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ChromaTalk Archives: February 2011

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Marais · Sat, 5 Feb 2011 20:56:43 -0500

There is another iPad app for the Chroma [iChromaCC+] that just went up on the Apple store btw, but @ $40 it does not look as cool as Matrix's free profile for TouchOSC IMHO.

Michael Salmon [21030155] · Sun, 6 Feb 2011 10:51:14 -0800

touchosc + osculator looks so great, sadly my studio setup is windows though so ill have to wait to play with it

Matrix [21030220] · Sun, 6 Feb 2011 11:56:02 -0800

FYI, I just added a new template that uses toggles instead of sliders for finer control of modulation sources and destinations.

I haven't fully tested it yet as I'm wrapping up my Waldorf Pulse template at the moment. It should work, but there might be some kinks. I'll put a new post and notify the list when it is "golden".

Note the template is for The Missing Link, but you can edit it for use with OSCulator in the TouchOSC editor. I only have so much time, and once you use The Missing Link wireless w/o the need for a Mac in between, there really is no going back. If someone does port it though, let me know and I'll post it. BTW, even if you aren't set up, you can check out the editor on your iPad for free. Just install TouchOSC (free) and sync the template, also free.

Matrix [21030220] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 13:16:08 -0800

iPad Editors

I found a "happy accident" with my Chroma editor: The iPad is a Game Changer for Editing and Controlling All Synths

Do check out the Pulse link for video of it. I'll be wrapping up the Chroma editor next.

Marais · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 18:23:03 -0500

Re: iPad Editors

Ok Matrix, what did I miss here ? : )

How much was the missing link btw ?

Matrix [21030220] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 16:22:43 -0800

Re: iPad Editors

The Missing Link is $150. Let me know if you have any questions. There are a lot of options. I'm thinking of throwing up a quick post with some of them.

Michael R [21030869] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 20:15:55 -0500

Re: iPad Editors

so you DO have a share in this venture...

absolutly disgusting how you evangelizing and brain washing people with missing link

now I understand why

Matrix [21030220] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 17:36:35 -0800

Re: iPad Editors

I don't actually. I'm not affiliated with them.

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 20:33:19 -0500

Re: iPad Editors

VERY nice job Matrix! I'm on Ebay right now looking for an iPad...

Matrix [21030220] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 17:46:58 -0800

Re: iPad Editors

When you do you can thank me for it every time you use it.

Doug Terrebonne [21030114] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 18:43:20 -0800

Re: iPad Editors

For those that don't want to deal with the PC/Mac, OSC, Wifi, etc I got one of those cheap ($2) USB to MIDI cables on ebay and it works great with the camera kit's USB port. There's an app called MIDI Touch that you can create your own controller layouts with.

Matrix [21030220] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 18:54:27 -0800

Re: iPad Editors

There is also one called S1MIDITrigger. Both are definitely worth checking out. They are great for creating custom controls on the fly.

Matrix [21030220] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 19:16:16 -0800

Re: iPad Editors

It looks like S1MIDITrigger now supports sysex: S1 MIDI Products.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 23:25:02 -0800

touchosc + osculator looks so great, sadly my studio setup is windows though so ill have to wait to play with it

You don't have to have a Mac OS X-based studio to use an iPad; and iPad apps won't run on the Mac: the iPad is a different platform (even though it uses some of the same development libraries etc.).

Matrix [21030220] · Tue, 8 Feb 2011 11:46:50 -0800

Re: iPad Editors

Hey Michael, I just realized you are the iControlMIDI guy. Just an FYI, but your products are featured on the site as well.

And for anyone that missed my initial reply to this, I am NOT affiliated with The Missing Link. I received a prototype from them for testing. As for why I'm investing my time in TouchOSC and The Missing Link it's because like most of you my time is limited. If I'm going to put the energy into making myself a template it's going to be what I plan to use and wireless is it for me. You can take the template and port it to OSCulator. The design of the template itself will save you hours.

BTW, the point of all this shouldn't be one editor vs. another. It shouldn't even be focused on the iPad. New slates are arriving with built in USB ports. The point is there are options out there and this is an exciting time to explore the possibilities. If you follow my site, you will see I feature everything. What might seem like bias on the surface isn't. It's all good in my book, but time is limited.

Chris Smalt [21010280+] · Tue, 8 Feb 2011 21:34:32 +0100

Re: iPad Editors

absolutly disgusting how you evangelizing and brain washing people with missing link

now I understand why

Michael

Hey Michael

Thanks for presenting yourself and your product in such a clear and unforgiving light! Whatever it is you are selling, I'll try to stay away from it

Matrix [21030220] · Tue, 8 Feb 2011 14:38:39 -0800

Re: iPad Editors

Hi everyone. I hate to take up more bandwidth, and hopefully this will be it, but I need to apologize for my curt response to Chris Borman. I misread his reply as a jab at my site considering the eBay auctions frequently posted there. I have received flack for them on the list before and I was in defense mode after being accused of serving some self interest with The Missing Link (neither of which by him). I apologized to Chris off-list and I want to apologize to the rest of the list as well. Sorry everyone. I'll go away now. :)

I'll let you all know when the Chroma template is finished and ready.

Thomas Story [21030352] · Tue, 8 Feb 2011 14:54:00 -0800

Re: iPad Editors

Matrix - I just want to say thank you for the time you spend on your site (fun to look at!) and the time spent working in the touschosc interface and the sharing of your work. I started working on a template when it came out, and between my full time job as a photographer and two little ones, the effort quickly came to a standstill. You shared your template, which speaking from experience must have taken many many hours to design. It really has opened up programming the Chroma for me and I know all of this is just in the beginning stages.

When I see that the possibility of designing S1Midi to work with Sysex too, the thoughts of having a great interface for my Matrix 6 is pretty cool.

Everyone should be free to extol the virtues of whatever software or hardware they want. Whatever works for one might not work for another, but to give someone flack over bringing more options to the table seems very close minded and incredibly uncalled for on this list especially.

Chris Borman [21030194+] · Tue, 8 Feb 2011 18:00:50 -0500

Re: iPad Editors

I think we all appreciate the folks who have taken their time to find or create documentation, design upgrades and enhancements or provide assistance to folks with ailing Chromas. Without all of them, I am sure there would be far fewer Chromas in operation. Chris R. is at the center of all this creating and maintaining the www.RhodesChroma.com website that brings us all of us and our offerings together. Matrix included. He lets us know when he spots Chroma applicable stuff that we are most certainly interested in, and in this case did an incredible job creating and offering to us one of the most innovative controller templates I have seen to date, and it's made specifically for the Chroma!

No 'for profit' business plan would have anything to do with such a limited volume 30 year old synthesizer as the Chroma. I think it's done more for the satisfaction of creating something unique to enhance or extend the life of such a unique instrument and giving back to this special community we belong to. I found it a great experience creating the CPS and could not have done it without all the folks who helped fund it's development, Michael included who purchased my second Chroma.

So, no reason for any animosity here which is certainly not what this forum is about.

Matrix [21030220] · New iPad is Coming

New iPad is Coming

AppleInsider | WSJ says Apple now manufacturing next-gen iPads

Prices for the current model should go down especially on the second hand market.

Ron Joseph [21030042+] · Tue, 8 Feb 2011 20:57:59 -0500

Apologies

I must say that I appreciate people who can recognize their own mistakes and publicly try and make amends. It's refreshing and in Matrix's case not surprising. In a recent interaction Matrix went above and beyond in rectifying a mistake that was only distantly his responsibility.

The recent negativity on this list is an aberration that I hope fades into oblivion. Ron

Sent from my iPad

Michael Salmon [21030155] · Wed, 9 Feb 2011 16:59:38 -0800

So, no reason for any animosity here which is certainly not what this forum is about.

email group hug

Matrix [21030220] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 21:47:37 -0800

Chroma TouchOSC Complete!

This post was superseded by Matrix's post of Thu, 10 Feb 2011 22:29:41 -0800 below.

Matrix [21030220] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 22:07:36 -0800

Re: Chroma TouchOSC Complete!

New screens:

MATRIXSYNTH: New Rhodes Chroma TouchOSC Templates Complete

Also I had two step elevens for the "Install Templates" section. The order is correct.

Matrix [21030220] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 22:29:41 -0800

Re: Chroma TouchOSC Complete!

Updated instructions also updated in the post.

Hi everyone. The Chroma TouchOSC editors are ready. Yes editors plural. I made two, one for The Missing Link, and one for OSCulator so those that don't have The Missing Link can try it out. If you have an iPad and a Mac with MIDI you can get going right now. If you don't you can still check out the templates in the TouchOSC editor which runs on Windows, Mac or Linux.

If all of this is new to you and a little confusing. It's not as complicated as you think. Once you get set up it's a breeze and running the editor is as simple as launching a stand alone app for the iPad.

In short:

  1. TouchOSC is an iOS and Android app that transmits OSC (Open Sound Control) Messages.
  2. OSCulator and The Missing Link translates these messages into MIDI

TouchOSC

TouchOSC consists of two programs, an editor and the app that runs on the iPad, iPhone/iPod Touch, or Android. The editor runs on Windows, Mac or Linux and is where you design templates. The app runs your templates on an iOS or Android device.

OSCulator

OSCulator is an app that runs on a Mac only and acts as the translator for TouchOSC to MIDI. You connect from the iPad to your Mac over wireless.

The Missing Link is a little wireless TouchOSC MIDI device that does the same as OSCulator minus the need for a PC or Mac. It is also a class compliant USB MIDI merge device.

You can grab the templates here.

Setup Instructions for TouchOSC (only do this once):

  1. Install TouchOSC on your iPad via iTunes or hexler.net. It is free. Follow the instructions on site.
  2. Install the TouchOSC editor. Follow the instructions on site.

Setup Instructions for OSCulator (only do this once):

  1. Install OSCulator.
  2. Follow the Quickstart Guide.

Install Templates:

  1. Download the appropriate templates - two OSCulator files if you are going to use OSCulator or one ML file if you are going to use The Missing Link.
  2. Copy the .touchosc file/s to the TouchOSC application folder.
  3. Copy the .oscd file to the OSCulator application folder.
  4. Double click/open the template you plan to use
  5. Click on the Sync button
  6. Open TouchOSC on your iPad
  7. On the iPad, in TouchOSC's settings, click on the template name listed under Layout
  8. Click on Add
  9. Click on your computer's name. It should add the Chroma template
  10. Click the TouchOSC button on the top left of the screen to get out of the Layout screen
  11. Click Done on the top right of the TouchOSC screen. With The Missing Link you are good to go. For OSCulator:
  12. Launch the Chroma OSCulator template, click on Parameters and set MIDI for your MIDI device - MIDI out of your Mac to MIDI in of your Chroma. You should be good to go.

If things don't seem to be working, close out of TouchOSC completely. Get out of the program, double click on the iPad's "launch/start" button, hold your finger down on the OSC icon for a few seconds and then click on the minus to close it. Make sure your iPad is connected to the same network as your Mac and then open TouchOSC again. Follow the setup instructions on hexler.net and/or osculator.net to make sure everything is connected properly.

Once setup is complete you can just launch whatever template you want to use and go.

A quick note: if you plan on using The Missing Link and OSCulator interchangeably, remember to switch the Network setting in the TouchOSC iPad app's settings. It does not auto discover like the iPad's wireless settings, so be sure to write them down."

Matrix [21030220] · Sat, 12 Feb 2011 19:42:08 -0800

Chroma Template

Hi everyone. Someone was having trouble opening my TouchOSC for OSCulator template. I can open it fine. I was wondering if someone else on the list could give the following a try. It should only take a minute or two.

  1. Install the TouchOSC editor.
  2. Download the ChromaTogglesOSCulator.touchosc file from here.
  3. Open the downloaded file

It should open up in the editor with the Chroma template

Matrix [21030220] · Sat, 12 Feb 2011 19:43:44 -0800

Re: Chroma Template

Never mind. Looks like it was a version issue. 1.4.2 works. 1.4 didn't.

2 Chromas FS $1100 Ventura, CA

John B. Rotondi [21030185+] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 15:00:45 -0800

Dear Chromaphiles,

It is with great sadness that I offer up my 2 vintage Rhodes Chromas, Serial Nos. 21030185 & 21030247 for sale.

I am a longtime ChromaTalk list member, and these two units are in the Registry.

I am offering them exclusively to this auspicious group first, for a limited time only, for $600 each, or $1100 for both. If there is no sale within the week, I will then put them on ebay or on consignment with a dealer.

It has been a goal of mine to restore these two units, which I have had in storage for many years.

Due to health issues, I find that such a goal in no longer practical for me, and I can no longer store these units. I would like to see them go to players who will appreciate them, once restored.

These two Chromas are all original, and complete, including all manuals, pedals, and Syntech MIDI interfaces.

When last operated, one was non-functional and needed repair. The status of the other is unknown, but most likely will need to be serviced as well. You can assume that they have all the issues common to long-stored Chromas, such as foam rot, dead batteries, etc. With the fine Power Supply and CPU/MIDI upgrades now available to Chroma owners, these units can be made to live again, thanks to the diligence of members of this list.

These units are offered for cash sale only, as-is, where-is, without warrantee expressed or implied.

Buyers must arrange to pick up their Chroma(s) up from my residence in Ventura, CA. I cannot provide shipping services.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to arrange a purchase.

Thank you for your interest.

And I would like to say a big Thank You to Chris Ryan - and the members of the ChromaTalk community - who have championed this extraordinary synthesizer, and have contributed to it's ongoing development. This group is far and above the most excellent user group I have maintained membership with. Thank you all for your efforts!

Sincerely,

John Rotondi

John B. Rotondi [21030185+] · Mon, 7 Feb 2011 21:59:27 -0800

2 Chromas SOLD

Dear Chromaphiles,

My 2 Rhodes Chromas are going to a new home- on a new continent.

They have been purchased by a gentlemen in Australia, who was the first to respond.

I very much appreciate the interest and communications I received from many ChromaTalk members.

Best wishes to all.

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Tue, 08 Feb 2011 08:20:06 +0100

John Rotondi skrev 2011-02-08 00:00:

Dear Chromaphiles,

It is with great sadness that I offer up my 2 vintage Rhodes Chromas, Serial Nos. 21030185 & 21030247 for sale.

For once I think living in California would be an ideal... I hope they come to a good home though, preferrably on the list!

I hope your health issues are sorted too, in the best possible way.

my chroma is still not working properly in montreal

Daniel Benoit [21030109] · Tue, 08 Feb 2011 23:20:28 -0500

I'm now back working on my defective Chroma. It boots realy quickly, doesn't try to tune the voice boards and desables them. All panel fonctions leds and display are working.

This chroma as the CC+ upgrade and the Power supply as been replaced by a DIY PSU upgrade years ago. It was working fine up the last December when the switching power supply went bad, (it made a swiching noise, going on and off as the front panel leds and display went flashing randomly) after replacing the switching power supply AND checking for all the right voltages it powered ok, but never went into tuning the voice boards.

I suspecting either some problemes on the CC+ board or the to DAC ICs that are still the only original parts.

I would need to have informations from working Chroma owners.

What is the behaviour of the "set split" function. On my chroma, if I press "set split" then any note on the keyboard, nothing appends. should something append on the display? According to the manual the set split fonction should read to a key pressed?

I'm to a point that I am looking for a Chroma/Chroma Xpander owner in Montreal, to help me troubleshoot this unit i'm a qualifed electronic technician with a lot of experience whit vintage synths, but his one is a tough one

any Montrealer on the Forum?

Paul DeRocco [21030230] · Tue, 8 Feb 2011 23:54:47 -0800

I'm now back working on my defective Chroma. It boots realy quickly, doesn't try to tune the voice boards and desables them. All panel fonctions leds and display are working

This chroma as the CC+ upgrade and the Power supply as been replaced by a DIY PSU upgrade years ago. It was working fine up the last decembrer when the switching power supply went bad, (it made a swiching noise, going on and off as the front panel leds and display went flashing randomly) after replacing the switching power supply AND checking for all the right voltages it powered ok, but never went into tuning the voice boards.

I suspecting either some problemes on the CC+ board or the to DAC ICs that are still the only original parts.

It certainly "tries" to tune the voice boards, but fails immediately on the first oscillator and doesn't get any further on each board, which is why it gets through so quickly.

Whatever is wrong is obviously something common to all the boards, which suggests something on the Channel Motherboard or on the I/O board. If it was the CC+ board, the display and switches wouldn't work at all.

The unit isn't that hard to debug if you're a decent tech with a scope. The service manual explains how the circuits work, so it's pretty easy to poke around looking for digital signals that don't look right, or for op-amps (e.g., in the DAC circuit) that are clamped at one rail, or power supplies that are way off or full of ripple.

What is the beavior of the "set split" fonction. On my chroma, if I press "set split" then any note on the keyboard, nothing appends. should something append on the display? According to the manual the set split fonction should read to a key pressed?

Set Split doesn't show anything in the display after the key is pressed; it records the key as the split point for linked sounds, and then the display reverts to the previously selected parameter.

Daniel Benoit [21030109] · Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:18:19 -0500

Set Split doesn't show anything in the display after the key is pressed; it records the key as the split point for linked sounds, and then the display reverts to the previously selected parameter.

On my Chroma the "set split" doesnt "exit" to the previus parameter. Checking with a scope on pins 8,9 10 and 11 of IC Z49 in the keyscan section reveals that:

After power up:

  • Pin 10 (k_mask) goes HI
  • Pin 11 (RD_vel) goes HI
  • Pin 9 genrates a negative pulse for each key pressed on keyboard
  • pin 8 ouputs a negative pulse on a key pressed

Once a key is pressed

  • Pin 10 (k_mask) goes LOW and stay low
  • Pin 11 (RD_vel) stays HI
  • Pin 9 genrates a negative pulse for each key pressed on keyboard
  • pin 8 stays HI

I have checked the midi ouput of the CC+, it doesn't ouput any midi message on key pressed on the keyboard

This is some pictures of the data bus (b0 to B7 of my chroma)

Any help is appreciated

Paul DeRocco [21030230] · Wed, 9 Feb 2011 08:55:08 -0800

On my Chroma the "set split" doesnt "exit" to the previus parameter

I could be wrong about the display after Set Split--my Chroma is down at the moment.

Checking with a scope on pins 8,9 10 and 11 of IC Z49 in the keyscan section reveals that:

After power up:

  • Pin 10 (k_mask) goes HI
  • Pin 11 (RD_vel) goes HI
  • Pin 9 genrates a negative pulse for each key pressed on keyboard
  • pin 8 ouputs a negative pulse on a key pressed

Once a key is pressed

  • Pin 10 (k_mask) goes LOW and stay low
  • Pin 11 (RD_vel) stays HI
  • Pin 9 genrates a negative pulse for each key pressed on keyboard
  • pin 8 stays HI

I have checked the midi ouput of the CC+, it doesn't ouput any midi message on key pressed on the keyboard

This is some pictures of the data bus (b0 to B7 of my chroma) […]

I think you're looking in the wrong place. I can't tell much from the data bus pictures, except that it's obvious that there aren't any shorts on the bus, but I think it's likely that the CPU, the keyboard scanner, the display, and the switch scanners all work fine. You should be looking at what happens when you try to tune the thing. Try Set Split 31. This runs an auto-tune, but if some measurement fails, it substitutes default values instead of giving up on the board and disabling it. During the tuning process, verify that the DAC line from the I/O board to the channel motherboard moves around through most of the 0..5V range, and that the SYNTH ZCD shows digital signals coming back to the I/O board.

Heinz Weierhorst [21010276] · Wed, 9 Feb 2011 18:41:28 +0100

Hi Daniel.

You've changed the power supply. Is the DAC ground wire ( a green one) coming from the I/O board via CMB tied to the rear panel? Is the power supply ground also tied to the rear panel? If not may be the DAC is dead. If yes connect your scope to pin 7 of Z20 (LM311) press Autotune and observe there are any square signals.

Daniel Benoit [21030109] · Wed, 09 Feb 2011 15:44:56 -0500

Finaly! almost...

I think I found the offending circuits, Z20 (7523 8 bits DA) and one of the cmos 14175 D flipflops that are not reacting correctly, at least two of the 7523(DA) data inputs don't go legal logic "HI" level I've ordered the parts from Digikey and hope that it cures the problems.

Even if it's not the case I would like to let you guys know how much I appriciate the support and help.

While trying to find a working Chroma to compare with mine, I called a friend in Montreal that used to have a Chroma years ago. He's got 3 Chroma(s) and one expander... All not working, he didn't know about the Chroma user groupe...He is coming to see mine when it is fixed whit the DIY PSU + CC+ poly aftertouch upgrade All that I need now it the Ipad editor...

David Clarke [21030085++] · Wed, 09 Feb 2011 22:49:25 -0500

... I have checked the midi ouput of the CC+, it doesn't ouput any midi message on key pressed on the keyboard

Aside from the audio/auto-tune issues that may exist, if the Chroma is behaving as if the keyboard isn't present - then it is recommended to check the setting of [Set Split][36], [P22].

The CC+ can be configured to run in an Expander or in a Chroma. This is controlled by the setting noted above. If this setting is set to "Pndr" then keyboard data will be ignored by the CPU. When installed in a Chroma, you'll want to ensure that this is set to "Chro." (See The Chroma CPU Plus (CC+): User's Guide – Configuration Interface & MIDI Support.)

While trying to find a working Chroma to compare with mine, I called a friend in Montreal that used to have a Chroma years ago. He's got 3 Chroma(s) and one expander... All not working, he didn't know about the Chroma user groupe...He is coming to see mine when it is fixed whit the DIY PSU + CC+ poly aftertouch upgrade

If he wasn't aware of the Chroma User's Group, he may also not be aware of the Chroma Registry. If his units aren't already listed, it would be great if you could suggest to him to have them entered.

Daniel Benoit [21030109] · Wed, 09 Feb 2011 23:41:12 -0500

Wow! didn't see this one but is was in expander mode... Now my keyscan is working, thanks a million.

Looks like the blown +5V PSU (flickering on and off) caused some parameters to change in the CC+, Local on/off was in Off mode and P22 was in Xpander mode. this was note the configruation before the PSU incident

Is there a way to reset to factory default the CC+, I guess other parameters could be affected.

Thanks Again

David Clarke [21030085++] · Fri, 11 Feb 2011 20:15:57 -0500

... Looks like the blown +5V PSU (flickering on and off) caused some parameters to change in the CC+, ... Is there a way to reset to factory default the CC+, I guess other parameters could be affected.

Daniel - there's no key-sequence to restore all settings back to what we ship. The control parameters can most easily be set just by going into the programming mode (set split 36) and ensuring each are configured as desired.

The patches can be restored via SYSEX.

If you'd find it easier, I could also provide an EPROM image that just restores the non-volatile RAM back to the 'as shipped' configuration (which would have the effect of resetting all of the control parameters, and restore the original contents to the 4 patch banks.)

Rhodes Chroma repair in Northeast?

Tom Hughes [21030251+] · Wed, 09 Feb 2011 13:04:25 -0500

Hello all,

I'm wondering if there is anyone in the Northeast U.S. who would be able to work on my Rhodes Chroma. I've taken on most of the repairs and upgrades myself thus far, but now I'd rather hand it over to someone who knows what they're doing and just get it finished. I had it nearly 100% functioning, then it developed a new issue. I'm sure I could troubleshoot it with help from the members of the list, but honestly, at this point I'd rather pay someone else to do the work so I can spend the little free time I have actually getting to play it. I'm in CT, but I'm willing to drive any reasonable distance in New England or the NYC area.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Wed, 9 Feb 2011 12:04:12 -0800

Have you checked the list of service centres at the site?

Tom Hughes [21030251+] · Wed, 09 Feb 2011 15:26:11 -0500

I have in the past and didn't find anything that looked promising within driving distance. Three Wave looks like a recent addition, so they might be worth a try. Definitely looking for someone that has specific knowledge/experience with the Chroma.

Two JLCooper ChromaFace Converters on eBay

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Wed, 9 Feb 2011 12:53:05 -0800

Item #220736950249 has a starting bid of USD$49.99 and ends February 15; no bids yet. It's the more interesting of the two, as it has switches I've not seen before on a ChromaFace; looks like a custom mod. From the description: "This is a different chromaface from the one the other, basic, one I have listed. I haven't seen this version of the chromaface anywhere else and was told when purchasing it (with an expander) that the din switches allowed for additional selection of different midi control to be received by the chroma than the standard chromaface."

Item #220736951446 has a starting bid of USD$17.50 and also ends February 15; no bids yet. "Fully Tested and Working perfectly."

Pictures from the auctions:

David Clarke [21030085++] · Wed, 09 Feb 2011 22:43:33 -0500

The JL Cooper interface has 6 switches inside of it, as shown in the ChromaFace Manual.

The control the MIDI channel number, whether 'multi-channel' mode is supported, and whether or not Program Change commands are accepted.

If I were to guess, I'd say that the switches on the panel are just a way to allow the user to conveniently change the selections of 4 of those internal switches (without having to remove screws and open the unit up).

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 11:37:17 +0100

...and a TBS (EES?) interface on german Ebay: [item #350016598934].

Picture from the auction:

August B. Raring [21010148] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 11:16:08 +0100

TBS wrote: "It is identical to the Syntech Interface"

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Fri, 11 Feb 2011 22:53:56 -0800

This has been on eBay numerous times—perhaps continuously—for a long while. At €399,00 it's significantly more than the much more capable CPU Plus (CC+).

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Wed, 16 Feb 2011 23:13:55 -0800

Item #220736950249 has a starting bid of USD$49.99 and ends February 15; no bids yet. It's the more interesting of the two, as it has switches I've not seen before on a ChromaFace; looks like a custom mod. From the description: "This is a different chromaface from the one the other, basic, one I have listed. I haven't seen this version of the chromaface anywhere else and was told when purchasing it (with an expander) that the din switches allowed for additional selection of different midi control to be received by the chroma than the standard chromaface."

Item #220736951446 has a starting bid of USD$17.50 and also ends February 15; no bids yet. "Fully Tested and Working perfectly."

These were re-listed and sold today for USD$49.99 and $17.50 respectively.

Sweep A vs B as Mod 1 Src for Cutoff

Matrix [21030220] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 17:48:44 -0800

If I modulate filter A cutoff with Mod 1 set to 5 shouldn't it use Sweep B? On my Chroma it still uses Sweep A. Setting Mod 1 to either 1 or 5 uses Sweep A. Can anyone else verify on theirs?

Matrix [21030220] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 17:53:26 -0800

Never mind. User error. :)

Paul DeRocco [21030230] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 17:54:37 -0800

Are you using patch zero? In patch zero, there is no B channel, so all the B channel mod sources fall back to the A sources.

Matrix [21030220] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 18:39:57 -0800

Bingo. :) That was it. Thought I was losing my mind for a sec. BTW, almost done with my editors. I made two, one for The Missing Link and one for OSCulator. Done testing OSCulator and about to test The Missing Link one.

Chroma Discoveries

Matrix [21030220] · Thu, 10 Feb 2011 23:04:44 -0800

Testing out my template I discovered the Pitch Mod 1 - 3 settings behave differently. I always assumed the were exactly the same, just three separate modulation buses like on other synths. They aren't. The effect of each gets progressively more intense from 1 - 3. I never knew that! Exploring the different Keyboard modes is fun as well. I'm curious what sorts of things I'm going to find.

John Leimseider [21030434++] · Fri, 11 Feb 2011 08:24:16 -0700

Just like on the ARP 2600…

David Clarke [21030085++] · Fri, 11 Feb 2011 20:14:54 -0500

... Testing out my template I discovered the Pitch Mod 1 - 3 settings behave differently...

There are quite a few 'extra' bits in to the Chroma.

Most of these are discussed in the Programming Manual.

The Pitch Mod differences are discussed in Pitch Parameters.

Mod 1 depth deals in 1/16 semitone increments for each unit of modulation, Mod 2 quarter semitone increments, and Mod 3 full semitone increments.

There's also other little items - like that the Sweep Mode choice can be automatically overridden by the Sweep Amplitude Mod setting, etc.

Chroma not responding to CC controls

Thomas Story [21030352] · Sat, 12 Feb 2011 23:44:57 -0800

Ok - I recently had my os upgraded to 213 to take advantage of the pressure kit. I haven;t used the ipad editor until recently, and it seems like it is not responding to CC events except for basic controls like volume. tune, detune and the pedal controls.

I can see the data being transmitted from the ipad to my interface, and see that it's going out on the proper channel to the Chroma. The Chroma responds to only the basic controls I mentioned. Everything is set up proper in osculator. I've made sure that it's in cust mode in sep split 36 - 18.

Thoughts? Am I overlooking something incredibly obvious? Could it have been a bad flash of the OS? It seems set up properly since I can transmit volume etc from touchosc to the Chroma, but no other CC commands.

David Clarke [21030085++] · Sun, 13 Feb 2011 10:35:22 -0500

Specifically check that [set split-36][P6] is set to "On" (configuration parameter #6 = Parameter Changes on/off)

If that's not it, you can confirm that there is actually a set of mapping parameters set up for the CC+ controller mapping. To do so, go to [set split-36] [P19]. With "Edit A" selected, move the slider - and confirm that you see settings that are non-zero. If this table is blank, you'll want to initialize the the midi controller map back to the default. To do this, go to [set split-36][P20] and move the slider. You should now be able to see (via [p19]) that there are non-zero controller assignments set up.

Thomas Story [21030352] · Sun, 13 Feb 2011 09:23:20 -0800

That was it! Thank you! I guess that setting got reset after the OS upgrade! - couldn't figure out why it was receiving volume changes but nothing else - parameter 6!

phew!

Wireless iPad editor for Rhodes Chroma CC+

Michael R [21030869] · Sun, 13 Feb 2011 15:54:18 -0500

Hello Group,

We are bringing our +25 Mackie Control C4 editors to the iPad; iChromaCC+ is the dedicated editor for the Chroma with a CC+ MIDI / CPU retrofit board.

iChromaCC+ offers a unique touch-and-choose Patch Page, where we reproduced all the 16 Chroma Patches (synth modular connections) as drawn on the Chroma user manual; so you just don't need it any longer!

Just touch a Patch drawing on iChromaCC+ and it is set-up on your Chroma!

iChromaCC+ let you control all CC+ controllable parameters.

Each parameter "block" has its own:

  • Name (ex: Wave): as displayed on the Chroma user manual (so full text, no numbers as on the Chroma display)!
  • Value (ex: Saws): as displayed on the Chroma user manual, dynamically changes when you use one of the 3 controls (slider, + button, - button)

Each parameter "block" has its own 3-Controls:

  • + button: precise +1 parameter value adjustment
  • - button: precise -1 parameter value adjustment
  • Slider: full range parameter value adjustment

iChromaCC+ is Plug & Play (actually there is nothing to plug!). In 3-clicks on your Mac or couple of clicks on your PC, you are up and running...

iChromaCC+ uses your:

  • iPad with WiFi connectivity
  • WiFi router (like an AirPort)
  • [MAC] MacOS / Utilities / AudioMIDISetup / Network (MIDI Network Sessions)
  • [PC] rtpMIDI and Apple Bonjour

And lastly, iChromaCC+ is Zero [Mac] and Low [PC] Dependencies Solution iChromaCC+ relies on iOS 4.2 CoreMIDI and MacOS CoreMIDI frameworks is 100% MIDI, 100% iOS and 100% MacOS compatible and:

  • Does not require to pay for additional software or have additional software installed on your Mac; requires to download rtpMIDI and Apple Bonjour on your PC
  • Does not require to pay for additional hardware
  • Does not require to do message mapping
  • Does not require to design a UI on your Mac or PC and upload/sync it on your iPad
  • Does not require to design a UI on your iPad

I just uploaded a short video so you can see iChromaCC+ in action.

Please check our web site for more information, sound and video demos.

Or the App Store.

Thanks for looking and thanks to those who are already using iChromaCC+ (if they are on this group).

Display Matrix

Greg Montalbano, Analog Synthesizer Service · Tue, 15 Feb 2011 09:12:11 -0800

Currently working on another battery-acid damaged Chroma; this one was unfortunately stored on its side (with the pitch lever end down), so the acid drooled all the way across the I/O board and ended up underneath the MAN6740 display.

After some board cleaning, socket replacement & trace repair, the synth & display are now functioning correctly, except for some stutter on three or four of the patch select buttons. When pressed, it will stutter back and forth between the selected number and five higher (12/17, 23/28, etc).

Before spending a lot of time (& my customer's money) on this problem, let me ask the collected experience of the group: does this sound like membrane panel failure, or a logic problem on the I/O board?

Thanks, as always.

~GMM

PS If there's anyone on the list who STILL has the old CPU board installed in their Chroma, PLEASE remove the batteries immediately & throw them as far as you can

Heinz Weierhorst [21010276] · Tue, 15 Feb 2011 18:58:31 +0100

Hi all.

The display multiplexing and the membrane switch scanning share circuits for both. So the fault should be on I/O board. May be one or more broken traces, integrated circuits or vias.

Paul DeRocco [21030230] · Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:14:54 -0800

Sounds like a significant leakage path between two lines somewhere. With the schematic, a list of exactly which switch combinations do this, and some head scratching, it ought to be easy to figure out which two lines. Then, you can trace them in the layout and see if you find any ugly turd on the board left over from the leaky battery. I'd bet it's on the board, and not in the membrane switch, unless a bit of conductive gunk dripped onto the inside of the switch tail where it goes into the Molex ZIF connector.

Greg Montalbano, Analog Synthesizer Service · Tue, 15 Feb 2011 11:17:52 -0800

Yah, you're probably right. I did spend a good deal of time in the initial cleaning/repair of the battery damage, so I can attest that all "ugly turds" have been removed from the relevant section. Time to get out the magnifier & look for the less likely suspects.

BTW, I noticed when checking the switching ICs with a scope that line B7 is stuck high; does this sound correct? I should mention that this synth has the CC+ and Luca power supply upgrades.

Paul DeRocco [21030230] · Tue, 15 Feb 2011 11:25:25 -0800

Doesn't sound correct to me. But I would think nothing would work right if it really were stuck high all the time.

Almost free Chromatrol to a good home

Marais · Sat, 19 Feb 2011 17:32:30 -0500

Offering to a good home one tricked-out Chromatrol/Behringer BCR-2000. This was a project from last year and I am moving on to other things now. Works with CC+ Chroma very well, is already set up and ready to roll. One switch is a little sticky, the color template is in good condition and glued in place. First small verbal pledge to me for support of Chris' Chroma site (w/ confirmation from Chris) gets it. Note you will need a CC+ Chroma for Chromatrol to work I believe. USA only (sorry euro's). Please email PRIVATELY.

Keep the good vibes going again,
Cheers, M

James Coplin [16330036+] · Sat, 19 Feb 2011 16:20:45 -0600

I'll throw $20 toward the site. How much to you for shipping?

Marais · Sat, 19 Feb 2011 18:13:12 -0500

The unit is now spoken for, pending donation to the Chroma site. Thank you.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sat, 19 Feb 2011 16:17:18 -0800

Thanks, Marais and James. Here is the link: Donate to rhodeschroma.com.

Oscillator Boards on eBay

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sun, 20 Feb 2011 11:45:20 -0800

Item #300527762510, 7 available, USD$220.00 (presumably each). "Used and should be in good working condition."

Voice Card Tuning Problems

Patrik Gudmundsäter [21010240] · Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:04:26 +0100

My restored Chroma will suddenly not tune all 8 voice cards. You can press set split and 50, but that doesen't help. No Error messages. The New PSU. All voice cards work. Several cards were repaired by my tech. So when you play, some key are out of tune or double.

Paul DeRocco [21030230] · Mon, 21 Feb 2011 09:19:45 -0800

Check for bad ripple on power supply. Alternatively, it could be ripple on a pitch control voltage, due to leaky sample-and-hold circuit.

Patrik Gudmundsäter [21010240] · Tue, 22 Feb 2011 18:10:52 +0100

Ok, thanks Paul.

FS: Rhodes (ARP) Chroma fully loaded (CC+ midi, CPS poly aftertouch, SPSU power)

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Mon, 21 Feb 2011 08:17:00 -0800

On Gearslutz (registration required). From the ad: "It's located in Akron, Ohio, USA and local pickup would be greatly preferred since I don't have a flight case and this would allow the buyer to test it before taking possession. I'm asking $5000 cash for local pickup or $5500 plus actual shipping cost via Paypal, the cost difference accounting for the fact that I really would rather have local pickup. I'll be happy to ship it worldwide at buyer's expense and, though I know how to pack very well, it's very large and heavy. It's in very good cosmetic and excellent functional condition. If you want them, I'll include the original power supply and CPU board." But: "I'm not really sure I want to get rid of this."

Pictures: Rhodes Chroma; Rhodes Chroma Guts.

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:06:06 -0800

This is Chroma 21030757.

Chroma 21030431 on eBay

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:16:55 -0800

Item #180630185035, USD$5,600.00, ends March 4. Comes with CC+, SPSU, CPS, LCD display, and two extra voice cards. Besides the pictures there's not a lot of information about the instrument's condition, and there's not much info in the registry on this one (see 21030431).

Tom Moravansky [21030431] · Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:41:42 -0500

condition information updated. It's working fine – all voices tune perfectly on power up and sound great.

Go to next message in thread, March 2011

CEM Request (off topic)

Thomas Story [21030352] · Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:32:16 -0800

I hope this is ok to post to the list but I am in need of 2 CEM3389's for my Sequential Circuits Studio 440.

Any ideas? Having vintage synths with obscure IC's is starting to make me a little nervous about the future of them...

Rob Belcher [16330123] · Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:15:20 +0000

Hi Thomas, A few places to look:

Good luck! Hope to get my 440 working 100% soon too.

Eric Inglebert [21030075] · Wed, 23 Feb 2011 07:30:01 +0100

CEM3389 are still easy to find, CEM5530 are another story!

John Leimseider [21030434++] · Tue, 22 Feb 2011 23:27:53 -0700

I make a replacement board for the CEM5530... It uses SSM2300's, which are also becoming obsolete, but are still available.

Chroma service in L.A.

Eric W. Mattei [21030443+] · Thu, 24 Feb 2011 22:47:17 -0800

Hello everyone

I emailed my registration this morning, so I don't appear in the registry yet. My Chroma [21030443] and Expander [16330105] won't even light up. I know they're getting power because I can hear the supplies buzzing. But the lights and LED are dark. Can anyone recommend a Chroma service technician in Los Angeles? Gee, I miss J.L. [Cantos].

Thanks!

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Thu, 24 Feb 2011 22:54:39 -0800

There are several in California listed on the Service Centres page, including one in San Diego [ProSound].

Eric W. Mattei [21030443+] · Fri, 25 Feb 2011 10:58:28 -0800

Hi Chris

I should have mentioned that I checked the Service Centers page before I posted this message. San Diego is a good two or three hour drive from here. I can't drive because of my vision. So where ever I go, I'll have to get a friend to drive me there. I'm hoping to find someplace closer.

Thanks.

Marais · Fri, 25 Feb 2011 14:22:28 -0500

Try contacting Julie Yarbrough in the LA area. She knows the Chroma quite well from what I have been told.

Re: Five Voice Boards on eBay

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sat, 26 Feb 2011 11:13:27 -0800

Go to first message in thread, January 2011

Item #180609083199, ends January 9, USD$250.00 each. From the description: "The price is for each board! These boards are left over from my years working for Josef Zawinul (1985-1990) as his electronic technical advisor and keyboard technician. We cannibalized one of his Chroma's to keep his Expander's working and these boards as well as several other PCB's are what is left and have been pulled out of storage. I have the Chroma carcass and other parts that will be listed soon here on EBAY. I will also be selling my Chroma Expander that I bought from Fender in 1986 to use for programming at home."

There are now four available and these have been re-listed as item #180631996789, ends March 1, now USD$300.00 each.

Product Brochure Update

Chris Ryan [21030691] · Sat, 26 Feb 2011 14:14:00 -0800

Eric Mattei [21030443+] has very kindly supplied excellent new high-resolution scans of the product brochure. The old scans were among the first I did for the site, over a decade ago. Thanks Eric!

Chroma Enabler #02

Marais · Mon, 28 Feb 2011 13:26:39 -0500

Under the graces of the synth gods I am the very proud owner of Redshift Engineering Chroma Enabler #02.

Randel [21030467] did a wonderful job from the design, setup, woodwork, build quality, electronics, etc. He was also great in communication and shipping, and was enjoyable to deal with overall.

The quality of the Enabler is very apparent and is like having a fine hand made, limited instrument in it self. The unit really opens up a whole new world of programing and inspiration with the Chroma and I will be programming some Chroma Enabled sound banks and giving them to Chris to share on the website this year. I am really in awe using this rig. Also am hoping to do some additional video to accent the one that Randel has done in the near future.

Here are some photos below including one from Randel of the inside of the Enabler which may show some of you the monumental hard work that goes into building it and wiring 96 pots.

My Rhodes Chroma rig is dedicated to: Joe Strummer, Joe Zawinul, Herbie Hancock, Garth Hudson, and my late father who loved watching all the blinky lights

Fully restored Chroma with Enabler #002

Time for your close up Chroma & Enabler

From the side

One From Randel showing the guts and the amount of patience it must take to hand wire 96 pots!!

My custom LED bootup, Dedicated to Joe Strummer

David Gowin [21030611] · Mon, 28 Feb 2011 13:42:37 -0500

Holy crap, that is beautiful!

Rob Witt · Mon, 28 Feb 2011 14:05:30 -0500

Have to say this "channels" both Paul and the teams original Chroma design and the legacy of the 2600 amazingly well. Nice.

Marais · Mon, 28 Feb 2011 15:33:58 -0500

Thank you for the comments. Yes, the former Arp/Rhodes team should be very proud with this project nearly 30 years after.

I have created 11 patches in a afternoon already : )

The Pot quality in fantastic, no wobbles whatsoever unlike ANYTHING you buy new these days.

A few people have asked for Randel's Enabler website. You can more info and or contact Randel here.

Tom Hughes [21030251+] · Mon, 28 Feb 2011 15:25:18 -0500

Mine's in the works. It may even be Enabler #03!

Jack Colburne [21030142+] · Mon, 28 Feb 2011 15:59:51 -0500

Got to play with one of Randel's Enablers at AHNE last Spring. It clearly "feels" as solid and quality as it looks.

And even though the size surprised me a bit (as it had Randel, when he built it), it was in a corner not far from a couple of 2600s, and the familial vibe when looking at them all was pretty strong. Almost as if the Chroma was meant to be programmed this way.

Now all Randel has to do is make a "Blue Meanie" overlay for it... lol.

Jesper Ödemark [21010135] · Mon, 28 Feb 2011 22:41:37 +0100

Now all Randel has to do is make a "Blue Meanie" overlay for it... lol.

But guys, isn't the thing with rotary knobs somewhat dated and has a dusty 1970's feel to it? What about making a flat touch panel with tactile switches for such a great instrument. Top that with just one slider for the settings. Complete with new cool names on a couple of the functions won't be a problem either thanks to the user manual that'll come with it. Slick and promising for the years to come! I bet everyone would love such a cool and futuristic interface, don't you think so too?!

Or, wait... this sounds familiar! :D

Jack Colburne [21030142+] · Mon, 28 Feb 2011 19:03:30 -0500

I like it!.. I like it!

but, be careful... if you changed it too much, like changing the synthesis method to a some new all digital one like that FM stuff Chowning worked on at Stanford, it would never sell. Who wants metallic, glassy, weird sounding stuff like that?

Go to next message in thread, March 2011