Nord User Forum

I have a NS2. The Value Dial is no longer changing values on a one-to-one basis. I got a can of D-Series Deoxit D5. When I tried to pull the Value Dial straight up, it didn't come off. I'm hesitant to force or pry it up (with a tool). Can I simply apply more strength? Is there a better way to spray the Value Dial contacts?

Thanks,
JP

Hi, JP-

I had to have my encoder replaced on my NS2, they usually fail after a number of years, mine was 5 when I had to have it replaced. I don't think Spraying anything into the encoder will help. I would recommend you find an authorized Nord repair center and make arrangements to have it replaced. It is a simple matter and takes about an hour.

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-dj

I do not know exactly how the NS2 encoders are built, especially with that LED circle, but I suspect it won´t be enough to just pull the cap.
Those encoders are usually built closed in a way so you do not get any cleaning liquids into them. And if you could, it would not really help, since there is wear residue that has to be cleaned away. Might be also the reason why it acts erratic.
Watch this video


Most likely the NS encoder is built in a similar fashion. I have recently cleaned some on a Novation Nova and Waldorf Q. They are closed with some kind of clamps that has be be bent open to disasemble the housing. When you look at the innerts of the example in the video, you might also understand why it is not enough to just try to spray something over it.
Additionally the rotation axis is often lubricated with some kind of grease. This material is not supposed to be washed away. Neither INTO the encoder and also not away.
The Dioxid D is good stuff, but it has be be applied as some kind of cleaner and provides soft lubrification for the contacts. The grease/lubricant of the axis should not be mixed with that.
It´s a bit delicate work, but not really complicated. The bigger challenge might be to take the housing of the Nord apart. The cap is usually just plugged onto the encoder. You might need a bit more force to get it off. Sometimes they are stuck pretty hard. You might use a hairdryer to warm the plastics a bit up, sometimes its easier to remove it then.

Excellent analysis of the problem. Thank you for the reply. JP

You´re welcome. Glad to share my experiences. With some care and dedication you can often repair stuff on your own.
This kind of cleaning should be possible at least one time, maybe two, before the encoder has to be exchanged. The lubrification effect of Deoxid D should extend the lifetime.