Roland SH-101: Repair, Restoration and Upgrade of a Classic 80's Synth!

This video is the culmination of two months worth of work. I took a barely functioning, 40-year-old Roland SH-101 and brought it back to perfect condition - and then I went further, installing a Tubbutec "SH-1oh1" upgrade kit which gives it MIDI capability, drastically extends the sequencer and arpeggiator functionality, NVRAM storage, new LFO and envelope generators, and much more. Then we explore the "new" synth, demonstrate the new features, and create a sample demo track with the modernized SH-101!
Parts used in this restoration and mentioned in the video:
ESD Wrist Strap: amzn.to/3SfpaJz
SLAVE to the SQUAREwave: / slavetothesquarewave
Tubbutec SH-1oh1 Upgrade Kit: tubbutec.de/sh-1oh1/
Tubbutec SH-101 Dust Covers: tubbutec.de/product/sh-101-du...
Replacement mod switch: www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/...
Tools:
Anhydrous Isopropyl Alcohol: amzn.to/3FYcfag
Pro Honda Spray Cleaner: amzn.to/3YN7Ak5
3M Spray Adhesive: amzn.to/3mg87wF
Vessel JIS Screwdrivers: amzn.to/3hN1RKE
Desoldering Pump: amzn.to/40bh8Vu
Soldering Station: amzn.to/3ofPgCz
DeOxit D5 Contact Cleaner: amzn.to/3mIihpT
DeOxit F5 Fader Cleaner: amzn.to/3KGZ8Nj
Rigol DS1054Z Oscilloscope: amzn.to/3VghKIw
Thermal (infrared) camera: amzn.to/3XbEIRk
0:00 Overview & History of the SH-101
7:13 Initial Tests
8:50 Tubbutec Upgrade Features
12:19 Cleaning the Faders
14:42 Disassembly & Inspection
20:57 Replacing the Power Switch
23:13 Cleaning the Switches
23:54 Tubbutec Unboxing
24:23 Initial Install
26:42 CPU Voltage Check
28:34 Installing the New CPU
29:03 Soldering Wires
33:19 Drilling the MIDI Jacks
35:43 Replacing the Dust Guards
37:49 Cut the Battery Wire
38:21 Install the Boards & MIDI Jacks
39:42 Solder the Green Wire
40:24 Final Reassembly
42:10 Power-On Test
43:35 Mod Switch Replacement
50:11 Factory Calibration
50:31 Full Test
52:41 Demo Track
54:20 Controls Overview
57:29 Tubbutec Sequencer
1:00:33 Other Tubbutec Features
1:03:10 Summary
#Roland #SH101 #Restoration

[@andyturner3056]

Was my 1st synth. Bought it in 85 second hand for only £120. 3 months after I bought the modulation grip and leather strap to use as a keytar, for only £50 from a proper music shop. Loved it. I so regret selling it about 90. I of course made a profit, but nothing like they go for now. Same with the TB-303 I had. Wish I had a way to look into the future. Btw did anyone else use a piece of sellotape to hold down the transpose button? Lol

[@aftertheendtimes]

Very good history background explanation of the Roland line in early 80's remember the dumpd prices on these synths, remember my local store sold the last TB-303 for $99 🤗😆🎹🌞❤️☯️🙏 Thanks

[@jwatters]

Ahhhhhh - was really wanting to see someone walk through the calibration process before opening up my 101.

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

I thought about it, but nobody is going to sit through a video consisting of two hours of me tweaking pots and listening to droning calibration noise. :)

[@subs4794]

​@@ScottsSynthStuffIMO, people who want to learn how to do it would... SH101 owners and techs... Probably thousands of people around the world 👽🖖🚀

[@k5r2d2]

Yeah - I was actually looking forward to a calibration explanation as well, it could have been a seperate video. However I am gratefull for this great repair video, and especially for all the great and spontaneous commentary. I had a TR-606 that I threw out after 20 years because of so many dead buttons. I wish I had kept it and tried a repair just like this.

[@xntricity6446]

My first analog was the SH-101 in blue with the hand grip. As i was so new to synthesizers i had no idea of what i had and sold it quicker than i bought it. The guy that sold ot to me was equally clueless, but hey its our synthesizer journey.

[@jjdekay6969]

Wonderful save Scott!! Plus your presentation is perfect, you show the struggle but keep upbeat. These projects can be at times a real kick in the backside. In 1991 I got my 1st synth, a yamaha dx21 with a full acc kit. I kept it for years but eventually ,in a gear purge ,it found its way to a dear friend who used it until his untimely passing. I not only got it back but it came with my old D-10 and his Ensoniq Mirage. Sadly the roof leaked where they were stored and there was a bit of damage and the original internal batteries were cooked. Just 2 months ago I got the DX21 working perfectly and is back in the fold. I credit Markus Fuller for insight ,so these synth-save videos really appeal to me. Thank you for the video!!!!!

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

Thanks for the kind words! My previous video, where I restore the JD-800, I showed only about half of what it took to get the keybed working again - it would have been hours long otherwise. That was a long, frustrating trial and error effort, so yes - it can be a challenge! I've got a couple more of these synth restoration videos coming, one I'm working on right now!

[@slavetothesquarewave]

Amazing! Thanks for putting the time in. It's worth it!

[@keg3212]

Just wanted to say I've watched a few of your videos now, really enjoying them and subscribed. Looking forward to watching the rest and any new content you post. Big thumbs up.

[@tubbutec]

This is a fantastic video. Love how you show every step in detail and explain all there is to know. The demo track is great as well :) Thanks

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

Thanks, actually I think that demo track is terrible, a lot of it is hand played and not quantized, and all I hear is timing mistakes. But oh well. :) I had someone tell me that I used the dust shields wrong - what I thought was missing for the two switches was actually what I used on the pots. Oh well, it turned out well in the end. I can't tell you how impressed I am with the Tubbutec SH1oh1 firmware. I'm a developer by trade, and you have done an astounding job of putting the new functionality in, making it easy to use, yet not destroying the original SH-101 workflow. Well done!

[@vitaminfian]

As I think American people say “Good job!” 👍🏻

[@74goldenjet]

Great video. Much appreciated ♥

[@onceupon7532]

You’re so good at this! I loved my SH-101 and MC-202 combo back in the day. I had my Oberheim DMX drum machine modded with CV and Gate to sync with them and my TB-303’s (I had 3 of them) for my live shows. This has been pure nostalgia for me plus the whole mod with MIDI and all the extra features has been fascinating to watch and learn about. I take my hat off to you - your problem solving talents really impress me too - bloody crazy glue! LOL

[@christheghostwriter]

Hey there- I played live electronic music back in the day (and I'm coming out of retirement this November for a live set at EDC Orlando). Your gear list sounds intriguing. Can I hear any of the music you made with gear?

[@11000038]

I enjoyed this video but I feel somewhat humbled! You enthusiasm and abilities are awesome.

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

Thanks Tim! I have just learned (the hard way!) over maaaany years of doing. :)

[@slavetothesquarewave]

I'm pretty certain that I have the connection for the shoulder strap! Have to dig through my studio.

[@lassel1644]

this is an iconic synth a bit limited but for the right music its all fine

[@valleyken]

Wow. That was some crazy creative problem-solving with the little mod switch :-D

[@valleyken]

Great video Scott. I loved how the demo song was done completely on the SH-101. What a nice little but powerful synth that is, especially with the upgrade.

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

Gotta do whatever it takes to get it working! I usually can find an equivalent replacement switch...but when I couldn't this time, I thought I might be beat. I figured I'd try working a similar-sized switch and just get it to work somehow. And it does!

[@clucida]

I love my SH101 and this upgrade is awesome but far too expensive. Thanks for this video !

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

It is a little expensive, but if you look at it, the upgrade is 1/10th the overall current value of the SH-101, and it does add SO MUCH capability to the synth. The sequencer and MIDI upgrades are worth it alone to me, but the additional LFO and ADSR envelope for the filter give the synth additional sonic qualities as well.

[@bbboi5114]

Fantastic video, thank you for documenting! How hot do you keep your soldering iron? What desoldering station do you use? Since lockdown I've been fixing up slightly less than one 80's synth a year, just often enough to consider buying a desoldering station.

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

You'll see a list of the tools (including the soldering station) in the description of the video. I vary the heat depending on what I'm doing. Usually around 700F, but for larger joints or larger components with a lot of metal surface area where the heat wicks off too quickly, I'll bump it up to 800F.

[@MattLombardi-nr9bn]

Great and inspiring video! I just got my first vintage analog and it's an SH-101. Very clean and everything works except there are scratchy/noisy sliders in the VCF section. The ENV control for the filter gets scratchy if I just put my finger on it lightly. I just purchased some DeoxIT F5 and some D5 to try troubleshooting but now I'm hearing that the F100 and D100 is better for cleaning these parts. Any advice you can provide?

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

For these older synths with lots of crud in there, I prefer the F5, as it flushes out all of that grime, and leaves the lubricating layer behind. Nothing wrong with the F100 drops however, it lubricates very well - but does not flush out the dirt that may be causing the problem in the first place.

[@JX3D]

Was that Big Clive there saying "One moment please"? 😀

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

THANK YOU!!! I'm glad someone recognized it! 😃😃😃😃😃

[@richcolour]

@@ScottsSynthStuff that cracked me up :D

[@flaviob829]

Very good video! Where did you get the felt replacements to fit and cover the faders?

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

They came from Syntaur: syntaur.com/Part-8192-Dust-shield-set-Roland-SH-101

[@flaviob829]

Thank you!@@ScottsSynthStuff

[@Frank-vf8xf]

Hello Mr. Scott, greetings and thank you very much for sharing your knowledge with everyone. I have had several problems with the internal batteries that power the CPU and could you please tell me if the SH-101 has this type of batteries that have to be replaced like the JUNO106 or the MC 303 and many others or some other type of battery that can be sulfated and cause damage with acid? Thank you very much for your time and please help me with this issue. Thanks very very much Best regards

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

The SH-101 doesn't have any patch storage or memory of any kind, so there is no battery inside of it.

[@astralmatrix]

Great guide! I had a question on the JIS screwdriver. Is that a Vessel P2 or P3? Trying to save money and only buy the size I need to remove the case screws on the SH101. Thanks!

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

The one you see me using there is the P3: amzn.to/3kFchwX

[@astralmatrix]

@@ScottsSynthStuff Awesome, this is so helpful, thanks!!

[@GabrielGarcia-jy7fv]

I found one in front of an abandoned house near the garbage. I dont know anything about synths but now I’m looking forward to restore it. I manage to turn it on using C batteries but the power adapter didn’t work. I opened the board and clean it up a little bit, there are some sliders that didn’t work but everything else seems right. Any advice on where to look for parts or things that I should know before so I dont end damaging some important component?

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

Wow, that's great luck! I would trace the power in from the power jack to see if the jack itself is not functioning.

[@mixmcinfrarave]

I have a blue One

[@NicolasMelis]

have the same issue when wobbling the power switch on my sh101.. should i change it? or is it something else like a capacitor ? its a power issue for sure though cause mine also has a constant low buzz when it is switched on…. any ideas?

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

It's 100% the power switch. It's probably the #1 most common failure on the SH-101.

[@NicolasMelis]

@@ScottsSynthStuff thanks Scott will change it then :)

[@trance_trousers]

Where did you find out how to calibrate your SH-101 please, what steps did you follow? I have an ocilloscope and a multimeter and would like to do this to my own 101.

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

The SH-101 service manual is freely available if you search for it on the web, and it has the instructions in detail.

[@trance_trousers]

@@ScottsSynthStuff sorry to bother you again, but I've tried this today and gotten stuck. I've calibrated the voltages coming out of the CV Out socket, but I can't go any further. The instructions mention a VR9 which I can't see on the board, and when I go to alter the VCO tuning by adjusting VR7 it makes no difference to the frequency shown on the oscilloscope, it's stuck at around 280hz. Any ideas?! Thanks!

[@macronencer]

Would anyone be kind enough to advise me please? My SH101 turns on and the lights come on OK, but there's now almost no sound apart from a faint clicking (previously I did get a sound but every note was the same, very high, pitch). I'd like to know whether this is a known fault, and easy to fix - I have very basic soldering skills but I'd probably prefer anything difficult to be done by someone more experienced. Thanks for any info!

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

Honestly, without opening it up and doing some diagnostics, it's tough to tell. It could be as simple as the power switch...but it could very well be something much more complex.

[@macronencer]

@@ScottsSynthStuff Many thanks for your input. Perhaps I'll at least open it up and see if I can see any obvious damaged components - I can give it a clean while I'm at it!

[@tudorhoria764]

Hello. the piano on the Yamaha montage sounds better than the DGX 670 - 660 cvp?The quality of the piano and the sound. I use 2 Hs7 monitors and a Yamaha Hs8s subwoofer. Please answer me . thank you very much . Horia

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

That's a tough one. I played a DGX 670 while at Sweetwater, and it is the most real sounding digital piano I've ever played. Close your eyes, and it would be tough to tell apart from a real piano. It also has sympathetic resonance modeling, which the Montage does not. The Montage is great, but it's not going to sound as good as a purpose-built instrument like the Yamaha Digital Grands.

[@tudorhoria764]

Thanks very much !

[@tudorhoria764]

Thank you very much!

[@timwood3770]

desolder , why do you keep saying sodder

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

ummm...because that's the correct pronunciation of the word solder? The L is silent.

[@bradk5174]

✔️ 𝐩𝓻Ỗ𝓂Ø𝓈Ｍ

[@jasonakagecko]

Only a matter of time you will be selling all those digital Synthizer’s and replacing them with vintage analogue originals, because they sound way better.😂

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

Not a chance. I like the sound of the vintage analogs, but I definitely do not like having to pull them apart and fix them all the time...which happens.