PMP E-945 (E945) SUPER BUFFER Amp Japan 1982 Clean Boost ABY Dual Output Effects Loop

PMP E-945 SUPER BUFFER Amp (later PMG) – Japan Vintage

Estimated late 1982 – early 1983 (based on component date codes)
Confirmed early 1980s Japanese production

This listing is for a PMP (Professional Music Products / later PMG) E-945 “SUPER BUFFER Amp”, a rare and highly functional signal management unit from the early 1980s.

Carefully cleaned, inspected, and fully tested, this unit is fully functional and delivers a clear, transparent buffered signal with a clean gain boost, making it suitable for both signal preservation and amplifier driving applications.

Based on internal component analysis — particularly potentiometer and semiconductor date codes — this unit is confidently estimated to have been manufactured between late 1982 and early 1983.

This model is believed to have been manufactured or assembled in Japan, supported by component origin, PCB markings, and distribution history.
It is also considered to be associated with D&K’S International Ltd., a Tokyo-based company known for electronic musical instrument development during that period.

In Japan, PMP products were distributed through 宝商株式会社 as an authorized dealer.

Key Features & Condition

Model: E-945 SUPER BUFFER Amp (BUF)
Brand: PMP (Professional Music Products / later PMG)
Made in Japan (estimated)

Power: AC 100V (Japan domestic specification)
Built-in non-detachable power cable

Fully cleaned and carefully inspected
Tested and confirmed working properly

High-quality buffer circuit for improved clarity and frequency response
Maintains signal integrity even over long cable runs (up to approx. 50 meters)
Clean gain boost (volume increase without added distortion)
Integrated effects loop for external signal routing
Dual output (A/B) for running two amplifiers simultaneously
Low-noise design suitable for professional applications

Controls / Operation

GAIN BOOST indicator:
When the LED is ON, the gain boost function is active.

A/B Output selector:
The illuminated side indicates the active output.

LOOP BYPASS switch:
When the LED is ON, the SEND/RETURN loop is engaged.
When the LED is OFF, the loop is bypassed.

Signal Design (Circuit-Based Behavior)

The gain boost in this unit is implemented by changing the amplifier gain within the circuit, rather than using a clipping stage.

This means:

The signal remains clean and transparent
No intentional distortion is generated
Frequency balance is preserved
Ideal for pushing an amplifier into natural overdrive

This design reflects a professional buffer / line driver concept, focusing on signal integrity rather than effect coloration.

Under extreme gain settings, slight natural saturation may occur due to circuit headroom limits, but this is not a distortion effect.

Serial Number / Estimated Production Period

Estimated production: late 1982 – early 1983

The dating estimation is based on multiple internal component date codes, with strong consistency across key parts.

Production Dating Evidence (Primary Source)

Potentiometer (TOKYO KOSMOS)
Marking: 1982-11
→ Manufactured November 1982

Strong evidence that final assembly occurred between late 1982 and early 1983

Semiconductors

NEC 78L12 (TR1)
Marking: 243F → 1982 Week 43

MC79L12 (TR2)
Marking: 8148 → 1981 Week 48

Core semiconductor configuration centered around 1982

Bridge Rectifier (Power Section)

GI WO2 (CD1)
Marking: 8240 → 1982 Week 40

Critical AC-to-DC power conversion component, consistent with early 1980s production

PCB Identification

PCB marking: HORY E945-01

This marking corresponds to the E-945 model designation and is documented here for reference purposes.

Conclusion of Dating Analysis

All major dated components — including potentiometers, semiconductors, and power section components — are consistent with each other.

No chronological inconsistencies
High confidence in early 1980s production dating

Condition Details

This unit is fully functional and operates as intended.

There are visible signs of age, including paint wear, scratches, and areas of finish loss.
Metal parts show some rust and general oxidation consistent with vintage equipment.

The unit has been thoroughly cleaned overall, while preserving its original character.

Please refer to the photos for detailed condition.

Size & Weight

Approximate dimensions (excluding cables):
140 mm (W) × 135 mm (D) × 90 mm (H)

Weight: approx. 950g

Compared to modern compact effects, this unit is relatively large, reflecting the design and construction style of its era.

Power Supply (Important)

This unit operates on AC 100V (Japan domestic specification).

The power cable is built into the unit and cannot be detached.

A step-down transformer is required for use in countries with different voltage standards.

Production Background

Exact manufacturing records are not fully documented.

However, period catalog materials confirm this model was marketed as:

“SUPER BUFFER Amp E-945 BUF”

It was designed to convert high-impedance signals into low-impedance output, ensuring proper impedance matching and signal stability.

This reflects professional-grade signal management concepts used in studio and stage environments during the early 1980s.

Notes

This unit does not feature the Rivera / Lee Jackson “R” logo found on some BUF series models, suggesting a different production line or variation within the PMP lineup.

Included

None (Unit only)

Shipping / Import Duties / Address Restrictions

Shipping costs (if applicable) are determined according to the individual listing and destination.

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Please note:

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Certain countries may restrict delivery to either private individuals or registered business entities.

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Orders that do not meet these conditions may be cancelled.

About RETUNE WORKS

RETUNE WORKS specializes in careful inspection, cleaning, and preservation of musical equipment while respecting original circuits, tone, and historical integrity.

This unit has been carefully cleaned, inspected, and tested to ensure reliable operation while maintaining its original character.

Our mission is to ensure that quality vintage gear continues to be played, enjoyed, and passed on to the next generation.