It is incredibly common to find a used Korg M1 with a scratched, missing, or unreadable serial number sticker. If your synth is missing its badge, do not panic:
While the "M1" is the standard, the Korg M1 series included: The original 61-key workstation. Korg M1R: The rack-mount version. Korg M1 Serial Number
Unlike modern manufacturers, Korg did not use a highly structured, transparent dating code in their late-1980s serial numbers. However, production patterns reveal clear information about your unit. Sequential Numbering It is incredibly common to find a used
Korg sometimes reused number blocks for different markets, so these ranges are estimated guidelines , not absolute rules. Unlike modern manufacturers, Korg did not use a
Some later units simply include the year in the first two digits (e.g., 90XXXX would imply 1990).
If you are trying to verify a specific unit for a purchase, checking the threads on vintage synth forums (like GearSpace or Korg Forums ) is your best bet. Enthusiasts often compile lists of serial numbers to narrow down production weeks.