustable parameters such as noise, tone, bend and decay per channel, and supports multiple trigger inputs via a convenient 9-pin Molex connector. While praised for its sound and analogue character, the unit is rare and may require service due to dated components and build-quality peculiarities.

240v / AUS plug Tested with trigger pads and producing sounds from each channel. Some buttons sticky or stuck and a few intermittent issues. One knob missing. Sold as-is

Video: https://youtu.be/EDqbIRIpLtw

Product Specs

• Item Number: 39828
• Make: Maxim
• Model: MDS-1000 Drum Synthesizer
• Condition: Good
• Finish: Black
• Categories: drums-and-percussion ⇒ modules
• Year: 1987
• MPN: 39828