Korg M1 Serial Number -

For a Korg M1 (produced 1988–1995), the serial number is typically found on a sticker located on the back panel or bottom chassis of the unit . Tips for Locating Your Serial Number:

Location: Check near the output jacks or directly on the bottom metal plate.

Format: Older Korg units often have a 7 or 8-digit number, sometimes starting with a letter indicating the production year (e.g., '8' for 1988).

Dating: Because it was produced for a long time, the first digit of the serial number often corresponds directly to the year (e.g., 9xxxxx = 1989) . Common Issues for Potential Buyers/Sellers: Korg M1 Serial Number

Fragility: The 40-year-old keyboards (as of late 2025) often have fragile keys and screens, making unit condition more critical than the serial number itself .

Value: It is the best-selling synthesizer in history with roughly 250,000 units sold, manufactured to 1995 .

If you can provide the first two digits of the serial number, I can help you identify the specific production year of your Korg M1. For a Korg M1 (produced 1988–1995), the serial

The Korg M1R (Rackmount) Serial Numbers

This article focuses on the keyboard, but briefly: The M1R serial numbers usually start with a letter (e.g., A12345). The letter denotes the factory of origin.

• A = Japan (Early)
• B = Japan (Late)
• C = Italy (Common for European markets)

Do not confuse M1R serials with the keyboard M1. They are not cross-compatible for dating purposes.

Era 3: The M1EX and Late Models (Prefix: "M1EX-")

Format Example: M1EX-87654

In 1991, Korg released the M1EX, which included the PCM expansion card pre-installed. These serial numbers are distinct.

• The serial is almost always on a holographic sticker (to prevent counterfeiting).
• M1EX-70000 to 99999 were the final units sold in 1994-1995. These are desirable because they have the most reliable keybed (the "newer" Fatar mechanism) and updated capacitors.

The Simple Rule: Higher Number = Newer Unit

Korg issued serial numbers sequentially from the start of production in late 1987 (shipping in early 1988) until the M1 was discontinued around 1995.

• Low 5-digit / early 6-digit (00001 – 100000): First-generation units (1988–1990). These often have the older “rev 1” mainboard, smaller capacitor values in the power supply, and sometimes the original non-backlit LCD (very early runs).
• Mid 6-digit (100001 – 200000): Peak production years (1990–1992). Most common on the used market. By this point, Korg had implemented the backlit LCD and revised the output amplifier circuit.
• High 6-digit / 7-digit (200001 – 250000+): Late-production units (1993–1995). Often more reliable due to updated surface-mount components and improved power supply filtering.

Example: Serial 012345 suggests a 1988–1989 unit. Serial 198765 suggests a 1992–1993 unit. A = Japan (Early) B = Japan (Late)

How to Read a Korg M1 Serial Number

Korg did not use a standardized public date-coding system like some other manufacturers (e.g., Roland’s YYMMDD format). However, based on collector data and repair logs, general patterns emerge.