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Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-21 by Gil

Hi all !

I've been in the synth "business" for many many years, and owned quite a few analogs and samplers, but I always looked for that amazingly sounding Emulator II. Every time I hear the early Depeche Mode recordings it comes to my mind, and this week I finally found one !

As already posted to the gearslutz forum, the unit comes with hundreds of sample library diskettes, and have been used mostly in studios. The previous owner seems to collect all kind of samples - mainly standard guitars/strings/bass ones, but I could nail some analog synth sample diskettes and orchestration ones.

The unit itself is in a good shape but well used. The lowest C key seems to be broken as well as the locker of the bottom disk drive.

The seller says it works perfectly but doesn't seem to remember how to load samples, as he says it's been a few years since he used it...

So I haven't had the chance to listen to it so far. I'm in some kind of dilemma I guess whether to get the machine or not, as I had an EMAX-II recently which I really felt was giving me too much hassle to be used practically (short sampling time, the small display and cumbersome menus) so I don't really know how practical would the use of an older machine can get... But still I really keen on that classic monster. 

How many of you really use it intensively in the studio (or on stage) and what are the usual mods or "tricks" to get the maximum usage out of the beast in the simplest operation procedures ?

Also, can anyone advise please - is there a need for a special "operating system" diskette to get the machine boot ? Or can I just insert any sample diskette and run it from there ?

Thanks !

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-21 by pj_goth

Just need one performace diskette and the software is already inside it! why the owner don't remember how to boot the samples? it's the first thing to do...you plug on the emulator with the diskette in the floppy driver then it start to boot immediately..
If it doesn't boot there is something wrong...and sometime could be very serious...
If it load the samples normally...don't esitate to buy it! nevermind the use you will do! You will love it even tho you play only one note...lol

Hope it helps
bye
PJ

--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "Gil" <gilwe@...> wrote:
>
> Hi all !
> 
> I've been in the synth "business" for many many years, and owned quite a few analogs and samplers, but I always looked for that amazingly sounding Emulator II. Every time I hear the early Depeche Mode recordings it comes to my mind, and this week I finally found one !
> 
> As already posted to the gearslutz forum, the unit comes with hundreds of sample library diskettes, and have been used mostly in studios. The previous owner seems to collect all kind of samples - mainly standard guitars/strings/bass ones, but I could nail some analog synth sample diskettes and orchestration ones.
> 
> The unit itself is in a good shape but well used. The lowest C key seems to be broken as well as the locker of the bottom disk drive.
> 
> The seller says it works perfectly but doesn't seem to remember how to load samples, as he says it's been a few years since he used it...
> 
> So I haven't had the chance to listen to it so far. I'm in some kind of dilemma I guess whether to get the machine or not, as I had an EMAX-II recently which I really felt was giving me too much hassle to be used practically (short sampling time, the small display and cumbersome menus) so I don't really know how practical would the use of an older machine can get... But still I really keen on that classic monster. 
> 
> How many of you really use it intensively in the studio (or on stage) and what are the usual mods or "tricks" to get the maximum usage out of the beast in the simplest operation procedures ?
> 
> Also, can anyone advise please - is there a need for a special "operating system" diskette to get the machine boot ? Or can I just insert any sample diskette and run it from there ?
> 
> Thanks !
>

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-22 by elmbeatz

?!

The Emax II should have a lot more Sampling time than the EII for sure...

Also, the EII menus (and workflow) are pretty much the same as on Emaxes. A bit simpler, but just a bit, as the emax offers a few more possibilities.

EIIs should be used just in the Studio only these days, as they keep getting more fragile each day. REALLY fragile.

A guy who "can't remember" how to load a disk on the EII is joking, as loading means powering the thing up with a disk inside. Maybe his EII is faulty and he doesn't want you to know?

The EII sound is huge, and can't be compared to anything else.
Make sure you get a Rev.1 Digital board EII, so you can connect to Sound designer for EII on vintage Macs. This is essential, as the EII libraries are incredible.

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-23 by Gil

Which type of disk ? just about any of the sample diskettes will do ? only performance diskettes ?

And - do you always need a performance diskette placed in on of the drives in order to get it going or does it have a ROM based operating systems ?






--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "elmbeatz" <elmbeatz@...> wrote:
>
> ?!
> 
> The Emax II should have a lot more Sampling time than the EII for sure...
> 
> Also, the EII menus (and workflow) are pretty much the same as on Emaxes. A bit simpler, but just a bit, as the emax offers a few more possibilities.
> 
> EIIs should be used just in the Studio only these days, as they keep getting more fragile each day. REALLY fragile.
> 
> A guy who "can't remember" how to load a disk on the EII is joking, as loading means powering the thing up with a disk inside. Maybe his EII is faulty and he doesn't want you to know?
> 
> The EII sound is huge, and can't be compared to anything else.
> Make sure you get a Rev.1 Digital board EII, so you can connect to Sound designer for EII on vintage Macs. This is essential, as the EII libraries are incredible.
>

Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-23 by Brandt R. Gassman

You always need to boot an Emulator II from a disk, unless you own an  
Emulator II+ HD with a working hard drive. In that case, the OS is  
stored on the hard drive and the machine boots from that. But no, the  
Emulator cannot boot from an internal ROM.


On Jan 23, 2010, at 5:55 AM, Gil wrote:

> Which type of disk ? just about any of the sample diskettes will  
> do ? only performance diskettes ?
>
> And - do you always need a performance diskette placed in on of the  
> drives in order to get it going or does it have a ROM based  
> operating systems ?
>
> --- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "elmbeatz" <elmbeatz@...>  
> wrote:
> >
> > ?!
> >
> > The Emax II should have a lot more Sampling time than the EII for  
> sure...
> >
> > Also, the EII menus (and workflow) are pretty much the same as on  
> Emaxes. A bit simpler, but just a bit, as the emax offers a few more  
> possibilities.
> >
> > EIIs should be used just in the Studio only these days, as they  
> keep getting more fragile each day. REALLY fragile.
> >
> > A guy who "can't remember" how to load a disk on the EII is  
> joking, as loading means powering the thing up with a disk inside.  
> Maybe his EII is faulty and he doesn't want you to know?
> >
> > The EII sound is huge, and can't be compared to anything else.
> > Make sure you get a Rev.1 Digital board EII, so you can connect to  
> Sound designer for EII on vintage Macs. This is essential, as the  
> EII libraries are incredible.
> >
>
>
> 



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-23 by Brandt R. Gassman

I agree with Elmbeatz regarding the similarities between the Emulator  
II and the Emax series. If you thought the workflow on the Emax was  
sluggish, you are not going to like the EII.

The Emulator II is a superior-sounding instrument, but it transports  
you back to an era when sampling and sample editing were real arts  
that required real time. The reason the Emulator II library sounds  
incredible even today is that people spent days and weeks multi- 
sampling, editing and looping sounds in professional studio  
environments. So while I would encourage you to find one, be prepared  
to invest a lot of time in even the most basic of tasks, like sampling  
drum hits.

Keep in mind that if you own a Windows PC, you can do some sound  
editing in your DAW using WAV or AIF format, then transfer those  
samples to an Emax using the fabulous (and free) EMXP software. The  
same is true with an Emulator II, although you can't go direct from  
EMXP to the Emulator. You need a compact Mac computer with Sound  
Designer installed to use as an intermediary.


On Jan 22, 2010, at 8:46 AM, elmbeatz wrote:

> ?!
>
> The Emax II should have a lot more Sampling time than the EII for  
> sure...
>
> Also, the EII menus (and workflow) are pretty much the same as on  
> Emaxes. A bit simpler, but just a bit, as the emax offers a few more  
> possibilities.
>
> EIIs should be used just in the Studio only these days, as they keep  
> getting more fragile each day. REALLY fragile.
>
> A guy who "can't remember" how to load a disk on the EII is joking,  
> as loading means powering the thing up with a disk inside. Maybe his  
> EII is faulty and he doesn't want you to know?
>
> The EII sound is huge, and can't be compared to anything else.
> Make sure you get a Rev.1 Digital board EII, so you can connect to  
> Sound designer for EII on vintage Macs. This is essential, as the  
> EII libraries are incredible.
>
>
> 



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-24 by Gil

Yep I know about the hassle involved with having the machine used,
this is why I see it more as a collector's item rather than a workstation. I had amazing results having my analog monosynths sampled into an EMAX-II so they become "polyphonic" ;)

Can the Emulator II receive 8 different midi channels at the same time, playing a few parts simultaneously ?...

I really suspect that the one I consider has some issues. I couldn't see the upper drive's led lighting up when trying to load a diskette, even though I hear it spinning (but not"clicking"). The troubleshooting guide suggests it could be a result of a problem in the clock circuit. The lock handle of the bottom drive is broken - I hear rhe EII is picky about the type of 5.25 drives, can I find a replacement easily ? The guy is willing to sell it to me for 250$, including the few hundred diskettes... But I know it's going to become (another) project.










--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "Brandt R. Gassman" <brandt@...> wrote:
>
> I agree with Elmbeatz regarding the similarities between the Emulator  
> II and the Emax series. If you thought the workflow on the Emax was  
> sluggish, you are not going to like the EII.
> 
> The Emulator II is a superior-sounding instrument, but it transports  
> you back to an era when sampling and sample editing were real arts  
> that required real time. The reason the Emulator II library sounds  
> incredible even today is that people spent days and weeks multi- 
> sampling, editing and looping sounds in professional studio  
> environments. So while I would encourage you to find one, be prepared  
> to invest a lot of time in even the most basic of tasks, like sampling  
> drum hits.
> 
> Keep in mind that if you own a Windows PC, you can do some sound  
> editing in your DAW using WAV or AIF format, then transfer those  
> samples to an Emax using the fabulous (and free) EMXP software. The  
> same is true with an Emulator II, although you can't go direct from  
> EMXP to the Emulator. You need a compact Mac computer with Sound  
> Designer installed to use as an intermediary.
> 
> 
> On Jan 22, 2010, at 8:46 AM, elmbeatz wrote:
> 
> > ?!
> >
> > The Emax II should have a lot more Sampling time than the EII for  
> > sure...
> >
> > Also, the EII menus (and workflow) are pretty much the same as on  
> > Emaxes. A bit simpler, but just a bit, as the emax offers a few more  
> > possibilities.
> >
> > EIIs should be used just in the Studio only these days, as they keep  
> > getting more fragile each day. REALLY fragile.
> >
> > A guy who "can't remember" how to load a disk on the EII is joking,  
> > as loading means powering the thing up with a disk inside. Maybe his  
> > EII is faulty and he doesn't want you to know?
> >
> > The EII sound is huge, and can't be compared to anything else.
> > Make sure you get a Rev.1 Digital board EII, so you can connect to  
> > Sound designer for EII on vintage Macs. This is essential, as the  
> > EII libraries are incredible.
> >
> >
> > 
> 
> 
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-25 by elmbeatz

>> Yep I know about the hassle involved with having the machine used,
this is why I see it more as a collector's item rather than a workstation. <<

Right approach.

>> I had
amazing results having my analog monosynths sampled into an EMAX-II so they
become "polyphonic" ;)
<<

The EII sounds better, because it has analog filters. The Emax II doesn't.

>> Can the Emulator II receive 8 different midi channels at the same time, playing
a few parts simultaneously ?... <<

Yes, it can.

>> The guy is willing to sell it to me for 250$, including the
few hundred diskettes... But I know it's going to become (another) project. <<

Buy it. NOW!

That machine's pure fun. And even servicing it and bringing it back to life is adventurous and fun. Don't hesitate!!! The price is ridiculously low. Don't worry too much about the disk drive n stuff. That can be done..

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-25 by Gil

OK OK.

I just need to know how to make it sound... even if it's a single sample. I can't get it play. Whenever we put a diskette in, the drive LEDs doesn't lite up and the display keeps on showing the "Boot in Propgeress" message.

No clicks are heard from the drive, we only hear the spinning sound (which is probably because the drives gets its voltage...)

What is the procedure to make it load an OS and a sample ?
How do I differentiate between a "performance" and a "sample" diskette ?

See here:

http://www.fileden.com/files/2006/10/13/285304/EII%20problem3.jpg






--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "elmbeatz" <elmbeatz@...> wrote:
>
> >> Yep I know about the hassle involved with having the machine used,
> this is why I see it more as a collector's item rather than a workstation. <<
> 
> Right approach.
> 
> >> I had
> amazing results having my analog monosynths sampled into an EMAX-II so they
> become "polyphonic" ;)
> <<
> 
> The EII sounds better, because it has analog filters. The Emax II doesn't.
> 
> >> Can the Emulator II receive 8 different midi channels at the same time, playing
> a few parts simultaneously ?... <<
> 
> Yes, it can.
> 
> >> The guy is willing to sell it to me for 250$, including the
> few hundred diskettes... But I know it's going to become (another) project. <<
> 
> Buy it. NOW!
> 
> That machine's pure fun. And even servicing it and bringing it back to life is adventurous and fun. Don't hesitate!!! The price is ridiculously low. Don't worry too much about the disk drive n stuff. That can be done..
>

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-27 by elmbeatz

Hmm...

Well, it's pretty likely that the disks you have are "performance" disks, which is good (and usual). I have never used nor seen any "library" disks. Performance disks contain the OS as well as all sample and preset data. After a proper booting procedure, the EII has loaded the first preset and you're ready to go - simple as that. 
I don't assume that the disks you have are the problem (because whether good or bad disk - the EII will normaly TRY to boot, which you hear AND see).

What I would try now is to open the EII (easy) and disconnect, clean and reconnect the molex (voltage) connectors of the disk drives. Then try again powering up with a disk in the upper drive.

A common procedure for servicing the EII is to unplug, clean and replug anything inside the machine (which includes all socketed ICs, too). This is a pain, but chances are high that the thing will function properly again afterwards. Be careful and stay grounded while doing this.

Greetz,
Elm.

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-28 by Gil

What is the regular boot procedure ?

When we turn the power on we get the "Boot in Progress" message.
We then insert a floppy to the upper drive, close the drive locker,
and nothing happens (no click sounds from the drive, no change of the  displayed message)

The seller says that he thinks he used to push two buttons to make it completes the boot process, after which the unit could load sounds....

Any help on this please ?






--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "elmbeatz" <elmbeatz@...> wrote:
>
> Hmm...
> 
> Well, it's pretty likely that the disks you have are "performance" disks, which is good (and usual). I have never used nor seen any "library" disks. Performance disks contain the OS as well as all sample and preset data. After a proper booting procedure, the EII has loaded the first preset and you're ready to go - simple as that. 
> I don't assume that the disks you have are the problem (because whether good or bad disk - the EII will normaly TRY to boot, which you hear AND see).
> 
> What I would try now is to open the EII (easy) and disconnect, clean and reconnect the molex (voltage) connectors of the disk drives. Then try again powering up with a disk in the upper drive.
> 
> A common procedure for servicing the EII is to unplug, clean and replug anything inside the machine (which includes all socketed ICs, too). This is a pain, but chances are high that the thing will function properly again afterwards. Be careful and stay grounded while doing this.
> 
> Greetz,
> Elm.
>

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-28 by ditabeardmemo

I have an Emulator II+ HD (an original 5.25" floppy drive in the top bay, and a hard drive in the bottom bay) that boots directly from the hard disk. But if I want to boot from a floppy disk, I insert the floppy in the top drive and power on the unit. The Emulator sees the OS disk in the top drive and boots from that.

Stupid question: Are you using the top hard drive? If so, try inserting the boot disk before you power on the unit.


--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "Gil" <gilwe@...> wrote:
>
> What is the regular boot procedure ?
> 
> When we turn the power on we get the "Boot in Progress" message.
> We then insert a floppy to the upper drive, close the drive locker,
> and nothing happens (no click sounds from the drive, no change of the  displayed message)
> 
> The seller says that he thinks he used to push two buttons to make it completes the boot process, after which the unit could load sounds....
> 
> Any help on this please ?
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> --- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "elmbeatz" <elmbeatz@> wrote:
> >
> > Hmm...
> > 
> > Well, it's pretty likely that the disks you have are "performance" disks, which is good (and usual). I have never used nor seen any "library" disks. Performance disks contain the OS as well as all sample and preset data. After a proper booting procedure, the EII has loaded the first preset and you're ready to go - simple as that. 
> > I don't assume that the disks you have are the problem (because whether good or bad disk - the EII will normaly TRY to boot, which you hear AND see).
> > 
> > What I would try now is to open the EII (easy) and disconnect, clean and reconnect the molex (voltage) connectors of the disk drives. Then try again powering up with a disk in the upper drive.
> > 
> > A common procedure for servicing the EII is to unplug, clean and replug anything inside the machine (which includes all socketed ICs, too). This is a pain, but chances are high that the thing will function properly again afterwards. Be careful and stay grounded while doing this.
> > 
> > Greetz,
> > Elm.
> >
>

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-28 by elmbeatz

As I said - Normal booting is simple as it can get:
Insert disk in the upper drive. Switch on the EII. The disk drive should then click and make the usual "loading sounds", the read/write led should turn on, too. After appx. 20 seconds, the disk drive stops loading, and everything's ready to go. NO Buttons involved at all.

If you want the EII to boot again (load another disk) THEN you have to press two buttons: "Load disk" and "Enter".

Have you dis- and reconnected the disk drive's molex connectors?

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-28 by Gil

I will buy the machine "as is" including the huge sample library tonight, for restoration. Will then check all that is needed. 

Pics soon ;)






--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "elmbeatz" <elmbeatz@...> wrote:
>
> As I said - Normal booting is simple as it can get:
> Insert disk in the upper drive. Switch on the EII. The disk drive should then click and make the usual "loading sounds", the read/write led should turn on, too. After appx. 20 seconds, the disk drive stops loading, and everything's ready to go. NO Buttons involved at all.
> 
> If you want the EII to boot again (load another disk) THEN you have to press two buttons: "Load disk" and "Enter".
> 
> Have you dis- and reconnected the disk drive's molex connectors?
>

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-29 by Gil

It's here ! 130$. Including the disks (about 500 I guess...)

Now we need to get it work :)









--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "elmbeatz" <elmbeatz@...> wrote:
>
> Cool. 250 bucks is a steal.
> How many disks come with it?
>

Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-29 by Kenneth Abildgaard

Man .. Good luck. I hope and expect you'll get her back to life soon :-)

Best;

Kenneth
12bit.com



Den 29/01/2010 kl. 01.03 skrev "Gil" <gilwe@hotmail.com>:

> It's here ! 130$. Including the disks (about 500 I guess...)
>
> Now we need to get it work :)
>
> --- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "elmbeatz" <elmbeatz@...>  
> wrote:
> >
> > Cool. 250 bucks is a steal.
> > How many disks come with it?
> >
>
> 


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-29 by hexafuzz

--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "Gil" <gilwe@...> wrote:
>
> Now we need to get it work :)

Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from either one on a dual floppy E-II.

When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit, it may not be seeing the drives.

If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data & power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris. Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.

PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in both drives to avoid damage.

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-29 by Gil

Thanks !

OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it works !!

I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other places.

Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?

The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of drive should I look for ?








--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@...> wrote:
>
> 
> 
> --- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:
> >
> > Now we need to get it work :)
> 
> Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from either one on a dual floppy E-II.
> 
> When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit, it may not be seeing the drives.
> 
> If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data & power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris. Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.
> 
> PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in both drives to avoid damage.
>

Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-29 by WT

Hehe.

WT

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Gil" <gilwe@...>
To: <emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Friday, January 29, 2010 6:11 PM
Subject: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying 
a E-II...


> Thanks !
>
> OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it 
> works !!
>
> I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't 
> respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I 
> might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other 
> places.
>
> Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same 
> as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?
>
> The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of 
> drive should I look for ?
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@...> wrote:
>>
>>
>>
>> --- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:
>> >
>> > Now we need to get it work :)
>>
>> Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with 
>> a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or 
>> bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from 
>> either one on a dual floppy E-II.
>>
>> When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message 
>> should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and 
>> both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If 
>> your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit, it 
>> may not be seeing the drives.
>>
>> If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do as 
>> Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data & power 
>> cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the drives with 
>> compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris. Reconnect 
>> everything and look for improved/changed behavior.
>>
>> PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in 
>> both drives to avoid damage.
>>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-29 by jmp701

Nice one ! Looks like a steal at that price. Keys are easy to clean but not sure about sourcing replacements. 

Regarding 5.25" drives. These are reported to be compatible with a slight modification (according to Emulator Archive) but this seller will only ship within the US (don't bother asking for shipping elsewhere as they won't respond....!)

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230425908769&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Good luck with it. 


--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "Gil" <gilwe@...> wrote:
>
> Thanks !
> 
> OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it works !!
> 
> I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other places.
> 
> Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?
> 
> The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of drive should I look for ?
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> --- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@> wrote:
> >
> > 
> > 
> > --- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Now we need to get it work :)
> > 
> > Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from either one on a dual floppy E-II.
> > 
> > When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit, it may not be seeing the drives.
> > 
> > If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data & power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris. Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.
> > 
> > PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in both drives to avoid damage.
> >
>

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-29 by Gil

OK friends, thanks for your "warm" welcome and assistance.

I had quite many synths running under my hand, as a player and electrician (fixed and restored quite many ones so far), but I always wanted this E-II monster, so here it is ;)

Here goes my first tip to the Emulator craziness community :P

Once I opened the monster up I realized that like many other synths, it uses quite many tantalum caps. My first job would be replacing them all, as they tend to die by burning themselves out and shorting out circuits. So - first thing to do !

emulator_island, I'd love to get the lever for my "borken" drive if possible. I got some synth parts if you need anything as well ;)





--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, emulator_island <mothrecords@...> wrote:
>
> welcome to the Emulator's mysterious charm.. I remember my first E2 purchase.. $90 for 2 of them including 200+ disks, happiest day of my life really.. I learned alot from those two fixer-uppers.. this was many years ago.. in today's E2 market your purchase is very fortunate ..the E2 gods were certainly on your side! ..before you know it you will be a pro w/a "little" help from some good friends here of course.. take much caution if you are doing the cap replacement yourself, as it is extremely !! high voltage in there !! ..though I couldn't think of a better way to "go" (Death By Emulator)..  a strong E2 heart is always beneficial, and should keep your E2 healthy for 2010 and beyond.. also, make sure to check all 8 outs to see if your key problem is not a possible voice chip failure.. if it is a key contact problem it may work
>  itself out since it seems your E2 has not been used in quite some time.. I would refrain from using any solvents to clean contacts, and simply dry brush the dust bits if any.. have you thought about a 3.5" replacement kit from Route66 for your bottom drive? I may have a bad drive around here available for parts if a lever is needed.. 
> 
> cheers, emulator_island
> 
> --- On Fri, 1/29/10, Gil <gilwe@...> wrote:
> 
> From: Gil <gilwe@...>
> Subject: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...
> To: emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com
> Date: Friday, January 29, 2010, 9:11 AM
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>  
> 
> 
> 
>   
> 
> 
>     
>       
>       
>       Thanks !
> 
> 
> 
> OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it works !!
> 
> 
> 
> I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other places.
> 
> 
> 
> Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?
> 
> 
> 
> The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of drive should I look for ?
> 
> 
> 
> --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@> wrote:
> 
> >
> 
> > 
> 
> > 
> 
> > --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:
> 
> > >
> 
> > > Now we need to get it work :)
> 
> > 
> 
> > Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from either one on a dual floppy E-II.
> 
> > 
> 
> > When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit, it may not be seeing the drives.
> 
> > 
> 
> > If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data & power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris. Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.
> 
> > 
> 
> > PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in both drives to avoid damage.
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>     
>      
> 
>     
>     
> 
> 
>  
> 
> 
> 
>   
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>       
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

Re: [emulatorII-list] Fixing up non working keys.

2010-01-30 by Mike de Vries

If you have a few keys that don't work, or play at max velocity etc, it's generally just dirt or a hair or something under the rubber contacts in the keyboard mechanism.
 
It's not too hard to take the EII's keyboard out and take it apart, wash the rubber contacts in warm soapy water, then rinse in water, then completely dry.. also, wipe down the PCB with a damp clean cloth to clean the contacts.
 
I did this to my EII, and fixed up the few keys that were unreliable.. it works perfectly now.
 
Another possible problem of non working keys, which has happened to a few things I bought cheap & broken in the past is corroded tracks on the keyboard PCB.. It's hard to know without looking at the pcb, but once found is easy to repair. (Solder thin wires to bridge the corroded tracks)
The symptom from this is often keys that are not working and they are all say 7 semitones apart etc.
 
Best of luck
Regards
Mike
 

--- On Sat, 30/1/10, Gil <gilwe@...> wrote:


From: Gil <gilwe@...>
Subject: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...
To: emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com
Received: Saturday, 30 January, 2010, 4:11 AM


  



Thanks !

OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it works !!

I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other places.

Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?

The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of drive should I look for ?

--- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@...> wrote:
>
> 
> 
> --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:
> >
> > Now we need to get it work :)
> 
> Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from either one on a dual floppy E-II.
> 
> When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit, it may not be seeing the drives.
> 
> If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data & power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris. Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.
> 
> PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in both drives to avoid damage.
>









      __________________________________________________________________________________
Yahoo!7: Catch-up on your favourite Channel 7 TV shows easily, legally, and for free at PLUS7. www.tv.yahoo.com.au/plus7

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Re: [emulatorII-list] Fixing up non working keys.

2010-01-30 by Tommy Priakos

Excellent tips, Mike, on the keys.  Replacements are quite rare and almost impossible to find...The identical set can be found on Akai's VX600 Programmable Matrix Synth.  I would go with the contact cleaning first, and if that fails, some do it yourself key replacement may be the next step, heaven forbid...
I've been there, done that, on the end "C" keys, using plastic chipped off some unidentified spare keys, carved to match and super-glued on the original broken keys...It worked "a bit" and I have to be careful with my energy release (coming off my electric fingers !) when playing, but cosmetically it looks great.
 
Tommy

--- On Fri, 1/29/10, Mike de Vries <mrjdevries@...> wrote:


From: Mike de Vries <mrjdevries@...>
Subject: Re: [emulatorII-list] Fixing up non working keys.
To: emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010, 7:13 PM


  



If you have a few keys that don't work, or play at max velocity etc, it's generally just dirt or a hair or something under the rubber contacts in the keyboard mechanism.
 
It's not too hard to take the EII's keyboard out and take it apart, wash the rubber contacts in warm soapy water, then rinse in water, then completely dry.. also, wipe down the PCB with a damp clean cloth to clean the contacts.
 
I did this to my EII, and fixed up the few keys that were unreliable.. it works perfectly now.
 
Another possible problem of non working keys, which has happened to a few things I bought cheap & broken in the past is corroded tracks on the keyboard PCB.. It's hard to know without looking at the pcb, but once found is easy to repair. (Solder thin wires to bridge the corroded tracks)
The symptom from this is often keys that are not working and they are all say 7 semitones apart etc.
 
Best of luck
Regards
Mike
 

--- On Sat, 30/1/10, Gil <gilwe@hotmail. com> wrote:

From: Gil <gilwe@hotmail. com>
Subject: [emulatorII- list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...
To: emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com
Received: Saturday, 30 January, 2010, 4:11 AM

  

Thanks !

OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it works !!

I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other places.

Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?

The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of drive should I look for ?

--- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@...> wrote:
>
> 
> 
> --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:
> >
> > Now we need to get it work :)
> 
> Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from either one on a dual floppy E-II.
> 
> When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit, it may not be seeing the drives.
> 
> If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data & power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris. Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.
> 
> PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in both drives to avoid damage.
>

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _
Yahoo!7: Catch-up on your favourite Channel 7 TV shows easily, legally, and for free at PLUS7. www.tv.yahoo. com.au/plus7

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]









      

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Re: [emulatorII-list] Fixing up non working keys.

2010-01-30 by David Dehart

Mike.....
You speak the truth.  Sometimes it's just that easy.  Dirty disk drive, oxidized chip or plug contacts.  I've had luck also by just using common sense, even without much knowledge in the field of electronics.
Recently, I turned on my old Emax II that had always worked perfectly, and it's just frozen.  Lights on and locked, window lit bur blank...........I tried reseating the chips, cable ends, even got a kit to redo the caps in the power supply, but it's not happening.
When I initially took the bottom off for a close look, I could actually HEAR a cycling kind of ticking coming from one of the circuit boards..............whatthe?
I've never experienced that before. Now the cycling sound is gone, but it's still frozen.
I'm thinking it might make sense to replace the caps on the circuit boards as well, as it doesn't take more than finding equals and soldering them in..............do you think that might be a possible fix...............?
Respect to all the people on the list.....you've helped me many times figuring things out with my Emulator II.  The Emax is the one that's got me baffled............I've got two of them and they do seem to be a little more touchy than many keyboards.
Dave
Dave

--- On Fri, 1/29/10, Mike de Vries <mrjdevries@...> wrote:

From: Mike de Vries <mrjdevries@yahoo.com.au>
Subject: Re: [emulatorII-list] Fixing up non working keys.
To: emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010, 7:13 PM







 



  


    
      
      
      If you have a few keys that don't work, or play at max velocity etc, it's generally just dirt or a hair or something under the rubber contacts in the keyboard mechanism.

 

It's not too hard to take the EII's keyboard out and take it apart, wash the rubber contacts in warm soapy water, then rinse in water, then completely dry.. also, wipe down the PCB with a damp clean cloth to clean the contacts.

 

I did this to my EII, and fixed up the few keys that were unreliable.. it works perfectly now.

 

Another possible problem of non working keys, which has happened to a few things I bought cheap & broken in the past is corroded tracks on the keyboard PCB.. It's hard to know without looking at the pcb, but once found is easy to repair. (Solder thin wires to bridge the corroded tracks)

The symptom from this is often keys that are not working and they are all say 7 semitones apart etc.

 

Best of luck

Regards

Mike

 



--- On Sat, 30/1/10, Gil <gilwe@hotmail. com> wrote:



From: Gil <gilwe@hotmail. com>

Subject: [emulatorII- list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

To: emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com

Received: Saturday, 30 January, 2010, 4:11 AM



  



Thanks !



OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it works !!



I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other places.



Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?



The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of drive should I look for ?



--- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@...> wrote:

>

> 

> 

> --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:

> >

> > Now we need to get it work :)

> 

> Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from either one on a dual floppy E-II.

> 

> When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit, it may not be seeing the drives.

> 

> If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data & power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris. Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.

> 

> PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in both drives to avoid damage.

>



____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _

Yahoo!7: Catch-up on your favourite Channel 7 TV shows easily, legally, and for free at PLUS7. www.tv.yahoo. com.au/plus7



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]





    
     

    
    


 



  





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-30 by hexafuzz

> The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type
> of drive should I look for ? 

If unable to source a replacement handle, there is a short list of compatible drives in the group database section. Also as mentioned, the bottom drive can be replaced with a 3.5 kit from Route 66 Studios (group links section).

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-30 by Gil

Thanks all !

A key is available from a few sources.

BTW, I found someone who can sell me his MAC SE. While my Emulator serial is 1300 and up, what do I need else than the MAC and the EII to get them work together?





--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@...> wrote:
>
> 
> 
> > The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type
> > of drive should I look for ? 
> 
> If unable to source a replacement handle, there is a short list of compatible drives in the group database section. Also as mentioned, the bottom drive can be replaced with a 3.5 kit from Route 66 Studios (group links section).
>

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-01-30 by hexafuzz

> BTW, I found someone who can sell me his MAC SE. While my Emulator
> serial is 1300 and up, what do I need else than the MAC and the EII
> to get them work together?

Youll need to make or buy a cable and download Sound Designer. All needed info can be found by browsing the group message archives and the files, database, & links sections. Start here: 

http://www.emulatorarchive.com/Archives/Samplers/E2Overview/E2SD/e2sd.html

Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-02-03 by WT

What drive is the original E2 drive ?

Teac FD 55GFR are available on ebay.

WT

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "emulator_island" <mothrecords@...>
To: <emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 9:09 PM
Subject: Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering 
buying a E-II...


ok, so after some more testing of drives, I have a TEAC FD-55GFR (in a 
lovely tan color!) as an available parts drive. The only difference is the 
original EII drives have a set-screw to hold the lever in place. The 
FD-55GFR lever simply slides on/off (lever shaft is "half-moon" style).  You 
are more than welcome to the part if needed..

cheers, emulator_island

--- On Fri, 1/29/10, Gil <gilwe@...> wrote:

From: Gil <gilwe@...>
Subject: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying 
a E-II...
To: emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010, 1:13 PM

















      OK friends, thanks for your "warm" welcome and assistance.



I had quite many synths running under my hand, as a player and electrician 
(fixed and restored quite many ones so far), but I always wanted this E-II 
monster, so here it is ;)



Here goes my first tip to the Emulator craziness community :P



Once I opened the monster up I realized that like many other synths, it uses 
quite many tantalum caps. My first job would be replacing them all, as they 
tend to die by burning themselves out and shorting out circuits. So - first 
thing to do !



emulator_island, I'd love to get the lever for my "borken" drive if 
possible. I got some synth parts if you need anything as well ;)



--- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, emulator_island <mothrecords@ ...> 
wrote:

>

> welcome to the Emulator's mysterious charm.. I remember my first E2 
> purchase.. $90 for 2 of them including 200+ disks, happiest day of my life 
> really.. I learned alot from those two fixer-uppers. . this was many years 
> ago.. in today's E2 market your purchase is very fortunate ..the E2 gods 
> were certainly on your side! ..before you know it you will be a pro w/a 
> "little" help from some good friends here of course.. take much caution if 
> you are doing the cap replacement yourself, as it is extremely !! high 
> voltage in there !! ..though I couldn't think of a better way to "go" 
> (Death By Emulator)..� a strong E2 heart is always beneficial, and should 
> keep your E2 healthy for 2010 and beyond.. also, make sure to check all 8 
> outs to see if your key problem is not a possible voice chip failure.. if 
> it is a key contact problem it may work

>  itself out since it seems your E2 has not been used in quite some time.. 
> I would refrain from using any solvents to clean contacts, and simply dry 
> brush the dust bits if any.. have you thought about a 3.5" replacement kit 
> from Route66 for your bottom drive? I may have a bad drive around here 
> available for parts if a lever is needed..

>

> cheers, emulator_island

>

> --- On Fri, 1/29/10, Gil <gilwe@...> wrote:

>

> From: Gil <gilwe@...>

> Subject: [emulatorII- list] Re: Just joined the group and considering 
> buying a E-II...

> To: emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com

> Date: Friday, January 29, 2010, 9:11 AM

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> �

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>       Thanks !

>

>

>

> OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it 
> works !!

>

>

>

> I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't 
> respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I 
> might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other 
> places.

>

>

>

> Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same 
> as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?

>

>

>

> The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of 
> drive should I look for ?

>

>

>

> --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@> wrote:

>

> >

>

> >

>

> >

>

> > --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:

>

> > >

>

> > > Now we need to get it work :)

>

> >

>

> > Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with 
> > a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or 
> > bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from 
> > either one on a dual floppy E-II.

>

> >

>

> > When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message 
> > should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and 
> > both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If 
> > your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit, 
> > it may not be seeing the drives.

>

> >

>

> > If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do 
> > as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data & 
> > power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the 
> > drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris. 
> > Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.

>

> >

>

> > PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in 
> > both drives to avoid damage.

>

> >

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

>

























[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]



------------------------------------

Yahoo! Groups Links

Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-02-03 by WT

Ok thanks.

but the Teac works as a replacement with no modifications needed other than 
driveselect ?

WT

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "emulator_island" <mothrecords@...>
To: <emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 11:48 PM
Subject: Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering 
buying a E-II...


the original drives are Shugart SA465-3AA (same number for "full height" 
drive as well)

cheers, emulator_island

--- On Wed, 2/3/10, WT <waveterm@...> wrote:

From: WT <waveterm@...>
Subject: Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering 
buying a E-II...
To: emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com
Date: Wednesday, February 3, 2010, 1:49 PM

















      What drive is the original E2 drive ?



Teac FD 55GFR are available on ebay.



WT



----- Original Message ----- 

From: "emulator_island" <mothrecords@ yahoo.com>

To: <emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com>

Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 9:09 PM

Subject: Re: [emulatorII- list] Re: Just joined the group and considering

buying a E-II...



ok, so after some more testing of drives, I have a TEAC FD-55GFR (in a

lovely tan color!) as an available parts drive. The only difference is the

original EII drives have a set-screw to hold the lever in place. The

FD-55GFR lever simply slides on/off (lever shaft is "half-moon" style).  You

are more than welcome to the part if needed..



cheers, emulator_island



--- On Fri, 1/29/10, Gil <gilwe@hotmail. com> wrote:



From: Gil <gilwe@hotmail. com>

Subject: [emulatorII- list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying

a E-II...

To: emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com

Date: Friday, January 29, 2010, 1:13 PM



OK friends, thanks for your "warm" welcome and assistance.



I had quite many synths running under my hand, as a player and electrician

(fixed and restored quite many ones so far), but I always wanted this E-II

monster, so here it is ;)



Here goes my first tip to the Emulator craziness community :P



Once I opened the monster up I realized that like many other synths, it uses

quite many tantalum caps. My first job would be replacing them all, as they

tend to die by burning themselves out and shorting out circuits. So - first

thing to do !



emulator_island, I'd love to get the lever for my "borken" drive if

possible. I got some synth parts if you need anything as well ;)



--- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, emulator_island <mothrecords@ ...>

wrote:



>



> welcome to the Emulator's mysterious charm.. I remember my first E2

> purchase.. $90 for 2 of them including 200+ disks, happiest day of my life

> really.. I learned alot from those two fixer-uppers. . this was many years

> ago.. in today's E2 market your purchase is very fortunate ..the E2 gods

> were certainly on your side! ..before you know it you will be a pro w/a

> "little" help from some good friends here of course.. take much caution if

> you are doing the cap replacement yourself, as it is extremely !! high

> voltage in there !! ..though I couldn't think of a better way to "go"

> (Death By Emulator)..� a strong E2 heart is always beneficial, and should

> keep your E2 healthy for 2010 and beyond.. also, make sure to check all 8

> outs to see if your key problem is not a possible voice chip failure.. if

> it is a key contact problem it may work



>  itself out since it seems your E2 has not been used in quite some time..

> I would refrain from using any solvents to clean contacts, and simply dry

> brush the dust bits if any.. have you thought about a 3.5" replacement kit

> from Route66 for your bottom drive? I may have a bad drive around here

> available for parts if a lever is needed..



>



> cheers, emulator_island



>



> --- On Fri, 1/29/10, Gil <gilwe@...> wrote:



>



> From: Gil <gilwe@...>



> Subject: [emulatorII- list] Re: Just joined the group and considering

> buying a E-II...



> To: emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com



> Date: Friday, January 29, 2010, 9:11 AM



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



> �



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>       Thanks !



>



>



>



> OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it

> works !!



>



>



>



> I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't

> respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I

> might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other

> places.



>



>



>



> Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same

> as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?



>



>



>



> The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of

> drive should I look for ?



>



>



>



> --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@> wrote:



>



> >



>



> >



>



> >



>



> > --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:



>



> > >



>



> > > Now we need to get it work :)



>



> >



>



> > Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with

> > a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or

> > bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from

> > either one on a dual floppy E-II.



>



> >



>



> > When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message

> > should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and

> > both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If

> > your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit,

> > it may not be seeing the drives.



>



> >



>



> > If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do

> > as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data &

> > power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the

> > drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris.

> > Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.



>



> >



>



> > PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in

> > both drives to avoid damage.



>



> >



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



>



> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]



>



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]



------------ --------- --------- ------



Yahoo! Groups Links

























[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]



------------------------------------

Yahoo! Groups Links

Re: Just joined the group and considering buying a E-II...

2010-02-03 by jmp701

Emulator Archive states some info here: 
 
http://www.emulatorarchive.com/Archives/Samplers/E2Overview/E2Floppy/e2floppy.html
 
 
Anyone know if the Shugart SA455 of the same series works? The only difference I can find is that the 455 has a 0.5 MB capacity whereas the 465 has 1.0 MB.


--- In emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com, "WT" <waveterm@...> wrote:
>
> Ok thanks.
> 
> but the Teac works as a replacement with no modifications needed other than 
> driveselect ?
> 
> WT
> 
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "emulator_island" <mothrecords@...>
> To: <emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com>
> Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 11:48 PM
> Subject: Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering 
> buying a E-II...
> 
> 
> the original drives are Shugart SA465-3AA (same number for "full height" 
> drive as well)
> 
> cheers, emulator_island
> 
> --- On Wed, 2/3/10, WT <waveterm@...> wrote:
> 
> From: WT <waveterm@...>
> Subject: Re: [emulatorII-list] Re: Just joined the group and considering 
> buying a E-II...
> To: emulatorII-list@yahoogroups.com
> Date: Wednesday, February 3, 2010, 1:49 PM
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>       What drive is the original E2 drive ?
> 
> 
> 
> Teac FD 55GFR are available on ebay.
> 
> 
> 
> WT
> 
> 
> 
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> 
> From: "emulator_island" <mothrecords@ yahoo.com>
> 
> To: <emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com>
> 
> Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 9:09 PM
> 
> Subject: Re: [emulatorII- list] Re: Just joined the group and considering
> 
> buying a E-II...
> 
> 
> 
> ok, so after some more testing of drives, I have a TEAC FD-55GFR (in a
> 
> lovely tan color!) as an available parts drive. The only difference is the
> 
> original EII drives have a set-screw to hold the lever in place. The
> 
> FD-55GFR lever simply slides on/off (lever shaft is "half-moon" style).  You
> 
> are more than welcome to the part if needed..
> 
> 
> 
> cheers, emulator_island
> 
> 
> 
> --- On Fri, 1/29/10, Gil <gilwe@hotmail. com> wrote:
> 
> 
> 
> From: Gil <gilwe@hotmail. com>
> 
> Subject: [emulatorII- list] Re: Just joined the group and considering buying
> 
> a E-II...
> 
> To: emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com
> 
> Date: Friday, January 29, 2010, 1:13 PM
> 
> 
> 
> OK friends, thanks for your "warm" welcome and assistance.
> 
> 
> 
> I had quite many synths running under my hand, as a player and electrician
> 
> (fixed and restored quite many ones so far), but I always wanted this E-II
> 
> monster, so here it is ;)
> 
> 
> 
> Here goes my first tip to the Emulator craziness community :P
> 
> 
> 
> Once I opened the monster up I realized that like many other synths, it uses
> 
> quite many tantalum caps. My first job would be replacing them all, as they
> 
> tend to die by burning themselves out and shorting out circuits. So - first
> 
> thing to do !
> 
> 
> 
> emulator_island, I'd love to get the lever for my "borken" drive if
> 
> possible. I got some synth parts if you need anything as well ;)
> 
> 
> 
> --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, emulator_island <mothrecords@ ...>
> 
> wrote:
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > welcome to the Emulator's mysterious charm.. I remember my first E2
> 
> > purchase.. $90 for 2 of them including 200+ disks, happiest day of my life
> 
> > really.. I learned alot from those two fixer-uppers. . this was many years
> 
> > ago.. in today's E2 market your purchase is very fortunate ..the E2 gods
> 
> > were certainly on your side! ..before you know it you will be a pro w/a
> 
> > "little" help from some good friends here of course.. take much caution if
> 
> > you are doing the cap replacement yourself, as it is extremely !! high
> 
> > voltage in there !! ..though I couldn't think of a better way to "go"
> 
> > (Death By Emulator).. a strong E2 heart is always beneficial, and should
> 
> > keep your E2 healthy for 2010 and beyond.. also, make sure to check all 8
> 
> > outs to see if your key problem is not a possible voice chip failure.. if
> 
> > it is a key contact problem it may work
> 
> 
> 
> >  itself out since it seems your E2 has not been used in quite some time..
> 
> > I would refrain from using any solvents to clean contacts, and simply dry
> 
> > brush the dust bits if any.. have you thought about a 3.5" replacement kit
> 
> > from Route66 for your bottom drive? I may have a bad drive around here
> 
> > available for parts if a lever is needed..
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > cheers, emulator_island
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > --- On Fri, 1/29/10, Gil <gilwe@> wrote:
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > From: Gil <gilwe@>
> 
> 
> 
> > Subject: [emulatorII- list] Re: Just joined the group and considering
> 
> > buying a E-II...
> 
> 
> 
> > To: emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com
> 
> 
> 
> > Date: Friday, January 29, 2010, 9:11 AM
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > Â
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >       Thanks !
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > OK so I opened it up, took a few connectors out and in - and viola ! it
> 
> > works !!
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > I could load and play a few disks so far. I found 3 keys which doesn't
> 
> > respond. I guess this monster will need some service and refurbishment. I
> 
> > might go and replace some caps in the power supply and in few other
> 
> > places.
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > Does anyone know which type of keys are these ? I heard they are the same
> 
> > as the Kawai K1... Do they match the keys of other synths ?
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > The lock handle of the bottom drive is missing as well... Which type of
> 
> > drive should I look for ?
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "hexafuzz" <gclip@> wrote:
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > > --- In emulatorII-list@ yahoogroups. com, "Gil" <gilwe@> wrote:
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > > >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > > > Now we need to get it work :)
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > > Just to further clarify what has already been said: When powered on with
> 
> > > a latched disk in either drive, the E-II should boot on its own. Top or
> 
> > > bottom drive makes no difference; it should locate and auto-boot from
> 
> > > either one on a dual floppy E-II.
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > > When powered on -without- a disk in the drives, the display message
> 
> > > should quickly change from "Boot in Progress" to "Insert Diskette", and
> 
> > > both drive status LEDs should begin flashing in an alternate pattern. If
> 
> > > your display message doesnt change, and your drive LEDs never get lit,
> 
> > > it may not be seeing the drives.
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > > If you are knowledgeable working on electronics (dont get zapped!), do
> 
> > > as Elm suggested: Inspect, remove, and clean all floppy drive data &
> 
> > > power cable connections (Deoxit and q-tips may help). Then hit the
> 
> > > drives with compressed air to remove any built up dust or debris.
> 
> > > Reconnect everything and look for improved/changed behavior.
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > > PS: Whenever the E-II is transported, remember to latch scrap disks in
> 
> > > both drives to avoid damage.
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> 
> 
> 
> >
> 
> 
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> 
> 
> 
> ------------ --------- --------- ------
> 
> 
> 
> Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>