I don't own an MC-909 but still love this video because it is very informative in general. The way how an analog filtering solution is used to smooth out data input complications is a real information gem. It proves that the whole digital versus analog discussion is basically nonsense. There are no pure digital solutions. The best technology always uses a mix of both technologies. Thanks for the insights!
Vert good video by a very experienced technician. I also remove the rubber button membrane and soak/ clean it in a mild degreaser like palmolive dish soap. Let it soak for an hour then rinse it thoroughly. I also covered the switching power supply in a faraday cover with copper tape and relocated it off the board. This pcb board is very thin so the slightest flex could fracture the print or a solder joint. You should perform the self test routine before and after dismantling it.
Awesome upload. I'm back with my groovebox after 8 years, thank you. I am inspired to get back in there once again. i have list of problems to fix, last time i was in there, I think i cleaned what little carbon that was left off the back of all the pads, it made them worse I have a paint-on product to try and my attempt to clean the sliders did nothing. I recall i did fix a solder issue on the rotary encoder, but lost the transport functions. I rely on midi to get any use out of it. Just watched the Don Solaris sample pack. Also enjoying your other tutorials. Namaste
@@Skookumshroom There is a carbon painter stick. 5 dollar. Apply 3-6 layer with 5 minute delay! It will do the trick. I repaired many Access Virus KA with this method.
@@BMRStudio this is exactly the stuff I have to fix my pads I mentioned in my first post. Awesome to hear you have had good experience with it. Thanks man :)
+Eric Calcano You are welcome :) New pads? What a lucky You are :) Where You bought it? I don't have a problem with My, but there is a folks here, who maybe need this information. Please share with Us!
Those system presets are why i recently paid 400 pounds for one of these. The sounds are awesome!!! Early trance machine! Nothing touches it for this genre
Ibiza Sunset is a particularly amazing and euphoric pattern. To say that in 2018 really is something. Being a massive early trance fanatic myself if I had of heard this demo in 2002 when the machine was released I'd have been gobsmacked! Other machines just sounded like straight up CHEESE, (Yamaha *cough*) this actually sounded similar to any trance release between 1998 to 2002 and beyond if you include Euro trance. Just lush. Can't wait to receive mine!
thank you so much for this video! .. i learned so much... unfortunately my mc909 reboots randomly after a few minutes, and I cant find the cause for this... maybe someone knows this issue?
@29:41: I tried your method to clean switches. Usually I replace bad switches, but just tried it with Isopropanol on an old Atari ST mouse. Also pushed the buttons to suck the alcohol in and after drying it works much better. :-) It was an almost non working switch. Thx and greets from Berlin :-)
Hi BMR Studio, the RPS button on my MC-909 is not working. I just took it apart and soldered in a brand new tact switch. Still does not work. Do you know what the problem could be?
Thank you a lot for this video. I just have a not working MC-909 sitting on my desk. The label on the back says it is made for 117V but not sure if the power supply was changed to a 220V prior it was switched on the first time. When looking at the service manual I do not even see that there are different versions of the power Supply.
Happy 909 days! I suggest to everybody to open and clean the board. IS a really dust and bug collector. Pioneer CdJ-s more clever on how to isolate the user interface from the electronics. Roland never thinking on heavy club usage.
hello i bought a mc 909 with missing start stop and cue buttons ,i send it to roland for repair and they dont have spare parts and now they send it back pff ...do you know where it can be repaired please grtz olivier
Hi, nice video! I am about to purchase a used MC 909, japan version (110v). I have a question, is it true that i can change the imput voltage (110v,220,240v) from the internal "Service Utility" (MENU - SYSTEM - SYSTEM INFO - [SHIFT 1-7-8-9] - Service Utility - Voltage) menu? Because i live in Italy and we have 220v while in Japan is 110v...Thanks
Im trying to remove the knobs so I can clean the plastic squares because some do not make contact. Do I need to pull harder on the plastic knobs to remove them?
Means someone already broke them, and glued to the shafts… Yepp, pull it with a U shape flat lever, put some towel under the lever.. Those pots are replaceable, with Mouser Alps pots. Cheap.
I keep referring to this video, i recently purchased a second hand MC505, the RPS button would take about 8 presses before it would illuminate, i couldnt be bothered pulling it apart so i sprayed a little CRC226 electronic cleaner around the button and gave it a few bursts of canned compressed air, it did the job... my question is when you cleaned the MC909s tactile buttons with isoprop and a cotton bud is there a reason why you didnt use a little contact cleaner/lubricant after the isoprop? Much appreciated. Peace from OZ
I really do like these but their mechanical reliability (buttons, knobs, faders etc) is pretty sketchy. That's kinda what put me off them and turned my attention to the Korg Electribe EMX 1 and ESX 1 boxes, and a mixer instead. This Groovebox was always the ultimate in the Roland family though, in my opinion.
+BMR Studio Only if you assume that the soup was Coca-Cola-based. By the way.. how much do you charge to clean a 909 the way you did? I am looking to buy one in the near future..
If You living close to Berlin, nothing :))) Just come and left here for couple of days. If You living somewhere else, just the shipment costs. I like to clean and maintenance those old Roland gears. Its a bit of fun :)
+BMR Studio Can you mail me your e-mail address (mine is info followed by softwarepearls.com)? I will definitely take up your offer, if I ever lay my hands on a MC-909. I have been looking to buy one for the past 4 months :-S
Good luck for hunting :) Inform Me, if You got it, then we can arrange the cleaning and small repairs. Now I working on the perfect fader cleaner and lubricate chemical mixture for Roland gears :))) Kind of rocket science!
Közben megnéztem pár videódat és rájöttem, hogy honnan volt ismerős az akcentus :D Ismersz még esetleg másokat is akik Mc-909-est használnak kis hazánkban ? További kellemes napot :)
+Nord72 :) Heheh :) Nem Magyarországon élek :) De ismerek párat. a menemszol.hu weboldal tele van ilyen emberkékkel. De egy két nagy DJ is használta amikor még én is a pult mögött ugráltam.
Ademar Mello I will never sell My MC 909! But is always pop up on the German Ebay around 400-900 Eur. Check also the Ebay Kleinanzeigen website! I know, this will take time... I wish You good hunting!
I'm having an intermittent boot problem with mine. It appears to load it's OS, but freezes, at Pattern mode. Usually takes a couple of restarts before it loads properly and then works fine. Any explanation for this? I've pulled out the extra memory and updated the OS to 1.23 and still has the problem. This is a fantastic tear down. I wish there were tear downs like this for all the gear I own. Very nice!
Looks to me, You have some memory error, or clock issues. Check the power brick and all regulator circuits first! Look for dead caps! THX for watching :)
Hey everyone! I’m hoping someone can help out. I found 909 yesterday, brought it home and everything was fine. It had ver. 1.10 on it. I tried to update to ver. 1.23 and got a fatal error no program in rom message. I tried to use a card reader to finish the install but had no luck. Does anyone know how I can possibly get this thing running again?
Man my 16 pads plus stop and play buttons on my MC 909 doesn't work any more, but take all parts off is complicate they are tight and not sure if cleaning all parts fix the problem. Good video by the way.
This was a very informative video thank you. I opened it up to clean all or most sections. I thought I could fix buttons F2 or or F4, but they don’t work. Do you know the part I need to source for it? I don’t use twin beam buttons. Do you think I could use those buttons and swap them? If you have any link please let me know. Thanks.
I will check the service manual later today. I remember some seller on eBay, still up there, selling like a pack of switches in bag for MC 909. Kinda not standard height or something….
@@BMRStudio btw, I used general circuit board Isopropyl Alcohol. I did your instructions about letting to button soak when pressing or recessing the button, to let it leak in. Interestingly enough, those exact two buttons F2 and F4 had mild “rust color” on the microscopic sides. It didn’t look terrible, but I could definitely see that some type of oxidation was specifically on those two buttons. You recommend I use DeOxi? How should I treat or approach the procedure again, the exact same way? Let’s assume those two buttons are shot and need to be replaced, then should just open up the rubber part and deep clean inside with a magnifier using DeOxi? I figured the worst case scenario is I can swap two buttons from the machine that i never use! For me F2 User and F4 Effects are priority over everything 💪🏼.
Hi. love your vids :) I have a major problem with my 909 that hopefully you (or a next Jedi out there ;-)can help me with? It has started after playing a preset/user pattern, the machines timing slows down in the last bar.The screen then goes haywire and it rapidly cycles through virtually all the setting screens (patch,fx, lfo /filter settings etc, display reads" no sample "(erases all my samples ) keeps jumping to song mode and tries to write /copy and basically becomes unusable! I have factory reset and updated to v.1. 23 and replaced the 256 memory. .This first started when I was hooking up midi to a computer. I believe it's related to cc messages?? but in an unconnected midi state the machine will power up okay and seem stable then revert back to the screen cycling state!?? Have you ever come across this problem? or know how to resolve it I would appreciate info before I have to send it to Roland! !Thanks and keep sharing your quality knowledge :)
Afrer you did the Russian Bipolar capacitor hack on the main outputs , what piece of test equiptment did you use to view the new results?? Or did you just go by ear?. Peace.
Only hear. Super punchy and way more transparent. I was shocked. It's a pair of Russian audio capacitor, measured same capacity, head to head with negative pins.
@@BMRStudio i understand why the mod would work, its just i dont trust my ears that much, unless the difference is really obvious... if you had to have a visual representation of the before and after results would one of those DAW oscilloscopes work or would a DAW spectrum analyser be better? Cheers
@@andrewverran3498 DAW analyzers aren't good as real things. But 8-12 bit scopes never show you these kind of changes. Simply because the dynamic range... An Audio Precision unit maybe. Train Your ears. It's a 129 dB, approx 38 bit resolution multi array super microphone sophisticated instrument!
How did the fader 🎚 cleaner/lubricant work development work out? I just acquired my first MC-909 two days ago and I’m looking for the proper way to get the sliders back to 100% functionality and a smooth glide.
You need a thick, sticky silicon fat for the metallic slider part, and Contact Vaseline spray for the fader surface. But before, clean out with precision electronic cleaner, or, isopropanol alcohol. Turned out perfect :) Just bend some small plastic to reach the top slider element from inside. Apply everything thinly!
Hello, we talked with you in the comments of another of your videos, I have a couple of questions, I will be very grateful to you for any advice. So, my 909 is not loading, due to a faulty power supply, now it is repaired (+5v, +15v, -15v) The device does not load, a blank blue screen. I checked the voltage on the processors (IC1 SH-3/7706 128MHz on the main board and IC2 H8/3061 20MHz on the panel board), they are normal. I checked the frequency of the quartz resonators with an oscilloscope on the main board, the quartz are working and generate the correct frequency (X1 32.768 kHz and X2 16.000 MHz) BUT... when I started checking the frequency of quartz (X1 20.000MHz) on PANEL BOARD, I did not find anything, absolute silence!(( No frequency generation, no voltage (should be X1 20.000MHz). It turns out that the MAIN BOARD starts, but the PANEL BOARD does not start, the whole device does not start accordingly, are my thoughts correct? What advice can you give? Thank you for this video! Best regards, Andrey
Hi again , I just noticed that my MC505 has a ground pin on the 3 pin power connect but my MC909 is missing the ground pin on the chassis? Any idea why ? You are the man to ask . Any chance you are also into 27mhz ssb CB radio or Amateur radio ?? Cheers
Check the schematics. I don't remember where, but Roland changed the ground location when then increasedthe numbers of the pcb layers. Plus they went more efficient power supply. About the radio, ask W2aW. He is real master of this.
@BMRStudio I found the electrolytic mod you did on the main outputs of the MC909 very interesting, especially when I noticed the missing earth pin on the power socket..I have no idea whether there is a connection as it is beyond my knowledge..just an observation.
@@andrewverran3498 it's a Russian bipolar capacitor hack. Actually after the mod, sounds super good! More transparent and linear at lowend and mid frequencies. After that, I modded almost all of my synts.
@BMRStudio so you mean the transistor you replaced was possiblly due to a powered input and wasnt related to the ectrolytics , and the Bipolar electrolytic modification you then performed on all you're synths / equipment that had a main stereo output? Cheers.
Question for you BMR STudio? Why do you think they went with graphite or carbon as a contact for the velocity pads? I mean I just re did mine today with a circuit writer pen but it was extremely difficult to do. After I was done I was thinking couldn't I just buy a sheet of thin silver and cut out the shapes needed and then epoxy or superglue to the pads?
I wanted to say that this is what I used to fix completely dead velocity pads store.caig.com/s.nl/sc.2/category.174/.f you will need to clean the circuit board and the pads with goof off or some other strong cleaner I also used an eraser that worked well and then dab the circuit writer stuff on , its not easy you will have to stiple the circuit writer stuff to spread it evenly, don't worry if it looks a lil pooled up it will dry perfectly flat and let dry for several hours before testing
This pads are looking exactly carbon - metal film compound pads. But they are extremely hardened, so I was wondering how can be loose on Your pcb. You can try the superglue, but I think You just will mess up the pcb. Superglue has a really bad behavior on glassfiber. Silver also not a best choice, because is soft and it's oxidizing fast. Maybe someone already did a pad repairs. Check the forums. I saw onetime a small screen printing method with some special ink. All the pads are similar, so You can do one printer negative. Or, maybe conductive pen in a plotter machine? Anyway is an interesting problem what You have, and Yes I know is difficult to repair. I will look for some smart cheap solution.
this for the pads: www.ebay.com/itm/REMOTE-CONTROL-REPAIR-KIT-CONDUCTIVE-RUBBER-KEYPAD-FIX-TV-DVD-ALARM-FOB-PHONE-/232223466308 use a print negative. and this for the rubber keys: www.ebay.com/itm/REMOTE-CONTROL-REPAIR-KIT-CONDUCTIVE-RUBBER-KEYPAD-FIX-TV-DVD-ALARM-FOB-PHONE-/171656481000 for that just use a fine brush or small injector pin wit cutted end.
Aaah just read this quote on silver Because even when tarnished, silver has superior electrical conductivity, it is used in some electrical and electronic products, notably high quality connectors for RF, VHF, and higher frequencies, particularly in tuned circuits such as cavity filters where conductors cannot be scaled by more than 6%. Printed circuits and RFID antennas are made with silver paints,[5][61] and computer keyboards use silver electrical contacts. Silver cadmium oxide is used in high-voltage contacts because it withstands arcing.
so the silver seems to be a better choice than carbon, if you think about the banging that the pads get just knocks the carbon loose thus losing the its conductivity. Carbon is just a cheap way to go for manufacturers.
Hi there! I've got a silly question, how can I remove the knobs on the MC 909, recently bought one of these, but unfortunelly, because of a fire, a few knobs and buttons melted. It seems that the electronics works fine, but need to replace those knobs. Tried to pulled off, but they don't come easilly. So what's the trick? This resistance is normal and just need to pull harder? Thanks in advance! Great video.
Fire? :))) Wow! Pure MC... Well, in this case, try this trick: buy a simple, harder, narrow spatula tool, cut out a 15 mm long and 9 mm wide section in the middle, smooth the edges with sandpaper, glue a piece of paper on the bottom to protect the MC surface,, then just push under the knobs and lift it up. Not easy to remove the knobs even originally... But after fire... :) Good luck!
@@BMRStudio thanks I'm going to try it. And got to say, this MC 909 it´s a freaking tank, All the jacks and connection in the backpannel melted too, in some cases just re-openned the jacks gently with a drill and work just fine, the midi connections need to be replaced to a new ones, but hey, I don´t know many electronic machines that survived a fire and turns on like never happened, and now my mc 909 looks with so much attitude :) Thanks again and greetings from Guadalajara México.
Hello, how dificult do you think is to exchange the screen? Mine basically burned out... do you think is expensive or it needs technical support from manufacter? thank you!
actually its not burned out, the screen is tottally blue, it normally starts ok , then the letters start to blink and simply is blue, but working well...
The screen replacement part is exist on the internet with other number. I will do a research for You to find it. Time to time is popping up on eBay for around 50 USD. To replace is nothing, just open, few screws and disconnect the cable.
Another question for you. I have been using headphones since I fixed my 909 sounds great. But when I hooked it up to the mixer to play out to my monitors the volume is very low. I have it maxed while all my other gear is barely a quarter of the way up. So do you think adding the bigger capacitors like you did in the end will help and what size caps did you use?
ZipSnipe Check the signal levels. Maybe You have an issue with the same mute circuit in the MC 909 like Me! Or, check the ouput level settings in the main menu. also in the main setup menu try out the other output as main mix output. The caps are not bigger.... they now in bipolar configuration dude :) that's why doubled the capacity because they connected in serial with negative to negative. Sounds fantastic! Russian high quality caps :)
what happened with the SMC slot when it not recognize or respond when inserting a card with the update or the system? it is like a thorn in the ass when loose the program system in the rom. HELP! please...
@@yanickborg3118 smart media bus is a weirdo thing. Even the file system too. I did try to make a arduino library and drive the 3.3V pins. Failed. Then I found an old chip which had CF and SM bus too, but unfortunately the integrated muxer doesn't have have two directions capability between the ports, only towards the bus. Meh... Someone will do some Raspberry thing for it. I hope. Ah, and the SM controller inside is also a weirdo Roland thingy...
@@BMRStudio Well, I've gotten one of those adaptors, XD to smartmedia. Seems to like the M type 128Mb XD in USB mode. However, am getting "Memory Damaged!" errors, but only when attempting to import SMF midi files into a pattern.
It works on 110 and 230 volt so plug it in anywere you want, regardless what the stickers says. I've got 2 MC909's. One with 117V sticker and one with 230V sticker, tested both on every way without any problems.
@@jonathanstel5394 Thank you, that's great, but maybe your 117V MC-909 has a Euro / 230V PSU inside. The PSU in my (former) MC-909 is marked for 100V, and the capacitors on it are rated below 230V, so they might blow up if plugged in.
That's strange, i've opened up both and they have the same power supply, it gives always the same output, ~ regardless the input a1du2l3b034 is the nummer on it. I just took the gamble :)
Hello! I have a mc909 that in audio output, both from the headphones and from the mix outputs you can hear the totally distorted sound, I tried to do a factory reset but the problem remains, have you already experienced a similar defect?
Eric- K not similar, but You must download the service manual from the video description. The problem will be around the main channel DAC, or the first op-amp, or the muting transistor. This You can find in the last section of the video.
No the transistor is ok, it opens and closes and no short circuit, I suspect it is the AK4527B codec, the sound is really bad, as if it had entered overdrive mode
Thank you Sir u just gave me hope as I know just the repair man!!8D and u also saved me from having to save up plenty €£$ to be a test pilot for the new pioneer toriaz sp16 or octatrak!!lol Do you have more Jedi knowledge of the 909?particularly the file system area svd files!? I bought 909 and a 808 couple of years back and started customising/upgrading the file structure > < !. It was a challenge with plenty of down time working it all out but succeeded in the end! I have the Roland integra data and want to see if I can customise the 909 XV engine via the integras from some smart media cards!! IF it can survive the repairman surgery firstly! Thankyou and have good evening.
First, You have to check the conductivity of the black contact pads on the pcb, and on the rubber keys. Find the trace, or jumper point and check it. bip-bip :) Then, clean it with 91% Isopropyl alcohol. Do not apply too much, on the tip! Drying time can be 12 Hour. Let Me know where You arrived.
I'm needing some more of your Jedi knowledge if possible? ? I have some Blue sky media desk 2.1 active speakers that have developed a problem! They have operated trouble free for a long time,but I accidentally ran over a cable with my vacuum cleaner recently .The cable was connected from the headphone socket of my groove box to the rca input socket of the blue sky active subwoofer! What happens now when I switch on the system is it will play fine for about 15 minutes then the right channel will suddenly stop working! !?? .If I switch the speaker system off for approximately half an hour and then back on it will start playing again correctly! !....also sometimes when I have music going through the system I can hear the right channel beginning to fade ,if I turn the volume pot rapidly on the gbox all the way up and down the channel will start working again for a short while longer then stop working! have you ever come across this problem before .??.or do you have knowledge of a solution for a fix I may be able to undertake? ?? Thank you sir
mr WYN mr WYN The force is with You :) just simple replace the input coupler capacitors in the speaker system. To some normal Panasonic or Nichicon. You overdriven the inputs with headphone level :) or electrostatic discharge from the vacuum cleaner.
mr WYN The force is with You :) just simple replace the input coupler capacitors in the speaker system. To some normal Panasonic or Nichicon. You overdriven the inputs with headphone level :) or electrostatic discharge from the vacuum cleaner.
Hi I've just switched on my 909 and it has a fault! When it boots up and is stuck on a user pattern screen and ALL other functions will not operate or respond .Do you have any suggestions that could be causing the problem it was working ok the day before !??Thanks
I have tried but cannot enter any other screens ,it boots up to user 003 and has track 3,7,13 lit on the part select buttons also keypad 8 ,12 are lit!! Also the edit button in the sampler section is lit!! Any of your knowledge would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
BMR Studio I forgot to mention it loads the memory card at bootup stage. It's the latest firmware installed , I'm in England ...are the other faults u mentioned fixable by Roland or similar ??again thanks for your JEDI knowledge 😎
Hello and thanks for this video. I recently bought a mc909 and I was planning to replace or fix some of the buttons that doesn't work properly, so this video Couple of years back I found an Octapad PAD 80, fantastic machine; I replace all the contact mics but there is still an issue with the memory and it's not exactly the internal battery. I will appreciate if I could get in contact with you and maybe you can help me to get the schematics for this one or give me some advice. Br, Rolando
Rolando Camilo Hi. For Octapad I don't have schematics. but, the problem is in the memory chips I'am 80% sure. other can be the bus voltage level, or the digital power supply. Start there first. check the voltages and the rise-fall egdes with high speed scope.
Hey Mr BMR , can you tell me the Uf values of the Electrolytics you used in the Russiian Bipolar Cap Hack ? Rubicon THANK YOU VERY MUCH..LOL. much appreciated. ✌️ 🇦🇺 🪃 🇦🇺 😊
@@andrewverran3498 spectrum analyzer will not show you nothing. Only scope, or distortion measurements. Just drive out a simple sinusoidal tone on different frequencies, on max power, and see.
Hi....i have my mc 909 master tuned to 432.0hz,This is how the frequency I work at...my question is..if I resample a track made soley from 909 presets within the 909..whilst it's tuned to 32hz ...does the audio sample become a 32hz file or is it 440hz file with 32hz data on it??? Also if I sample from mix in bus whilst tuned to 32hz...is that a 440hz sample file??? Hope I've explained clearly.? Thanks
The master tune is a 32 bit, but not floating point divider variable in the multi sampling DSP engine. But, all outputs, and the final conversion is follows the master sample rate. So, If You created a 32 Hz (instead of 32.11 C1 equal-tempered on A4-432, or 32.70 on normal A4-440, equal-tempered C1) sound, it will recorded and played as 32 Hz. The weird thing is this: The basic samples in the Roland MC-909 are 440 Hz based, so the artifacts are coming more frequently, as You go up on the scale. So, the output sampler and dither algorithm doesn't care Your tuning :) it will be 32Hz Trap: 32 Hz on 44.1Khz sample rate = 1,378.125 samples! So you need at least 8, 16, 32, 64 full circle, the get full periods!
@@BMRStudio thanks but you list me a bit on the last paragraph !! To explain another way ,it is basically able to downsample internally to different rates (any theoretically) but will always be output from the 909 at 440khz...if I'm understanding correctly!? Thanks again
@@BMRStudio sorry I meant to type 44.1 .... But I understand now!!...what I was wondering is if could create 32hz files on the 909 and send them via digital out to another sampler and keep that 32hz....at 32hz during the data transfer without it passing through the converters and it have it's sample rate altered!!thanks.... Did you ever manage to see if it was possible to achieve the copying of the individual tones of the Srx board....as asked in earlier post!!?thanksagain
Hello, I have a problem with my Roland MC-909. It doesn't start, it stays fixed on the initial roland screen, I can't do anything, just reload the system from smart media, which works fine, but it doesn't start. What could it be?
I had already measured all the capacitors and the voltages are correct. I also replaced the flash and reloaded the firmware via the smart media, but it still doesn't start. Also replace the RAM. I'm afraid it's the ic1 processor
vctr hmmmmmmmmm.... download the service manual from the video description, take to the part, and build back again based on the assembly diagram. Then we will go forward. I have a guess, but You need to do this step.
I also noticed on the mc 909 they have switched from the lil square buttons to round ones on the circuit board. The square ones are used in sp808,606's. The buttons have a life of 50000 presses give or take. Don't know what the spec is on the lil round ones, hopefully more
ZipSnipe I hate roland switches :))))) one of the most unstable switches in My life. 50k press is nothing for a switch under my hand. hmmm maybe I press them too much? or Roland not doing a proper design for big heavy hungarian palm and fingers? switches, Made in japan.. My palm is made in hungary. Thanks for watching!
I wanted to correct myself they are actually 100k presses or mechanical cycles and here is the link www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/P8071STB-ND/P8071STB-ND/259524
Ok the above is for the sp-606 and 808 tactile switches. For the mc 909 the life cycle is 500k presses so they did improve the switch and they can be found here www.mouser.com/ALPS/Electromechanical/Switches/Tactile-Switches/_/N-5g2m?No=75&P=1z0zlgm there are several different ones that vary in height and the amount of pressure you will need to measure in MM to get close to the right one.
I'll definitely watch it. This type of videos gives me the courage to repair my stuff. Groove boxes(music production workstations) always have complex and dense circuits. I have a Korg Electribe EMX-1, it had a problem, when i push my finger on the ribbon the display shows every parameter changing randomly, then I decided to fix that, it has 3 layer of boards , I putted a sheet of paper between the boards and problem is gone.
:) sometime, the most cheapest solutions work as the best :) Good idea! Share it! I just think on buy a dead Electribe collection. Then build a Korg Electribe monster with more controlls and bigger display, bigger pots, 49 key keyboard. One time I will do :) The best thing about repair Your own stuffs, it's a kind of fun, and good for the planet.
Cola? :) beer? clean first, then check the scematics. Link in the description. Roland quality scematics, all parts are marked, and You have enough space to do basic measurements.
no, never spilled any wet item.bought it since 2006, and use it untill now. im not used to any components, i scared if i open it, everything will be broken..
fuckartletsfart well... then bring it to some service. bring them the service notes. The problem will be around the IC20 pin 1, 2, or the pullup RA12 resistor block, or some corrosion exactly around this area.
If u know any sites or vids explaining the data area of the 909 I would greatly appreciate the knowledge! ! ive searched hi and low but cant find any explanations!! if I manage to achieve it I will send you the details so u can make a fantastic video of how 909 users can upgrade their machine as if it on STERIODS! !! Happy DAYS a cometh!! Thank you! :)
Far as I know, there is nothing new released for the 909. The latest upgrade is the 1.23. Here is the link for the usefull editor, and for the upgrades. www.roland.com/us/support/by_product/mc-909/updates_drivers/ But ok, let's do some video on that :)
Also I bought some pads a couple of years back and paid £16 (web-link below )also they send you a strip with only eight pads on so you need to order x2 if you want to replace all the pads! the downside is the coming from China and expect weeks before delivery !!
@@BMRStudio $450.00 @ guitar center in Richmond Va. Waiting on it being shipped to Miami now. The merchant said it was in very good condition. We will pray it really is. Thanks brother... Miami305 💯👍🥁🎶
What cleaning products did you use ,and what lubricants are good for the controls. You have the best video on the 909 out there thanks for opening it up I thought it would be more complicated but its really straight forward... Miami305
Daniel Brittenham/ DaDannyBoy carbon switches (velocity pads), just clean Isopropyl Alcohol Potentiometer surface: non lubricant contact cleaner, then Vaseline spray. Potentiometer top slider surface: silicon grease (high viscosity) , Switches : WD-40 or contact cleaner with thin lubricant. Jacks: same as the switches The musician: Beer or Red-bull The crowd: Vodka with Red-Bull
If You believe or not, now I just looking for that :)))) I think is possible. Fortunaly the MC uses pin to pin parallel connection inside, so I think we can solder some other controller on that. Let me finish this hack, then off course I will do a video.
it uses SRX cards - this is very costly and old technology - lastly, SRX card are no longer made. The flash card again is old not supported tech when SD are standard. This product is currently being sold new.
Thank you for this very enjoyable journey. I have just acquired a very well used one here in New Zealand.The first two pads don't work and the last two sliders in the mixer section seem to move together? That's about it so I will dive in and start cleaning. Nice video...all the best. You can have a look here hopefully for a bit of a laugh. I hope I can get the paint off...haha www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=1100245306
Thank You for the nice comment :) I hope the best with Your 909! The cleaning will help I'am sure! But... The pads and the sliders are working on different chips. I assume some kind of dirt and maybe some voltage reference issue. Check the voltages, and do a soft cleaning, only with pure alcohol. Use a realy soft buds. The carbon film are so sensitive. Update Us, how is going after the cleaning :)
Hey! I never charge for nobody. But the task is super simple. Any good electronic repair shop can do it. Currently I'm super busy with other projects, around mid Januar- mid Februar I can help you.
Hi. love your vids :) I have a major problem with my 909 that hopefully you (or a next Jedi out there ;-)can help me with? It has started after playing a preset/user pattern, the machines timing slows down in the last bar.The screen then goes haywire and it rapidly cycles through virtually all the setting screens (patch,fx, lfo /filter settings etc, display reads" no sample "(erases all my samples ) keeps jumping to song mode and tries to write /copy and basically becomes unusable! I have factory reset and updated to v.1. 23 and replaced the 256 memory. .This first started when I was hooking up midi to a computer. I believe it's related to cc messages?? but in an unconnected midi state the machine will power up okay and seem stable then revert back to the screen cycling state!?? Have you ever come across this problem? or know how to resolve it I would appreciate info before I have to send it to Roland! !Thanks and keep sharing your quality knowledge :)
mr WYN Show to some monk. The devil is inside :) Or, first check visually the pcb-s. Can be oxidation issue after some fluid. Second what can be, is dead capacitors on the power unit, main pcb, and - or on the user interface board. Go with that to some notebook service or to some high level TV service. will cost around 100 USD to repair.
Also I bought some pads a couple of years back and paid £16 (web-link below )also they send you a strip with only eight pads on so you need to order x2 if you want to replace all the pads! the downside is the coming from China and expect weeks before delivery !!
I don't own an MC-909 but still love this video because it is very informative in general. The way how an analog filtering solution is used to smooth out data input complications is a real information gem. It proves that the whole digital versus analog discussion is basically nonsense. There are no pure digital solutions. The best technology always uses a mix of both technologies. Thanks for the insights!
This has to be one of the most informative mc909 videos I've watched ! Thank you !
Thank You for watching!
Just wanted to leave a comment that your tips worked. Resurrected my old mc 307 box after a decade. Thank you for your advice.
Very nice and generous of you to do this. I love your sense of humor. Very clear explanation.
Hi! Thank You:) Sense of humor? Hmmm Iam fully amateaur on that :)
Vert good video by a very experienced technician. I also remove the rubber button membrane and soak/ clean it in a mild degreaser like palmolive dish soap. Let it soak for an hour then rinse it thoroughly. I also covered the switching power supply in a faraday cover with copper tape and relocated it off the board. This pcb board is very thin so the slightest flex could fracture the print or a solder joint. You should perform the self test routine before and after dismantling it.
What's is the procedure for doing the check on the 909? Thanks
The best of these MC-909 teardowns I've seen yet! Thanks for this. Nice German club music also at the end ;)
Very Interesting! You are great Engineer, and your comments are very valuable.
布施智行 Thank You! I'am not an engineer, just a simple hobbist.
@BMRStudio you are a lot smarter than a hobbyists...don't be so moddest...😊
excellent. i love circuitry. thanks for posting
Awesome upload. I'm back with my groovebox after 8 years, thank you. I am inspired to get back in there once again. i have list of problems to fix, last time i was in there, I think i cleaned what little carbon that was left off the back of all the pads, it made them worse I have a paint-on product to try and my attempt to clean the sliders did nothing. I recall i did fix a solder issue on the rotary encoder, but lost the transport functions. I rely on midi to get any use out of it. Just watched the Don Solaris sample pack. Also enjoying your other tutorials. Namaste
Pads you can get it on ebay for about 5-20$. Encoder is a standard encoder, last time I got it from RS online.
@@BMRStudio Hi, i have never been able to source pads on ebay. they are no longer available
@@Skookumshroom There is a carbon painter stick. 5 dollar. Apply 3-6 layer with 5 minute delay! It will do the trick. I repaired many Access Virus KA with this method.
@@Skookumshroom www.amazon.com/Keypad-Restore-Conductivity-Carbon-Copper/dp/B0026PRMVM/ref=pd_bxgy_img_2/146-9883006-8518953?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0026PRMVM&pd_rd_r=4b5153f0-a5f2-479a-afc0-5f7843fbc233&pd_rd_w=LapCY&pd_rd_wg=GBscC&pf_rd_p=4e3f7fc3-00c8-46a6-a4db-8457e6319578&pf_rd_r=TEN7MDM135S9TJ60K5WM&psc=1&refRID=TEN7MDM135S9TJ60K5WM
@@BMRStudio this is exactly the stuff I have to fix my pads I mentioned in my first post. Awesome to hear you have had good experience with it. Thanks man :)
Thank you for this detailed explained, very professional!
Thank you so much for this great video! I purchased an MC 909 that needs new velocity pads and will use this video to help me change them.
+Eric Calcano You are welcome :) New pads? What a lucky You are :) Where You bought it? I don't have a problem with My, but there is a folks here, who maybe need this information. Please share with Us!
Velocity pads are now the rarest part of the mc 909, it actually pisses me off that it is so hard to find pads. If anyone has clue let us know
syntaur.com/Items.asp?Item=3158
are you saying you have them in now? site stills says out of stock?
+ZipSnipe
hi I was just letting you know where I got my replacement pads from! as you were trying to source some! thanks
Those system presets are why i recently paid 400 pounds for one of these. The sounds are awesome!!! Early trance machine! Nothing touches it for this genre
Ibiza Sunset is a particularly amazing and euphoric pattern. To say that in 2018 really is something. Being a massive early trance fanatic myself if I had of heard this demo in 2002 when the machine was released I'd have been gobsmacked! Other machines just sounded like straight up CHEESE, (Yamaha *cough*) this actually sounded similar to any trance release between 1998 to 2002 and beyond if you include Euro trance. Just lush. Can't wait to receive mine!
thank you so much for this video! .. i learned so much... unfortunately my mc909 reboots randomly after a few minutes, and I cant find the cause for this... maybe someone knows this issue?
@29:41: I tried your method to clean switches. Usually I replace bad switches, but just tried it with Isopropanol on an old Atari ST mouse. Also pushed the buttons to suck the alcohol in and after drying it works much better. :-) It was an almost non working switch. Thx and greets from Berlin :-)
Da Paul berlin? Nice :) Maybe You can come over here and help Me to build a new studio...
apply after a tiny bit of WD 40. Then will be the best result.
I would like to come to help with building your new studio. :) Did you got my PM?
Let me check
Hi how much would a new screen cost for this and is it easy to install
Hit me up I have one selling uk😎
@@wynstone7283 how much
@@wynstone7283 hi are you still selling the screen ?
Hi BMR Studio, the RPS button on my MC-909 is not working. I just took it apart and soldered in a brand new tact switch. Still does not work. Do you know what the problem could be?
Thank you a lot for this video. I just have a not working MC-909 sitting on my desk. The label on the back says it is made for 117V but not sure if the power supply was changed to a 220V prior it was switched on the first time. When looking at the service manual I do not even see that there are different versions of the power Supply.
Thanks I cleaned the board and everything is back on track. ...happy days;-)
Happy 909 days! I suggest to everybody to open and clean the board. IS a really dust and bug collector. Pioneer CdJ-s more clever on how to isolate the user interface from the electronics. Roland never thinking on heavy club usage.
Have a 909 in my attic, cool video thanks.
@@That_Guy_In_The_Sky get the dust off, clean it, and play with it! It’s a monster masterpiece!
beszartam az akcentuson (meglepődtem igazából), nagyon király videó, köszi!!
most már ki merem takarítani a gépeim
/// Neszarjá...be :)))) Köszi a figyelmet!
I have my MC-909 in storage and I am worried about servicing a memory battery. I didn’t see one throughout the video, is there one?
Great video!
What to use to clean the pitchfader?
Mariusz Wnuk First step: WD40, then dry Contact Cleaner, then Contact Cleaner with Vaseline. This is the best combination for long faders. Cheers!
hello i bought a mc 909 with missing start stop and cue buttons ,i send it to roland for repair and they dont have spare parts and now they send it back pff ...do you know where it can be repaired please grtz olivier
I'd it ok to use canned compressed air once the tactile button is soaked with alcohol? A light little blast of air?
Peace
Hi,
nice video! I am about to purchase a used MC 909, japan version (110v). I have a question, is it true that i can change the imput voltage (110v,220,240v) from the internal "Service Utility" (MENU - SYSTEM - SYSTEM INFO - [SHIFT 1-7-8-9] - Service Utility - Voltage) menu? Because i live in Italy and we have 220v while in Japan is 110v...Thanks
Im trying to remove the knobs so I can clean the plastic squares because some do not make contact. Do I need to pull harder on the plastic knobs to remove them?
Means someone already broke them, and glued to the shafts…
Yepp, pull it with a U shape flat lever, put some towel under the lever..
Those pots are replaceable, with Mouser Alps pots.
Cheap.
I keep referring to this video, i recently purchased a second hand MC505, the RPS button would take about 8 presses before it would illuminate, i couldnt be bothered pulling it apart so i sprayed a little CRC226 electronic cleaner around the button and gave it a few bursts of canned compressed air, it did the job... my question is when you cleaned the MC909s tactile buttons with isoprop and a cotton bud is there a reason why you didnt use a little contact cleaner/lubricant after the isoprop?
Much appreciated.
Peace from OZ
Any chemical on those contacts will damage the silicone rubber pads and the special carbon layer. That's why.
@BMRStudio thanks very much...I had better open it up and do it how you suggest...
Much appreciated.
Peace from oz
I really do like these but their mechanical reliability (buttons, knobs, faders etc) is pretty sketchy. That's kinda what put me off them and turned my attention to the Korg Electribe EMX 1 and ESX 1 boxes, and a mixer instead. This Groovebox was always the ultimate in the Roland family though, in my opinion.
Thank you for making this video and sharing all those insights..
+Laurence Vanhelsuwe Thank You :) You welcome :9 I think the best part is the keyboard-soup :))))
+BMR Studio Only if you assume that the soup was Coca-Cola-based. By the way.. how much do you charge to clean a 909 the way you did? I am looking to buy one in the near future..
If You living close to Berlin, nothing :))) Just come and left here for couple of days. If You living somewhere else, just the shipment costs. I like to clean and maintenance those old Roland gears. Its a bit of fun :)
+BMR Studio Can you mail me your e-mail address (mine is info followed by softwarepearls.com)? I will definitely take up your offer, if I ever lay my hands on a MC-909. I have been looking to buy one for the past 4 months :-S
Good luck for hunting :) Inform Me, if You got it, then we can arrange the cleaning and small repairs. Now I working on the perfect fader cleaner and lubricate chemical mixture for Roland gears :))) Kind of rocket science!
Közben megnéztem pár videódat és rájöttem, hogy honnan volt ismerős az akcentus :D Ismersz még esetleg másokat is akik Mc-909-est használnak kis hazánkban ? További kellemes napot :)
+Nord72 :) Heheh :) Nem Magyarországon élek :) De ismerek párat. a menemszol.hu weboldal tele van ilyen emberkékkel. De egy két nagy DJ is használta amikor még én is a pult mögött ugráltam.
Hello to you over there , do you have any MC 909 for sale ? Thank you
Ademar Mello I will never sell My MC 909!
But is always pop up on the German Ebay around 400-900 Eur. Check also the Ebay Kleinanzeigen website!
I know, this will take time...
I wish You good hunting!
Excellent tear down and entertaining video!
THX! You welcome!
I'm having an intermittent boot problem with mine. It appears to load it's OS, but freezes, at Pattern mode. Usually takes a couple of restarts before it loads properly and then works fine. Any explanation for this? I've pulled out the extra memory and updated the OS to 1.23 and still has the problem. This is a fantastic tear down. I wish there were tear downs like this for all the gear I own. Very nice!
Looks to me, You have some memory error, or clock issues. Check the power brick and all regulator circuits first! Look for dead caps! THX for watching :)
hi there i need to service my beloved 909 i used soo much that few buttons dont work (pad 1-2-3 and play and stop) where r you located?
Tek Rah Berlin . You can send by post, then I will do a new video :)
Very good well explained amazing machine!
Thank You for the review :) You know I also check all of Your nee uploads? You did a great work on ambient musics! I like it! Keep going :)
Hey everyone! I’m hoping someone can help out. I found 909 yesterday, brought it home and everything was fine. It had ver. 1.10 on it. I tried to update to ver. 1.23 and got a fatal error no program in rom message. I tried to use a card reader to finish the install but had no luck. Does anyone know how I can possibly get this thing running again?
Man my 16 pads plus stop and play buttons on my MC 909 doesn't work any more, but take all parts off is complicate they are tight and not sure if cleaning all parts fix the problem. Good video by the way.
This was a very informative video thank you. I opened it up to clean all or most sections. I thought I could fix buttons F2 or or F4, but they don’t work. Do you know the part I need to source for it? I don’t use twin beam buttons. Do you think I could use those buttons and swap them? If you have any link please let me know. Thanks.
I will check the service manual later today.
I remember some seller on eBay, still up there, selling like a pack of switches in bag for MC 909. Kinda not standard height or something….
Try DeOxi! If not working, can be a diode on this key matrix part.
@@BMRStudio btw, I used general circuit board Isopropyl Alcohol. I did your instructions about letting to button soak when pressing or recessing the button, to let it leak in. Interestingly enough, those exact two buttons F2 and F4 had mild “rust color” on the microscopic sides. It didn’t look terrible, but I could definitely see that some type of oxidation was specifically on those two buttons. You recommend I use DeOxi? How should I treat or approach the procedure again, the exact same way? Let’s assume those two buttons are shot and need to be replaced, then should just open up the rubber part and deep clean inside with a magnifier using DeOxi? I figured the worst case scenario is I can swap two buttons from the machine that i never use! For me F2 User and F4 Effects are priority over everything 💪🏼.
@@BMRStudio BRO!!!! I cleaned it thoroughly with Deoxit! The buttons work!!! You’re a genius. Thnk you so much man
Hi.
love your vids :)
I have a major problem with my 909 that hopefully you (or a next Jedi out there ;-)can help me with?
It has started after playing a preset/user pattern, the machines timing slows down in the last bar.The screen then goes haywire and it rapidly cycles through virtually all the setting screens (patch,fx, lfo /filter settings etc, display reads" no sample "(erases all my samples )
keeps jumping to song mode and tries to write /copy and basically becomes unusable!
I have factory reset and updated to v.1. 23 and replaced the 256 memory. .This first started when I was hooking up midi to a computer.
I believe it's related to cc messages?? but in an unconnected midi state the machine will power up okay and seem stable then revert back to the screen cycling state!??
Have you ever come across this problem? or know how to resolve it I would appreciate info before I have to send it to Roland! !Thanks and keep sharing your quality knowledge :)
Afrer you did the Russian Bipolar capacitor hack on the main outputs , what piece of test equiptment did you use to view the new results?? Or did you just go by ear?.
Peace.
Only hear. Super punchy and way more transparent. I was shocked. It's a pair of Russian audio capacitor, measured same capacity, head to head with negative pins.
@@BMRStudio i understand why the mod would work, its just i dont trust my ears that much, unless the difference is really obvious... if you had to have a visual representation of the before and after results would one of those DAW oscilloscopes work or would a DAW spectrum analyser be better?
Cheers
@@andrewverran3498 DAW analyzers aren't good as real things. But 8-12 bit scopes never show you these kind of changes. Simply because the dynamic range... An Audio Precision unit maybe. Train Your ears. It's a 129 dB, approx 38 bit resolution multi array super microphone sophisticated instrument!
@BMRStudio yes but 15years of club DJing hasn't done them much good.
How did the fader 🎚 cleaner/lubricant work development work out? I just acquired my first MC-909 two days ago and I’m looking for the proper way to get the sliders back to 100% functionality and a smooth glide.
You need a thick, sticky silicon fat for the metallic slider part, and Contact Vaseline spray for the fader surface. But before, clean out with precision electronic cleaner, or, isopropanol alcohol. Turned out perfect :) Just bend some small plastic to reach the top slider element from inside. Apply everything thinly!
Hello, we talked with you in the comments of another of your videos, I have a couple of questions, I will be very grateful to you for any advice. So, my 909 is not loading, due to a faulty power supply, now it is repaired (+5v, +15v, -15v) The device does not load, a blank blue screen. I checked the voltage on the processors (IC1 SH-3/7706 128MHz on the main board and IC2 H8/3061 20MHz on the panel board), they are normal. I checked the frequency of the quartz resonators with an oscilloscope on the main board, the quartz are working and generate the correct frequency (X1 32.768 kHz and X2 16.000 MHz) BUT... when I started checking the frequency of quartz (X1 20.000MHz) on PANEL BOARD, I did not find anything, absolute silence!(( No frequency generation, no voltage (should be X1 20.000MHz). It turns out that the MAIN BOARD starts, but the PANEL BOARD does not start, the whole device does not start accordingly, are my thoughts correct? What advice can you give? Thank you for this video! Best regards, Andrey
Is there a possibility to mod the memory card into a cf card and can handle 2 or more gb?
I did try an chinesse MC to SD adapter. No success. I will update You guys, when I find something.
Hi again , I just noticed that my MC505 has a ground pin on the 3 pin power connect but my MC909 is missing the ground pin on the chassis?
Any idea why ? You are the man to ask .
Any chance you are also into 27mhz ssb CB radio or Amateur radio ??
Cheers
Check the schematics. I don't remember where, but Roland changed the ground location when then increasedthe numbers of the pcb layers. Plus they went more efficient power supply. About the radio, ask W2aW. He is real master of this.
@BMRStudio I found the electrolytic mod you did on the main outputs of the MC909 very interesting, especially when I noticed the missing earth pin on the power socket..I have no idea whether there is a connection as it is beyond my knowledge..just an observation.
@@andrewverran3498 it's a Russian bipolar capacitor hack. Actually after the mod, sounds super good! More transparent and linear at lowend and mid frequencies. After that, I modded almost all of my synts.
@BMRStudio so you mean the transistor you replaced was possiblly due to a powered input and wasnt related to the ectrolytics , and the Bipolar electrolytic modification you then performed on all you're synths / equipment that had a main stereo output?
Cheers.
@@andrewverran3498 yes. All output. All synts.
Question for you BMR STudio? Why do you think they went with graphite or carbon as a contact for the velocity pads?
I mean I just re did mine today with a circuit writer pen but it was extremely difficult to do. After I was done I was thinking couldn't I just buy a sheet of thin silver and cut out the shapes needed and then epoxy or superglue to the pads?
I wanted to say that this is what I used to fix completely dead velocity pads store.caig.com/s.nl/sc.2/category.174/.f
you will need to clean the circuit board and the pads with goof off or some other strong cleaner I also used an eraser that worked well and then dab the circuit writer stuff on , its not easy you will have to stiple the circuit writer stuff to spread it evenly, don't worry if it looks a lil pooled up it will dry perfectly flat and let dry for several hours before testing
This pads are looking exactly carbon - metal film compound pads. But they are extremely hardened, so I was wondering how can be loose on Your pcb. You can try the superglue, but I think You just will mess up the pcb. Superglue has a really bad behavior on glassfiber. Silver also not a best choice, because is soft and it's oxidizing fast. Maybe someone already did a pad repairs. Check the forums. I saw onetime a small screen printing method with some special ink. All the pads are similar, so You can do one printer negative. Or, maybe conductive pen in a plotter machine? Anyway is an interesting problem what You have, and Yes I know is difficult to repair. I will look for some smart cheap solution.
this for the pads: www.ebay.com/itm/REMOTE-CONTROL-REPAIR-KIT-CONDUCTIVE-RUBBER-KEYPAD-FIX-TV-DVD-ALARM-FOB-PHONE-/232223466308
use a print negative.
and this for the rubber keys:
www.ebay.com/itm/REMOTE-CONTROL-REPAIR-KIT-CONDUCTIVE-RUBBER-KEYPAD-FIX-TV-DVD-ALARM-FOB-PHONE-/171656481000
for that just use a fine brush or small injector pin wit cutted end.
Aaah just read this quote on silver
Because even when tarnished, silver has superior electrical
conductivity, it is used in some electrical and electronic products,
notably high quality connectors for RF, VHF, and higher frequencies, particularly in tuned circuits such as cavity filters where conductors cannot be scaled by more than 6%. Printed circuits and RFID antennas are made with silver paints,[5][61]
and computer keyboards use silver electrical contacts. Silver cadmium
oxide is used in high-voltage contacts because it withstands arcing.
so the silver seems to be a better choice than carbon, if you think about the banging that the pads get just knocks the carbon loose thus losing the its conductivity. Carbon is just a cheap way to go for manufacturers.
Hi there! I've got a silly question, how can I remove the knobs on the MC 909, recently bought one of these, but unfortunelly, because of a fire, a few knobs and buttons melted. It seems that the electronics works fine, but need to replace those knobs. Tried to pulled off, but they don't come easilly. So what's the trick? This resistance is normal and just need to pull harder?
Thanks in advance! Great video.
Fire? :))) Wow! Pure MC... Well, in this case, try this trick: buy a simple, harder, narrow spatula tool, cut out a 15 mm long and 9 mm wide section in the middle, smooth the edges with sandpaper, glue a piece of paper on the bottom to protect the MC surface,, then just push under the knobs and lift it up. Not easy to remove the knobs even originally... But after fire... :) Good luck!
@@BMRStudio thanks I'm going to try it. And got to say, this MC 909 it´s a freaking tank, All the jacks and connection in the backpannel melted too, in some cases just re-openned the jacks gently with a drill and work just fine, the midi connections need to be replaced to a new ones, but hey, I don´t know many electronic machines that survived a fire and turns on like never happened, and now my mc 909 looks with so much attitude :) Thanks again and greetings from Guadalajara México.
@@farmostro6306 Time to upload a video about it no? :) AWESOME story!!!
@@BMRStudio My video skills are lame, but here is a photo from my instagram of the mc 909 after the fire,
instagram.com/p/BtGnJgiAMN4/?
@@farmostro6306 Jesus christ that thing is toast
Hello, how dificult do you think is to exchange the screen? Mine basically burned out... do you think is expensive or it needs technical support from manufacter? thank you!
actually its not burned out, the screen is tottally blue, it normally starts ok , then the letters start to blink and simply is blue, but working well...
The screen replacement part is exist on the internet with other number. I will do a research for You to find it. Time to time is popping up on eBay for around 50 USD. To replace is nothing, just open, few screws and disconnect the cable.
www.ebay.com/itm/SHARP-LM320191-5-7-inch-LCD-Display-Screen-Panel-Resolution-320-240-/361633678979
You used alcohol to clean the motherboard? Sorry i dont speak english and i dont understand well, thank you.
Another question for you. I have been using headphones since I fixed my 909 sounds great. But when I hooked it up to the mixer to play out to my monitors the volume is very low. I have it maxed while all my other gear is barely a quarter of the way up.
So do you think adding the bigger capacitors like you did in the end will help and what size caps did you use?
ZipSnipe Check the signal levels. Maybe You have an issue with the same mute circuit in the MC 909 like Me! Or, check the ouput level settings in the main menu. also in the main setup menu try out the other output as main mix output. The caps are not bigger.... they now in bipolar configuration dude :) that's why doubled the capacity because they connected in serial with negative to negative. Sounds fantastic! Russian high quality caps :)
Thank you my friend, I have never watched a video sooooo many times, again one of my favorites
one more question. Am I seeing your video correctly? Did you put two bipolar caps where there used to be one cap?
ah haa never mind I found the answer
ZipSnipe is two polarized cap with negative face to face :) then it's comes bipolar. Sounds good and punchy!
what happened with the SMC slot when it not recognize or respond when inserting a card with the update or the system? it is like a thorn in the ass when loose the program system in the rom. HELP! please...
Do You follow the update instructions???
Your card is checked before (write-read test)
The slot is clean inside?
yes all that stuff
interesting.
Do a video reply, then I can help You. I'am a bit confused what You are saying
Is there any way to exchange the smartmedia port with something like a USB port, or an SD car reader ?
No 🤣
@@BMRStudio
Thanks for replying. So it doesn't use a similar bus to a floppy drive ?
@@yanickborg3118 smart media bus is a weirdo thing. Even the file system too. I did try to make a arduino library and drive the 3.3V pins. Failed. Then I found an old chip which had CF and SM bus too, but unfortunately the integrated muxer doesn't have have two directions capability between the ports, only towards the bus. Meh... Someone will do some Raspberry thing for it. I hope. Ah, and the SM controller inside is also a weirdo Roland thingy...
@@yanickborg3118 TH-cam cAZZH7J0eGJDYhO1
@@BMRStudio
Well, I've gotten one of those adaptors, XD to smartmedia. Seems to like the M type 128Mb XD in USB mode. However, am getting "Memory Damaged!" errors, but only when attempting to import SMF midi files into a pattern.
Excellent video.
Thank you for this great autopsy video :) Is the power supply global - does it work with 100V and 230V, or is it just for one voltage?
Lemme check....
Sticker says on the bottom.. 230V! So not global, but maybe internally you can change? I don't remember.
@@BMRStudio OK, thank you for checking!
It works on 110 and 230 volt so plug it in anywere you want, regardless what the stickers says. I've got 2 MC909's. One with 117V sticker and one with 230V sticker, tested both on every way without any problems.
@@jonathanstel5394 Thank you, that's great, but maybe your 117V MC-909 has a Euro / 230V PSU inside. The PSU in my (former) MC-909 is marked for 100V, and the capacitors on it are rated below 230V, so they might blow up if plugged in.
That's strange, i've opened up both and they have the same power supply, it gives always the same output, ~ regardless the input
a1du2l3b034 is the nummer on it.
I just took the gamble :)
Hello! I have a mc909 that in audio output, both from the headphones and from the mix outputs you can hear the totally distorted sound, I tried to do a factory reset but the problem remains, have you already experienced a similar defect?
Eric- K not similar, but You must download the service manual from the video description. The problem will be around the main channel DAC, or the first op-amp, or the muting transistor. This You can find in the last section of the video.
Eric- K page 49 , check the mute circuit output on the bottom. 2SA something transistor.
YES is 2SA1037, now i verify, thank you!
No the transistor is ok, it opens and closes and no short circuit, I suspect it is the AK4527B codec, the sound is really bad, as if it had entered overdrive mode
@@EricK83 check the -15, +15V rail for the opamps
Thank you Sir u just gave me hope as I know just the repair man!!8D
and u also saved me from having to save up plenty €£$ to be a test pilot for the new pioneer toriaz sp16 or octatrak!!lol
Do you have more Jedi knowledge of the 909?particularly the file system area svd files!?
I bought 909 and a 808 couple of years back and started customising/upgrading the file structure > < !.
It was a challenge with plenty of down time working it all out but succeeded in the end!
I have the Roland integra data and want to see if I can customise the 909 XV engine via the integras from some smart media cards!!
IF it can survive the repairman surgery firstly!
Thankyou and have good evening.
hey dude my mc 909 turn off few seconds after use, can u tell me how can i fix please
No error code?
The screen shows something for few seconds?
Hi BMR, I wrote to you 3 years ago in the comments section of this video. Are you still doing MC-909 repairs? One of my pads is being naughty...
First, You have to check the conductivity of the black contact pads on the pcb, and on the rubber keys. Find the trace, or jumper point and check it. bip-bip :)
Then, clean it with 91% Isopropyl alcohol. Do not apply too much, on the tip! Drying time can be 12 Hour. Let Me know where You arrived.
I'm needing some more of your Jedi knowledge if possible? ?
I have some Blue sky media desk 2.1 active speakers that have developed a problem! They have operated trouble free for a long time,but I accidentally ran over a cable with my vacuum cleaner recently .The cable was connected from the headphone socket of my groove box to the rca input socket of the blue sky active subwoofer! What happens now when I switch on the system is it will play fine for about 15 minutes then the right channel will suddenly stop working! !??
.If I switch the speaker system off for approximately half an hour and then back on it will start playing again correctly! !....also sometimes when I have music going through the system I can hear the right channel beginning to fade ,if I turn the volume pot rapidly on the gbox all the way up and down the channel will start working again for a short while longer then stop working!
have you ever come across this problem before .??.or do you have knowledge of a solution for a fix I may be able to undertake? ??
Thank you sir
mr WYN mr WYN The force is with You :) just simple replace the input coupler capacitors in the speaker system. To some normal Panasonic or Nichicon. You overdriven the inputs with headphone level :) or electrostatic discharge from the vacuum cleaner.
mr WYN The force is with You :) just simple replace the input coupler capacitors in the speaker system. To some normal Panasonic or Nichicon. You overdriven the inputs with headphone level :) or electrostatic discharge from the vacuum cleaner.
Thank you so much!! you help me to fix my MC909 :)
Glad I could help!
Hi
I've just switched on my 909 and it has a fault!
When it boots up and is stuck on a user pattern screen and ALL other functions will not operate or respond .Do you have any suggestions that could be causing the problem it was working ok the day before !??Thanks
Wyn Stone try to do a hard reset! Then we will see
I have tried but cannot enter any other screens ,it boots up to user 003 and has track 3,7,13 lit on the part select buttons also keypad
8 ,12 are lit!! Also the edit button in the sampler section is lit!!
Any of your knowledge would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Key matrix or power or clock or EEPROM.. Or all this together auch... . Firmware version? Next stupid question: Where are You living? EU?
BMR Studio
I forgot to mention it loads the memory card at bootup stage.
It's the latest firmware installed ,
I'm in England ...are the other faults u mentioned fixable by Roland or similar ??again thanks for your JEDI knowledge 😎
Things have corrected themselves and the machine is working properly again after a reboot!!!🤗🤗thanks for the input!!
Hello and thanks for this video.
I recently bought a mc909 and I was planning to replace or fix some of the buttons that doesn't work properly, so this video
Couple of years back I found an Octapad PAD 80, fantastic machine; I replace all the contact mics but there is still an issue with the memory and it's not exactly the internal battery. I will appreciate if I could get in contact with you and maybe you can help me to get the schematics for this one or give me some advice.
Br,
Rolando
Rolando Camilo Hi. For Octapad I don't have schematics. but, the problem is in the memory chips I'am 80% sure. other can be the bus voltage level, or the digital power supply. Start there first. check the voltages and the rise-fall egdes with high speed scope.
Hey Mr BMR , can you tell me the Uf values of the Electrolytics you used in the Russiian Bipolar Cap Hack ?
Rubicon THANK YOU VERY MUCH..LOL.
much appreciated.
✌️ 🇦🇺 🪃 🇦🇺 😊
Double of the originals, in series, You will get back the original.
100 uF, 16V , low ESR audio caps
@BMRStudio THANK YOU VERY MUCH , is it also worth doing it to my MC505 and FantomXA , ? I might run them through my Specrum Analyser first.
✌️
@@andrewverran3498 spectrum analyzer will not show you nothing. Only scope, or distortion measurements. Just drive out a simple sinusoidal tone on different frequencies, on max power, and see.
EXCELLENT. Great job. Thanks a lot.
Hi....i have my mc 909 master tuned to 432.0hz,This is how the frequency I work at...my question is..if I resample a track made soley from 909 presets within the 909..whilst it's tuned to 32hz ...does the audio sample become a 32hz file or is it 440hz file with 32hz data on it???
Also if I sample from mix in bus whilst tuned to 32hz...is that a 440hz sample file???
Hope I've explained clearly.?
Thanks
The master tune is a 32 bit, but not floating point divider variable in the multi sampling DSP engine. But, all outputs, and the final conversion is follows the master sample rate.
So, If You created a 32 Hz (instead of 32.11 C1 equal-tempered on A4-432, or 32.70 on normal A4-440, equal-tempered C1) sound, it will recorded and played as 32 Hz. The weird thing is this: The basic samples in the Roland MC-909 are 440 Hz based, so the artifacts are coming more frequently, as You go up on the scale. So, the output sampler and dither algorithm doesn't care Your tuning :) it will be 32Hz
Trap: 32 Hz on 44.1Khz sample rate = 1,378.125 samples! So you need at least 8, 16, 32, 64 full circle, the get full periods!
@@BMRStudio thanks but you list me a bit on the last paragraph !!
To explain another way ,it is basically able to downsample internally to different rates (any theoretically) but will always be output from the 909 at 440khz...if I'm understanding correctly!?
Thanks again
@@wynstone7283 not 440Khz, but 44.100
@@wynstone7283 440Khz???? I don´t understand.
The D/A converters are running at 44.1 Khz sample rate in the MC-909.
@@BMRStudio sorry I meant to type 44.1 ....
But I understand now!!...what I was wondering is if could create 32hz files on the 909 and send them via digital out to another sampler and keep that 32hz....at 32hz during the data transfer without it passing through the converters and it have it's sample rate altered!!thanks....
Did you ever manage to see if it was possible to achieve the copying of the individual tones of the Srx board....as asked in earlier post!!?thanksagain
Hello,
I have a problem with my Roland MC-909. It doesn't start, it stays fixed on the initial roland screen, I can't do anything, just reload the system from smart media, which works fine, but it doesn't start.
What could it be?
Sound like memory error… caused by some dead caps on the 3.3 and 5v rail. Need service!
I had already measured all the capacitors and the voltages are correct. I also replaced the flash and reloaded the firmware via the smart media, but it still doesn't start.
Also replace the RAM.
I'm afraid it's the ic1 processor
@@josephc.3402 service manual has a big section about testing each main part.
@@josephc.3402 page 23
I can't go to that screen, because the machine won't boot. it stops at the first home screen with the words roland groovebox.
Would have been nice if you'd shown how to undo those ribbon strips.
just undo the screws and pull up, out the PCB. The strips has a small nipples only to connect to the pcb. Be gentle!
Great work, thank you! Greetings from Berlin ;)
So I opened mine and cleaned it with rubbing alcohol, a toothbrush and a q tip and put it back together and now the screen won’t turn on
did I fry something? or do you think it might be a misplaced cable
Only the screen is not working?
BMR Studio Well i guess the screen lights up but it doesn’t show anything. it doesn’t start up or show any options
And because of that the pads don’t light up either
vctr hmmmmmmmmm.... download the service manual from the video description, take to the part, and build back again based on the assembly diagram. Then we will go forward. I have a guess, but You need to do this step.
luv this guy !!! Thanx for your wealth of great knowledge !!!!!
I also noticed on the mc 909 they have switched from the lil square buttons to round ones on the circuit board. The square ones are used in sp808,606's. The buttons have a life of 50000 presses give or take. Don't know what the spec is on the lil round ones, hopefully more
ZipSnipe I hate roland switches :))))) one of the most unstable switches in My life. 50k press is nothing for a switch under my hand. hmmm maybe I press them too much? or Roland not doing a proper design for big heavy hungarian palm and fingers? switches, Made in japan.. My palm is made in hungary. Thanks for watching!
I wanted to correct myself they are actually 100k presses or mechanical cycles and here is the link
www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/P8071STB-ND/P8071STB-ND/259524
Ok the above is for the sp-606 and 808 tactile switches. For the mc 909 the life cycle is 500k presses so they did improve the switch and they can be found here www.mouser.com/ALPS/Electromechanical/Switches/Tactile-Switches/_/N-5g2m?No=75&P=1z0zlgm there are several different ones that vary in height and the amount of pressure you will need to measure in MM to get close to the right one.
Guys! Here is a perfect comment! Thank You for the research!
lots of useful information, ty
Hehe :) believe Me, there is more in the MC909, but who will watch 5 hour long video?
I'll definitely watch it.
This type of videos gives me the courage to repair my stuff.
Groove boxes(music production workstations) always have complex and dense circuits.
I have a Korg Electribe EMX-1, it had a problem, when i push my finger on the ribbon the display shows every parameter changing randomly, then I decided to fix that, it has 3 layer of boards , I putted a sheet of paper between the boards and problem is gone.
:) sometime, the most cheapest solutions work as the best :) Good idea! Share it! I just think on buy a dead Electribe collection. Then build a Korg Electribe monster with more controlls and bigger display, bigger pots, 49 key keyboard. One time I will do :) The best thing about repair Your own stuffs, it's a kind of fun, and good for the planet.
Wow that's pretty nice! :)
👍👍
What will you charge to repair a Mc 909?
Gutta Boiy just send in, and we will see what’s the problem. I will not charge You like a normal service. Carton Red Bull? Or something like this :)
OMG lol I need mine fixed badly how can I reach you so that I can send it out
my pad cant be tap (1-8) how..
Cola? :) beer? clean first, then check the scematics. Link in the description. Roland quality scematics, all parts are marked, and You have enough space to do basic measurements.
no, never spilled any wet item.bought it since 2006, and use it untill now. im not used to any components, i scared if i open it, everything will be broken..
fuckartletsfart well... then bring it to some service. bring them the service notes. The problem will be around the IC20 pin 1, 2, or the pullup RA12 resistor block, or some corrosion exactly around this area.
Cool! thank for the tuto!
If u know any sites or vids explaining the data area of the 909 I would greatly appreciate the knowledge! !
ive searched hi and low but cant find any explanations!!
if I manage to achieve it I will send you the details so u can make a fantastic video of how 909 users can upgrade their machine as if it on STERIODS! !!
Happy DAYS a cometh!!
Thank you! :)
Far as I know, there is nothing new released for the 909. The latest upgrade is the 1.23.
Here is the link for the usefull editor, and for the upgrades.
www.roland.com/us/support/by_product/mc-909/updates_drivers/
But ok, let's do some video on that :)
Also I bought some pads a couple of years back and paid £16 (web-link below )also they send you a strip with only eight pads on so you need to order x2 if you want to replace all the pads!
the downside is the coming from China and expect weeks before delivery !!
mr WYN Chinese pads are good pads.... for 5 Years Thanks for the link!
thankyou !
The actual tones plz! Thanks for your reply.
Gostei pena q não está em português
Desejo falar em português, mas meu cérebro é muito lento :)
Experimente a tradução de voz CC pelo TH-cam.
That was amazing, I just bought an old one today hope it is good if not I'm gonna contact you brother nice job... Miami305
Daniel Brittenham/ DaDannyBoy how much You paid for it?
@@BMRStudio $450.00 @ guitar center in Richmond Va. Waiting on it being shipped to Miami now. The merchant said it was in very good condition. We will pray it really is. Thanks brother... Miami305 💯👍🥁🎶
What cleaning products did you use ,and what lubricants are good for the controls. You have the best video on the 909 out there thanks for opening it up I thought it would be more complicated but its really straight forward... Miami305
Daniel Brittenham/ DaDannyBoy good price You got! Thumbs up for the guitarcenter!
Daniel Brittenham/ DaDannyBoy
carbon switches (velocity pads), just clean Isopropyl Alcohol
Potentiometer surface: non lubricant contact cleaner, then Vaseline spray.
Potentiometer top slider surface: silicon grease (high viscosity) ,
Switches : WD-40 or contact cleaner with thin lubricant.
Jacks: same as the switches
The musician: Beer or Red-bull
The crowd: Vodka with Red-Bull
Nice video
Thanks :)
+BMR Studio Is there a way to remove the smart media storage and replace it with an SD card or some other storage? Smart media is too hard to find.
If You believe or not, now I just looking for that :)))) I think is possible. Fortunaly the MC uses pin to pin parallel connection inside, so I think we can solder some other controller on that. Let me finish this hack, then off course I will do a video.
Koszi szepen nekem is ez a problemam volt de kosz neked megoldottam Udv.
Mario Trnavsky Szivesen, maskor is :) Boldog Karacsonyt!
it uses SRX cards - this is very costly and old technology - lastly, SRX card are no longer made. The flash card again is old not supported tech when SD are standard. This product is currently being sold new.
Remek Videó!
Nektek keszult... popcornt is vegyel hozza!
Thank you for this very enjoyable journey. I have just acquired a very well used one here in New Zealand.The first two pads don't work and the last two sliders in the mixer section seem to move together? That's about it so I will dive in and start cleaning. Nice video...all the best. You can have a look here hopefully for a bit of a laugh. I hope I can get the paint off...haha
www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=1100245306
Thank You for the nice comment :)
I hope the best with Your 909! The cleaning will help I'am sure! But... The pads and the sliders are working on different chips. I assume some kind of dirt and maybe some voltage reference issue. Check the voltages, and do a soft cleaning, only with pure alcohol. Use a realy soft buds. The carbon film are so sensitive. Update Us, how is going after the cleaning :)
BMR Studio Really nice of you to reply I will keep you updated.
After reading these post, this Roland gear looks as though it is not up to the quality standards of Roland. I think I will pass on this product.
How much do you charge to fix the LCD on the MC-909?
Hey! I never charge for nobody. But the task is super simple. Any good electronic repair shop can do it. Currently I'm super busy with other projects, around mid Januar- mid Februar I can help you.
@@BMRStudio ok sounds great. I’ll touch basses then. Thx
@@harleyrider9166 Basses are good! Touch them :) Ask Me again around 20. of Januar.
@@BMRStudio will do…thank you👍🏾
@@BMRStudio I just replaced the LCD screen today with one I purchased from eBay. It came out perfect. Thanks.
hey dude my mc 909 shuting down after turn on, you know how can i fix it
Hi.
love your vids :)
I have a major problem with my 909 that hopefully you (or a next Jedi out there ;-)can help me with?
It has started after playing a preset/user pattern, the machines timing slows down in the last bar.The screen then goes haywire and it rapidly cycles through virtually all the setting screens (patch,fx, lfo /filter settings etc, display reads" no sample "(erases all my samples )
keeps jumping to song mode and tries to write /copy and basically becomes unusable!
I have factory reset and updated to v.1. 23 and replaced the 256 memory. .This first started when I was hooking up midi to a computer.
I believe it's related to cc messages?? but in an unconnected midi state the machine will power up okay and seem stable then revert back to the screen cycling state!??
Have you ever come across this problem? or know how to resolve it I would appreciate info before I have to send it to Roland! !Thanks and keep sharing your quality knowledge :)
mr WYN Show to some monk. The devil is inside :) Or, first check visually the pcb-s. Can be oxidation issue after some fluid. Second what can be, is dead capacitors on the power unit, main pcb, and - or on the user interface board. Go with that to some notebook service or to some high level TV service. will cost around 100 USD to repair.
Also I bought some pads a couple of years back and paid £16 (web-link below )also they send you a strip with only eight pads on so you need to order x2 if you want to replace all the pads!
the downside is the coming from China and expect weeks before delivery !!