Oberheim OB-8 HELP!!!

[basscakes]

I have just purchased an Oberheim OB-8 and need some help. First off, it has a factory midi retro fit with firmware b5. I can control the synth via midi, but the actual keyboard is not working. I have checked the usual suspect, the contact are squeaky clean, the cable from the keyboard to the processor board seems to be passing signal fine and I can't find anything about a Local off midi function in the factory midi documentation. Does anyone have any idea of what the culprit may be?

[basscakes]

Also, I need some replacement pots, can anyone suggest a good brand and type? They are sort of a weird configuration, and the originals are carbon track.

[DjFoundation]

Clock lines or control voltages? Doesn't take much to make a key stroke..

[Vactrol]

Originally Posted by basscakes

Also, I need some replacement pots, can anyone suggest a good brand and type? They are sort of a weird configuration, and the originals are carbon track.

I wasn't able to find any replacements pots for my OB-8, but I had to do something because a few of them were completely frozen. No filter cutoff knob = no fun! So I ended up desoldering a few of them from the circuit board and then separating the back cover from the shaft assembly by prying up the metal tabs that hold them together. The shafts were unfrozen with some liquid wrench and a lot of rotating, and I used an eraser to clean up the wipers and tracks a bit. Then they were re-assembled by bending the tabs back down into place, and I soldered them back in. They are working fine now. It's a bit risky and a PITA though.

[mbrebes]

Here' a link to service manual, etc., that might be of some help:
Index of /pub/synths/oberheim_heaven/ob8

[basscakes]

Thanks, I have found a source for some used, but tested pots. I still have not figured out the keyboard problem. I have replaced most of the related chips in the I/O section without any changes in functionality. I think this may be headed for a real tech soon....