Modding a Casio LD-50 to become a MIDI module? \ VOGONS

Modding a Casio LD-50 to become a MIDI module?

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First post, by Strahssis

Posted on 2022-08-18, 22:26

Strahssis Offline

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Joined: 2018-10-11, 11:19
Location: The Netherlands

Hi there,

I have been looking into obtaining a Casio LD-50 drum module, because they can be found for quiet reasonable prices. I read online that the LD-50 is based on the Dream SAM9793 chip, so I was thinking: if I wire a DIN-5 to the MIDI-IN pin of the chip, would I be able to use the drum module as a GM-module? I ask prior to buying before I buy a clunky device I may have no use for. Thanks in advance! 😜

All the best,

Strahssis

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Reply 1 of 1, by DevanWolf

Posted on 2026-05-05, 23:14

DevanWolf Offline

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Joined: 2018-07-31, 20:42

Refer to service manual for LD-50 and also datasheet for SAM9793.

Wire in a MIDI opto-isolator to pin 98 (MIDI IN) of the SAM9793.
And for MIDI OUT, wire pin 13 of the MCU (87C58UBA) to grounded DIN or 3.5mm TS jack + a toggle switch for local control or MIDI output select between internal synth and external device.

Otherwise, get a product that uses the much later SAM2695 (smallest General MIDI synthesizer chip which uses the same soundbank as SAM9773/SAM9793) such as MIDI-Guy or DreamBlaster S2.

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