Casio CZ/ VZ/ FZ - Pro Series

Hi Chris,

> has anyone else here experienced this problem?

I've had this problem with my FZ-1 and I've currently got it with my 
Roland JX-10.  My JX-10 is a US model used in the UK with a step down 
transformer - there's no earth connection - a UK requirement!

I believe it may be an Earthing problem.  The keyboard gets one Earth 
from the audio connection and another from the MIDI connection - 
causing a loop.

A change of MIDI lead from your CZ out *may* fix it.  You see there 
are two ways that MIDI cables are made:

http://www.hilmanindustries.com/pinouts/midi.htm

Note that only two pins are used.

http://www.mycableshop.com/techarticles/MidiCablePinout.htm

Here a third pin is used to connect the screens together.  This is 
initially a good idea as it screens interference out from the cable.  
However common mode rejection (on MIDI input chip) would sort this 
out at the receiving end so it's not necessary.  This may induce 
Earth loops and currents i.e clicks everytime the MIDI transmits.

You want to find a 2 pin MIDI cable or disconnect the connection on 
Pin 2.

It's safe to do this as MIDI is opto-isolated by design and 
specification - so that Earth loops are not made!

I'm going to try this tonight so I can't say if this will definately 
fix it for you.

Best regards

Chris