What to do with the old synths?

  • What service means

    The synthesizers of the 70s were built "discrete", i.e. there were individual components instead of modules or ICs used.img This means, they need a comprehensive service from time to time. Capacitors should be replaced generally after some years because they won't reach their specs anymore. Also, power supplies need a refresh, or they produce noise. Furthermore, after such a long time the keyboard bushings are downplayed and dried - the keyboard is shaky, loud and often odd. Add to that a lot of dirt that has accumulated in the instrument, should be removed for a correct device to use. Oxidation together with dirt produces an unstable pitch on individual keys (bad contacts). In Arp synthesizers the sliders have to be lubricated again - therefore they must be completely dismantled.

    Why do it yourself in most cases is not advisable

    First, many of the old components are rare, the new suitable successor can be less- or even unusable. Many of the operations require special fluids or remedies, and also the washing and drying of the boards should happen "controlled". Many small steps are hardly mentioned anywhere, but are the nuts and bolts for everything should go well. And these are also the main arguments for people or shops that are specialized: the experience and the material in stock!

    Often one can read, keyboard-bushings exchange is simple and cheap - I dare to say i doubt that. The insertion of the bushings might be simple, but there are so many steps to do: taking apart the keyboard, clean the keys, the mechanics, the contacts, removing the dirty old bushings, polishing the keys and the most difficult: the orientation of the keyboard (straightening). img

    As an underpinning example, here is an Arp Odyssey, which - after several abortive attempts - was finally sent to SaintEric.

    All materials etc. pp., the procedures and workflow can´t be done in a satisfying way at the first time. A good instrument is always based on the experience of the instrument-builder!

    Here is an example of a good overhaul:

    Sorry I missed the (previously) rickety keyboard - it was loud like a small percussion band! In this video, the keyboard can be heard with new bushings. To make it clear I increased the volume of the movie to 133%.

    Here are the keyboardsounds of three Arp Odyssey models (2811/2821/2823):

    What you get on eBay

    Of course, eBay is the largest platform for old synthesizers. But you should always assume that a complete, large service, or a big overhaul is necessary. Texts which convey "perfect condition", "mint" or "like new" refer to the appearance mainly. They are very subjective and therefore may not to be taken seriously. Restored instruments are generally offered with a detailed service bill and the services provided, such as platinum washing, bushings, capacitors, etc. will find explicit expression also in the description. It will be reflected in the prices as well.

    If a technician is present, it can be worth to bid on a rather poorly preserved but convenient model to restore it afterwards.

    On the right you can read small descriptions of my eBay adventures.