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ChromaTalk Archives: April 2010

Hardware specs

Luca Sasdelli [21010226] · Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:41:00 +0200

Hello all,

I'm restoring a Chroma and almost all screws are rusted, so I'd like to replace them all.

Unfortunately I'm not familiar with imperial measures, so I'd like to have a list of which screws to order at my hw store. There are several measures in the Chroma and the ones I need to replace are:

  • all top cover screws (small screws at instrument back, V-shaped screws on instrument top)
  • the four front panel fixing screws
  • the back metal panel screws to bottom side (the ones used with turrets)

Could you help me in knowing them?

Thanks in advance

Stéphane Roux · Thu, 1 Apr 2010 15:27:24 +0300

i have the same problem in fact, and even with internet, i was not really able to find equivalent screws ... I would also be interested to have some references to replace those screws (or a supplier name)..

If required, we could make a common order with several Chroma onwer ...

Luca Sasdelli [21010226] · Thu, 01 Apr 2010 15:23:30 +0200

To be clear, my issue is that I don't know the exact measures in inch. About the supplier, this is an italian one with huge item types.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Thu, 1 Apr 2010 06:39:48 -0700

Two pages on the site that may help (I don't recall whether there is information on the screws and don't have time to look right now): Replacement Parts and Service Manual: Parts List.

David Clarke [21030085++] · Thu, 01 Apr 2010 20:52:35 -0400

... Unfortunately I'm not familiar with imperial measures, so I'd like to have a list of which screws to order at my hw store. ...

Luca - there following might help: replacement screws for front and top-back panels ?

Luca Sasdelli [21010226] · Fri, 02 Apr 2010 09:35:05 +0200

Thanks Dave,

the "6-32 thread" matter is even more unknown to me :), but I'll look that way. Should I find some suitable parts, I'll propose a quantity purchase to be shared with interested users.

Dave Bradley [16330135] · Fri, 2 Apr 2010 08:52:04 -0500

That is an American standard. "6" refers to the size and "32" refers to the pitch - number of threads per inch.

So common sizes would be 6-32, 8-32, 10-32, 10-24, etc.

Luca Sasdelli [21010226] · Fri, 02 Apr 2010 15:56:04 +0200

Excellent! Thanks Dave :)

Stéphane Roux · Sun, 4 Apr 2010 10:48:15 +0300

I am one of the interested users If you find somethings, i would be part of it, for sure !

SNR of the Chroma & recording suggestions

Joe Porter [21030058] · Sat, 3 Apr 2010 18:23:41 +0000

Hi all,

What is the stated signal to noise ratio of the Chroma? I have been running it into a Fender Twin Reverb (via a line level to intrument level/impedance reamp box), but have been getting quite a lot of noise through as well.

I'm going to try some other ways, but wondered what are people's suggested ways of recording the Chroma?

Luca Sasdelli [21010226] · Sat, 03 Apr 2010 21:03:54 +0200

Hi Joe,

the Chroma is a noisy instrument on its own. I'm not fully sure where the noise is mainly produced/collected, but the involved components are:

Moreover, the instrument is a hybrid analog/digital one, so the digital noise could reach some analog-related circuits and disturb them.

I know that some users did change the involved ICs with quieter components, but don't know the results. The EQ board uses 4558 dual OAs that are well known as very noisy; you can try to change them with more quiet dual OAs, e.g. some Analog Devices products.

Have you tried with a good noise gate? :)

Chris Smalt [21010280+] · Sat, 3 Apr 2010 21:42:48 +0200

I have been running it into a Fender Twin Reverb (via a line level to intrument level/impedance reamp box), but have been getting quite a lot of noise through as well.

A Fender Twin is likely to emphasize exactly the noisiest part of the Chroma spectrum. You'll probably have to switch off the "Bright" switch and turn down treble and presence controls to get something resembling the actual sound coming out of the Chroma.

I always recorded straight into the board, or via a DI if the board didn't have instrument/line iputs. The Chroma has its gritty sound built in, so I never felt the need to re-amp it.

Sandro Sfregola [21010294] · Sat, 3 Apr 2010 22:41:19 +0200

The Chroma very noisy? I do not agree, at least in principle.

The line outputs are capable of outputting a hot signal, balanced or unbalanced so you have to be careful in matching the "destination" sensitivity if you want to optimise the S/N ratio; a pro level line input is the best. If you still have too much noise, there is a fault; a defective VCA on a voice card or on the EQ board may be the cause; keep in mind that the best results are obtained bypassing the EQ board, using the four direct outputs directly (cleaner signal and less noise); a good upgrade in this sense would be replacing Z18 and Z19 (on channel motherboard) with NE5532; it is necessary to check for stability at the outputs with a scope and in case, augmenting a bit the values of C5, C6, C7 and C8.

Luca Sasdelli [21010226] · Sun, 04 Apr 2010 03:22:26 +0200

Hi Sandro,

indeed, I did refer as "very noisy" the 4558 OA, and not the Chroma :) 1458 and 4558 dual OAs are known to excess the declared noise figure on 2% of production, therefore to replace them with quieter OAs is recommended; maybe another improvement in this way could be obtained by using metal film resistors in the audio path instead of the carbon ones: I did it on an old cassette recorder (Tandberg TCD-300) with very good results. The EQ is causing some more hiss, therefore I agree with you about to bypass it (and I forgot to suggest to Joe the simplest trick).

Joe Porter [21030058] · Sun, 4 Apr 2010 17:51:37 +0000

Hi guys,

Thanks for the ideas. I am bypassing the EQ board as that just adds noise and on mine is a pretty nasty EQ really. I am going into the reamp at +4 (pro level). Maybe I have a dodgy VCA or need to swap the OpAmps as suggested. When I am next recording with it I will put it through my spectrum analyser and post that (with a tone and without or something like that). Perhaps other users can then tell me if I am way off or the SNR is in the right place for a Chroma. I guess this would depend on the patch I am using though. I have the CC+, so can anyone suggest a good patch to use for this rough measurement? Then at least I know if the problem is serious.

Randel Osborne [21030467] · Mon, 5 Apr 2010 09:34:18 -0400

FYI-

Here's a link to my page that shows the AD 712 in place in my Chroma.

I've updated the audio examples to fix the ghastly tuning in the previous file.

Heinz Weierhorst [21010276] · Mon, 5 Apr 2010 20:46:39 +0200

Hi Joe. If you fear an noise opamp or VCA it's easy to checkout. On the EQ-Board outputs 0&1 share the same vca and opamp and output 2&3 share a second pair. The same is for the Channel-Motherbord there are only two opamps for out 0 to 3. So first connect an amp to output 0 and set parameter "5" to 0. Repeat to for all outputs. If there are differences then there is faulty devise.

Tom Moravansky [21030431] · Tue, 6 Apr 2010 06:54:21 -0400

Here's a link to my page that shows the AD 712 in place in my Chroma.

I've updated the audio examples to fix the ghastly tuning in the previous file.

Did you have any problems with ringing or anything that required you to change out capacitor values (or add caps)?

Randel Osborne [21030467] · Tue, 6 Apr 2010 08:07:36 -0400

Tom et al.

There were no oscillation problems with the AD parts in the existing circuits - I just added a DIP socket and plugged them in.

ChromaFace Manual Update

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sat, 3 Apr 2010 13:19:05 -0700

I've added the text from a couple of previously missing pages to the JLCooper ChromaFace manual. Thanks to August B. Raring [21010148] for supplying a scan of this material.

Enabler Update

Randel Osborne [21030467] · Mon, 5 Apr 2010 10:45:23 -0400

FYI-

I've posted some new photos of the Enabler progress.

The flooding that has occurred in my area has put my workshop under a bit of water. If I can keep up with the bailing, I should have the prototype complete this week ;-)

John Simmons [21030454] · Mon, 5 Apr 2010 14:53:45 +0000

That is cool!!!

Looking forward to some clips of it in action..

Ronald · Mon, 5 Apr 2010 22:52:54 +0200

Looks amazing !!! tremendous job so far !

Want one :)

Randel Osborne [21030467] · Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:25:58 -0400

Enabler Finished

After years of running around my brain, several months of fabrication, and a weekend of firmware bug-fixing, I'm pleased to say that the Chroma Enabler is finished. Actually, it's mostly finished - I'm just waiting for the paint on the rear panel to completely dry before fitting it.

And while I should have spent yesterday taking photos and shooting video to share with you, I spent much of the day playing and programming the almighty Chroma.

Even with my little 8-knob prototypes, I got a glimpse of the power lurking beneath the instrument when it is accessed by a knob box, and I'd encourage anyone with a BCR200 or Drehbank to program it for your Chroma and have a go.

A 96-knob box, however, completely transforms the instrument. Seeing all of the parameters arranged in a big, logical format really helps to visualize the instrument's architecture, and having each of the envelope and modulation parameters controlled by a single knob is a glorious thing.

I found that the experience of programming was not unlike that of an OB-Xa; play a note, grab a knob, and adjust until it "feels" right, with most of my time spent in the familiar ground of the filter and envelope sections.

It was relatively straightforward to think of a sound, and logically move to create it - something that I always found difficult with the existing Chroma UI, even with a big copy of the parameter chart taped to the top.

It was even easier to twiddle - creating patches that were amazing happy accidents, and provided a starting point for further exploration and understanding of the Chroma.

I'm like an 8-year-old in the candy store.

If I can stop playing the thing for a few minutes, I'll try to set up a video camera...

David Gowin [21030611] · Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:32:21 -0400

Re: Enabler Finished

Wow! Can't wait to see it/hear it! And how do I get one?

Frank McGing [21010198] · Mon, 19 Apr 2010 17:23:00 +0100

Re: Enabler Finished

David Gowin wrote:

Wow! Can't wait to see it/hear it! And how do I get one?

Yep - I checked out the latest pics - looks amazing! Well done Randel - that's quite an achievement! :-)

Would you consider building more if there was enough interest? Any ideas about cost? Even a wild guess?

James Coplin [16330036+] · Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:26:16 -0500

Re: Enabler Finished

At least making the pcb and firmware available would be nice

Matt Hillier [21010094+] · Mon, 19 Apr 2010 19:49:31 +0000

Re: Enabler Finished

i'll take 1 ! amazing work . . . .

Arun Majumdar [21030348] · Mon, 19 Apr 2010 16:09:03 -0500

Re: Enabler Finished

This looks absolutely fantastic!!!

Any thoughts about how any of us could get one? Even in kit form? Any reactions are welcome :)

Great job Randel!

Go to next message in thread, August 2010. See also Chroma Enabler at AHNE below.

Speaking of Chroma modifications...

Tom Moravansky [21030431] · Tue, 6 Apr 2010 08:29:28 -0400

Any word on whether the MIDI CC+ OS will be updated to drive a display?

The topic comes up from time to time and I think the sticking point for some folks is how big of a display and where to mount it on the Chroma. Personally, I'd like to have the capability to have a display and allow me to choose how and where it is mounted, thereby taking that burden off David and friends.

David Clarke [21030085++] · Tue, 06 Apr 2010 18:48:15 -0400

... Any word on whether the MIDI CC+ OS will be updated to drive a display? ...

Questions on External Display for CC+ [ChromaTalk June 2007]

Tom - given the date on the link above, I should be embarrassed that support isn't there now - but to be honest, there hasn't been a lot of interest expressed by folks since then, and it seems that many of those interested may be forging ahead with their own knob-box w/display options.

The short answer though is that it is still intended to be pursued - and (of course) all CC+ units shipped have the hardware provisions already in place for this.

95% of the software implementation has been done for quite some time - just waiting to where Sandro and my schedules line up to finish it off.

The topic comes up from time to time and I think the sticking point for some folks is how big of a display and where to mount it on the Chroma.

Personally, I'd like to have the capability to have a display and allow me to choose how and where it is mounted, thereby taking that burden off David and friends.

There is flexibility in how you might like to hook it up (internal or external). Also, if you have a CC+ cable set, then the display signals are already being made available on the DB-15 connector on the rear panel.

If you were to use that external connection, then you would have complete freedom as to where the display would go (e.g., the cable connects there - but the display could go anywhere).

The physical size of the display won't be driven by the CC+ code implementation, but the number of characters/lines would be.

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Tue, 6 Apr 2010 19:18:56 -0400

Hi David,

If desired by any optional hw, will there be and how would communication to display stuff on the cc+/LCD interface be implemented?

Tom Moravansky [21030431] · Tue, 6 Apr 2010 19:31:31 -0400

Tom - given the date on the link above, I should be embarrassed that support isn't there now - but to be honest, there hasn't been a lot of interest expressed by folks since then, and it seems that many of those interested may be forging ahead with their own knob-box w/display options.

The short answer though is that it is still intended to be pursued - and (of course) all CC+ units shipped have the hardware provisions already in place for this.

95% of the software implementation has been done for quite some time - just waiting to where Sandro and my schedules line up to finish it off.

David - my view of the Chroma is that it's already fairly quick to select parameters and modify them. The issue has really been seeing what I'm doing. The knob box idea (I implemented a quick one for the Remote Zero SL) is OK for what it is, but the real helper is seeing real words for the parameters. Space is often at a premium and having another controller (large or small) is often not a great option. I wouldn't hold off on the display output just because of the knob box/controller movement.

There is flexibility in how you might like to hook it up (internal or external). Also, if you have a CC+ cable set, then the display signals are already being made available on the DB-15 connector on the rear panel.

If you were to use that external connection, then you would have complete freedom as to where the display would go (e.g., the cable connects there - but the display could go anywhere).

The physical size of the display won't be driven by the CC+ code implementation, but the number of characters/lines would be.

Are you saying that currently some data is already present on the DB-15 connector? If so (the CC+ docs are not at hand), what display(s) have you tested it with? If you were just saying that's where the data will be when it's done, then that solves a lot of the issues with running a cable for the display.

David Clarke [21030085++] · Tue, 06 Apr 2010 20:46:58 -0400

... If desired by any optional hw, will there be and how would communication to display stuff on the cc+/LCD interface be implemented?

Chris - the display interface for the CC+ is implemented via a serial connection, and so serial-based displays (e.g., LCD, VFD, etc.) could be supported.

Looking at the CC+ cable pinout (http://www.rhodeschroma.com/content/cpuplus/cpuplusinstallation/internalwiring.gif) we can see there is a DISP_TXD, which would be the serial transmit data.

The hardware to support the interface would then be:

  • UART (plug in)
  • Cable from DB-15 to LCD/VFD
  • LCD/VFD

The software inside the CC+ would be responsible to send the desired data to the display.

... Are you saying that currently some data is already present on the DB-15 connector?

Tom - there would be, if we didn't remove that code before release the public versions of the CC+ code.

...If so (the CC+ docs are not at hand), what display(s) have you tested it with?

The core output code is generally going to be the same for 90% of devices that offer a serial interface. The device-specific data tends to be the couple of bytes that get sent to the device at startup to clear it, turn the cursor on/off or to set a 'wrap' mode.

I've run on 3 or 4 different devices here, just with different startup sequences in those areas.

...If you were just saying that's where the data will be when it's done...

That's the best way of looking at it today.

August B. Raring [21010148] · Wed, 7 Apr 2010 21:05:23 +0200

Hello David,

I'm very interested in a CC+ display! What about making recommendations for appropriate hardware (displays) and an instruction how to connect it to the DB-15 connector.Would the CC+ firmware have to be updated? (... if we didn't remove that code before release the public versions of the CC+ code.)

David Clarke [21030085++] · Wed, 07 Apr 2010 19:16:21 -0400

... What about making recommendations for appropriate hardware (displays) and an instruction how to connect it to the DB-15 connector. Would the CC+ firmware have to be updated?

The current released firmware doesn't have the support for the display included. This would mean that before people start using a display, an updated version of firmware would be needed.

The firmware is stored in a single chip which is socketed. The firmware images would likely be made available on the site where the other images are (The Chroma CPU Plus (CC+): Firmware).

The general steps to add on a display (when we're all done) would generally be as you note. Specifically - we would provide instructions about the method to connect a cable (or we'd provide a cable), add the desired display, plug in a UART - and update the firmware.

See The Chroma CPU Plus (CC+): Alphanumeric Display, added to the site in August 2010.

factory sounds on the 'bay

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Mon, 12 Apr 2010 09:08:55 +0200

That voxaura guy has moved on and is now selling complete sets. I bet he's downloaded them from Chris' site and just added the sound bank he used to sell as the sixth and last. [Item #170468679596.]

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Mon, 12 Apr 2010 22:42:40 -0700

Jesper, did you ever get a chance to look at that cassette you won on eBay?

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Wed, 14 Apr 2010 09:04:56 +0200

I've been too busy, so no. But another list member bought an identical and wasn't too impressed. I have no high hopes...

But it's here on a shelf and I will check as soon as I get a few hours of studio time again.

David Clarke [21030085++] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 21:15:57 -0400

Jesper - if you have a chance (and if you like) - please feel free to e-mail me a copy of a recording of the cassette and I will convert to .syx for others in the group to review/compare.

CPS Update

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Wed, 14 Apr 2010 11:21:30 -0400

Ok. The new Rev 2 boards arrived yesterday. I put one together, installed it and had fun! Kind of an odd to play at first because it's really an all new and unfamiliar modulation technique. Real easy to install. Unbolt and remove the damper bar to lay the CPS underneath, centered (left-right) on the keys. Replace the damper bar so you can mark it at either end of the CPS. Remove both pieces and stick the CPS to the damper centered between the marks and flush with the rear edge. Replace the entire CPS/Damper assembly and plug the ribbon cable into J22. The CPS assembly includes a spacer so you may have to adjust the damper bar height up to ensure key triggering and desired action. My Damper was all the way down and had to come up a bit. Also had one key weight that was not in-line. The weights are what press against the sensor, so I simply repositioned it.

Same circuit design, just implemented a little different. I'll get drawing and doc updates to Chris for publication. Anyway, here are a couple pictures. Assembling and shipping production run #1 shortly!

Thanks Everyone for hanging in-there! :)

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Wed, 14 Apr 2010 17:42:53 +0200

Chris Borman skrev:

Ok. The new Rev 2 boards arrived yesterday. I put one together, installed it and had fun! Kind of an odd to play at first because it's really an all new and unfamiliar modulation technique.

Great work Chris!

I'm looking forward to A group sorting out any issues and I'm almost positive I'll join the second batch...

Frank McGing [21010198] · Wed, 14 Apr 2010 20:18:53 +0100

I'll second that! Great work Chris, and I'm happy to be part of the A group! :-)

August B. Raring [21010148] · Wed, 14 Apr 2010 21:46:47 +0200

I'm very happy to be in the 2nd batch, but unfortunately there are still 2 interested persons missing. What about you, Yesper?

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Wed, 14 Apr 2010 22:26:24 +0200

To be honest I'd rather wait for the first batch to be fully tested by an entire group. I've been working to much lately and spending a lot of cash on gear that I have no time to use seems like a stupid idea at this time. But I do want one... later. :D

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:41:24 -0400

Just finished soldering up 5 MUX and 30 Sensor boards (requires 2 each) and applying 60 FSR Arrays. Next task is to install the J22 ribbon cable assembly then test each CPS in my Chroma. After successful test, I'll then complete the sensor buildup comprised of Felt-Sensor-Rigid Spacer-Foam tape.

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:42:59 -0400

That would be 15 MUX boards...

Peter Forrest [21010096] · Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:46:11 +0100

Great, Chris - this is a very good thing to do!

Peter Forrest [21010096] · Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:47:02 +0100

That would be 15 MUX boards...

Yeah well, everyone's human ;o) Great that you're doing this!

Arun Majumdar [21030348] · Thu, 29 Apr 2010 07:25:42 -0400

Hi Chris,

Great Work!!! I am excited about your progress :)

Chroma on eBay

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Wed, 14 Apr 2010 21:11:35 -0700

Item #170473180664, starting bid USD$4,000, no bids yet, ends April 21. Entire description: "in good condition ... all manuals ... several different pedals." Hard to tell from the pictures what kind of condition it's in. I've asked for more information.

Pictures from the auction:

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Thu, 15 Apr 2010 23:30:30 -0700

From the seller: "it was in working condition when stored. have not recently used it. the serial number is 21030192. thanks!"

Eric Inglebert [21030075] · Fri, 16 Apr 2010 17:17:44 +0200

Guys like this make me love my Chroma even more...

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 14:36:15 -0700

Sold for USD$4000.

Enrico Dibennardo [21030494] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 23:48:26 +0200

There's one in Italy for about 1700 Euros but I posed a few questions to the seller and he "assumed" I wasn't really interested. I asked what midi interface it has since he stated that it had factory midi (?), also asked if it gives any error message and if it is registered in the rhodeschroma.com register. All these questions appeared as "I was not interested" (?) The seller doesn't ship so it can only be collected in person. The site is: www.mercatinomusicale.com

with a simple search inside the site you should find it, I think it is still there.

Enrico Dibennardo [21030494] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 23:51:09 +0200

This is the exact link.

€1.690; the description reads: "Vendo raro synth analogico anni 80,in perfette condizioni,midi di serie,pedale sustain,polifonco 8 note derivanti dal synth ARP.Contattare SOLO se realmente interessati,foto su richiesta,NO perditempo,non effettuo spedizione per questo strumento"

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Sun, 25 Apr 2010 07:45:23 +0200

I've bought one piece of equipment (Realton Variophon wind controller) from that site and it did work out OK but I learned the hard way that the Italian postal/shipping services are among the worst in the world so I doubt I'll be shopping from Italy again and I can understand why he's not keen of shipping it anywhere.

But if it's fully working it's a very good price!

chroma needs service in tri state area

Jim Josevski [21030907] · Thu, 15 Apr 2010 06:46:23 GMT

Hello All,

I have owned a Chroma, SN: 21030907, for about 2 years now and it has worked like a charm until 2 weeks ago. At first when I powered it up it the clicker would go insane and all the wrong lights would illuminate. After a few power on and off toggles it would eventually work. A few days past and I tried to toggle it on and off again and it made a loud noise. It has never powered up since. Is this a common power supply issue? I am not very keen with electronics so I want to take it to a professional. Can anyone recommend technical support in the NJ/NY area? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 15:21:23 -0700

Have you tried James Reynolds or others listed on the Service Centres page?

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:27:26 -0400

I can help. I'm right around the corner in Annapolis. What are the symptoms?

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 15:29:45 -0700

See Jim's original post from from April 15th.

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:38:50 -0400

Thanks Chris. Sounds like the micro has started having issues waking up. That could be normal. Mine is pretty pissed after lack of use, or age... On the bright side, maybe just a PS swap!

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 18:47:07 -0400

Jim, just sold my Xpander ... :(

Sync

David Hobson [21030506] · Fri, 16 Apr 2010 20:27:14 -0700

Hello, I was wondering if anyone could explain to me how to create a simple "syns" patch.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sat, 17 Apr 2010 09:26:45 -0700

Try setting the Patch [1] parameter to 2 - Independent Channels, Sync.

parts question

John Leimseider [21030434++] · Mon, 19 Apr 2010 19:51:28 -0600

Does anyone have an extra Chroma top? (The metal and wood part, not the bezel with the membrane switches.) I'm resurrecting a Chroma carcass and there's no top. I'd pay or trade for it... I've just finished fixing a bunch of voice cards... Thanks!

Rhodes Chroma at Svenska Hammond

Patrik Gudmundsäter [21010240] · Tue, 20 Apr 2010 19:44:01 +0200

I mailed in my Chroma's serial number. But never got any response from you.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Tue, 20 Apr 2010 12:23:38 -0700

Sorry, Patrik, I've had a very busy month. I will get to it, I promise!

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Tue, 20 Apr 2010 22:35:01 -0700

21010240 is the 535th Chroma in the registry.

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Wed, 21 Apr 2010 09:49:44 +0200

Yes! Another swedish Chroma up and running. :D

Interesting to see that this Chroma, according to the mentioned history, isn't one of the mysterious 2102-Chromas...

Lars Johansson [21030632] · Wed, 21 Apr 2010 22:25:25 +0200

Yes! Another swedish Chroma up and running. :D

Thanks to me having spares in stock ;-)

Interesting to see that this Chroma, according to the mentioned history, isn't one of the mysterious 2102-Chromas...

Swedish sold. Yeah !!

Patrik Gudmundsäter [21010240] · Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:31:08 +0200

Yes.Thanks Lars for the New Power supply unit. Still we got the old one up and running, but it feels better to change the whole unit To a modern type of Power supply that makes the Chroma more stable, and also prolongs its life and value. This Chroma will be an Ace instrument, im sure. Lars also tested it here on location and could just werify that:)

Big thanks also for all the schematics! Big help! Thanks people!!!

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:40:35 +0200

WT knows he wants one for himself... All the blue metal is just a smoke screen. :)

Analog Heaven Northeast

Randel Osborne [21030467] · Fri, 23 Apr 2010 12:04:47 -0400

FYI-

I'll have the Chroma and Enabler at the AHNE gathering in Lowell, MA this Sunday.

If anyone is in the area, you are welcome to come check them out, as well as the amazing collection of synths that others will bring.

Bruce Sklar [21030660] · Fri, 23 Apr 2010 13:07:53 -0400

Where in Lowell? I'll Be on my way home to VT from Boston

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Fri, 23 Apr 2010 19:23:22 +0200

119 Gallery, 119 Chelmsford St, Lowell MA 01851 978-452-8138

Jack Colburne [21030142+] · Fri, 23 Apr 2010 17:38:29 -0400

Will def be there. thanks for the heads-up.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Fri, 23 Apr 2010 14:48:19 -0700

It would be great to get some pictures—not just of the Chroma and Enabler, but also people on the list who attend! Most of us are faceless, and it would be cool to put faces to names.

Jack Colburne [21030142+] · Fri, 23 Apr 2010 18:05:20 -0400

I'll take the camera.

... great.. now i gotta dress well and comb my hair..etc..

wait.. i don't have hair amymore.. ...nevermind

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Fri, 23 Apr 2010 20:00:19 -0700

I suspect that most of us who have an appreciation of the Chroma are no longer in our twenties. Not to mention those of us who are original owners. :)

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 20:06:38 +0200

20's? You mean MS-20 - right? ;)

I won't be at AHNE (and haven't been part of AH for years now) but I do have a scary pic up under a link on my studio page.

Now... I warned you. Who is brave enough to follow?

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 16:45:58 -0400

I had hair just until I saw Jesper's studio! That's a big pile of stuff to goof with! (someday I'll post an old pic of my big pile of hair!) I used a synare in a band. Had a cool little ADSR delayed LFO tempo timed mod intro that I fumbled live. So simple I thought for sure I wouldn't have a problem. Should have wrote down those three settings...

Matrix [21030220] · Sun, 25 Apr 2010 18:59:05 -0700

Chroma Enabler at AHNE

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Mon, 26 Apr 2010 07:51:18 +0200

Re: Chroma Enabler at AHNE

Nice!

And... *aouch!* Catstick... WANT ONE! *drool* ;)

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Mon, 26 Apr 2010 22:54:20 +0200

Chris Borman skrev:

I had hair just until I saw Jesper's studio! That's a big pile of stuff to goof with! (someday I'll post an old pic of my big pile of hair!) I used a synare in a band. Had a cool little ADSR delayed LFO tempo timed mod intro that I fumbled live. So simple I thought for sure I would'nt have a problem. Should have wrote down those three settings...

*haha* Thanks... I guess. Damn... how I've missed "goofing around" in the heap of electronics! Yesterday I managed to use the Chroma filter pedal to act as a hihat switch in junction with Simmons MTM and SDS-V. With the aftertouch mod the Chroma will be THEE juiciest master keyboard around. :D

Expander on eBay Australia

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 16:11:52 -0700

Item #300420881451, sold for "best offer," price listed as AUD $10,995.00 (wow), with free shipping (I'd hope so!). From the description: "Fully serviced and upgraded Rhodes Chroma Expander in excellent condition cosmetically and electronically. Upgraded with David Clarke's [21030085++] Chroma CPU Plus (CC+) and Luca Sasdelli's [21010226] switching power supply replacement."

Looks like it's 16310021, which can be seen in one of the pictures.

One of the pictures from the auction:

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Sat, 24 Apr 2010 19:18:57 -0400

Brings hope to that ~$750 Pedal guy.

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Sun, 25 Apr 2010 07:51:06 +0200

Agreed...

...on the other hand, I'd rather spend 11000 aussie money on an Expander than 750 us on a pedal. :)

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:32:52 -0700

Sold for AUD $9,150.00. That's a record, folks.

Rob Belcher [16330123] · Wed, 28 Apr 2010 20:39:06 +0100

Bloody hell! That's rediculous <: ] I've got a chroma expander with cc+ and new psu! no plans to sell it though... even for that money. People have more money than sense!

Bruce Sklar [21030660] · Thu, 29 Apr 2010 07:53:33 -0400

jeez.. Can I just chop the keys off my Chroma and ask 5 or6 K?

Arun Majumdar [21030348] · Thu, 29 Apr 2010 09:36:18 -0400

Hi,

Actually, I think it's still well worth it!!! In fact, had I not got my Chroma's I would have spent that kind of money if I couldn't get one anywhere - they are getting very, very hard to come by.

I have two Chroma's and I really love the organic rich textured sounds you can get with it - and you can't get these that easily. In fact, with the pressure mod I am quite certain it will beat my Prophet-T8 :)

Certainly, in quality of analog sound , it is very rich ... I have an Andromeda-A6 and a Yamaha-CS80 ... the Chroma and CS-80 compare but the A6 and T8 in my personal taste are lower on the scale (they're fine instruments, but, they just don't have the punch of the Chroma on a lot of things).

My two cents for what it's worth :)

Patrik Gudmundsäter [21010240] · Thu, 29 Apr 2010 20:41:10 +0200

Well still, the buyer got what he paid for. A Fantastic and restored Instrument that is wery hard to Find these days:)

I have now built in the New Switched Power supply in my Chroma, and it works wery well.

Peter Forrest [21010096] · Thu, 29 Apr 2010 20:00:31 +0100

It is weird, though, the way that the Expander is worth more than the full Chroma, with its great keyboard. Collectability rather than playability determining the value.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Thu, 29 Apr 2010 12:11:50 -0700

I agree; the Expander is rare. What's really interesting about this sale is that it is, as far as I know, the first time a Chroma or Expander has ever sold for more than the original list price. (Although the Price History doesn't list the list price for the Expander in Australia, the Chroma was AUD$7,650 versus CAD$7,500, and the Expander was $4,700 in Canada.)

Paul DeRocco [21030230] · Thu, 29 Apr 2010 12:11:53 -0700

Gee, I've got two Expanders that I never use, in cherry condition. Maybe I should upgrade them and sell them. I normally don't sell old stuff, but that's a meaningful amount of money.

Go to next message in thread, May 2010

cc+ software / param sync with BCR2000

Michael Salmon [21030155] · Sun, 25 Apr 2010 10:19:09 -0700

Hi all,

The CC+ and PSU replacement in my chroma have been wonderful additions, and after getting the BCR2000 for $75 on ebay and using Matt's presets, ... now my world has changed! I just wanted to follow-up on an idea Matt asked about last year relative to the CC+ [see CC+ & Behringer BCR2000], can CC+ transmit all the values of the chroma on program change?

I also was wondering would it be possible to rebuild our own cc+ firmware, and worst case if we mess it up recover from a known image? I'm just asking because maybe the chroma community can help implement such things?

Go to next message in thread, May 2010

Mackie Control C4 template for Rhodes Chroma

Michael R · Mon, 26 Apr 2010 01:38:46 -0400

Hello Group,

We just released a template for the Rhodes Chroma CC+!

If you have this synth, you know it sounds great but super challenging to program...

This is the solution!

See Rhodes Chroma C4 template screenshots plus audio demo [site removed as of June 2011].

Cheers,

Michael

PS: You also have more than 20 synth templates to choose from:

  • Arturia CS80 V2
  • Arturia Minimoog V2
  • Arturia Prophet V2 (Prophet 5 only)
  • JL Cooper CS10 Emulator
  • JoMox SunSyn
  • Kenton Pro-Solo mkII
  • Mackie HUI Equalizer Emulator
  • Modartt Pianoteq V3.5
  • Moog Memorymoog LAMM
  • Oberheim Xpander / Matrix-12
  • Octave Voyetra Eight REV4
  • Rhodes Chroma CC+
  • Roland Jupiter-6 Europa
  • Roland MKS-50 / Juno-1 / Juno-2
  • Roland MKS-70 V1.08
  • Roland MKS-80
  • SCI Prophet VS
  • Waldorf Blofeld
  • Waldorf Wave V1.804
  • Yamaha DX11 / TX81Z
  • Yamaha FS1R

Control panel not responding; pt. 2

RJ Krohn [21030455] · Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:04:32 -0700

greetings chroma owners. you may or may not remember a while back a post that was made about a panel not responding on all parameters [see CHROMA FIRST POWER UP! problems, though. can you help?, November 2009]. it was mine. about half of the left side of the panel responds, the display reads wierd characters, and almost all of the right side preset numbers respond (i believe that 31-35 doesn't). it was suggested that the I/O board was the culprit. i sent the I/O board to a tech who found that in his machine, the I/O board works perfectly. so now that it is ruled out, what would you guys think would be my next potential culprit? the actual membrane? he is in the process of sending me back the board; when it arrives is there a way i can test the connections of the membrane panel independently (or dependently)? thanks, rj

Frank McGing [21010198] · Mon, 26 Apr 2010 16:36:15 +0100

Hi RJ

When I was trying to resurrect my Chroma, David Clarke [21030085++] gave me the following info, which I believe is what you're looking for:

It's certainly a bit tedious, but you can check out the panel/ribbon connections by seeing if you do see switch closures.

The button to pin assignments are tablulated in the IOSTROBE.DOC file available on the EPROM Code page.

For instance, if you press the "1" key on the panel that should short SW0 and STB0 together - which could be measured by looking at Z16 pin 6 and Z13 pin 1 while the keyboard is turned off (e.g., that Z16-6 and Z13-1 is a an 'open' when unpressed, but becomes closed when the button is pressed.)

Hope this helps!

RJ Krohn [21030455] · Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:55:00 -0700

thanks!!