Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Question: How do I know which slider kit to order for my ARP Odyssey?
Answer: There are three versions of the ARP Odyssey.
MK I – Model 2800. White Face / Black Labeling.
Please order our ARP Odyssey 2800 Slider Kit.
MK II – Models 2810-2813. Black Face / Gold Labeling.
IMPORTANT! MK II owners please verify your model before ordering.
Some early MK II Odysseys are actually a MK I Odyssey in a MK II case. External signs you may have a 2800 MK II include: smaller MK I power switch, MK I pitch bend knob instead of PPC (Proportional Pitch Controller), and no CV interface jacks. External identification cannot be relied on because many early MK II Odysseys have been retrofitted with a CV interface and/or PPC over the years. To be certain which model you have you will need to open the synthesizer and read the circuit board versions written directly on the circuit boards. There are 3 primary circuit boards that are connected via an interconnection board. Those three boards on a 2800 (MK I) Odyssey are labeled as A-1, B-1, C-1. Boards on 2810 – 2823 Odysseys (Both MK II and MK III) are labelled as A-II, B-II, C-II. Please be sure your Odyssey is unplugged while doing this! If you are not comfortable take it to a technician to perform the model verification.
If the circuit boards are labeled A-1, B-1, C-1 please order our ARP Odyssey 2800 Slider kit.
If the circuit boards are labeled A-II, B-II, C-II please order our ARP Odyssey 2810 – 2823 Slider kit.
MK III – Models 2820-2823. Black Face / Orange Labeling.
Please order our ARP Odyssey 2810 – 2823 Slider Kit.
Question: Will I need to modify the circuit board to install the ARP Slider Kit?
Answer: No. Slider Kits from Synth Patchers are direct replacements for the factory originals. Simply unsolder the old sliders and install the new ones.
In some cases knobs for later model Odysseys may be too tight to fit on the new slider shaft. This could be due to minute variances in the manufacture of the knobs, sliders shafts, or even shrinkage of the knob as it ages. If knob fitment is an issue, lightly sand the slider shaft with sand paper until fitment is correct. It is much easier to do this before installation so please check knob fitment before you install. Sometimes heating the knob with a hair dryer is enough to allow it to fit over the shaft. Just be careful and do not force it.
Question: Can Synth Patchers install my new sliders for me?
Answer: Yes. Please contact us for more information.
Question: Can I install the sliders myself?
Answer: With the right tools, time, and experience the installation is straight forward. With this said, installation requires you to be comfortable with de-soldering and soldering. You will be working with aging and potentially fragile parts. Synth Patchers will not be responsible for any damage you do to yourself, others, parts, or your instrument. If in doubt be safe and take your instrument to an experienced technician. Electricity can be deadly!
Question: I have decided to install my new slider kit myself. How do I know where on my synthesizer they should go?
Answer: Please see our Support page for PDF files. You will find information on slider locations and values there.
Question: Do I need to add to grease or lube to the sliders?
Answer: Slider kits from Synth Patchers come already greased and ready to use. Some customers have felt that they prefer even more grease for an extra smooth feel. This is a matter of personal preference. Note that there is a balance between too little and too much grease. Excessive grease may attract additional dust and dirt shortening the life of the slider. Dust and dirt is a primary cause of failure in the original factory sliders.
