Discussion about the Korg PolySix synthesizer

Hello everybody,

I'm kinda new to the newsgroup, never knew that these groupemails are an option. Hopefully i'm doing this the right way...

I purchased a neit looking Polysix. Everything works fine, except for 20-25 keys. Most keys do work, but have like a 2 to 4 seconds delay. While with other keys it's a case of adjusting the pressure on the note. The previous owner said they probably need cleaning (since this is a common Polysix thing). I tried cleaning with a pencil(rubber)eraser and alcohol, but no succes yet.

And here is the thing that makes it weird for me. When I dismantle the long print-plate with the contactpoints and the rubberstrips from the keyboard and press notes on the rubberstrip with my finger, they all work perfect. All notes work perfect, even the really 'dead' ones.

I tried switching the rubberpads of two keygroups (a good working one and a bad working one). But this didn't change anything. Wich gives me the idea that there is nothing wrong with the contactpoints, but with the way the keys hit the rubbers. (wich still does not explain the delay)

A vintage synth collecting friend of mine said that it seems like the black things on the rubberstrip have difficulties passing on the electro impulse. And that during the delay it builds up the amount of electricity before it can be passed on to make the connection so you can hear the note. (sounds logical)

Did anyone of you had this problem too? And if so can it be fixed by
cleaning more intensive with a proper 'keyboard contact cleaning kit'? Or is
there a problem with the keyboard itself? Thanks in advance for any solutions or directions!

Cheers,

Bas te Braak
The Netherlands.




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

Hi,

I have that problem, also. I don't think it is an electrical fault at 
all. I think the issue is mechanical. For me, the pads/contacts work 
fine. I believe the key mechanisms can not depress the pads sufficiently 
well. For me to use the keys, I have to press very hard, at the rear end 
of the keys, near the fulcrum. I haven't had time to investigate 
further, though I assume there is a fault with the mechanism house, such 
that the fulcrum is displaced in some way.

That probably doesn't help very much, but some people may feel better 
knowing that 'we are not alone'.

Cheers,

Oli

Bas te Braak wrote:

> Hello everybody,
> 
> I'm kinda new to the newsgroup, never knew that these groupemails are an option. Hopefully i'm doing this the right way...
> 
> I purchased a neit looking Polysix. Everything works fine, except for 20-25 keys. Most keys do work, but have like a 2 to 4 seconds delay. While with other keys it's a case of adjusting the pressure on the note. The previous owner said they probably need cleaning (since this is a common Polysix thing). I tried cleaning with a pencil(rubber)eraser and alcohol, but no succes yet.
> 
> And here is the thing that makes it weird for me. When I dismantle the long print-plate with the contactpoints and the rubberstrips from the keyboard and press notes on the rubberstrip with my finger, they all work perfect. All notes work perfect, even the really 'dead' ones.
> 
> I tried switching the rubberpads of two keygroups (a good working one and a bad working one). But this didn't change anything. Wich gives me the idea that there is nothing wrong with the contactpoints, but with the way the keys hit the rubbers. (wich still does not explain the delay)
> 
> A vintage synth collecting friend of mine said that it seems like the black things on the rubberstrip have difficulties passing on the electro impulse. And that during the delay it builds up the amount of electricity before it can be passed on to make the connection so you can hear the note. (sounds logical)
> 
> Did anyone of you had this problem too? And if so can it be fixed by
> cleaning more intensive with a proper 'keyboard contact cleaning kit'? Or is
> there a problem with the keyboard itself? Thanks in advance for any solutions or directions!
> 
> Cheers,
> 
> Bas te Braak
> The Netherlands.
> 
> 
> 
> 
>  		 	   		  
> _________________________________________________________________
> Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail\ufffd.
> http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
>

Thanks for the reply Oli! And yes it kinda does make me feel better to hear that i'm not the only one with this problem.

 

I just sent an email to a dutch synth specialist. Hopefully he can shed some light on this. If I will find out more, I'll let you know!

 

I'll also have a 2nd look and the mechanical part. Perhaps I can see something that is not correct.

 

Greets,

 

Bas.
 
> To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
> From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:20:12 +0800
> Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> 
> Hi,
> 
> I have that problem, also. I don't think it is an electrical fault at 
> all. I think the issue is mechanical. For me, the pads/contacts work 
> fine. I believe the key mechanisms can not depress the pads sufficiently 
> well. For me to use the keys, I have to press very hard, at the rear end 
> of the keys, near the fulcrum. I haven't had time to investigate 
> further, though I assume there is a fault with the mechanism house, such 
> that the fulcrum is displaced in some way.
> 
> That probably doesn't help very much, but some people may feel better 
> knowing that 'we are not alone'.
> 
> Cheers,
> 
> Oli
> 
> Bas te Braak wrote:
> > Hello everybody,
> > 
> > I'm kinda new to the newsgroup, never knew that these groupemails are an option. Hopefully i'm doing this the right way...
> > 
> > I purchased a neit looking Polysix. Everything works fine, except for 20-25 keys. Most keys do work, but have like a 2 to 4 seconds delay. While with other keys it's a case of adjusting the pressure on the note. The previous owner said they probably need cleaning (since this is a common Polysix thing). I tried cleaning with a pencil(rubber)eraser and alcohol, but no succes yet.
> > 
> > And here is the thing that makes it weird for me. When I dismantle the long print-plate with the contactpoints and the rubberstrips from the keyboard and press notes on the rubberstrip with my finger, they all work perfect. All notes work perfect, even the really 'dead' ones.
> > 
> > I tried switching the rubberpads of two keygroups (a good working one and a bad working one). But this didn't change anything. Wich gives me the idea that there is nothing wrong with the contactpoints, but with the way the keys hit the rubbers. (wich still does not explain the delay)
> > 
> > A vintage synth collecting friend of mine said that it seems like the black things on the rubberstrip have difficulties passing on the electro impulse. And that during the delay it builds up the amount of electricity before it can be passed on to make the connection so you can hear the note. (sounds logical)
> > 
> > Did anyone of you had this problem too? And if so can it be fixed by
> > cleaning more intensive with a proper 'keyboard contact cleaning kit'? Or is
> > there a problem with the keyboard itself? Thanks in advance for any solutions or directions!
> > 
> > Cheers,
> > 
> > Bas te Braak
> > The Netherlands.
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > _________________________________________________________________
> > Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail�.
> > http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009
> > 
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > ------------------------------------
> > 
> > PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
 		 	   		  
_________________________________________________________________
Bing�  brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place.   Try it now.
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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hi,

If you do find something, it would be really great if you could post 
back with a result. I think it is a pretty common fault with this synth, 
particularly in units which have seen some hard times.

Bas te Braak wrote:

> Thanks for the reply Oli! And yes it kinda does make me feel better to hear that i'm not the only one with this problem.
> 
>  
> 
> I just sent an email to a dutch synth specialist. Hopefully he can shed some light on this. If I will find out more, I'll let you know!
> 
>  
> 
> I'll also have a 2nd look and the mechanical part. Perhaps I can see something that is not correct.
> 
>  
> 
> Greets,
> 
>  
> 
> Bas.
>  
>> To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
>> From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
>> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:20:12 +0800
>> Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
>>
>> Hi,
>>
>> I have that problem, also. I don't think it is an electrical fault at 
>> all. I think the issue is mechanical. For me, the pads/contacts work 
>> fine. I believe the key mechanisms can not depress the pads sufficiently 
>> well. For me to use the keys, I have to press very hard, at the rear end 
>> of the keys, near the fulcrum. I haven't had time to investigate 
>> further, though I assume there is a fault with the mechanism house, such 
>> that the fulcrum is displaced in some way.
>>
>> That probably doesn't help very much, but some people may feel better 
>> knowing that 'we are not alone'.
>>
>> Cheers,
>>
>> Oli
>>
>> Bas te Braak wrote:
>>> Hello everybody,
>>>
>>> I'm kinda new to the newsgroup, never knew that these groupemails are an option. Hopefully i'm doing this the right way...
>>>
>>> I purchased a neit looking Polysix. Everything works fine, except for 20-25 keys. Most keys do work, but have like a 2 to 4 seconds delay. While with other keys it's a case of adjusting the pressure on the note. The previous owner said they probably need cleaning (since this is a common Polysix thing). I tried cleaning with a pencil(rubber)eraser and alcohol, but no succes yet.
>>>
>>> And here is the thing that makes it weird for me. When I dismantle the long print-plate with the contactpoints and the rubberstrips from the keyboard and press notes on the rubberstrip with my finger, they all work perfect. All notes work perfect, even the really 'dead' ones.
>>>
>>> I tried switching the rubberpads of two keygroups (a good working one and a bad working one). But this didn't change anything. Wich gives me the idea that there is nothing wrong with the contactpoints, but with the way the keys hit the rubbers. (wich still does not explain the delay)
>>>
>>> A vintage synth collecting friend of mine said that it seems like the black things on the rubberstrip have difficulties passing on the electro impulse. And that during the delay it builds up the amount of electricity before it can be passed on to make the connection so you can hear the note. (sounds logical)
>>>
>>> Did anyone of you had this problem too? And if so can it be fixed by
>>> cleaning more intensive with a proper 'keyboard contact cleaning kit'? Or is
>>> there a problem with the keyboard itself? Thanks in advance for any solutions or directions!
>>>
>>> Cheers,
>>>
>>> Bas te Braak
>>> The Netherlands.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> _________________________________________________________________
>>> Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail\ufffd.
>>> http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009
>>>
>>> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> ------------------------------------
>>>
>>> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>> ------------------------------------
>>
>> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
>>
>>
>>
>  		 	   		  
> _________________________________________________________________
> Bing\ufffd  brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place.   Try it now.
> http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MLOGEN_Core_tagline_local_1x1
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
>

if it's pressure related then fill up the 'upside' of the 'cups' with rubber (silcone) and raise their height - the keys will then press harder on the contacts - alternatively use some cereal packet thickness cardboard and cut strips to fit under the keys - tape them on (at least a short term 'fix') and see if that helps. The extra pressure of the cardboard will push the contacts down further.

If it's conductivity (on the black rubber contacts) you can BUY some paint on conductive key contact repair i.e http://www.vtech-smt.co.uk/eshop.php/product/department-id/58/product-id/279/cw2605-rubber-button-keypad-repair-kit.html ) and repair/improve the electrical conductivity of the black rubber contacts (not the PCB contacts!).

You can also try using pencil on the contacts (the rubber ones again) the carbon/graphite is conductive - draw all over the contacts with a blunt pencil and see if that helps -if so then do the permanent fix with the paint on solution. It's probably best to do both solutions (pressure and conductivity) and then should work like new :)

HTH


> To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
> From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:00:59 +0800
> Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> 
> Hi,
> 
> If you do find something, it would be really great if you could post 
> back with a result. I think it is a pretty common fault with this synth, 
> particularly in units which have seen some hard times.
> 
> Bas te Braak wrote:
> > Thanks for the reply Oli! And yes it kinda does make me feel better to hear that i'm not the only one with this problem.
> > 
> >  
> > 
> > I just sent an email to a dutch synth specialist. Hopefully he can shed some light on this. If I will find out more, I'll let you know!
> > 
> >  
> > 
> > I'll also have a 2nd look and the mechanical part. Perhaps I can see something that is not correct.
> > 
> >  
> > 
> > Greets,
> > 
> >  
> > 
> > Bas.
> >  
> >> To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
> >> From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
> >> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:20:12 +0800
> >> Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> >>
> >> Hi,
> >>
> >> I have that problem, also. I don't think it is an electrical fault at 
> >> all. I think the issue is mechanical. For me, the pads/contacts work 
> >> fine. I believe the key mechanisms can not depress the pads sufficiently 
> >> well. For me to use the keys, I have to press very hard, at the rear end 
> >> of the keys, near the fulcrum. I haven't had time to investigate 
> >> further, though I assume there is a fault with the mechanism house, such 
> >> that the fulcrum is displaced in some way.
> >>
> >> That probably doesn't help very much, but some people may feel better 
> >> knowing that 'we are not alone'.
> >>
> >> Cheers,
> >>
> >> Oli
> >>
> >> Bas te Braak wrote:
> >>> Hello everybody,
> >>>
> >>> I'm kinda new to the newsgroup, never knew that these groupemails are an option. Hopefully i'm doing this the right way...
> >>>
> >>> I purchased a neit looking Polysix. Everything works fine, except for 20-25 keys. Most keys do work, but have like a 2 to 4 seconds delay. While with other keys it's a case of adjusting the pressure on the note. The previous owner said they probably need cleaning (since this is a common Polysix thing). I tried cleaning with a pencil(rubber)eraser and alcohol, but no succes yet.
> >>>
> >>> And here is the thing that makes it weird for me. When I dismantle the long print-plate with the contactpoints and the rubberstrips from the keyboard and press notes on the rubberstrip with my finger, they all work perfect. All notes work perfect, even the really 'dead' ones.
> >>>
> >>> I tried switching the rubberpads of two keygroups (a good working one and a bad working one). But this didn't change anything. Wich gives me the idea that there is nothing wrong with the contactpoints, but with the way the keys hit the rubbers. (wich still does not explain the delay)
> >>>
> >>> A vintage synth collecting friend of mine said that it seems like the black things on the rubberstrip have difficulties passing on the electro impulse. And that during the delay it builds up the amount of electricity before it can be passed on to make the connection so you can hear the note. (sounds logical)
> >>>
> >>> Did anyone of you had this problem too? And if so can it be fixed by
> >>> cleaning more intensive with a proper 'keyboard contact cleaning kit'? Or is
> >>> there a problem with the keyboard itself? Thanks in advance for any solutions or directions!
> >>>
> >>> Cheers,
> >>>
> >>> Bas te Braak
> >>> The Netherlands.
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> _________________________________________________________________
> >>> Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail�.
> >>> http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009
> >>>
> >>> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> ------------------------------------
> >>>
> >>> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>
> >> ------------------------------------
> >>
> >> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >  		 	   		  
> > _________________________________________________________________
> > Bing�  brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place.   Try it now.
> > http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MLOGEN_Core_tagline_local_1x1
> > 
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > ------------------------------------
> > 
> > PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
 		 	   		  
_________________________________________________________________
Share your photos with Windows Live Photos � Free.
http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/134665338/direct/01/

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

It's a common 'fault' with any old synth that uses the rubber contact method (My JX-3P was the same) see my other post for 2 ways to fix it - do both for 100% working keys - if that doesn't work then the problem isn't the 'common' problem but something more sinister (keyboard scanning circuit which is unlikely)

in essence you can increase the pressure on the key contacts with card under the keys or put rubber silicone into the 'cups' (top side not contact side!) and make it sit higher. AND you can increase conductivity of the black carbon contacts (this is common too) with paint on 'key repair' which is conductive rubber. If you have a multimeter you can even measure the continuity of the black contacts (rubber) and you may find some are 'perfect' while others are very poor/intermittent.. that will need carbon repair to be perfect.

> To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
> From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:00:59 +0800
> Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> 
> Hi,
> 
> If you do find something, it would be really great if you could post 
> back with a result. I think it is a pretty common fault with this synth, 
> particularly in units which have seen some hard times.
> 
> Bas te Braak wrote:
> > Thanks for the reply Oli! And yes it kinda does make me feel better to hear that i'm not the only one with this problem.
> > 
> >  
> > 
> > I just sent an email to a dutch synth specialist. Hopefully he can shed some light on this. If I will find out more, I'll let you know!
> > 
> >  
> > 
> > I'll also have a 2nd look and the mechanical part. Perhaps I can see something that is not correct.
> > 
> >  
> > 
> > Greets,
> > 
> >  
> > 
> > Bas.
> >  
> >> To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
> >> From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
> >> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:20:12 +0800
> >> Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> >>
> >> Hi,
> >>
> >> I have that problem, also. I don't think it is an electrical fault at 
> >> all. I think the issue is mechanical. For me, the pads/contacts work 
> >> fine. I believe the key mechanisms can not depress the pads sufficiently 
> >> well. For me to use the keys, I have to press very hard, at the rear end 
> >> of the keys, near the fulcrum. I haven't had time to investigate 
> >> further, though I assume there is a fault with the mechanism house, such 
> >> that the fulcrum is displaced in some way.
> >>
> >> That probably doesn't help very much, but some people may feel better 
> >> knowing that 'we are not alone'.
> >>
> >> Cheers,
> >>
> >> Oli
> >>
> >> Bas te Braak wrote:
> >>> Hello everybody,
> >>>
> >>> I'm kinda new to the newsgroup, never knew that these groupemails are an option. Hopefully i'm doing this the right way...
> >>>
> >>> I purchased a neit looking Polysix. Everything works fine, except for 20-25 keys. Most keys do work, but have like a 2 to 4 seconds delay. While with other keys it's a case of adjusting the pressure on the note. The previous owner said they probably need cleaning (since this is a common Polysix thing). I tried cleaning with a pencil(rubber)eraser and alcohol, but no succes yet.
> >>>
> >>> And here is the thing that makes it weird for me. When I dismantle the long print-plate with the contactpoints and the rubberstrips from the keyboard and press notes on the rubberstrip with my finger, they all work perfect. All notes work perfect, even the really 'dead' ones.
> >>>
> >>> I tried switching the rubberpads of two keygroups (a good working one and a bad working one). But this didn't change anything. Wich gives me the idea that there is nothing wrong with the contactpoints, but with the way the keys hit the rubbers. (wich still does not explain the delay)
> >>>
> >>> A vintage synth collecting friend of mine said that it seems like the black things on the rubberstrip have difficulties passing on the electro impulse. And that during the delay it builds up the amount of electricity before it can be passed on to make the connection so you can hear the note. (sounds logical)
> >>>
> >>> Did anyone of you had this problem too? And if so can it be fixed by
> >>> cleaning more intensive with a proper 'keyboard contact cleaning kit'? Or is
> >>> there a problem with the keyboard itself? Thanks in advance for any solutions or directions!
> >>>
> >>> Cheers,
> >>>
> >>> Bas te Braak
> >>> The Netherlands.
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> _________________________________________________________________
> >>> Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail�.
> >>> http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009
> >>>
> >>> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> ------------------------------------
> >>>
> >>> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>
> >> ------------------------------------
> >>
> >> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >  		 	   		  
> > _________________________________________________________________
> > Bing�  brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place.   Try it now.
> > http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MLOGEN_Core_tagline_local_1x1
> > 
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > ------------------------------------
> > 
> > PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
 		 	   		  
_________________________________________________________________
With Windows Live, you can organise, edit, and share your photos.
http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/134665338/direct/01/

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

Thanks for the list of things to try Paul! Great that you took the time to write it all down!

 

Can't wait to get home from work and give all methods a try. I will report back once I tried everything.

 

Cheers,

 

Bas.
 
> To: polysix@yahoogroups.com
> From: sharpfish@hotmail.com
> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:16:50 +0000
> Subject: RE: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> 
> 
> It's a common 'fault' with any old synth that uses the rubber contact method (My JX-3P was the same) see my other post for 2 ways to fix it - do both for 100% working keys - if that doesn't work then the problem isn't the 'common' problem but something more sinister (keyboard scanning circuit which is unlikely)
> 
> in essence you can increase the pressure on the key contacts with card under the keys or put rubber silicone into the 'cups' (top side not contact side!) and make it sit higher. AND you can increase conductivity of the black carbon contacts (this is common too) with paint on 'key repair' which is conductive rubber. If you have a multimeter you can even measure the continuity of the black contacts (rubber) and you may find some are 'perfect' while others are very poor/intermittent.. that will need carbon repair to be perfect.
> 
> > To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
> > From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
> > Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:00:59 +0800
> > Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> > 
> > Hi,
> > 
> > If you do find something, it would be really great if you could post 
> > back with a result. I think it is a pretty common fault with this synth, 
> > particularly in units which have seen some hard times.
> > 
> > Bas te Braak wrote:
> > > Thanks for the reply Oli! And yes it kinda does make me feel better to hear that i'm not the only one with this problem.
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > I just sent an email to a dutch synth specialist. Hopefully he can shed some light on this. If I will find out more, I'll let you know!
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > I'll also have a 2nd look and the mechanical part. Perhaps I can see something that is not correct.
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > Greets,
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > Bas.
> > > 
> > >> To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
> > >> From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
> > >> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:20:12 +0800
> > >> Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> > >>
> > >> Hi,
> > >>
> > >> I have that problem, also. I don't think it is an electrical fault at 
> > >> all. I think the issue is mechanical. For me, the pads/contacts work 
> > >> fine. I believe the key mechanisms can not depress the pads sufficiently 
> > >> well. For me to use the keys, I have to press very hard, at the rear end 
> > >> of the keys, near the fulcrum. I haven't had time to investigate 
> > >> further, though I assume there is a fault with the mechanism house, such 
> > >> that the fulcrum is displaced in some way.
> > >>
> > >> That probably doesn't help very much, but some people may feel better 
> > >> knowing that 'we are not alone'.
> > >>
> > >> Cheers,
> > >>
> > >> Oli
> > >>
> > >> Bas te Braak wrote:
> > >>> Hello everybody,
> > >>>
> > >>> I'm kinda new to the newsgroup, never knew that these groupemails are an option. Hopefully i'm doing this the right way...
> > >>>
> > >>> I purchased a neit looking Polysix. Everything works fine, except for 20-25 keys. Most keys do work, but have like a 2 to 4 seconds delay. While with other keys it's a case of adjusting the pressure on the note. The previous owner said they probably need cleaning (since this is a common Polysix thing). I tried cleaning with a pencil(rubber)eraser and alcohol, but no succes yet.
> > >>>
> > >>> And here is the thing that makes it weird for me. When I dismantle the long print-plate with the contactpoints and the rubberstrips from the keyboard and press notes on the rubberstrip with my finger, they all work perfect. All notes work perfect, even the really 'dead' ones.
> > >>>
> > >>> I tried switching the rubberpads of two keygroups (a good working one and a bad working one). But this didn't change anything. Wich gives me the idea that there is nothing wrong with the contactpoints, but with the way the keys hit the rubbers. (wich still does not explain the delay)
> > >>>
> > >>> A vintage synth collecting friend of mine said that it seems like the black things on the rubberstrip have difficulties passing on the electro impulse. And that during the delay it builds up the amount of electricity before it can be passed on to make the connection so you can hear the note. (sounds logical)
> > >>>
> > >>> Did anyone of you had this problem too? And if so can it be fixed by
> > >>> cleaning more intensive with a proper 'keyboard contact cleaning kit'? Or is
> > >>> there a problem with the keyboard itself? Thanks in advance for any solutions or directions!
> > >>>
> > >>> Cheers,
> > >>>
> > >>> Bas te Braak
> > >>> The Netherlands.
> > >>>
> > >>>
> > >>>
> > >>>
> > >>>
> > >>> _________________________________________________________________
> > >>> Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail�.
> > >>> http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009
> > >>>
> > >>> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > >>>
> > >>>
> > >>>
> > >>> ------------------------------------
> > >>>
> > >>> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> > >>>
> > >>>
> > >>>
> > >>>
> > >>
> > >> ------------------------------------
> > >>
> > >> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> > >>
> > >>
> > >>
> > > 
> > > _________________________________________________________________
> > > Bing� brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place. Try it now.
> > > http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MLOGEN_Core_tagline_local_1x1
> > > 
> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > ------------------------------------
> > > 
> > > PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > > 
> > 
> > 
> > ------------------------------------
> > 
> > PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> > 
> > 
> > 
> 
> _________________________________________________________________
> With Windows Live, you can organise, edit, and share your photos.
> http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/134665338/direct/01/
> 
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
 		 	   		  
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Hello agian,

 

I have good news. All keys on my Polysix are working great now!

 

I focused on the mechenical part first, but I could not discover anything out of the ordinary comparing working and not working keys. Then I tried filling up the rubbercups with small cottonballs (as I was to anxious to try silicone gel). This did not work either. 

 

Then I decided to give the first 4 non working keys a thorough cleaning again. And then I really mean thorough. And to my suprise those keys working pefect after that. So I did the rest of the keys. Took me more than 3,5 hours. But it was a succes.

 

Here's what I did.

 

1. Rub the gold contacts with a pencil rubber and made sure they realy shined again.

2. Clean the pencil rubber by rubbing it on my hand (removing the residu).

3. Rub the black dots of the keyboard rubber. I held the rubber cup between thumb and index finger so I could use more forse while rubbing with the pencil rubber in the other hand. I noticed that small amounts of black dust would come of the non working keys. I guess this is dried up and keeps the electricity from going through.

4. Blow all the dust and gum rubber off.

5. Clean the gold contact points and the black contactpoints with alcohol (again thorough rubbing).

6. Inspect the surfaces under a good light and make sure there is no residu or stains on the contacts.

7. Mount the keys back on and give it a try.

 

I only needed to clean all keys once. Guess the first time I tried cleaning the contacts this weekend I was to gentle, affraid to destroy or ruin the contacts.

 

I did order a cleaning set, before I got all the keys to work. But I guess that will come in handy some day :) I noticed that prices of the kit vary a lot. Anything between 15 to 45 (!!!) euro's. So you can save some money by googling a couple of minutes.

 

Paul and Oli thanks for support and feedback! I'm a happy man now that I use that Polysix without dealing with dead keys! And Oli, good luck on cleaning those keys. takes a bit of time, but it's well worth the effort.

 

Thanks again and cheers!

 

Bas.

 

  
 
> To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
> From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:00:59 +0800
> Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> 
> Hi,
> 
> If you do find something, it would be really great if you could post 
> back with a result. I think it is a pretty common fault with this synth, 
> particularly in units which have seen some hard times.
> 
> Bas te Braak wrote:
> > Thanks for the reply Oli! And yes it kinda does make me feel better to hear that i'm not the only one with this problem.
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > I just sent an email to a dutch synth specialist. Hopefully he can shed some light on this. If I will find out more, I'll let you know!
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > I'll also have a 2nd look and the mechanical part. Perhaps I can see something that is not correct.
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > Greets,
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > Bas.
> > 
> >> To: PolySix@yahoogroups.com
> >> From: o.fairhall@iinet.net.au
> >> Date: Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:20:12 +0800
> >> Subject: Re: [PolySix] Bad/ weird working keys
> >>
> >> Hi,
> >>
> >> I have that problem, also. I don't think it is an electrical fault at 
> >> all. I think the issue is mechanical. For me, the pads/contacts work 
> >> fine. I believe the key mechanisms can not depress the pads sufficiently 
> >> well. For me to use the keys, I have to press very hard, at the rear end 
> >> of the keys, near the fulcrum. I haven't had time to investigate 
> >> further, though I assume there is a fault with the mechanism house, such 
> >> that the fulcrum is displaced in some way.
> >>
> >> That probably doesn't help very much, but some people may feel better 
> >> knowing that 'we are not alone'.
> >>
> >> Cheers,
> >>
> >> Oli
> >>
> >> Bas te Braak wrote:
> >>> Hello everybody,
> >>>
> >>> I'm kinda new to the newsgroup, never knew that these groupemails are an option. Hopefully i'm doing this the right way...
> >>>
> >>> I purchased a neit looking Polysix. Everything works fine, except for 20-25 keys. Most keys do work, but have like a 2 to 4 seconds delay. While with other keys it's a case of adjusting the pressure on the note. The previous owner said they probably need cleaning (since this is a common Polysix thing). I tried cleaning with a pencil(rubber)eraser and alcohol, but no succes yet.
> >>>
> >>> And here is the thing that makes it weird for me. When I dismantle the long print-plate with the contactpoints and the rubberstrips from the keyboard and press notes on the rubberstrip with my finger, they all work perfect. All notes work perfect, even the really 'dead' ones.
> >>>
> >>> I tried switching the rubberpads of two keygroups (a good working one and a bad working one). But this didn't change anything. Wich gives me the idea that there is nothing wrong with the contactpoints, but with the way the keys hit the rubbers. (wich still does not explain the delay)
> >>>
> >>> A vintage synth collecting friend of mine said that it seems like the black things on the rubberstrip have difficulties passing on the electro impulse. And that during the delay it builds up the amount of electricity before it can be passed on to make the connection so you can hear the note. (sounds logical)
> >>>
> >>> Did anyone of you had this problem too? And if so can it be fixed by
> >>> cleaning more intensive with a proper 'keyboard contact cleaning kit'? Or is
> >>> there a problem with the keyboard itself? Thanks in advance for any solutions or directions!
> >>>
> >>> Cheers,
> >>>
> >>> Bas te Braak
> >>> The Netherlands.
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> _________________________________________________________________
> >>> Insert movie times and more without leaving Hotmail�.
> >>> http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/QuickAdd?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_QuickAdd_062009
> >>>
> >>> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> ------------------------------------
> >>>
> >>> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>
> >> ------------------------------------
> >>
> >> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> >>
> >>
> >>
> > 
> > _________________________________________________________________
> > Bing� brings you maps, menus, and reviews organized in one place. Try it now.
> > http://www.bing.com/search?q=restaurants&form=MLOGEN&publ=WLHMTAG&crea=TEXT_MLOGEN_Core_tagline_local_1x1
> > 
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > ------------------------------------
> > 
> > PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------
> 
> PolySix "Digiest" Page: http://www.acc.umu.se/~amber/Poly6Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
 		 	   		  
_________________________________________________________________
Hotmail� has ever-growing storage! Don�t worry about storage limits.
http://windowslive.com/Tutorial/Hotmail/Storage?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_Tutorial_Storage_062009

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