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SEQUENTIAL/DSI => Prophet => Sequential Prophet X => Topic started by: Kevin on October 21, 2021, 05:58:04 PM

Title: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Kevin on October 21, 2021, 05:58:04 PM
Is anyone still having issues with the Prophet X Freezing on boot up? I had the issue about 14 months ago and it seemed to stop happening. Now the synth is often freezing at random times and after a reboot it will fail to load. Eventually after about 10 or so attempts to reboot it might finally load. It is extremely dissapointing given the usually high quality standard Sequential have. I plan on gigging/touring with the synth now that things have opened up but this level of reliability renders the synth pretty much useless for that given this show stopper of a problem. Given the synth is a premium product of sorts, it's extra disappointing.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on October 22, 2021, 08:10:40 AM
Yes my friend! There are many more of us than you imagine! It's just that not everyone writes to the forum! I have had this problem for 2 years now, I often took risks at big concerts, and it happened that even during a performance it would freeze! I communicate directly with support and they said the following:

The lead software designer for the Prophet XL currently has a customer unit which is displaying similar issues and they will be looking into the cause of the issue shortly. That we've replaced the pertinent parts in the synth leads me to believe that there is some software problem which is related to the behavior you've encountered.

I will let you know what we find once software has had a chance to look into this further.


- the message was written on September 9th and since then I have been waiting for a response from them!

I believe that all those who have freezes should write and report about it, this is important!

Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: DerHarms on October 26, 2021, 06:16:49 AM
Hi,
I got this failure after 4 weeks I bought the ProphetX. Then the mainboard was exchanged and I had about 1 1/2 years of rest. Then it happened again and I swapped the mainboard and the SSD again ... after two weeks the same error.  The part is now at MusicStore (Germany) and I hope I get some of the money back.  And I was offered the 4th main board. :-)

Gruß
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on October 26, 2021, 09:02:18 AM
Understand you.
The most interesting thing is that the Prophet X,XL has crazy potential, but this problem with freezing spoils everything. Perhaps, as they say, this is a software error, because it is almost entirely based on this. If they solve this problem, which I really hope for, then with firm confidence I can say that this will be the instrument of my dreams! DEAR SEQUENTIAL - PLEASE LET IT BE SO!
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on November 06, 2021, 03:42:07 AM
Here is an example of how Prophet XL freezing in a live situation  :(  Sometimes as a result of hovering, the sound pulsates. In this case, one oblong sound!!! How would you feel if Prophet XL freezes during every gig or performance, when hundreds of people look at you?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9dTon6Otug
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: LoboLives on November 07, 2021, 05:06:20 AM
Abandonware.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: thirteen_engines on November 07, 2021, 06:24:48 AM
Abandonware.

Naa. All synth manufacturers do this. There will be a long period of silence and then bam … a firmware update.

Personally, I have not encountered this problem with my PX and if it were a software bug I would think that an awful lot more people would be complaining.

Keith
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on November 07, 2021, 12:43:18 PM
From everything I've seen and heard, this problem is more common among owners of the XL version, which in turn began to go on sale after the X version. Is there any attribution? I might be wrong
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: DerHarms on November 09, 2021, 07:51:08 AM
Hi,

So, my Prophet X is currently under repair and the technician claims it is due to a defective power supply. We will see.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Julienne Fractals on November 11, 2021, 08:53:23 AM
From everything I've seen and heard, this problem is more common among owners of the XL version, which in turn began to go on sale after the X version. Is there any attribution? I might be wrong
I have the Prophet X and never had this issue of freezing.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on November 11, 2021, 12:05:24 PM
From everything I've seen and heard, this problem is more common among owners of the XL version, which in turn began to go on sale after the X version. Is there any attribution? I might be wrong
I have the Prophet X and never had this issue of freezing.

LUCKY!!!! I'm very happy for you!
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on November 11, 2021, 12:48:31 PM
Hi,

So, my Prophet X is currently under repair and the technician claims it is due to a defective power supply. We will see.


While we are waiting for the firmware and the solution to the problem with freezing from Sequential, I also had thoughts about the power supply. Please, as soon as you have any news or results, tell us here on the forum, very curious.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: J_P_P on November 11, 2021, 01:48:05 PM
From everything I've seen and heard, this problem is more common among owners of the XL version, which in turn began to go on sale after the X version. Is there any attribution? I might be wrong
I have the Prophet X and never had this issue of freezing.

Me too...never Froze on me.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Julienne Fractals on November 14, 2021, 10:38:53 AM
From everything I've seen and heard, this problem is more common among owners of the XL version, which in turn began to go on sale after the X version. Is there any attribution? I might be wrong
I have the Prophet X and never had this issue of freezing.

LUCKY!!!! I'm very happy for you!

I don't think I am lucky. Sounds like a few of you have been unlucky. Good that Sequential are looking into this. Hope it gets resolved soon.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on November 15, 2021, 10:33:57 AM
From everything I've seen and heard, this problem is more common among owners of the XL version, which in turn began to go on sale after the X version. Is there any attribution? I might be wrong
I have the Prophet X and never had this issue of freezing.

LUCKY!!!! I'm very happy for you!

I don't think I am lucky. Sounds like a few of you have been unlucky. Good that Sequential are looking into this. Hope it gets resolved soon.
I really hope as well!!!!
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: wreckington on February 07, 2022, 01:19:42 PM
I purchased one on reverb and it has started freezing quite often.  I suspect this was the case before I got it as well.  It can go for a while without freezing and other times its only minutes after restarting it.

I am going to try all of the troubleshooting steps tonight in hopes that it not the issue in this thread.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: luisclaragomes on February 09, 2022, 12:37:04 AM
just got a replacement motherboard from Sequential that has a BIOS firmware upgrade that deals with this issue.
Installed it today and everything seems to be functioning for now.
it's been 3+ years of hiccups with this synth which I would have given up on if I didn't love it so much.
will let you know if I encounter problems!
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: DerHarms on February 09, 2022, 03:25:14 AM
Hi,

So, my Prophet X is currently under repair and the technician claims it is due to a defective power supply. We will see.


While we are waiting for the firmware and the solution to the problem with freezing from Sequential, I also had thoughts about the power supply. Please, as soon as you have any news or results, tell us here on the forum, very curious.

Still under repair. Did You ever try a line filter?
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: durbeque on February 21, 2022, 12:32:17 PM
There are a lot look in the facebook group... even geosynth wrote about it...


Abandonware.

Naa. All synth manufacturers do this. There will be a long period of silence and then bam … a firmware update.

Personally, I have not encountered this problem with my PX and if it were a software bug I would think that an awful lot more people would be complaining.

Keith
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: LoboLives on February 21, 2022, 12:49:41 PM
Just wish Sequential would publicly address the issue like they did with the P5 issue when they first released it. I know they probably don't care enough about the PX and can't wait to get it off their roster but still...some public advisement would be nice
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Derek Cook on February 22, 2022, 12:15:10 PM
I am not sure. It took a while, but the MIDI SYSEX issues I reported were resolved, but it did take a long time.

I would put that down to a small company with scarce development resources that need prioritising across a diverse product line.

I think the PX is an amazing device, which has probably not sold as well as expected, but I would also argue that is down to there being no killer demos obviously available. I took a real punt on mine, as I found little that made me go wow! But as it was at a price too good to miss, I went for it as the place I buy from has a good returns policy, and I am glad I did.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: LoboLives on February 22, 2022, 05:07:27 PM
I am not sure. It took a while, but the MIDI SYSEX issues I reported were resolved, but it did take a long time.

I would put that down to a small company with scarce development resources that need prioritising across a diverse product line.

I think the PX is an amazing device, which has probably not sold as well as expected, but I would also argue that is down to there being no killer demos obviously available. I took a real punt on mine, as I found little that made me go wow! But as it was at a price too good to miss, I went for it as the place I buy from has a good returns policy, and I am glad I did.

Actually this isn't true, Dave just didn't want to interview me or showcase my use of the PX. I literally have over 70 videos of the Prophet X in action on my channel including 3 videos of custom patches, 4 videos of sound design tutorials and 1 lengthy review. I've scored 3 films with the Prophet X and on my on screen credit I requested it read "Music by Everett Dudgeon, performed on the Sequential Prophet X Sample Synthesizer"

If the PX's promotion suffered from anything, it's Dave choosing Gerry Basserman over me to promote it.

Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Derek Cook on February 23, 2022, 12:35:09 PM
I know we've been here before :) , but I looked really hard for good demos and never came across yours. Wise after the event of course, and maybe I should have joined here first and asked......
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on March 09, 2022, 01:20:10 AM
Hi all! I want to inform you that my problem with freezing was successfully solved. The reason lay in the power supply, I replaced the power supply board and everything works fine!
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: StephenJamesBennett on March 16, 2022, 12:51:05 PM
Hi all! I want to inform you that my problem with freezing was successfully solved. The reason lay in the power supply, I replaced the power supply board and everything works fine!

Hello.

Did you replace it yourself? What board did you use and how easy was it to do (if you did it!)

After a few weeks of working fine, my X has started freezing again.

EDIT: OK, this is a weird one! The X was freezing on changing patches (with a 'click').

I tried removing the USB cable with no luck. However, the USB dongle I use to update samples and the OS was still in the X. I removed this and voila! The freezing seems to have stopped.

Stephen
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: LoboLives on March 16, 2022, 04:16:02 PM
Hi all! I want to inform you that my problem with freezing was successfully solved. The reason lay in the power supply, I replaced the power supply board and everything works fine!

Hello.

Did you replace it yourself? What board did you use and how easy was it to do (if you did it!)

After a few weeks of working fine, my X has started freezing again.

EDIT: OK, this is a weird one! The X was freezing on changing patches (with a 'click').

I tried removing the USB cable with no luck. However, the USB dongle I use to update samples and the OS was still in the X. I removed this and voila! The freezing seems to have stopped.

Stephen

I'd be very interested to know if everyone else who was experiencing freezing also had their USB stick still plugged into their PX. I always take it out after loading samples and I've never had a freeze myself....wondering if this might have something to do with it.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on March 17, 2022, 11:14:25 AM
Sequential tech support sent me a new power board - this really solved my freezing problems. They also sent step-by-step instructions on how to replace it (very easy). I've already played a few big сoncerts and a few small gigs. Every day I practice on it and create sounds for myself, which means that I change programs / presets very often. NOT A SINGLE CRASH!

Thanks to the guys from tech support!
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: extreme measures on March 17, 2022, 05:34:26 PM
Synth Developer here:
I had this problem with the X (not XL) once. The power supply is a good contender for the culprit here. I have sympathy for any tech trying to resolve this as it is one of those intermittent issues that is a tech's nightmare. Probably not a software problem. Maybe the XL's PS is different than the PX.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on March 18, 2022, 06:42:53 AM
Synth Developer here:
I had this problem with the X (not XL) once. The power supply is a good contender for the culprit here. I have sympathy for any tech trying to resolve this as it is one of those intermittent issues that is a tech's nightmare. Probably not a software problem. Maybe the XL's PS is different than the PX.

I installed the mainboard from X on my XL, of course, the cable from the keybed did not fit, but this did not solve the problem, the freezes were all exactly the same. Used additional midi keyboard for the test. The principle of operation and architecture are the same, the only difference is in the cable for the keyboard, for X, XL there are different connectors
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: LoboLives on March 18, 2022, 08:36:05 AM
Synth Developer here:
I had this problem with the X (not XL) once. The power supply is a good contender for the culprit here. I have sympathy for any tech trying to resolve this as it is one of those intermittent issues that is a tech's nightmare. Probably not a software problem. Maybe the XL's PS is different than the PX.

I installed the mainboard from X on my XL, of course, the cable from the keybed did not fit, but this did not solve the problem, the freezes were all exactly the same. Used additional midi keyboard for the test. The principle of operation and architecture are the same, the only difference is in the cable for the keyboard, for X, XL there are different connectors

So now you can only play your PXL from an external controller?
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on March 18, 2022, 11:00:56 AM
Synth Developer here:
I had this problem with the X (not XL) once. The power supply is a good contender for the culprit here. I have sympathy for any tech trying to resolve this as it is one of those intermittent issues that is a tech's nightmare. Probably not a software problem. Maybe the XL's PS is different than the PX.

I installed the mainboard from X on my XL, of course, the cable from the keybed did not fit, but this did not solve the problem, the freezes were all exactly the same. Used additional midi keyboard for the test. The principle of operation and architecture are the same, the only difference is in the cable for the keyboard, for X, XL there are different connectors

So now you can only play your PXL from an external controller?
NO, Connectors for keybed not match I  already wrote above that I just tested the Mainboard from Prophet X on my XL, with additional midi keyboard because the cable (flex) from XL for 76 keys did not fit the 61 version - just Keybed, all rest are identical. I have my own Mainboard from XL. That was when I didn't know why the Prophet was crashing, I searched for the cause of this problem. After replacing the power board everything works fine.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: extreme measures on March 21, 2022, 05:58:12 PM
Synth Developer here:
I had this problem with the X (not XL) once. The power supply is a good contender for the culprit here. I have sympathy for any tech trying to resolve this as it is one of those intermittent issues that is a tech's nightmare. Probably not a software problem. Maybe the XL's PS is different than the PX.

I installed the mainboard from X on my XL, of course, the cable from the keybed did not fit, but this did not solve the problem, the freezes were all exactly the same. Used additional midi keyboard for the test. The principle of operation and architecture are the same, the only difference is in the cable for the keyboard, for X, XL there are different connectors

That probably eliminates the power supply, but there may be a regulator or other power conditioning circuitry on the  PX mainboard.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Proton on July 21, 2022, 07:53:27 AM
This is the second time I have the problem with PX that it freezes on startup. I swapped the CMOS battery the first time 6 months ago and it worked until last week. I contacted support and they gave me an address here in Germany that will only repair the PX for a fee as the warranty has expired. So no goodwill, although it is clearly a design error or a software error. Very disappointing.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Proton on July 23, 2022, 07:17:50 AM
After I complained to Sequential they made me a very good offer to swap out the motherboard and PSU... so I have to say the support is really top notch!
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: ericr on August 13, 2022, 11:52:34 PM
I have had a similar issue, I have found that it only happens when i have the usb thumb drive plugged in (at least that has been solving it at the moment when i remove it... hopefully no bigger isssue for me :[ )
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Hartlsynth on October 06, 2022, 08:00:32 AM
I replaced my power supply and motherboard 5 months ago and had no problems at all after that. Yesterday, i imported a lot of samples and presets and found the PX was crashing, freezing up, making a low frequency noise, etc., whenever I tried to change banks.
I found this chain on the forums here, and tried taking out my thumb drive and rebooting. It seems to have fixed the problem. Thanks to all who participate here for the invaluable help and experience you share!
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Mohammad Alowaisi on October 26, 2022, 05:08:40 AM
Sequential tech support sent me a new power board - this really solved my freezing problems. They also sent step-by-step instructions on how to replace it (very easy). I've already played a few big сoncerts and a few small gigs. Every day I practice on it and create sounds for myself, which means that I change programs / presets very often. NOT A SINGLE CRASH!

Thanks to the guys from tech support!

I have a Prophet X and wrote about this on February 21, 2021 assuming it was a firmware issue! until now it still freezes on me occasionally while changing presets.
This is the reason I came back to check in the forum and see if there's any solution for this problem and I found this post.
so, should I contact Sequential tech support?
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: RexL DeluxE on January 25, 2023, 03:47:41 PM
26/01/2023 - motherboard has been replaced, I have the latest firmware, but my XL is still freezing!!  Firmware M 2.2.2  DSP 2.2.2.0.0 FPGA 1.0   Annoying!  I kinda think over heat maybe a thing.. but its hard to say.. I might set up a fan right on it to see what's what.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: RexL DeluxE on January 25, 2023, 03:50:42 PM
I have had a similar issue, I have found that it only happens when i have the usb thumb drive plugged in (at least that has been solving it at the moment when I remove it... hopefully no bigger isssue for me :[ )
OOOOh I will do the same test.. as I have had my USB stick in all this time.. Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Wasted on January 27, 2023, 02:16:58 AM
Not sure if this might help, but I was running into issues with booting ( 'cannot reach audio processor'), and no audio output after 5 minutes of turning it on. I am on version v2.2.2.0 and tried replacing the CMOS battery - in fact, this was another symptom, that the battery was lasting only a few months.
Sequential support had me measure the PSU voltage, which was reading only 4.7v. They provided instructions to adjust this to 5.2v and also a new bios that 'essentially removes the need for battery backup on the mother board'.
After making these changes last November, I've had a rock solid PX since  :D.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: RexL DeluxE on February 03, 2023, 02:35:21 PM
I have had a similar issue, I have found that it only happens when i have the usb thumb drive plugged in (at least that has been solving it at the moment when I remove it... hopefully no bigger isssue for me :[ )
OOOOh I will do the same test.. as I have had my USB stick in all this time.. Fingers crossed.

Ok, i have done some extended all days test now.. first removed the USB thumb drive. this gave me about 6 hours of playing without crashing, but it ultimately did crash.

Then I decided to remove the USB C cable I had in connecting it to the computer.  These seem to have resolved the crashing for me as i cannot run the synth all day without any crashing. 

so in summary,  I have had the mobo replaced, the latest firmware applied, and I have removed the USB drive and cable to get it to stop crashing.

Hope this helps some other people.

Cheers,

Synth Club.



Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: RexL DeluxE on February 13, 2023, 02:31:43 PM
I have had a similar issue, I have found that it only happens when i have the usb thumb drive plugged in (at least that has been solving it at the moment when I remove it... hopefully no bigger isssue for me :[ )
OOOOh I will do the same test.. as I have had my USB stick in all this time.. Fingers crossed.

Ok, i have done some extended all days test now.. first removed the USB thumb drive. this gave me about 6 hours of playing without crashing, but it ultimately did crash.

Then I decided to remove the USB C cable I had in connecting it to the computer.  These seem to have resolved the crashing for me as i cannot run the synth all day without any crashing. 

so in summary,  I have had the mobo replaced, the latest firmware applied, and I have removed the USB drive and cable to get it to stop crashing.

Hope this helps some other people.

Cheers,

Synth Club.


another update.. the synth still crashes, or should I say, the main sound stops playing. but the OS is still running.. so it is a little different than a full crash as before. Sometimes changing the loaded patch resolves it. sometimes a reboot is needed.    It's a pain in the butt as this cannot be used as a live instrument due to these ongoing issues. I may get the power supply replaced as that seems to of resolved the issue for someone in this thread. 
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Wasted on February 15, 2023, 02:18:40 AM
Quote
.. the synth still crashes, or should I say, the main sound stops playing. but the OS is still running..
I have the same issue, following a period of stability. In my case I found if I was playing at the time of the crash then the audio could blast out at full volume some tone or noise.
Sequential support have requested a video of this to help diagnose, but it is not possible to reproduce reliably. I've tried to leave it on playing a sequence but found the next day it had crashed but was silent.
One thing I've noticed is when I have it usb connected to my pc along with my other gear, Ableton live can show it in red along with the Uno Synth Pro. If I unplug the Uno then it is normal and works ok. Not sure at this point what's up with the Uno conflicting with the PX.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: pebre on February 22, 2023, 07:44:26 AM
I have had no real freezing issues but when a certain usb drive is plugged in, it wont booth. Or it boots without sound or it boots and makes a terrible noise. Removing the usb drive solves it. Will get a new usb drive to format and use to see if this is only with some usb drives.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: StephenJamesBennett on February 23, 2023, 11:27:48 AM
Mine wouldn't load again the other day (the dreaded 'cannot connect).

So I replaced the battery again and it's fine now (touch nice wood end cheeks of the Prophet 5).

Seems that the less I use it, the more often I need a battery change. I'm doing about 3 a year at the moment.

Stephen
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: rcmusic35 on February 27, 2023, 09:35:27 AM



Seems that the less I use it, the more often I need a battery change. I'm doing about 3 a year at the moment.

Stephen

I read somewhere that if you have updated the BIOS, you could remove the battery. anyone could confirm?
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: teslator on March 20, 2023, 07:38:53 AM
When I first purchased my Prophet XL in the fall of last year ("slightly used" from a large retail music chain) it froze up regularly. Because of this, I was unable to use the synth in a live situation. I was about to permanently move from the United States to Berlin, Germany. I had some important final gigs coming up in the U.S. before my departure. I contacted Sequential about the issue, and since there was not sufficient time to send it to the factory and wait for it's return, to their credit the Sequential service folks sent me a replacement motherboard AND power supply, and instructions on how to replace them and ship the old parts back. I am electronics-savvy, having worked on loads of hardware over the years, so this was an option for me.

After the replacement, I used the keyboard heavily in my studio for a couple of weeks until my gigs, and the system did not freeze, so i gigged with the keyboard a couple of times. It worked. I thought the problem was behind me.

Since then, I have relocated to Berlin, and I am just using the Prophet XL in the studio. It worked fine for a few weeks here, but then it resumed irregularly locking up. Sometimes it just froze, silent and no response from menu screens, buttons, or other signs of life, except the display was still showing whatever screen it was on. Sometimes it would freeze while playing a note and then it produces a shrieking loud noise until I power cycle it. Sometimes power cycling it works, and sometimes it freezes before completing a reboot. If I wait a little while with the power off, then try again, it usually boots.

I've got the 2.2.2 firmware installed, and I have completely reloaded all the loadable 8dio sample sets (I purchased all the kinds that were available from 8dio) several times. 

Considering what i paid for this keyboard, I am understandably very disappointed in its instability. I've been watching this forum since I encountered the issue, and the freezing issue seems pretty widespread, but also difficult to reliably reproduce. Now that I am in a Berlin, it seems like it would be more difficult than before to get the unit serviced (JustMusic here in Berlin could ship it back to the U.S. for repairs but I don't think they have the ability to fix it here). There appears to be no known reliable fix from what I have read on the forums.

I have noticed some weird "sluggishness" with sounds playing, just before the freeze. I can't put my finger on it, but it seems to me, or feels to me, like a MIDI/data buffer overflow or something.  This is regardless of whether the keyboard is hooked up via MIDI (DIN or USB), so it might be some kind of internal software handling of MIDI streams (or the raw data that eventually gets converted and sent to the MIDI ports). That's just a guess.

The sluggishness feels similar to what I have seen on some of my other keyboards that have polyphonic aftertouch, and other keyboards typically hang for a while but eventually start responding once the MIDI traffic jam of aftertouch events starts to clear. Those keyboards don't freeze permanently at least, and in their case ignoring or disabling polyphonic aftertouch stops the issue.

I'll contact Sequential about this issue, but based on the very recent threads about Prophet X or Prophet XL freezing, I am not hopeful about a permanent reliable fix. That's a shame. In general, I love Sequential products. I will probably buy other products of theirs. But I don't know what to do with this Prophet XL. It's even difficult to use in a studio environment. Destroys any musical flow that might have been going on when it locks up. And as a composer for film in addition to live performer, I have deadlines to meet. I cannot count on using the Prophet XL for much of anything.

I love it when it's working. But I am pretty tired of dealing with it now. I feel like I threw away a ton of money, and there's not much hope of recouping it. I'm willing to try other experiments or test ideas, but nothing I've read in the forums is a permanent fix for sure, from what I am reading.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Wasted on March 31, 2023, 01:43:08 AM
My symptoms are much like yours teslator. My unit is in for repair and they have reported needing to adjust the power supply voltage and installing a new bios (which is supposed to remove the dependency on the battery). When I get it back I'll update with stability info, but for now I am hopeful.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Wasted on April 26, 2023, 06:12:49 AM
Pleased to report that after repair the PX is working fine and has had no crashes or failed starts.
The guys at Audio Related Technology did the fix and I would happily recommend them. http://www.audiorelated.com/ (http://www.audiorelated.com/)
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: thirteen_engines on April 26, 2023, 06:32:02 AM
Pleased to report that after repair the PX is working fine and has had no crashes or failed starts.
The guys at Audio Related Technology did the fix and I would happily recommend them. http://www.audiorelated.com/ (http://www.audiorelated.com/)

What was the fix? I’m sure there are others here that would like to know as well as me. :)
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Vadim Shinnik on April 27, 2023, 09:02:54 AM
Pleased to report that after repair the PX is working fine and has had no crashes or failed starts.
The guys at Audio Related Technology did the fix and I would happily recommend them. http://www.audiorelated.com/ (http://www.audiorelated.com/)


Hello, I'm very happy for you. Please tell me what was the problem and how did you solve it?
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: Wasted on May 05, 2023, 04:30:57 AM
Sorry for delay in reply on what the fix was.

Context:
My PX is on f/w 2.2.2 and I had some strange USB related issues (showing up as 'red' in Ableton live - I'll try to post a picture of this). But the main problem was the PX would stop playing audio after a random period of time (more than 1 hour of power on).
(http://)

I had got some support from Sequential who told me how to:

Quote
This is an issue we have been tracking, and we have determined a couple of solutions that should get your Prophet X back into good shape. The first and most important is to adjust the internal PSU for slightly higher voltage. If you're handy with a digital multimeter and have access to one, it's actually a relatively simple procedure. You need to take some care in the presence of high voltage, but the adjustment only requires the DMM and a small insulated screwdriver. I attached the instructions to this email so you can have a look.
 
The other solution involves updating the BIOS on the mother board. You need to make a bootable thumb drive to insert directly into the mother board, a USB keyboard, and an HDMI monitor. The process is pretty simple and essentially removes the need for battery backup on the mother board (this has less of an effect on booting, but still helps.)

I had done these actions, which seemed to help for a few months, but then the problem came back.
I solved the USB issue with a new hub and cables (yes, one of the USB portsin my computer was dodgy as was one cable!)

So, then after discussing my journey with ART, their approach was to repeat the steps I had done to ensure they were done correctly. They reported that the voltage was again low (not at the 5.2v I'd set). Since I've got it back, it has been solid.

Conclusion:
Main cause seems to be power supply voltage drifting and getting too low.
Aux causes are poor USB connections which the PX is sensitive to and
CMOS battery can drain fast so the BIOS update should resolve that.

Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: tommym on May 19, 2023, 12:29:40 PM
Mine just froze today for the first time (had it about 3 years or more) - Same issue with not being able to find the audio hardware. I followed the detailed instructions above (removed the battery, and moved the jumper to 1/2, waited only 2 hours, then replaced the battery then moved the jumper back to 2/3.) That didn't seem to fix it, so I hooked up a wired Mac keyboard, held the Function button and pressed F1 about a second after turning it on, kept holding them as the boot up was a little slower but, YAY! it revived the PX! Hallelujah I love this thing. Thanks for the instructions, Forum-mates.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: HighDeaf1080p on May 29, 2023, 08:19:48 PM
Mine just froze today for the first time (had it about 3 years or more) - Same issue with not being able to find the audio hardware. I followed the detailed instructions above (removed the battery, and moved the jumper to 1/2, waited only 2 hours, then replaced the battery then moved the jumper back to 2/3.) That didn't seem to fix it, so I hooked up a wired Mac keyboard, held the Function button and pressed F1 about a second after turning it on, kept holding them as the boot up was a little slower but, YAY! it revived the PX! Hallelujah I love this thing. Thanks for the instructions, Forum-mates.

I'll try this as my last ditch effort.  Mine has been physically shipped back to Sequential three times, after I did the main and power board replacement once myself and it failed to fix it.

Where Sequential has left it after the third trip back to them, another board replacement, a claim that the connector to the main board was not plugged all the way in, and replacing of the SSD, they claimed it works perfectly now on their test bench and shipped to back to me still unable to boot.

I've tried plugging it into other circuits in my home, different power cords, taking it to friends houses to try it there, and there simply is no booting the thing up.  If this keyboard and pressing F1 during boot up doesn't work, the trash is my only other option, because I cannot even sell the thing when it's nonfunctional.  *Fingers crossed*
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: HighDeaf1080p on June 04, 2023, 07:24:35 PM
Ok, I've verified that changing the CMOS battery, clearing the CMOS, and resetting with an F1 on a USB keyboard does nothing to help mine, so I'm out of options and must part ways with Sequential. 

If anyone here wants a bricked Prophet X for parts, feel free to contact me.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: gigi on June 12, 2023, 08:34:22 AM
I am about to pull the trigger on an XL but the problems reported in this thread are holding me back. Its not clear to me whether these are isolated cases or whether it is necessary to update the bios and adjust the power supply on all prophet X's after purchase? Or if there is no solution to the stability problems? I can relate to the frustration of customers like HighDeaf1080p and would hate to find myself in a similar situation, more so living in Europe. I am now confused about the reliability of the PX and the image that the apparent non-responsiveness from Sequential gives to the credibility of the brand in general. I would like so much to decide in favor of the PX, please help!
Sincerely,
Greg
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: LoboLives on June 12, 2023, 08:41:33 AM
I really do wish people from Sequential would comment on this thread. I know right now things are hectic with the Focusrite acquisition and Dave’s sudden passing but radio silence can be deafening to customers.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: kevinjonass on September 14, 2023, 07:36:05 PM
Have had my prophet x for 2 or so years, and it finally started freezing on me out of nowhere. I was running firmware 2.2.0.0.0, and just froze on bootup at the full bar loading screen. No luck in sight. Read about the computer usb keyboard and I have got that to work a few times INCONSISTANTLY. After about 3-8 times of trying F1 or CTRL and F1, I get it to start up normal. To try my luck, I turned it off again and tried without the computer keyboard to no luck. NO FIX.

After a couple more tries, I get it to turn on successfully, I update the firmware to 2.2.2.0.0. Same problems, but NOW on the full bar loading i see the "cannot reach audio processors" message. So I try the keyboard method, and it takes about 3 on/off tries holding the F1 method to turn on sucessfully.

tldr; The F1 method works, but about 40% of the time, and you have to try it 3 times in a row to actually get it turned on.

Im heading out on tour to Germany from Canada TOMORROW so this is has F'd me. Need to get this fixed. Sent them a message with this info, and made a video of the whole process too.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: StephenJamesBennett on September 25, 2023, 12:56:23 AM
Have had my prophet x for 2 or so years, and it finally started freezing on me out of nowhere. I was running firmware 2.2.0.0.0, and just froze on bootup at the full bar loading screen. No luck in sight. Read about the computer usb keyboard and I have got that to work a few times INCONSISTANTLY. After about 3-8 times of trying F1 or CTRL and F1, I get it to start up normal. To try my luck, I turned it off again and tried without the computer keyboard to no luck. NO FIX.

After a couple more tries, I get it to turn on successfully, I update the firmware to 2.2.2.0.0. Same problems, but NOW on the full bar loading i see the "cannot reach audio processors" message. So I try the keyboard method, and it takes about 3 on/off tries holding the F1 method to turn on sucessfully.

tldr; The F1 method works, but about 40% of the time, and you have to try it 3 times in a row to actually get it turned on.

Im heading out on tour to Germany from Canada TOMORROW so this is has F'd me. Need to get this fixed. Sent them a message with this info, and made a video of the whole process too.

Check the PSU Voltage. You'll need to ask Sequential for instructions. It should be 5.2V and mine was at 4.5V, which seems to have cured the random crashing and not booting.

Good luck!

Stephen
 
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: kevinjonass on November 06, 2023, 03:44:58 PM
Fixed! Started another thread (https://forum.sequential.com/index.php/topic,7604.0.html), but long story short it ended up being a dead CR2032 battery. Thats it. couple of bucks at home and were good.
Title: Re: Prophet X Freezing
Post by: StephenJamesBennett on November 13, 2023, 08:20:49 AM
Fixed! Started another thread (https://forum.sequential.com/index.php/topic,7604.0.html), but long story short it ended up being a dead CR2032 battery. Thats it. couple of bucks at home and were good.

The battery has caused me pain too. Apparently, there's an update Firmware that removes the requirement for a battery.

I'm too scared to try it yet as my X is working (touch wooden end cheeks) ... but the 5.2 V change appears to have done a lot of good.

Stephen