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SEQUENTIAL/DSI => Prophet => Prophet Rev2 => Topic started by: Sunny on May 13, 2018, 04:47:50 AM

Title: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sunny on May 13, 2018, 04:47:50 AM
I just spent a couple of days testing the P6 and Rev2 side by side, and loving both despite the differences.
What turned it for me was when I played the 16voice Rev2 with identical patches A+B layered as 8 voice Unison, with some slop on the B patch. And that was good enough to decide on it for me and my Rev2 was ordered.

But, now I found this forum. All I see here in the Rev2 section is problem after problem, and excuses, which simply don't result in magical solutions. The P6 forum is relatively hassle free. And the OB6 forum is glowing with praise.
I'm a Nord user of 20 years and cant ever remember reading a single issue like I have here for the Rev2, and any other problems with a P5, Roland and Korg I had were due to OLD age. I can't help but think that I'm buying into trouble with the Rev2, so I am going to cancel my Rev2 order. And given the way that you people have been treated by DSI, I am going to avoid this company altogether.

Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: jg666 on May 13, 2018, 06:07:14 AM
It’s the nature of all forums to have many more people with problems than those just praising:) I’ve never regretted buying my Rev2 and it’s my favourite synth.

Take a look at Yamaha’s forums and see what complaints and moans are on there..... the DSI forums are positively peaceful compared with those !
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on May 13, 2018, 09:09:19 AM
I wouldn't give you direct advice, since I know nothing about you, but I would at least encourage you not to give up on DSI.  The fact is, they treat their customers extremely well.  There are differences here at times, that is for sure, but often both parties are to blame.  I've been dealing with DSI since 2008, and have received only the best treatment; no complaints at all.  The problem is when people demand this or that with an impatient entitlement mentality.  No one likes that.  And some problems just take time to resolve.

You can always give that Rev2 a try after all.  Form your opinions based on your own immediate experiences, rather than the blather that fills a forum.  Besides, because this is the official DSI forum, this is the place where all the complaints will be concentrated.  If you don't like the Rev2, return it and move on.  But don't unnecessarily cut yourself off from a superb company and a superb line of instruments.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Gerry Havinga on May 13, 2018, 09:15:06 AM
I just spent a couple of days testing the P6 and Rev2 side by side, and loving both despite the differences.
What turned it for me was when I played the 16voice Rev2 with identical patches A+B layered as 8 voice Unison, with some slop on the B patch. And that was good enough to decide on it for me and my Rev2 was ordered.

But, now I found this forum. All I see here in the Rev2 section is problem after problem, and excuses, which simply don't result in magical solutions. The P6 forum is relatively hassle free. And the OB6 forum is glowing with praise.
I'm a Nord user of 20 years and cant ever remember reading a single issue like I have here for the Rev2, and any other problems with a P5, Roland and Korg I had were due to OLD age. I can't help but think that I'm buying into trouble with the Rev2, so I am going to cancel my Rev2 order. And given the way that you people have been treated by DSI, I am going to avoid this company altogether.
That is really sad. I can tell you my own personal experience since I own a brand new Rev2 and a second hand Evolver desktop. Given that you posted here in the forum I believe you are interested in other input  :)

I am a Rev2 early adopter, reading this forum I had similar thoughts. The Rev2 was also my very first DSI instrument.

As a newly developed electronic musical instrument it is to be expected bugs and issues show up. DSI is very responsive (use their support email address not just this forum) and have issued several new firmware releases that fixed several bugs and even implemented new features (copy / paste patches etc.). I am very happy with my Rev2. I noticed only one or two of the early bugs, but only after I deliberately checked it out. I am on the latest firmware version and my Rev2 is totally reliable, no issues whatsoever.

My experience with the Evolver Desktop is truly amazing. This synth was the very first instrument Dave Smith Industries bought out, I believe sometime in 2002. Mine is about 15 years old, it had the second revision factory firmware ICs installed. I got it second hand about 6 months ago, two of the original encoder tops were missing .

I wanted to upgrade it's IC, the firmware and install new encoder tops. I still could order the IC and new tops from DSI. They delivered promptly and within an hour I had the IC installed, new encoder tops mounted and could upgrade the firmware.

The Evolver runs like a train. No issues. I thought I discovered an issue yesterday, driving it via MIDI from an Elektron Digitone. But as often is the case, it was simple user misunderstanding that I remedied reading the manual and changing the configuration.

I hope you won't give up on DSI. My experience with the Rev2 and the Evolver have made me want to investigate and possibly purchase another instrument from them. I trust DSI now.

Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: ddp on May 13, 2018, 10:03:48 AM
I'm a Nord user of 20 years and cant ever remember reading a single issue like I have here for the Rev2...
I was a Nord user for only a relatively painful two years, but off the top of my head, I can think of several issues: knocking keys on Piano 3, insufficient sample memory in the Piano series, inferior B3/Leslie simulation in the Stage 3, crippled DualKB in the Stage 3, inferior Stage 3 88 piano velocity curves, incomplete Nord Piano and Sample Libraries for the Stage 3, missing Sample Editor for the Stage 3, mod wheel connector in Stage 3 Compact, audio hum in the Drum 3P, whacky and constantly changing MIDI implementations, mediocre keybeds, especially in the Lead, and I'd argue, Piano series.

A combination of these led me to buy and sell a Piano 3, Lead A1, Drum 3P, and Stage 3.  I've held onto a Lead 3 and Rack 3 because I like the LED ring knobs and its the only Lead with morphable aftertouch.  Yes. they removed aftertouch in the Lead 4.  It seems not all Nords are created equal.  Read the manual completely before you buy one although they're now also known for removing features and reprinting the manual (DualKB in Stage 3 OS 1.24).  Also don't expect to find help in the Nord forums from Clavia.  They do not participate in them and I'd say it's unclear if they even read them.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: S Y Z Y G Y X on May 13, 2018, 03:39:38 PM
No way man do not cancel your REV2 order!!!  It is the most amazing synthesizer, I have had mine for 3 months and I have ZERO problems with mine....give it a chance play with it when it arrives.  I’m sure it will be fine with no problems.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: AlainHubert on May 13, 2018, 03:55:24 PM
There are two things that I really despise in life as input devices: rotary digital encoders, and TACT switches. Why? Because 99.9% of the time those crappy things fail to work properly at some point in time. And DSI uses a LOT of them. Propbably because they're inexpensive POS when bought in bulk.

That being said, I still love my DSI OB6 Desktop, which is almost flawless reliability wise, but I'm thinking of getting rid of my REV2 16 keyboard eventually, in part for its lack of reliability (both front panel boards had to be replaced because of faulty encoders under warranty after only a few weeks of light use) but more for the "peculiar sound" of those DSI120/PA397 chips (which I thought I could maybe learn to like, but alas not).


 EDIT: if you're wondering why I said "almost flawless reliability" about my beloved OB6, it's because of, you've guessed it, some of its encoders are sometimes "flaky", skipping values or not changing values at all when turned one click. Luckily, there aren't many of them on the OB6 and turning them vigorously a few times usually "wakes them up" so that they"ll work right for a while, until they get "lazy" again. Probably an internal oxidation of the contacts problem.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: ddp on May 13, 2018, 04:22:13 PM
Hum, the encoders on my rev2/16 are fine, in fact I rather like DSI's knobs on both the P6 and the rev2.  I do hope DSI takes a long hard look at the LED ring knobs that Clavia used on the Lead 3, the same kind that are on the top left of the Montage.  They're great because when you change patches, they update; so no need to hunt around for the patch point.  It's really more than that.  They accurately reflect the values as you play.  So lets say you mod aftertouch onto filter cutoff frequency.  On the Lead 3 then, as you're playing, if you press harder, you'll see the level of the LED ring knob for filter cutoff change on the fly.  And the Rack 3 is similarly magic as a module.  I really can't say enough good things about the Lead 3.  It needed a better keybed, and alternate tunings would have been nice, but it's amazing for what it is, 24 voices, 4 part multitimbral in 14lb (6.3kg).  Mine's even been dropped on its front right corner, slightly denting the frame, and yet doesn't seem to be any worse for wear.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: dsetto on May 14, 2018, 07:45:15 AM
What they all said! I began with a Tempest recently and had similar concerns. I believe my online impression was skewed. Based on my experience with the T, and a matching of possibility, I pre-ordered the Rev2 within a day or two of announcement- after getting a satisfying answer on the implementation of the digital effects. I have no problems with mine.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Montyrivers on May 14, 2018, 11:04:51 AM
No one product from any company is ever without its quirks, but my Rev 2 hasn't given me any problems.  It's a high quality product.  Plus there are vst plugin editors for them, or midi switches/controllers if you arent happy with the way they went about the user experience on the front panel (which is still pretty darn good).
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sleep of Reason on May 14, 2018, 02:26:07 PM
The REV2 is built like a tank; however, it could use some kinks ironed out via software, which if implemented would greatly reduce a number of cumbersome or odd aspects. It's an unfair assessment to claim users are being  "impatient" when treated with hand-waving that these things don't fit a certain "philosophy" and won't even be entertained. Yet my experience with DSI outside of the forum has always been highly helpful. 
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on May 14, 2018, 09:02:43 PM
Some users are impatient, not all.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Gerry Havinga on May 14, 2018, 09:47:57 PM
I just spent a couple of days testing the P6 and Rev2 side by side, and loving both despite the differences.
What turned it for me was when I played the 16voice Rev2 with identical patches A+B layered as 8 voice Unison, with some slop on the B patch. And that was good enough to decide on it for me and my Rev2 was ordered.

But, now I found this forum. All I see here in the Rev2 section is problem after problem, and excuses, which simply don't result in magical solutions. The P6 forum is relatively hassle free. And the OB6 forum is glowing with praise.
I'm a Nord user of 20 years and cant ever remember reading a single issue like I have here for the Rev2, and any other problems with a P5, Roland and Korg I had were due to OLD age. I can't help but think that I'm buying into trouble with the Rev2, so I am going to cancel my Rev2 order. And given the way that you people have been treated by DSI, I am going to avoid this company altogether.
Sunny, what did you do in the end?
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: MPM on May 26, 2018, 05:56:22 PM
Sunny, It’s totally worth it. Do it.

After buying one last year that was a dud, I decided to get a new one a few weeks ago.
I won’t go into specifics on the dud, because the store fully refunded after a day of testing. And that is exactly what you can do if you don’t like what you get. By the way, DSI also gave rapid assistance via email before I returned to the store.

I felt concerned making the decision to get another Rev2, but after months of trying to emulate a previously owned Prophet 08 on my Lead 4 (sounds similar, but different vibe), I had to have some faith in DSI again.

So far the only issue is the skipping of of a parameter/value while turning the pots. Appears to be very sensitive.
Even so, my impression so far is really positive. And if this keeps up for a while I’ll be budgeting for a complimentary DSI OB6.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: RonGerrist on May 28, 2018, 12:39:33 PM
I'm also considering buying a REV 2. Just because I want to turn knobs while playing the instrument. Not having to use the mouse. The REV 2 looks and sounds amazing but now that I have read quite some bad stories about it (malfunctioning straight from the box) I'm hesitant.

Are there also people have bought a REV 2 and never had any issues? I could replace boards in a synth but I'm not going to fix something I've just purchased.

Thanks

Ron
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: jg666 on May 28, 2018, 12:47:23 PM
I'm also considering buying a REV 2. Just because I want to turn knobs while playing the instrument. Not having to use the mouse. The REV 2 looks and sounds amazing but now that I have read quite some bad stories about it (malfunctioning straight from the box) I'm hesitant.

Are there also people have bought a REV 2 and never had any issues? I could replace boards in a synth but I'm not going to fix something I've just purchased.

Thanks

Ron

I’ve not had any problems and I suspect the majority of people who’ve bought it are also the same. Don’t forget that people don’t post on the internet saying ‘I bought a Rev 2 and it works perfectly’ :) People usually join forums to either ask questions about their purchase or to report problems
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Gerry Havinga on May 28, 2018, 10:34:38 PM
I'm also considering buying a REV 2. Just because I want to turn knobs while playing the instrument. Not having to use the mouse. The REV 2 looks and sounds amazing but now that I have read quite some bad stories about it (malfunctioning straight from the box) I'm hesitant.

Are there also people have bought a REV 2 and never had any issues? I could replace boards in a synth but I'm not going to fix something I've just purchased.

Thanks

Ron
No issues, from my side. I am an early adopter (from the Netherlands).  The issues reported during the first few months have all been resolved with software updates. My Rev2 purrs like a kitten and can scream as an overheating kettle, I totally love it. I also do trust DSI's customer support, very very good indeed.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: guyaguy on May 28, 2018, 10:58:31 PM
No issues with mine or the Tetra, Evolver, and PolyEvolver I've had in the past.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sleep of Reason on May 28, 2018, 11:51:14 PM
I had to replace the boards (on my 16 voice) and would hope there's a great deal of leniency given in regards to early adopters beyond the one year warranty. Just as I understand no tech product is launched without some hiccups. I also still think it's the best bang for the buck if you're in the market for an analog synth.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: gernotreininger on May 29, 2018, 04:16:32 AM
 :D well said. No problems here and I love the rev 2 which is my first hardware. I also have to say that dsi support is great and very responsive.

I'm also considering buying a REV 2. Just because I want to turn knobs while playing the instrument. Not having to use the mouse. The REV 2 looks and sounds amazing but now that I have read quite some bad stories about it (malfunctioning straight from the box) I'm hesitant.

Are there also people have bought a REV 2 and never had any issues? I could replace boards in a synth but I'm not going to fix something I've just purchased.

Thanks

Ron
No issues, from my side. I am an early adopter (from the Netherlands).  The issues reported during the first few months have all been resolved with software updates. My Rev2 purrs like a kitten and can scream as an overheating kettle, I totally love it. I also do trust DSI's customer support, very very good indeed.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Razmo on May 29, 2018, 04:57:52 AM
When I bought my REV2 keys some time ago, it worked well, except for voice instabillities, but these seems to have been fixed with OS updates since then... I've always hated digital encoders because they tend to skip values or go crazy with prolonged use over time, but that's just what you have to accept because they all seem to keep using them... luckily, DSI has stopped using them for values other than those that really require them for easy incrementations.... on my previous REV2 keys, two encoders showed a little erratic behavior right out of the box, not much, but a little... but I've seen this behavior on other products as well... it's why I hate them.

In two days time I'll be buying a module version so I assume I'll have the same behavior from some of the encoders, but personally i do not care because I also hate when knobs have more than one function, so I'll be controlling it and edit sounds via an editor, and that more or less solves the problem... in fact I could do without the user interface at all if that was an option.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: AlainHubert on May 29, 2018, 09:29:18 AM
... in fact I could do without the user interface at all if that was an option.

That's ironic, because the fact that a synth has many knobs and buttons is the primary reason why people prefer them to software, including myself. For the gratifying and immediate hands-on experience. But that can quickly become frustrating and irritating when those knobs and buttons don't work right because of poor quality and reliability.

The knobs and switches on my 43 years old Minimoog D are still working flawlessly after all this time. That says a lot about the REAL high quality, robust components that Moog Music selected. Not the ALPS $1 worth, flimsy, crappy digital encoders and potentiometers that DSI (and other companies) use these days.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Razmo on May 29, 2018, 10:08:52 AM
... in fact I could do without the user interface at all if that was an option.

That's ironic, because the fact that a synth has many knobs and buttons is the primary reason why people prefer them to software, including myself. For the gratifying and immediate hands-on experience. But that can quickly become frustrating and irritating when those knobs and buttons don't work right because of poor quality and reliability.

The knobs and switches on my 43 years old Minimoog D are still working flawlessly after all this time. That says a lot about the REAL high quality, robust components that Moog Music selected. Not the ALPS $1 worth, flimsy, crappy digital encoders and potentiometers that DSI (and other companies) use these days.

Mostly yes, but not all... the reason for me is that I do want the analog filters and oscillators, not digital ones... and if I control the device 100% via an editor on my computer, I really would not need anything else but a faceless hardware box ;) ... but then again... my needs are obviously pretty unique, on the bordering of crazy :D
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: AlainHubert on May 29, 2018, 10:15:11 AM
... in fact I could do without the user interface at all if that was an option.

That's ironic, because the fact that a synth has many knobs and buttons is the primary reason why people prefer them to software, including myself. For the gratifying and immediate hands-on experience. But that can quickly become frustrating and irritating when those knobs and buttons don't work right because of poor quality and reliability.

The knobs and switches on my 43 years old Minimoog D are still working flawlessly after all this time. That says a lot about the REAL high quality, robust components that Moog Music selected. Not the ALPS $1 worth, flimsy, crappy digital encoders and potentiometers that DSI (and other companies) use these days.

Mostly yes, but not all... the reason for me is that I do want the analog filters and oscillators, not digital ones... and if I control the device 100% via an editor on my computer, I really would not need anything else but a faceless hardware box ;) ... but then again... my needs are obviously pretty unique, on the bordering of crazy :D

Not at all. Everyone has different needs and preferences, and they're all perfectly valid and I respect that. If everybody wanted exactly the same things in life, it would be quite boring.  ;)
I just hope that we never go back to the mid to late eighties with synths having only one slider, or none at all !  >:(
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Razmo on May 29, 2018, 10:16:23 AM
... in fact I could do without the user interface at all if that was an option.

That's ironic, because the fact that a synth has many knobs and buttons is the primary reason why people prefer them to software, including myself. For the gratifying and immediate hands-on experience. But that can quickly become frustrating and irritating when those knobs and buttons don't work right because of poor quality and reliability.

The knobs and switches on my 43 years old Minimoog D are still working flawlessly after all this time. That says a lot about the REAL high quality, robust components that Moog Music selected. Not the ALPS $1 worth, flimsy, crappy digital encoders and potentiometers that DSI (and other companies) use these days.

Mostly yes, but not all... the reason for me is that I do want the analog filters and oscillators, not digital ones... and if I control the device 100% via an editor on my computer, I really would not need anything else but a faceless hardware box ;) ... but then again... my needs are obviously pretty unique, on the bordering of crazy :D

Not at all. Everyone has different needs and preferences, and they're all perfectly valid and I respect that. If everybody wanted exactly the same things in life, it would be quite boring.  ;)
I just hope that we never go back to the mid to late eighties with synths having only one slider, or none at all !  >:(

As long as they had 100% full SysEx, I would not complain.... maybe about their size, but otherwise not :D
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: caracalla on May 30, 2018, 08:17:13 AM
Early adopter here.  I use my REV2 multiple times a week, cart it to band practice at least once a week, and have used it for a few live shows in crazy environments.  At risk of jinxing myself, zero issues so far.  It's not my first DSI instrument, but I find myself inspired by it literally every time I turn it on and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a synth that can handle any requirement you want to throw at it.

..and no, I'm not sponsored in any way by DSI.  I pay full price just like everyone else. :D
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: RonGerrist on May 30, 2018, 11:47:16 AM
I'm glad to see so many positive responses too. The REV 2 will be purchased soon :-)
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on May 30, 2018, 12:33:46 PM
I don't think it's necessary, but it would make sense to start a thread by the many Rev2 owners who have had no problems with their instruments and are happy with them, for the purpose of countering an exaggerated concern conjured up by this thread.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: guyaguy on May 30, 2018, 02:20:32 PM
I don't think it's necessary, but it would make sense to start a thread by the many Rev2 owners who have had no problems with their instruments and are happy with them, for the purpose of countering an exaggerated concern conjured up by this thread.
"Report Here If There's Nothing To Report"  ;D

Honestly I don't recall any major recent electronic instrument release that didn't have reports of issues--sometimes one-off hardware issues, sometimes minor firmware bugs, sometimes bad design. Generally most companies address the hardware and firmware issues quickly, whether it's DSI or other major players.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on May 30, 2018, 09:45:45 PM
"Report Here If There's Nothing To Report"  ;D

Honestly I don't recall any major recent electronic instrument release that didn't have reports of issues--sometimes one-off hardware issues, sometimes minor firmware bugs, sometimes bad design. Generally most companies address the hardware and firmware issues quickly, whether it's DSI or other major players.

But it's true.  If there's nothing wrong, then there's nothing to report, and no one hears of all the cases in which all is well.  These forums can come back and bite a company.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: S Y Z Y G Y X on May 30, 2018, 10:58:02 PM
Bottom line, the Rev2 is such an amazing synth that I keep finding myself bypassing my other synths for sounds and inspiration from it.  The bass sounds that I get from the Rev2 are much more round and fat than my Bass Station 2, hell even my Moog Subsequent 37.  The Rev2 is just so round and full of character compared to my other synthesizers, as well as never having had any of these problems I hear spoken of on these boards.  Just get one I have all faith in DSI, and all faith you too will be pleasantly surprised with this beast.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Razmo on May 31, 2018, 12:57:59 AM
I for one, really LIKE threads where people present their complaints because how on earth would anybody be able to know about the bugs before buying, if no one complained? ... companies do not present a "current bugs to fix" list so that users can decide if it's for them... yes, there are many who are fine with their instrument, mainly because the bugs that may be present do NOT interfere with their workflow, but what is a hell's bug for one, could be a don't care bug for someone else.

so please... complain away, both because DSI will get a notice of it, and take it serious.. .yes it damages a company if a thread is filled with complaints, but it's their responsibility to address the complaints to settle the matters... if this did not happen, I certainly believe that a LOT of bugs would go unnoticed and decidedly unfixed.

I may be buying a Prophet X at some point... but if I would not be able to hear about other peoples views, even the negative ones, then I would potentially buy something I'd regret... I'm actually looking forward to hear what people would complain about regarding the X ...
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Gerry Havinga on May 31, 2018, 02:47:53 AM
Bottom line, the Rev2 is such an amazing synth that I keep finding myself bypassing my other synths for sounds and inspiration from it.  The bass sounds that I get from the Rev2 are much more round and fat than my Bass Station 2, hell even my Moog Subsequent 37.  The Rev2 is just so round and full of character compared to my other synthesizers, as well as never having had any of these problems I hear spoken of on these boards.  Just get one I have all faith in DSI, and all faith you too will be pleasantly surprised with this beast.
Totally agree  :)

I knew about Dave as a "historically relevant" person being one of the inventors and instigators of the MIDI standard. It is no small feat to have several large and small companies and organizations agree upon standardization.

Till last year I didn't own any synths produced by him and his people. Now I own two .... The design and quality build of the Rev2 gave me great confidence in DSI. It was not very difficult to decide to buy a second hand Evolver as well (and upgrade it to the latest specs). The interesting thing is that combining the Evolver and a Digitone works really well. The old in with the new, very nice. As if the Evolver is ageless/timeless.

I am very seriously considering the Prophet X. Which is financially in a slightly different league from the Rev2  ;), to replace my aging Akai S5000 amongst other things. But I have no doubts about the build quality of the X and Dave's team architectural design of the electronics circuitry.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on May 31, 2018, 06:50:58 AM
I for one, really LIKE threads where people present their complaints because how on earth would anybody be able to know about the bugs before buying, if no one complained? ... companies do not present a "current bugs to fix" list so that users can decide if it's for them... yes, there are many who are fine with their instrument, mainly because the bugs that may be present do NOT interfere with their workflow, but what is a hell's bug for one, could be a don't care bug for someone else.

I agree.  I'm constantly keeping an eye on the complaints about the Rev2.  I want to know exactly what state the instrument has reached before I buy one. 

The problem is, when the complaints about an instrument get over-stated and overly emotional, then potential buyers get a misrepresentation of the facts, and what may be a superb instrument that includes only a small number of bad units then appears to be a terrible instrument that includes only a small number of good units.  Hence, it's important for happy Rev2 owners to make their case in its favor. 

Let's remember that we often lllllllooooooove to complain about things that make us unhappy.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: dslsynth on May 31, 2018, 07:14:30 AM
The problem is, when the complaints about an instrument get over-stated and overly emotional, then potential buyers get a misrepresentation of the facts [...]

Exactly the reason why firmware bug lists should be public! ;)
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: MKDVB on June 05, 2018, 06:15:38 PM
I'm new around these parts but you guys are way too nice to this whiner. My rev2 isn't perfect but this dude has no experience, good or bad, with DSI or the Rev2 yet is posting on the company's forum complaining via hearsay. Dude is whining vicariously  ... wonder how many 1-star yelp reviews this person's left for places he/she has never frequented?

Dollar for dollar, the Rev2 is one of the best modern analog polysynths.

 

Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: jdt9517 on June 05, 2018, 07:54:12 PM
I have three DSI synths - a P-08, a P-12, and a Pro-2.  All of them have been great.  Well built, and totally bullet proof.  Back in the day, I had a P-5 Rev. 3.0.  It was also well made and very reliable.  The only thing that ever broke on it were the J-wires on the keyboard.  Would not hesitate to get another DSI product.

We live in a world of mass production.  Unfortunately, we as a society have gotten used to almost perfect production unit to unit.   But mass production often also means a mediocre product. 

My understanding is that the DSI synths are all hand made.  There is going to be more variance in the production standards in hand-made stuff.  Even then, the rate of imperfections seems pretty low from what I see here.  DSI stands behind their products.   So the few imperfections get resolved.

If you want perfect mass production, get a Casio.  If you want a really special instrument, get DSI.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on June 05, 2018, 07:56:42 PM
I'm new around these parts but you guys are way too nice to this whiner. My rev2 isn't perfect but this dude has no experience, good or bad, with DSI or the Rev2 yet is posting on the company's forum complaining via hearsay. Dude is whining vicariously  ... wonder how many 1-star yelp reviews this person's left for places he/she has never frequented?

We try to be patient, unless the whining gets out of hand, which it occasionally does.

I've owned DSI equipment since 2008 - about ten different items.  I've had only a few problems, but they were happily resolved.  I actually look forward to contacting DSI - usually Tracy - because it's always a pleasure.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Razmo on June 06, 2018, 03:33:59 AM
I have three DSI synths - a P-08, a P-12, and a Pro-2.  All of them have been great.  Well built, and totally bullet proof.  Back in the day, I had a P-5 Rev. 3.0.  It was also well made and very reliable.  The only thing that ever broke on it were the J-wires on the keyboard.  Would not hesitate to get another DSI product.

We live in a world of mass production.  Unfortunately, we as a society have gotten used to almost perfect production unit to unit.   But mass production often also means a mediocre product. 

My understanding is that the DSI synths are all hand made.  There is going to be more variance in the production standards in hand-made stuff.  Even then, the rate of imperfections seems pretty low from what I see here.  DSI stands behind their products.   So the few imperfections get resolved.

If you want perfect mass production, get a Casio.  If you want a really special instrument, get DSI.

Sorry to say, but DSI products ARE factory made, not hand made as far as I'm aware... they use a US factory, and can be seen on pictures, in the factory on quite a few pictures by now.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: MKDVB on June 06, 2018, 07:40:46 AM
I'm glad they're factory made as I wouldn't be able to afford one otherwise. When you think about the Rev2 being at the same price point as a Korg Prologue or even compared to the Behringer DM12, which was still a third cheaper per voice but without a 2nd OSC, menu-diving galore & a meh sound sans makeup ... it's amazing DSI is competing with these larger companies while still offering a higher quality product.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: LoboLives on June 06, 2018, 11:31:51 AM
I'm glad they're factory made as I wouldn't be able to afford one otherwise. When you think about the Rev2 being at the same price point as a Korg Prologue or even compared to the Behringer DM12, which was still a third cheaper per voice but without a 2nd OSC, menu-diving galore & a meh sound sans makeup ... it's amazing DSI is competing with these larger companies while still offering a higher quality product.

This is something to take note...no other company really is offering the same amount of power, ease of use and features for Poly synths except for DSI and still keeping the prices relatively competitive. Yeah Behringer And Korg are doing analog poly synths...except they seem to be lagging in a lot of ways behind DSI. It’s either overly complicated menu diving or missing things like aftertouch....at this point DSI IS the cigar...everything else is just “close but...”
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: 4dubs on June 06, 2018, 03:14:30 PM
Without going into detail, I've been working in the musical instrument industry for more years than I care to mention . . . basically my entire life.  I will tell you all from both personal and ancillary experience that DSI instruments are not only, by and large, well built and reliable, but in the event something does go wrong, their after market support is pretty outstanding  . . . which is particularly remarkable considering how few employees they actually have.

Choosing the REV 2 is most certainly not "too risky".  If you like how it sounds, don't overthink it.

Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Sacred Synthesis on June 06, 2018, 09:02:38 PM
Yes, that's the right term - over-think.  With all the information one can find on the Internet, it's often a matter of TMI.  All the comments and reviews can be paralyzing.  Add to that a possible idiosyncrasy of indecisiveness, and a person can go on thinking about it forever, trying to choose between buying and not buying, but finding a dozen reasons in favor of each choice. 

There's always a degree of risk involved in buying something, especially something sophisticated and expensive, but DSI products are still among the least risky synthesizers that one could buy, in my opinion.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Gerry Havinga on June 06, 2018, 10:00:07 PM
Yes, that's the right term - over-think.  With all the information one can find on the Internet, it's often a matter of TMI.  All the comments and reviews can be paralyzing.  Add to that a possible idiosyncrasy of hesitancy and indecision, and a person can go on thinking about it forever, trying to choose between buying and not buying.  There's always a degree of risk involved in buying something, but DSI products are among the least risky products, in my opinion.
I totally agree.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: LoboLives on June 06, 2018, 10:02:52 PM
Yes, that's the right term - over-think.  With all the information one can find on the Internet, it's often a matter of TMI.  All the comments and reviews can be paralyzing.  Add to that a possible idiosyncrasy of hesitancy and indecision, and a person can go on thinking about it forever, trying to choose between buying and not buying.  There's always a degree of risk involved in buying something, but DSI products are among the least risky products, in my opinion.

I remeber my dad inquiring to Roland about something to do with the V Piano and all they kept doing is trying to get him to buy the RD 2000 and when he told them that he didn’t like the action and the reviews weren’t great they told them the reviews and him were wrong or something. Totally unhelpful. Roland are like the Apple of the music instrument world. All they want to do is push their latest and greatest device that they’ll stop making after a year. Rinse and repeat.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: jg666 on June 06, 2018, 10:40:20 PM
I agree with all the positive comments about DSI. Although I've not needed support from them, I somehow get a warm comfortable feeling from the company.

As I keep saying, forums are not the ideal place to get a balanced view of something as people tend to join when they have a problem (or perceived problem) to sort out :)
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Frocktar on June 07, 2018, 05:12:47 PM
I see no risk with this synth, or any of their modern gear, it’s very well built and I’ve had zero issues.

In electronics there will always be the odd issue now and then on particular units but I think DSI is a very very safe purchase.  Plus in general their support seems excellent from what I’ve read, though personally I’ve not needed it across the few I’ve owned/own.  This includes the Tetra, P12 module, Rev 2 module and currently the P12 keys and Rev 2 keys.  So all in all 5 bits of gear, all perfect.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: ddp on June 07, 2018, 06:04:36 PM
All of my Dave Smith Instruments electronics (Prophet 6, rev2/16, Tempest) have worked perfectly and the build quality is quite high.  I'm waiting with baited breath for my Prophet X; I had a chance to play with one at Moogfest and it's awesome!
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: DavidDever on June 07, 2018, 06:21:16 PM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: jg666 on June 07, 2018, 10:25:34 PM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D

Hmm yes I see what you mean. I've seen loads of single posts similar to this on other manufacturer forums as well, it makes you wonder if it someone from a competitor or something like that. No offence meant to the original poster if this is not the case :)

Incidentally I own Sonos gear (music streaming system) and if you went onto their forum as a non-owner of kit you would never buy anything as it's just full of issues and ranting from owners. If you read through their forums you'd think that nobody has a working system!
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: RonGerrist on June 08, 2018, 03:28:35 AM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D

Hmm yes I see what you mean. I've seen loads of single posts similar to this on other manufacturer forums as well, it makes you wonder if it someone from a competitor or something like that. No offence meant to the original poster if this is not the case :)

Incidentally I own Sonos gear (music streaming system) and if you went onto their forum as a non-owner of kit you would never buy anything as it's just full of issues and ranting from owners. If you read through their forums you'd think that nobody has a working system!

I wasn't the original poster but I'm seriously interested in this thread. I'm trying to find a shop in the Netherlands where I can actually touch a REV 2 before forking out the money.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: jg666 on June 08, 2018, 03:33:38 AM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D

Hmm yes I see what you mean. I've seen loads of single posts similar to this on other manufacturer forums as well, it makes you wonder if it someone from a competitor or something like that. No offence meant to the original poster if this is not the case :)

Incidentally I own Sonos gear (music streaming system) and if you went onto their forum as a non-owner of kit you would never buy anything as it's just full of issues and ranting from owners. If you read through their forums you'd think that nobody has a working system!

I wasn't the original poster but I'm seriously interested in this thread. I'm trying to find a shop in the Netherlands where I can actually touch a REV 2 before forking out the money.

Are there no listed dealers there? I'm lucky as I visited a place called Gear4Music which is not far from me (I'm in the UK)
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: RonGerrist on June 08, 2018, 03:50:08 AM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D

Hmm yes I see what you mean. I've seen loads of single posts similar to this on other manufacturer forums as well, it makes you wonder if it someone from a competitor or something like that. No offence meant to the original poster if this is not the case :)

Incidentally I own Sonos gear (music streaming system) and if you went onto their forum as a non-owner of kit you would never buy anything as it's just full of issues and ranting from owners. If you read through their forums you'd think that nobody has a working system!

I wasn't the original poster but I'm seriously interested in this thread. I'm trying to find a shop in the Netherlands where I can actually touch a REV 2 before forking out the money.

Are there no listed dealers there? I'm lucky as I visited a place called Gear4Music which is not far from me (I'm in the UK)

Yes, there are but most more than 100km away from where I live. I may visit a shop in Amsterdam tomorrow (in that case I'll bring my wallet).
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Gerry Havinga on June 08, 2018, 05:44:57 AM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D

Hmm yes I see what you mean. I've seen loads of single posts similar to this on other manufacturer forums as well, it makes you wonder if it someone from a competitor or something like that. No offence meant to the original poster if this is not the case :)

Incidentally I own Sonos gear (music streaming system) and if you went onto their forum as a non-owner of kit you would never buy anything as it's just full of issues and ranting from owners. If you read through their forums you'd think that nobody has a working system!

I wasn't the original poster but I'm seriously interested in this thread. I'm trying to find a shop in the Netherlands where I can actually touch a REV 2 before forking out the money.
I believe I saw one at Keymusic in Eindhoven, ask for Ron Boots. Otherwise you are very welcome to have a go at mine, I live near Amersfoort.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Quatschmacher on June 09, 2018, 04:46:23 AM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D

Hmm yes I see what you mean. I've seen loads of single posts similar to this on other manufacturer forums as well, it makes you wonder if it someone from a competitor or something like that. No offence meant to the original poster if this is not the case :)

Incidentally I own Sonos gear (music streaming system) and if you went onto their forum as a non-owner of kit you would never buy anything as it's just full of issues and ranting from owners. If you read through their forums you'd think that nobody has a working system!

I wasn't the original poster but I'm seriously interested in this thread. I'm trying to find a shop in the Netherlands where I can actually touch a REV 2 before forking out the money.

I presume you’ve already looked on the list of dealers here on the DSI site. If not, see attachments below. There are also dealers in neighbouring countries if you live near one of the borders.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: RonGerrist on June 09, 2018, 07:46:02 AM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D

Hmm yes I see what you mean. I've seen loads of single posts similar to this on other manufacturer forums as well, it makes you wonder if it someone from a competitor or something like that. No offence meant to the original poster if this is not the case :)

Incidentally I own Sonos gear (music streaming system) and if you went onto their forum as a non-owner of kit you would never buy anything as it's just full of issues and ranting from owners. If you read through their forums you'd think that nobody has a working system!

I wasn't the original poster but I'm seriously interested in this thread. I'm trying to find a shop in the Netherlands where I can actually touch a REV 2 before forking out the money.
I believe I saw one at Keymusic in Eindhoven, ask for Ron Boots. Otherwise you are very welcome to have a go at mine, I live near Amersfoort.

Thank you, they are getting pretty rare at the moment. KeyMusic doesn't have them (in 8-12 weeks they'll have them again). Bax is running out. I went to R'dam but the ones available they had on the website weren't there for quite a while.
I'm just going to order one and test it for a month.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: RonGerrist on June 09, 2018, 07:47:54 AM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D

Hmm yes I see what you mean. I've seen loads of single posts similar to this on other manufacturer forums as well, it makes you wonder if it someone from a competitor or something like that. No offence meant to the original poster if this is not the case :)

Incidentally I own Sonos gear (music streaming system) and if you went onto their forum as a non-owner of kit you would never buy anything as it's just full of issues and ranting from owners. If you read through their forums you'd think that nobody has a working system!

I wasn't the original poster but I'm seriously interested in this thread. I'm trying to find a shop in the Netherlands where I can actually touch a REV 2 before forking out the money.

I presume you’ve already looked on the list of dealers here on the DSI site. If not, see attachments below. There are also dealers in neighbouring countries if you live near one of the borders.

Thank you. I've had a look at those websites. Only few actually have them. Some have them for a very high process though.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Quatschmacher on June 09, 2018, 01:40:15 PM
One post - who'd have guessed?  ;D

Hmm yes I see what you mean. I've seen loads of single posts similar to this on other manufacturer forums as well, it makes you wonder if it someone from a competitor or something like that. No offence meant to the original poster if this is not the case :)

Incidentally I own Sonos gear (music streaming system) and if you went onto their forum as a non-owner of kit you would never buy anything as it's just full of issues and ranting from owners. If you read through their forums you'd think that nobody has a working system!

I wasn't the original poster but I'm seriously interested in this thread. I'm trying to find a shop in the Netherlands where I can actually touch a REV 2 before forking out the money.

I presume you’ve already looked on the list of dealers here on the DSI site. If not, see attachments below. There are also dealers in neighbouring countries if you live near one of the borders.

Thank you. I've had a look at those websites. Only few actually have them. Some have them for a very high process though.

You could always test them there and ask if they’ll price-match the cheapest you’ve seen. If not, just test there and buy elsewhere online.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Simple Rabbit on June 17, 2018, 08:22:47 PM
I wasn't the original poster but I'm seriously interested in this thread. I'm trying to find a shop in the Netherlands where I can actually touch a REV 2 before forking out the money.

FWIW, I never touched or saw a Rev2 before I bought mine.

I tried enough of the cheapo synths at my local shop to know generally what I needed to not be frustrated (8+ polyphony, lots of knobs, full sized and nice feeling keybed, savable patch presets). I did a little research (i.e. a couple evenings of reading about the options and YouTube videos). Rev2 seemed great, sounded great, fit my general criteria. I bought it.

I'm very happy. Maybe there's a "slightly more ideal synth" for me out there, but the Rev2 is so good I'm sure I wouldn't be able to begin knowing what that would be without a few years of experience with it. It's awesome, and I'm glad to be making music.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Kja on June 25, 2018, 11:42:08 AM
I believe dsi has started using better encoders since the original 08 model and there has been growing pains from it, same with elektron who is using better ones too. Of course I'm sure there are much better up to laser optical encoders but the ones did is using are better than they are being credited for. Potentiometer's have there own set of problems too..

The only mass produced synth I own is a dsi synth and I will never sell it, not a moog,lol.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Razmo on June 25, 2018, 12:06:42 PM
well.. regarding the encoders, I'm not impressed at all... I bought a REV2 twice (keys both times) and both times the encoder for changing programs is quirky... in exactly the same way... it jumps two numbers quite often with just one click... why it only happens with the program encoder i do not know... sometimes it makes selecting programs a bit confusing because it simply skips a number and you don't see it, only to find out you have the wrong program up.

I've never been a fan of encoders simply because they so easily start to jump about... other than that i find the quality to be quite good actually...
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: dslsynth on June 25, 2018, 12:23:36 PM
well.. regarding the encoders, I'm not impressed at all... I bought a REV2 twice (keys both times) and both times the encoder for changing programs is quirky... in exactly the same way... it jumps two numbers quite often with just one click... why it only happens with the program encoder i do not know... sometimes it makes selecting programs a bit confusing because it simply skips a number and you don't see it, only to find out you have the wrong program up.

Wonder if that could be a software related issue? Best advice would be to report the error to support and ask them for a fix to the problem as its very annoying for the user.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: S Y Z Y G Y X on June 25, 2018, 12:59:52 PM
Yes!!  My Rev2 encoder when changing/selecting programs is super quirky as well!  It jumps and skips programs every time.  Could there be a fix for this in a software update?
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: S Y Z Y G Y X on June 25, 2018, 01:01:21 PM
Oh btw, I would buy a rev2 again even with the jumpy encoder, just wondering if it’s a software issue that could possibly have a fix?
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Kja on June 25, 2018, 01:37:18 PM
Not sure myself, I have a prophet 6 not a rev2, but I do know that while annoying, that's not really a wear issue or a sign of failure, just that it is not as precise a encoder as it should be to do what its trying to do. Not really a issue of quality either really but the best encoders are usually very precise.

I have a completely handbuilt mono that has a very high quality encoder on it but its just one compared to the many dsi need for a build and it cost a lot! Its not even the best either but way better but if they used these it would raise the price a hundred or so maybe more? Not sure its worth it and dsi's encoders will last just as long, probably longer than the pots... So just can't you try twice sometimes? Is it that big a deal? I don't work for dsi but sheesh it seems to be a small issue.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: S Y Z Y G Y X on June 25, 2018, 02:09:40 PM
^^ haha, you are so very right!  It’s no big deal to just turn the encoder one more time, truth is I’m stuck in Bogotá airport on a delayed flight so I guess I became a nitpicker!!!   :-*
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Razmo on June 25, 2018, 11:46:36 PM
Nitpicking or not, it IS annoying, and I would not mind paying a bit more for better encoders... Another problem is, that encoders tend to start failing more and more with time... A double skip here and there can be reasoned with, but when they start to fail a click or even jump up and down, then my patience will be gone.

A solution that would have helped on the REV2 was if it had been given two inc/dec buttons for the program encoder like a lot of other synths has.

Still, I see no problem in people speaking up about this, if they find it a nuisance... If you are performing live, an unnoticed skip in programs could be really annoying. Another thing is, that the reason I am actually writing this is because my other encoders dont skip like that... I am wondering if it is a software problem since I experienced this one and the same encoder skipping like this on two separate machines... If this problem can be bettered via a software fix, why not?
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: AlainHubert on June 26, 2018, 12:21:58 AM
I'm pretty sure that the software acceleration (where values will step by more than one when the encoders are turned quickly) doesn't help matters...

 

Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Razmo on June 26, 2018, 12:27:54 AM
I'm pretty sure that the software acceleration (where values will step by more than one when the encoders are turned quickly) doesn't help matters...

I would suspect that as a culprit yes... but is this only active on the Program encounter perhaps? ... my other encoders do not skip like the Program encoder, so maybe this acceleration code is only present for the Program encoder? ... in that case, I'd like a fix that allow me to simply switch off the acceleration feature.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: Razmo on June 26, 2018, 12:36:26 AM
Edit to my other posts: it's basically all encoders that do this... I had to test this thoroughly, and it's just the way these encoders work... you just don't notice it on the other encoders as much because you use the Program encoder that much more.

If it's a result of the encoder themselves, or the acceleration code is hard to say... I can live with it as long as they do not oxydize like earlier DSI encoders did, skipping values up and down, going up when you are going down and vice versa... I do hope though, that if DSI can do something software wise to better it, that they would... I think they already did this once though, if I remember correctly.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: cbmd on June 29, 2018, 03:48:29 PM
Encoder improvements have been implemented in the latest 1.1.4.4 OS version.  It can be found here:

https://forum.davesmithinstruments.com/index.php/topic,1531.0.html
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: MPM on July 01, 2018, 04:39:09 AM
Encoder improvements have been implemented in the latest 1.1.4.4 OS version.

This is great! Anyone tried it out?
Is it a big improvement?
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: AlainHubert on July 01, 2018, 05:26:08 AM
Yes I did, like many other members here, and it is a HUGE improvement, as others have also reported. All my encoders now work absolutely perfectly. No more skipping or erratic behavior at all, even after several hours of programming and tweaking.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: neeco on July 01, 2018, 09:56:29 AM
No more skipping values! Thanks DSI!
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: aaronsimsg on July 22, 2018, 08:25:16 AM
Was about to pull the trigger on the Rev2 and I read that many owners had issues with the Encoders. Is it safe now after the latest update?

The reason I'm asking is because I have no local dealer in my country (Singapore) and have no experience soldering, so any repairs would require me to send the unit back overseas which will cost a bomb.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: jg666 on July 22, 2018, 08:58:00 AM
Was about to pull the trigger on the Rev2 and I read that many owners had issues with the Encoders. Is it safe now after the latest update?

The reason I'm asking is because I have no local dealer in my country (Singapore) and have no experience soldering, so any repairs would require me to send the unit back overseas which will cost a bomb.

The latest firmware update has solved this problem for people who were experiencing problems with the encoders (as far as I know)
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: AlainHubert on July 22, 2018, 10:08:31 AM
Having had problems with encoders, I can confirm that the problem has been definitely resolved completely with the latest firmware update.
Title: Re: is choosing the Rev2 too risky?
Post by: MPM on July 24, 2018, 10:56:01 PM
Brilliant now.
Not that this one was bad anyway, but now, Encoders, perfect.