If it makes the process more enjoyable for you, this is allready a win. If it turns out more modules in the long run, even better. The world needs more G-Storm Electro modules ...or at least I do. :)
What a cool machine. I'm sure that wasn't cheap but I'm also sure it also saves you a lot of time. I feel like we're seeing the early days of the G-Storm empire. 😆
stumbled on your videos, you're truly inspirational for the process of great pieces of gear. I really need help on servicing my Akai s950, do you take any repair jobs? appreciate the help and response
I've built about 10 DIY modules from kits and so I thought I might try SMD. First module is an NLC PiLLS 1U and I've been trying this by soldering manually with little success. I've lost a couple resistors into the rug already, lucky they provided extras, and the joints look ugly but workable. Could you tell me what oven are you using and possibly any tips for building SMD kits?
Oven won’t help if there’s no paste stencil. I’ve not found any paste syringe that does a decent job. I use a secondhand Oster oven and manually walk the temp setting to approximate the desired heating curve. Manual smd soldering comes down to steady tweezer hand, good magnification, and fine iron tips. I deposit solder on one pad, place component and hold in position until it cools. Then solder other pad without need to hold. Same thing for ICs tacking corner pins and affirm position before soldering remaining pins.
do you think there's a noticeable difference between the sound of SMT vs through hole? genuine question. not trying to be antagonistic by asking... because i swear there is. but it might be all my imagination.
Biggest difference in sound is capacitors but careful choice can overcome this. Some THD components can’t be easily found in SMD like UJTs, and that impacts design. I have been surprised how well SMD works, such as the Behringer 1004 VCO, where the prototype worked perfectly. A good engineer can make SMD sound better than THD.
Seems easier to possibly gauge aged components vs any new manufacture. according to comments made in most synth comparison vids new vs clone/reissue. Even two vintage units there can be variations
