16-pin LEMO-compatible Connectors

Here’s our second post with a detailed view of the connectors.

The 16-pin GK Upgrade family uses connectors compatible with the LEMO Original Series.

Emerging from the superior Swiss watch industry, LEMO developed the original push-pull, self-latching system on these connectors to become the standard for several key industries since 1957. The original LEMO connectors are available in many specifications covering various applications such as data, signal, and power, some also being hermetically sealed.

Once the 50-year patent expired in 2008, high quality LEMO-style equivalents have been available for music performance and production at much lower costs.

 Our rugged LEMO-style connectors have gold plated contacts and are capable of completing thousands of mating cycles with increased connection security. This means long-term reliable performance in all working conditions, especially onstage activity. 

This connector design is equally suitable for data, signal, power and other applications, while offered in multiple sizes (as in the 19-pin version used by Cycfi Research) and pin counts.

The connectors can be used in extreme working conditions since they can be hermetically sealed to withstand water, dust, and other hazards. Waterproof ratings run up to IP68.

Female Connectors

The 16-pin female connector is used in guitar connector and cable assemblies as well as guitar output PCB boards.

This connector is also used in the 16- to 13-pin Adapter Box and 16- to 13-pin Intelligent Converter Box.

Finally, the GP-10 and GR-55 GK synth upgrade kits are based on the 16-pin female connector as well.

Male Connectors on Guitar Cables 

Our guitar cables are available in multiple lengths (3 m, 5 m, 7 m, custom) and with either two straight male connectors or one straight and one right angle male connector.

Size Comparison of 16-pin, 13-pin, and ¼” Audio Connectors

Standard Pinout for 16-pin connectors

Our 16-pin connectors provide essentially the same pin signals as the GK 13-pin connections, but with the Ground circuit assigned to one of the three extra pins. This provides more security than the standard Roland/BOSS GK-13 system where the Ground circuit is assigned to only  its outer case and cable screen.

The remaining two additional pins/channels are available for optional customization such as a 7th String signal, microphone audio, or the Paradis Polybass.

Our ultra-flexible, fully screened, 16-core cable provides extra hook-up points in our connector-and-cable assemblies to access customized  circuits between a guitar and other equipment.

You may have noticed that we did not mention a product family name yet - we have been discussing several options and would like to welcome your suggestions for a catchy name that goes with this system. SynQuaNon will offer a 25% discount to the person whose suggestion is picked! Let's hear your ideas, thanks!