The Official Sequential/Oberheim Forum

SEQUENTIAL/DSI => Prophet-5/Prophet-10 => Topic started by: synthRodriguez on November 05, 2020, 03:09:31 PM

Title: Wood Coloration
Post by: synthRodriguez on November 05, 2020, 03:09:31 PM
The wood on my P10 s/n 76 was a bit on the light side for me and kind of dry looking, so while I was at the cap replacement I pulled all the wood components and stained them darker.

I used Minwax English Chestnut followed by a liberal application of Johnson's Paste Wax as a finish coat. Turned out very nice.

Sorry, don't have a "before" photo (I'm bad about things like that) but attached is the "after". Kind of hard to get even lighting in the studio (and no polarizing filter for the camera) but you get the idea.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Shaw on November 05, 2020, 05:04:39 PM
Looks very nice... Great work!
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: ddp on November 05, 2020, 09:27:37 PM
it does, i wish i had the skill to attempt that!
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Analog Prophet on November 06, 2020, 12:17:08 AM
Very nice!
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: AlainHubert on November 06, 2020, 10:19:58 AM
Looks great indeed! Good job! Very much like the original P5 casing.
If only the insides were up to the task of doing the same.  ::)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: A Thousand Eyes on November 06, 2020, 10:31:14 AM
If only the insides were up to the task of doing the same.  ::)

Can't wait till you get your UB-Xa.  ::)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SynthHead on November 29, 2020, 02:31:23 PM
Looks great, though I wish sequential would do this from the factory (or at least ensure all the wood used is high quality non sapwood with decent finish). I want a Prophet 10 but dread it turning up and looking like an eyesore someone knocked up from MDF with slap on formica ;)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: spaceshipearth on December 05, 2020, 12:28:48 AM
Looks really nice!
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: jdt9517 on December 07, 2020, 10:54:14 PM
Looks very nice... Great work!

That's what the originals looked like.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on December 08, 2020, 05:59:09 AM
Looks very nice... Great work!

That's what the originals looked like.

Probably not when new... wood darkens with age.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Paul Dither on December 08, 2020, 11:14:14 AM
Looks very nice... Great work!

That's what the originals looked like.

Probably not when new... wood darkens with age.

Walnut actually gets lighter with age while a rich honey color comes through.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on December 08, 2020, 05:01:56 PM
Looks very nice... Great work!

That's what the originals looked like.

Probably not when new... wood darkens with age.

Walnut actually gets lighter with age while a rich honey color comes through.

Interesting, didn't know this!
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SerErris on December 10, 2020, 02:57:53 AM
Mine is unfortunately a mixture of sapwood and heartwood ... Support formally confirmed that this is in quality. Disappointing reaction. Also I asked to BUY a set of wood if they are not going to exchange - not possible.

Now I need to think of other options. That is really a pitty and it is not what I expected from that premium synthesizer for that premium price and the "we make everything possible support attitude". The support attitute is actually not at all that way.

My experience is more - go away, there is not problem.

So if the problem is not something like "knob is broken off" or Missing parts, not working at all.. you are pretty much on your own.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Gomjab on December 10, 2020, 06:20:01 AM
I found this video on Walnut interesting.  I’m happy with the looks of my Prophet 10 but was curious about the heartwood sapwood discussion as I know nothing about woodworking.

That blog states that even select walnut has a lot of variation.
“It’s really easy to look at a pile of walnut and assume it’s low in quality because walnut, the poor guy, has a lot of characteristics that you don’t find in other woods. That means even the best grade of walnut comes with appearance flaws and defects.”

He also mentions Danish Oil as an easy finish that can darken the sap wood.  The closest I’ve come to a wood working project was building speakers from a kit.  The wood was all precut with an unfinished veneer.  Basically glue and clamp the wood.  I used Danish Oil as a finish and was really pleased with the ease of application and results.  If down the road I want a change of appearance of my Prophet that would probably be the route I’d take.

https://www.woodworkerssource.com/blog/wood-conversations/ultimate-guide-to-walnut/
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SerErris on December 10, 2020, 07:13:58 AM
The point is, they advertised it on their front page as:

Quote
The Whole Package
All of this punchy, powerful, analog goodness is housed in a full, five-octave, semi-weighted Fatar keyboard with USB, MIDI, Gate and CV ins/outs, and a premium-quality, steel and hand-oiled, sustainable black walnut heartwood body that make it as satisfying to behold as it is to hear and play.

The product shots reflect that.

Mine is on the front plate half heartwood and half sapwood. But it is in quality. So it is directly in your eyes every day.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Gomjab on December 10, 2020, 07:57:42 AM
@SerErris My post was not a reply to you but the thread topic in general.  Most dealers have pretty good return policies so perhaps you can take that route.  I hope you can get your issue resolved.

I just found that blog post interesting since it discussed the issues with Walnut.  It seemed that the best of the best get used to produce veneer.  I’d rather have solid Walnut with some character flaws than veneer.  It does seem that Sequential should change the verbiage of their advert from heartwood to the actual lumber grade.

From https://www.mcilvain.com/news/walnut-grades-explained/

“ BLACK WALNUT LUMBER GRADE

For more information on NHLA grading and defects, be sure to check out Understanding Hardwood Lumber Grades.

FIRST AND SECONDS (FAS)

Black Walnut lumber
Above grade Walnut can be found in wide and long boards but you will pay a premium for it.
This is the highest grade, and NHLA states for all lumber the following:
83.3% clear of defect on both faces
Minimum Board Size: 6″x8′
Minimum Clear Cutting Size: 3″x7′ or 4″x5′
Now for Walnut lumber, the rules are changed, and the bar is lowered to allow a wider sample of wood into the grade.  The above guidelines are the same with the exception of the following changes:

Minimum Board Size is reduced to 5″x6′ with 80% of the pack yielding 8′ and longer
Minimum Clear Cutting Size is reduced to 4″x3′ or 3″x6′
Pieces 5″ x 6-7′ are allowed wane along the edges, splits not longer than 6″ on 1 end, and 1 defect
Pieces 8″ and wider are admitted 2 defects
SELECTS

Walnut hardwood
Shorter and Narrower Boards will be more common with Walnut lumber.
This grade is very similar to FAS, but now both faces do not have to meet the grade. The standard grading rule for all species is:
83.3% clear on 1 face only with the 2nd face being of #2 Common grade
Minimum Board Size: 4″ x 6′
Minimum Clear Cutting Size is the same as FAS but for 1 face
For Walnut, again the rules are changed as follows:

Minimum Clear Cutting Size: 4″ x 3′ or 3″ x 6′
Essentially, the rules for Selects Walnut are the same as FAS, but again only 1 face must meet the grade and the other face must meet #1 Common grade.

#1 COMMON

Walnut lumber grade
More knots means more chances for beautiful, crazy grain
The Common grades are much less in demand for most species, which is a shame, because as you will see there is still quite a bit of usable lumber in each board. Usually being able to work with and around knots will make you a great customer for Common lumber. The standard grade is:
66.6% clear on both faces
Minimum Board Size: 3″ x 4′
Minimum Clear Cutting Size: 3″ x 3′ or 4″ x 2′
For Walnut, again the guidelines are the same with the following exceptions:

Minimum Clear Cutting Size: 3″ x 2′
Again, the cutting size has been reduced, yet the percentages remain the same, which basically means smaller boards can be admitted into the grade.”

I hope you are able to resolve your issue.

The point is, they advertised it on their front page as:

Quote
The Whole Package
All of this punchy, powerful, analog goodness is housed in a full, five-octave, semi-weighted Fatar keyboard with USB, MIDI, Gate and CV ins/outs, and a premium-quality, steel and hand-oiled, sustainable black walnut heartwood body that make it as satisfying to behold as it is to hear and play.

The product shots reflect that.

Mine is on the front plate half heartwood and half sapwood. But it is in quality. So it is directly in your eyes every day.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Gomjab on December 10, 2020, 08:07:08 AM
The point is, they advertised it on their front page as:

Quote
The Whole Package
All of this punchy, powerful, analog goodness is housed in a full, five-octave, semi-weighted Fatar keyboard with USB, MIDI, Gate and CV ins/outs, and a premium-quality, steel and hand-oiled, sustainable black walnut heartwood body that make it as satisfying to behold as it is to hear and play.

The product shots reflect that.

Mine is on the front plate half heartwood and half sapwood. But it is in quality. So it is directly in your eyes every day.

Can you post a picture?  As I said I’m happy with mine.  Perhaps I just got lucky.

(https://i.ibb.co/XF166wD/8-CAEF403-8-D68-4-F54-BB96-0-EB8-B0-B1073-E.jpg)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SerErris on December 10, 2020, 11:55:40 PM
Here we go
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Gomjab on December 11, 2020, 06:22:24 AM
Here we go

I wouldn’t mind the small knots.  The inconsistency of the color from left to right could be viewed as good or bad depending on individual taste.  I do like having something unique.  I think yours looks great but then again it is always hard to judge from a photo.  Lighting can make a huge difference on contrast and tone.  It can either hide or emphasize differences depending on angle and color temperature of light.

Maybe we need a forum post for people unhappy with their wood to post pics and swap wood with other users.   ;D

What one person finds ugly, another will find beautiful.

Also is that a Saturn V in the corner?  I bought my wife a huge one made like a stuffed animal.

Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SerErris on December 11, 2020, 10:37:36 AM
Yes it is a Saturn V, Lego Edition. A gift from my wife two years ago.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on December 11, 2020, 03:00:47 PM
Here we go

Looks-wise I think it has character, but the bottom line is heartwood was advertised (and can be reasonably expected on a synth at this price point), and for that reason you should get what was promised.  Very surprised at the support response you received.  If I received same and was less than satisfied, I would send it back and get a replacement, that's what B stock discounted equipment sales are for.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: ddp on December 11, 2020, 04:52:58 PM
I was pretty disappointed with the wood finish on my Rev2, enough that I contacted support to complain, and to their credit, they sent me new wood ends, but I ended up not changing them because they weren't a whole lot better.  If it were me, I would have used very a very nice hardwood, but I grew up with teak furniture around me.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: AlainHubert on December 13, 2020, 03:56:03 PM
I was pretty disappointed with the wood finish on my Rev2, enough that I contacted support to complain, and to their credit, they sent me new wood ends, but I ended up not changing them because they weren't a whole lot better.  If it were me, I would have used very a very nice hardwood, but I grew up with teak furniture around me.

Then wooden ends on my REV2 are pretty nice. The ones on my OB6 Desktop module however are rather cheap looking with visible poorly sanded spots here and there, and a rather lackluster mismatched brown colour.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on December 13, 2020, 04:39:50 PM
I was pretty disappointed with the wood finish on my Rev2, enough that I contacted support to complain, and to their credit, they sent me new wood ends, but I ended up not changing them because they weren't a whole lot better.  If it were me, I would have used very a very nice hardwood, but I grew up with teak furniture around me.

Then wooden ends on my REV2 are pretty nice. The ones on my OB6 Desktop module however are rather cheap looking with visible poorly sanded spots here and there, and a rather lackluster mismatched brown colour.

I think finished wood must be subject to a lot of manufacturing variation. 

Comparing the wood across my Sequential synths, I'd have to say overall quality is consistent across all four of them.  Different grains and shades of stain of course... and the wood ends are a little thinner on the OB6 compared to the P6 and Rev2, but I believe this is intentional design to stay consistent with the look of vintage Oberheim gear.  I say this because even the choice of fastening screws are similar in style to OBX-a or OB-8. 
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: AlainHubert on December 13, 2020, 06:02:10 PM

I think finished wood must be subject to a lot of manufacturing variation. 

Comparing the wood across my Sequential synths, I'd have to say overall quality is consistent across all four of them.  Different grains and shades of stain of course... and the wood ends are a little thinner on the OB6 compared to the P6 and Rev2, but I believe this is intentional design to stay consistent with the look of vintage Oberheim gear.  I say this because even the choice of fastening screws are similar in style to OBX-a or OB-8.

Yes, I get what DSI/Sequential tried to do on the OB6. But my wooden end cheeks certainly don't look as good as this:
(https://images.reverb.com/image/upload/s--OlvycvCM--/f_auto,t_supersize/v1607328956/aoz6dld606tikpuvsb62.jpg)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on December 14, 2020, 04:08:46 AM

I think finished wood must be subject to a lot of manufacturing variation. 

Comparing the wood across my Sequential synths, I'd have to say overall quality is consistent across all four of them.  Different grains and shades of stain of course... and the wood ends are a little thinner on the OB6 compared to the P6 and Rev2, but I believe this is intentional design to stay consistent with the look of vintage Oberheim gear.  I say this because even the choice of fastening screws are similar in style to OBX-a or OB-8.

Yes, I get what DSI/Sequential tried to do on the OB6. But my wooden end cheeks certainly don't look as good as this:
(https://images.reverb.com/image/upload/s--OlvycvCM--/f_auto,t_supersize/v1607328956/aoz6dld606tikpuvsb62.jpg)

Subjectively, I'd say mine look notably better (minus the nifty voice tuning control) compared to that photo.  Have you sent a picture of yours and sent to Sequential to see if they would be willing to send a set of new ends?
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: realtrance on December 14, 2020, 10:26:26 AM
Here we go

Gee, that’s beautiful! I have an inherited walnut table and the wood is 60 years old, and wood qualities were better back then, and this is Ethan Allen we’re talking about. It has knots, and grain, and swirling patterns. That is walnut. Live with it awhile, or sell it and wait for Sequential to offer cherry or maple, if they ever do (doubtful) as those have less character. But this is in no way objectionable fir walnut.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SynthWolf on December 21, 2020, 05:53:56 AM
I’m loving all this talk about wooden panels for synths.
I do a bit of woodworking, check these panels I’ve made recently,

https://youtu.be/DDT7FtU-YnU

It would be interesting to make a set for the new p5/ P10.

I’ve heard a lot of people are not fully content with their new p5/p10 wood casing. some of us are, but for those who are not , I feel for you.
Knowing you’ll have to look at it everyday and think to yourself “jeez, If only this thing looked the way it sounded, then I’d be really blown away”
and i don’t think its really an outlandish thing to be displeased with considering the fact that all of sequentials professional marketing photos for their synths showcase cherry picked walnut panels. You know, I think it’s safe to say that they know the difference between an ugly cut of wood and a nice cut of wood, and that perhaps we wouldn’t be opposed to quality control tightening up their discrimination for wood choice.

And I feel it’s safe to say that after spending so much money for your synth to only find out you got the ugly cut of wood, would be enough of a bummer for people to comment and even make a thread for.

Those are my two cents
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: brandonm on December 23, 2020, 07:12:30 AM
I need to restore the ends on my OB-8 but I don't have any experience with that sort of thing. I would like mine to look the same as the one above. I also need new screws as many of them are a bit stripped. I know I just need to look around for those. The rings are OK, but it would be nice just to get a hold of a new set of both. The OB-6 looks to have similar style so they must be available.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SynthWolf on December 23, 2020, 10:21:53 AM
I need to restore the ends on my OB-8 but I don't have any experience with that sort of thing. I would like mine to look the same as the one above. I also need new screws as many of them are a bit stripped. I know I just need to look around for those. The rings are OK, but it would be nice just to get a hold of a new set of both. The OB-6 looks to have similar style so they must be available.

I could potentially make you a set for your OB-8, have you seen the video above ? If any of that stuff interest you, send me a PM
- Nick
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: station2station on December 24, 2020, 09:06:22 AM
I love my wood.  I've seen some really pretty Prophet R4's out there.  I've only seen one strange one where the top strip above the keys looked like light pine compared to the rest of the wood used on that one unit.

...but as a whole it's nice to check out all the variants that I see on Instagram as well as here.  I personally like the dry open-pore wood vibe that Sequential has commissioned.  But the original poster who used the Minwax did a fantastic job on his instrument.

Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: station2station on December 24, 2020, 09:09:27 AM
Here we go

See I LOVE the knots.  I think they give character and make it yours.  It's all about your perspective; patina and nature.  I like your Prophet - I think you got a classy one.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SynthWolf on December 24, 2020, 08:13:01 PM
I love my wood.  I've seen some really pretty Prophet R4's out there.  I've only seen one strange one where the top strip above the keys looked like light pine compared to the rest of the wood used on that one unit.

...but as a whole it's nice to check out all the variants that I see on Instagram as well as here.  I personally like the dry open-pore wood vibe that Sequential has commissioned.  But the original poster who used the Minwax did a fantastic job on his instrument.

Wow. That’s actually a really beautiful piece of case that compliments the synth very well. I’m personally a fan of the deep browns, just like this rev4 has. Jeez that’s nice.
Mine for some reason looks straight up like pine wood with a bad dye job! But the finish is nice on it. Maybe a wax
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: station2station on December 27, 2020, 03:00:38 PM
I love my wood.  I've seen some really pretty Prophet R4's out there.  I've only seen one strange one where the top strip above the keys looked like light pine compared to the rest of the wood used on that one unit.

...but as a whole it's nice to check out all the variants that I see on Instagram as well as here.  I personally like the dry open-pore wood vibe that Sequential has commissioned.  But the original poster who used the Minwax did a fantastic job on his instrument.

Wow. That’s actually a really beautiful piece of case that compliments the synth very well. I’m personally a fan of the deep browns, just like this rev4 has. Jeez that’s nice.
Mine for some reason looks straight up like pine wood with a bad dye job! But the finish is nice on it. Maybe a wax

Wow, they are starting to come out in all shades.  I just saw another one off YouTube that looked balsa wood light.

THIS IS NOT MINE PICTURED HERE - no offense to the owner but I would have returned it.:
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: AlainHubert on December 27, 2020, 03:29:16 PM
Ouch. Looks like they forgot to stain it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWhp5hQAoIo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWhp5hQAoIo)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SynthWolf on December 29, 2020, 06:35:27 AM
I love my wood.  I've seen some really pretty Prophet R4's out there.  I've only seen one strange one where the top strip above the keys looked like light pine compared to the rest of the wood used on that one unit.

...but as a whole it's nice to check out all the variants that I see on Instagram as well as here.  I personally like the dry open-pore wood vibe that Sequential has commissioned.  But the original poster who used the Minwax did a fantastic job on his instrument.

Wow. That’s actually a really beautiful piece of case that compliments the synth very well. I’m personally a fan of the deep browns, just like this rev4 has. Jeez that’s nice.
Mine for some reason looks straight up like pine wood with a bad dye job! But the finish is nice on it. Maybe a wax

Wow, they are starting to come out in all shades.  I just saw another one off YouTube that looked balsa wood light.

THIS IS NOT MINE PICTURED HERE - no offense to the owner but I would have returned it.:

U-G-L-Y
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on December 29, 2020, 06:58:10 AM
THIS IS NOT MINE PICTURED HERE - no offense to the owner but I would have returned it.:

Also no offense to the owner, but I would have never even taken it out of the box.  Things like that concern me with regard to future resale.  Observing what I have over the last 40 years or so, instruments with unusual characteristics can be a real gamble with regard to resale value...with the odds being far more against the unique trait adding resale value, more likely subtracting it, because oddball characteristics tend to lower demand.  That actually applies to many things, not just instruments.

A certain amount of manufacturing consistency is a reasonable expectation on a synth this expensive.

I will be deferring my purchase of a Rev 4 until I gain confidence that initial production pains have been worked out.  I feel like the QA process here is sub par.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: AlainHubert on December 29, 2020, 06:49:55 PM
I will be deferring my purchase of a Rev 4 until I gain confidence that initial production pains have been worked out.  I feel like the QA process here is sub par.

Wise decision. Their QA seems questionable at times, both in the hardware AND software departments.
Some of us have suffered some early woes of half-baked OS in the past with other models. I'm talking from experience.

To their credit though, their support team has always been doing their very best to try to give the customers full satisfaction. And the wood sides on my REV2 are gorgeous!  ;)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on December 30, 2020, 04:45:17 AM
I will be deferring my purchase of a Rev 4 until I gain confidence that initial production pains have been worked out.  I feel like the QA process here is sub par.

Wise decision. Their QA seems questionable at times, both in the hardware AND software departments.
Some of us have suffered some early woes of half-baked OS in the past with other models. I'm talking from experience.

To their credit though, their support team has always been doing their very best to try to give the customers full satisfaction. And the wood sides on my REV2 are gorgeous!  ;)

Yes, by the QA process, I meant that of manufacturing, since I assume Sequential has that taken care of by an outside local vendor (or am I wrong and they are employees of same company)?  I know Dave's company is small, and things like the capacitor snafu are an honest mistake... but I mean when something as visible as wood color has such obvious variation, it means manufacturing isn't even looking (literally) at what's coming off the line.  Software is always going to have bugs and as long as they are addressed promptly, I don't mind to do an OS update once in a while, but something that requires me to physically mail back a large box will piss me off. 

In an interview, Dave cited the amount of wood required to give the P5/10 the original look was a major factor in the elevated price tag, so If I'm paying that much for a synth the wood needs to be right.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SynthWolf on January 01, 2021, 08:40:43 AM
I will be deferring my purchase of a Rev 4 until I gain confidence that initial production pains have been worked out.  I feel like the QA process here is sub par.

Wise decision. Their QA seems questionable at times, both in the hardware AND software departments.
Some of us have suffered some early woes of half-baked OS in the past with other models. I'm talking from experience.

To their credit though, their support team has always been doing their very best to try to give the customers full satisfaction. And the wood sides on my REV2 are gorgeous!  ;)

Yes, by the QA process, I meant that of manufacturing, since I assume Sequential has that taken care of by an outside local vendor (or am I wrong and they are employees of same company)?  I know Dave's company is small, and things like the capacitor snafu are an honest mistake... but I mean when something as visible as wood color has such obvious variation, it means manufacturing isn't even looking (literally) at what's coming off the line.  Software is always going to have bugs and as long as they are addressed promptly, I don't mind to do an OS update once in a while, but something that requires me to physically mail back a large box will piss me off. 

In an interview, Dave cited the amount of wood required to give the P5/10 the original look was a major factor in the elevated price tag, so If I'm paying that much for a synth the wood needs to be right.

When I contacted support and offered to purchase a new set of wood for mine, so long as it closely resembles walnut, at first they said okay, then I got a second email saying, the manager kiboshed it and won’t let me purchase an additional kit because the supply is meant for the synths in production. Which makes sense, sort of. So perhaps when the production is levelled out they can allow me to purchase something that looks “better”
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: REMIX on January 05, 2021, 09:32:45 PM
The wood on my P10 s/n 76 was a bit on the light side for me and kind of dry looking, so while I was at the cap replacement I pulled all the wood components and stained them darker.

I used Minwax English Chestnut followed by a liberal application of Johnson's Paste Wax as a finish coat. Turned out very nice.

Sorry, don't have a "before" photo (I'm bad about things like that) but attached is the "after". Kind of hard to get even lighting in the studio (and no polarizing filter for the camera) but you get the idea.

Just curious if you sanded it first, or just hit it with Minwax. I'd be inclined to do this if mine is too light..I have one incoming this week.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SerErris on January 06, 2021, 03:06:01 AM
When I contacted support and offered to purchase a new set of wood for mine, so long as it closely resembles walnut, at first they said okay, then I got a second email saying, the manager kiboshed it and won’t let me purchase an additional kit because the supply is meant for the synths in production. Which makes sense, sort of. So perhaps when the production is levelled out they can allow me to purchase something that looks “better”

Same here. That is exactly what makes me feel that this is not the Support I was expecting.

For me (mine) it is not "within tolerance" and at least I would have expected they offer to buy a better set.

It is a real shame.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: _xanax on January 08, 2021, 05:38:15 AM
Hey folks, juste received my unit couple days ago. Can't say I'm too pleased with the front wood panel. Very strong discoloration from left to right and a big old knot. After seeing so many other beautiful units out there, I'm considering returning mine, what do you guys think?

(https://i.ibb.co/jrZC1mD/IMG-3099.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/S0Pc8Kx/IMG-3097.jpg)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: AlainHubert on January 08, 2021, 12:31:11 PM
Hey folks, juste received my unit couple days ago. Can't say I'm too pleased with the front wood panel. Very strong discoloration from left to right and a big old knot. After seeing so many other beautiful units out there, I'm considering returning mine, what do you guys think?


I would tend to agree with you. I think that they could have selected a slightly better-looking piece of wood, especially for the top of the synth. As for returning it based on that, I personally would not. It makes it unique, like every Prophet 5 out there.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: HockeBocke on January 08, 2021, 03:47:19 PM


I would tend to agree with you. I think that they could have selected a slightly better-looking piece of wood, especially for the top of the synth. As for returning it based on that, I personally would not. It makes it unique, like every Prophet 5 out there.
[/quote]


Totally agree. That wood is the "fingerprint" / DNA of your Prophet and unique. Better than serial number if gets stolen ...
Take a look at my P-5 rev.2 and the "terrible" wood .....   I LOVE IT   :)
I think you get used to it and eventually love yours to ....

Cheers !

Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on January 08, 2021, 07:16:55 PM
Attaching a photo of Rick Wakeman's Prophet 5 on Reverb just to preserve the visual after the synth is sold and the ad is gone.

My point in attaching the image... wood variation is nothing new, a lot of "famous" Prophet 5s had extra character.  Recently got my P10 and I'm very happy with the wood grain and staining.  It has a bit of character on the thin piece at the top, similar to the "blotchy" effect you can see at the very top thin piece in that photo...  but overall its gorgeous and I like it.

What strikes me about the Rev4 is it draws me to it, and inspires me to create.  I realized as I was waiting on the delivery guy to drop it off, I had a certain anticipation I had not felt since back in the 80's when I was a still a teen and my first synth was being delivered that day.  I probably won't be able to pull myself away from it this weekend.

Variations in wood are cool... If yours is having the inspirational effect on you I just mentioned, I would keep it.  No doubt the tone is amazing, but if anything including the appearance is giving a vibe that puts you off I would send it back.. that's just me.  There has to be a connection between me and the instrument for it all to work.

Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: _xanax on January 08, 2021, 08:56:40 PM
Thanks for the feedback. It’s a really tough decision as I’ve waited for my P5R4 for months and sending it back isn’t a light task.

I wanna of course state that the overall build quality, the UI and the sound absolutely matches my expectations. I feel very connected to the instrument that is not the issue.

That said, visuals matter, especially at this price point and although I wouldn’t consider my copy heinous or anything, let’s just say it is disappointing and bothers me on a aesthetic level.

It’s just that main front wood panel, the sides and back are fine. Should I bother opening a ticket with Sequential? I mean I’d be fine keeping it if they’d provide me with a replacement wood panel but I get the feeling from this thread I’m going to get declined!

Another option would be taking the matter in my own hands by applying some type of wood treatment like the OP in this thread did but I’m kinda scared I’ll mess up the finish tbh! Do you guys think it is possible to even out the dark/light portions of the wood panel and if so how would you go about it?
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: _xanax on January 08, 2021, 09:22:59 PM


I would tend to agree with you. I think that they could have selected a slightly better-looking piece of wood, especially for the top of the synth. As for returning it based on that, I personally would not. It makes it unique, like every Prophet 5 out there.


Totally agree. That wood is the "fingerprint" / DNA of your Prophet and unique. Better than serial number if gets stolen ...
Take a look at my P-5 rev.2 and the "terrible" wood .....   I LOVE IT   :)
I think you get used to it and eventually love yours to ....

Cheers !
[/quote]

FWIW both your P5R2 & P10R4 look great if not stunning to my eyes.

Wood grain is by nature imperfect and I have no issue with stains and busy character. I also own a Minimoog so I’m no stranger to wood casings on synths. But my P5R4 front panel goes from dark brown with busy grain patterns to extremely light with hardly no grain right in the logo area. It’s frankly awkward and off-putting visually IMO.  :-\
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on January 09, 2021, 04:57:33 AM
Question about the "fraying" around the logo... is that a plastic seal on top of the logo that peels off? 

This is what I thought it was initially on mine, but looking further, if it is, it doesn't want to come off easily and I didn't want to disturb it if I need to remove the fraying some other way.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: HockeBocke on January 09, 2021, 05:24:15 AM
Question about the "fraying" around the logo... is that a plastic seal on top of the logo that peels off? 

This is what I thought it was initially on mine, but looking further, if it is, it doesn't want to come off easily and I didn't want to disturb it if I need to remove the fraying some other way.


Yes, it´s the protective plastic film. Try to peel it off starting in one corner with you fingernail or a thin plectrum.
Do NOT use any sharp metal objects !

Cheers !
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on January 09, 2021, 07:04:34 AM
Question about the "fraying" around the logo... is that a plastic seal on top of the logo that peels off? 

This is what I thought it was initially on mine, but looking further, if it is, it doesn't want to come off easily and I didn't want to disturb it if I need to remove the fraying some other way.


Yes, it´s the protective plastic film. Try to peel it off starting in one corner with you fingernail or a thin plectrum.
Do NOT use any sharp metal objects !

Cheers !

Thank you!  It came right off once I got a bit more diligent (shame on me for keeping fingernails too short).  I don't recall the film on the P6 being that stubborn, was afraid I might scratch something that wasn't meant to be scratched.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: SynthWolf on January 26, 2021, 10:01:09 PM
Talking about all this wood color and what not, made me want to share this link with everyone for a post I made about synth panels. I don’t mean to hijack this thread but perhaps anyone interested after seeing my work can let me know if they want a custom walnut trim set for the p5/10

https://forum.sequential.com/index.php/topic,4910.0.html
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: N871 on February 03, 2021, 05:41:03 AM
I might get a P10, but I would like to stain the wood. I know the sides are removed easily, but how about the front and back piece? Are they glued to the metal chassis, or are there screws on the inside so you can remove all wood without problems?
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: ddp on February 03, 2021, 06:58:35 PM
I regret commenting about my Rev2 side panels now.  I have a new P10 and I like it, it sounds fantastic and is fun to play.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: AlainHubert on February 05, 2021, 10:13:02 AM
I regret commenting about my Rev2 side panels now.  I have a new P10 and I like it, it sounds fantastic and is fun to play.

Are we to understand that you're not entirely satisfied with the wood finish on your new P10 compared to the wood side panels of your REV2?
 
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on February 05, 2021, 01:58:19 PM
I regret commenting about my Rev2 side panels now.  I have a new P10 and I like it, it sounds fantastic and is fun to play.

Are we to understand that you're not entirely satisfied with the wood finish on your new P10 compared to the wood side panels of your REV2?

I too am interested to see if recent buyers are still experiencing any issues with the wood of the Rev4?

I had reservations about wood coloring based on some of the forum feedback, but when mine arrived, I was very pleased with grain pattern, stain color (dark which is what I wanted) and consistency of stain application.  Couldn't be more perfect IMO. 

My initial hunch was that forum feedback was heard, and tweaks made at manufacturing sometime before the batch my unit was in was produced. 

I do still think the two-tone ones and the lighter colored ones look cool though, and character on a synth like this is a good thing.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Manbird on February 05, 2021, 02:33:56 PM
I regret commenting about my Rev2 side panels now.  I have a new P10 and I like it, it sounds fantastic and is fun to play.

Are we to understand that you're not entirely satisfied with the wood finish on your new P10 compared to the wood side panels of your REV2?

I too am interested to see if recent buyers are still experiencing any issues with the wood of the Rev4?

I had reservations about wood coloring based on some of the forum feedback, but when mine arrived, I was very pleased with grain pattern, stain color (dark which is what I wanted) and consistency of stain application.  Couldn't be more perfect IMO. 

My initial hunch was that forum feedback was heard, and tweaks made at manufacturing sometime before the batch my unit was in was produced. 

I do still think the two-tone ones and the lighter colored ones look cool though, and character on a synth like this is a good thing.

Mine has a lovely grain. The wood is a bit more matte than I was expecting, and certainly different from our rev 3, which is on the rack directly above.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on February 05, 2021, 04:56:20 PM
I regret commenting about my Rev2 side panels now.  I have a new P10 and I like it, it sounds fantastic and is fun to play.

Are we to understand that you're not entirely satisfied with the wood finish on your new P10 compared to the wood side panels of your REV2?

I too am interested to see if recent buyers are still experiencing any issues with the wood of the Rev4?

I had reservations about wood coloring based on some of the forum feedback, but when mine arrived, I was very pleased with grain pattern, stain color (dark which is what I wanted) and consistency of stain application.  Couldn't be more perfect IMO. 

My initial hunch was that forum feedback was heard, and tweaks made at manufacturing sometime before the batch my unit was in was produced. 

I do still think the two-tone ones and the lighter colored ones look cool though, and character on a synth like this is a good thing.

Mine has a lovely grain. The wood is a bit more matte than I was expecting, and certainly different from our rev 3, which is on the rack directly above.

Before I learned on this forum I wasn't aware, but walnut lightens with age unlike most woods..  so it's fitting that the Rev3 would be a lighter tone.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: jok3r on February 06, 2021, 03:43:20 PM
I regret commenting about my Rev2 side panels now.  I have a new P10 and I like it, it sounds fantastic and is fun to play.

Are we to understand that you're not entirely satisfied with the wood finish on your new P10 compared to the wood side panels of your REV2?

I too am interested to see if recent buyers are still experiencing any issues with the wood of the Rev4?

I had reservations about wood coloring based on some of the forum feedback, but when mine arrived, I was very pleased with grain pattern, stain color (dark which is what I wanted) and consistency of stain application.  Couldn't be more perfect IMO. 

My initial hunch was that forum feedback was heard, and tweaks made at manufacturing sometime before the batch my unit was in was produced. 

I do still think the two-tone ones and the lighter colored ones look cool though, and character on a synth like this is a good thing.

Mine has a lovely grain. The wood is a bit more matte than I was expecting, and certainly different from our rev 3, which is on the rack directly above.

It looks fabulous. As the rest of this room ;-)

I'm waiting for you doing a song with it ;-)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Manbird on February 06, 2021, 04:59:49 PM
I regret commenting about my Rev2 side panels now.  I have a new P10 and I like it, it sounds fantastic and is fun to play.

Are we to understand that you're not entirely satisfied with the wood finish on your new P10 compared to the wood side panels of your REV2?

I too am interested to see if recent buyers are still experiencing any issues with the wood of the Rev4?

I had reservations about wood coloring based on some of the forum feedback, but when mine arrived, I was very pleased with grain pattern, stain color (dark which is what I wanted) and consistency of stain application.  Couldn't be more perfect IMO. 

My initial hunch was that forum feedback was heard, and tweaks made at manufacturing sometime before the batch my unit was in was produced. 

I do still think the two-tone ones and the lighter colored ones look cool though, and character on a synth like this is a good thing.

Mine has a lovely grain. The wood is a bit more matte than I was expecting, and certainly different from our rev 3, which is on the rack directly above.

It looks fabulous. As the rest of this room ;-)

I'm waiting for you doing a song with it ;-)

Thanks, jok3r!
We've reconfigured things again and now my main working room is the office. Much cosier, and a more minimal setup, even if the acoustics are in need of immediate work! I drag a laptop out to the bigger room if I need to record the other synths...
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: taichber on February 19, 2021, 11:56:19 AM
Got it last week. I love the sound and the look  :) :) :) :) :) :) :)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: HockeBocke on February 19, 2021, 12:29:43 PM
Got it last week. I love the sound and the look  :) :) :) :) :) :) :)


Niiiice !   8)

Cheers !
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: echoloch on February 21, 2021, 03:58:49 AM
Here is mine... I have a little blonde streak over the lower split (kinda hard to see from the sun glare). Personally, I like it.  8)

Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: MrBump on September 06, 2022, 04:40:02 AM
Hi all

I’d like to stain the wood on my p10 as it’s impossible to find one with decent wood in the UK it seems.

I can see how the wood comes apart on all but the lower front panel strip underneath the keys. Is it easy to get that part out? Does anyone have any instructions please?

Many thanks

Simon
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: waxdoctor on July 29, 2023, 08:30:04 AM
Here is mine... I have a little blonde streak over the lower split (kinda hard to see from the sun glare). Personally, I like it.  8)
That's a beauty... Nothing better than a Prophet crossbred with a blonde... :)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: waxdoctor on August 15, 2023, 01:10:35 PM
Here we go
I think it’s beautiful! I have one with a “strange” side panel (if you have look at my profile picture you can see it)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: waxdoctor on August 15, 2023, 01:20:35 PM
Hey folks, juste received my unit couple days ago. Can't say I'm too pleased with the front wood panel. Very strong discoloration from left to right and a big old knot. After seeing so many other beautiful units out there, I'm considering returning mine, what do you guys think?

(https://i.ibb.co/jrZC1mD/IMG-3099.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/S0Pc8Kx/IMG-3097.jpg)
Just wonderful! Really!
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: MonkeyJamz on August 19, 2023, 12:06:56 PM
Just got my Prophet 10 about an hour ago. Wood is pretty dull and light colored, but the grain is nice so I would likely stain it, BUT part of one of the side pieces is really off from the rest of the unit and stands out prominently because it has almost no color and no grain. Looking for a little feedback here because I really don't want to ship this thing back, but it I'm having a hard time convincing myself this looks ok.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: LPF83 on August 19, 2023, 12:38:45 PM
Just got my Prophet 10 about an hour ago. Wood is pretty dull and light colored, but the grain is nice so I would likely stain it, BUT part of one of the side pieces is really off from the rest of the unit and stands out prominently because it has almost no color and no grain. Looking for a little feedback here because I really don't want to ship this thing back, but it I'm having a hard time convincing myself this looks ok.

Personally I think it looks kind of cool/unique.  But I'm of the opinion that having gear that inspires us is important, so if the looks bother you, I would find a way to remedy the situation one way or another (whether that's staining it, sending it back for another unit, or deciding you like how it looks).  If it doesn't invite you to sit down and create music you won't get the most out of it.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: waxdoctor on August 19, 2023, 04:08:43 PM
Just got my Prophet 10 about an hour ago. Wood is pretty dull and light colored, but the grain is nice so I would likely stain it, BUT part of one of the side pieces is really off from the rest of the unit and stands out prominently because it has almost no color and no grain. Looking for a little feedback here because I really don't want to ship this thing back, but it I'm having a hard time convincing myself this looks ok.
Wow - I think all of the wood looks amazing including the side panel. I would be absolutely happy with it as it is.
I have a P5 and the left side looks completely different from the rest (shown in my profile picture)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: MonkeyJamz on August 19, 2023, 04:21:39 PM
Personally I think it looks kind of cool/unique.  But I'm of the opinion that having gear that inspires us is important, so if the looks bother you, I would find a way to remedy the situation one way or another (whether that's staining it, sending it back for another unit, or deciding you like how it looks).  If it doesn't invite you to sit down and create music you won't get the most out of it.

Thank you for the thoughtful reply, and I do generally agree with what you're saying. To be clear, it wouldn't make any difference to me creatively if all the wood bits were made of warped particle board because I bought this amazing thing for its sound.

That said, I don't think it's unreasonable to expect appearance to match performance at this price. If I bought an expensive sports car that came with a fender painted in a different color than the rest of the car, it would have zero impact on the way I felt when driving the car, but I would certainly expect the issue to be corrected because I paid for function and form, not just function.

Honestly, now that I've had some time to think about it, the most likely outcome here is that I will just make my own custom end pieces for my Prophet. This actually sounds like a fun project, and it should add another layer of intimacy to our burgeoning relationship.

This is my Prophet. There are many like it, but this one is mine :)
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: MonkeyJamz on August 19, 2023, 04:35:45 PM
Wow - I think all of the wood looks amazing including the side panel. I would be absolutely happy with it as it is.
I have a P5 and the left side looks completely different from the rest (shown in my profile picture)

Well thanks, waxdoctor. I think your side piece looks quite attractive :-* I appreciate the perspective check.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: waxdoctor on August 20, 2023, 02:55:56 AM
Well thanks, waxdoctor. I think your side piece looks quite attractive :-* I appreciate the perspective check.
Well, thank you too, MonkeyJamz :)
I always liked the wood structure of my side panel, but it did not fit to rest, I thought. But every day I am happier that it is like it is. Actually, I am a fan of it. The beauty of nature...
I hope you'll find yourself in the same "process". Enjoy! 
I also like what @LPF83 said about it very much...   
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: chysn on August 20, 2023, 07:02:04 AM
As a musical instrument retailer from way back in the day, I know that wood figuring can be an important subject for musicians. It's a big factor in guitar choice--whether quilted or flamed or birds-eye--not to mention drums, stringed instruments, woodwinds.

What I learned is that it's not sufficient to say that "all wood figuring is imperfect and beautiful." It's more accurate to say that "all wood figuring will be loved by someone." A guitar's wood was never so weird that it sat on display forever, even when it was passed up by a lot of buyers first.

Now we buy synths online, or directly from the maker, with no opportunity to select our wood figuring. I lucked out on my Prophet 5, but it's easy to see how there'd be disappointment when figuring doesn't match personal preference. There shouldn't be risk involved when buying an instrument with wood. But I'm not sure what the solution would be, other than buyers insisting on generous exchange policies and better local dealer support from manufacturers.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: g3o2 on August 20, 2023, 07:44:45 AM
It is the same with furniture: what you see in the showroom won’t be what will be delivered to your home, unless you can buy the actual showroom model with its dents and scratches.

In the end, it is just a first world problem and the safest way to get the pattern that you want is to buy second-hand.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Manbird on August 20, 2023, 07:56:10 AM
I ordered my P5 from a shop that didn’t yet have any in stock. They assured me they’d send pics of the next batch that came in so that I might choose based on wood pattern. The expected arrival date came and went and when a nearby shop ended up with  a P5 that someone else had ordered but not picked up, I was able to grab that one at a discounted price, but sight unseen. Mine indeed is lovely but it’s funny how important it seemed to get a “good one,” right?

Definitely a first-world problem, but for many of us, the Prophet 5 synth is a special machine, one of the most beautiful instruments. Fair enough we might wish for the classic look of such a classic instrument!
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: g3o2 on August 20, 2023, 01:10:13 PM
I have practically circumvented the problem by going for the desktop version. Yes, I’m missing out on a wonderful piece of furniture but not on the sound.
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: Catchthehare on August 23, 2023, 07:41:13 AM
If you are planning to make your own side panels, I suppose you could try and swap the cheeks around, left/right, inside/out. There might be a cleaner grain on the inside of the panel, I figure you'd need to countersink the holes a little.
Enjoy it!
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: waxdoctor on August 25, 2023, 07:30:26 PM
Wow - I think all of the wood looks amazing including the side panel. I would be absolutely happy with it as it is.
I have a P5 and the left side looks completely different from the rest (shown in my profile picture)

Well thanks, waxdoctor. I think your side piece looks quite attractive :-* I appreciate the perspective check.
I just looked at yours again (by accident) and it's just wow - I think it's really beautiful and to echo your words "quite attractive" (please don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to convince you, it's just my taste and I really love the looks, really :) )
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: 558 on October 16, 2023, 04:01:41 AM
The wood on my P10 s/n 76 was a bit on the light side for me and kind of dry looking, so while I was at the cap replacement I pulled all the wood components and stained them darker.

I used Minwax English Chestnut followed by a liberal application of Johnson's Paste Wax as a finish coat. Turned out very nice.

Sorry, don't have a "before" photo (I'm bad about things like that) but attached is the "after". Kind of hard to get even lighting in the studio (and no polarizing filter for the camera) but you get the idea.

If the internet had existed in 1978, the music industry would have missed out the prophet entirely.  I mean...think of the albums we'd have missed out on if Paul McCartney was sitting around talking to Steve Winwood about whose wood was prettier...loll.
  I can't believe you didn't take Even One picture of your synth before.... :o
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: g3o2 on October 16, 2023, 05:34:01 AM
The wood-loving community must have existed already back then. Maybe Paul was part of it ;-). Does it matter as long as it contributes to the one thing that we all love, that is keeping the Prophet alive?
Title: Re: Wood Coloration
Post by: jefferyyoung on October 19, 2023, 08:08:53 PM
I'm a big fan of the range of character the P10/P5rev4 wood has, though I do acknowledge there are some units that don't really suit my taste.

Just to add that with my P10 desktop, which happened to have some really unique figuring, I did give it a light application of mineral oil, which really hydrated the wood and deepened the colour without really altering anything permanently.