BR-864 R.I.P.?

Started by mikespi8, May 31, 2009, 06:02:24 AM

mikespi8

My old BR-864 had a problem. Just when I would try and arrow down in the drum matrix, I had to press hard. So I took it partially apart and tried to spray near the contact point with a product similar to WD-40.

I put it back together again, turned it on....it began to blink on and off. It was ok so long as I didn't put the flash card in.

I spent 4 hours the other night taking it totally apart and cleaning everything. I used QD electronic cleaner fo the electrical connections. I did find one of the strap connectors had come loose, so I reinserted it.

Put everything back together....same problem. I can't initialize the card, because the BR-864 blinks on and off every time I insert the card. Thought about replacing the card (1 Gig), but I don't think that is the problem...? I went nearby to my local Wal-Mart....they don't even sell that type of flash card anymore.

I ordered a BR-1200...but I would like to fix my old BR-864. It was my first digital recorder, and we have been through a lot together.

Thanks, and sorry if something similar is already posted. You would think anyone smart enough to use a BR-864 would be smart enough to figure out a web site.

Bluesberry

Other than 64Guitars I don't think there are any other 864 users on here.  BTW, you are going to LOVE the BR-1200.  I just got one 2 months ago and it is really incredible.  It meets my needs perfectly.  Between my microBR and the BR-1200 I have all I need recording gear wise.

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64Guitars

Quote from: mikespi8 on May 31, 2009, 06:02:24 AMMy old BR-864 had a problem. Just when I would try and arrow down in the drum matrix, I had to press hard.

Only in the drum matrix? Did the cursor down button work normally in other screens? For example, if you pressed the EQ button (above the faders), did the cursor down button take you to the screens for setting the Lo and Hi frequency parameters?

If the button failed in all situations, then it seems likely that the switch needs to be replaced. I haven't taken my BR-864 apart, so I don't know how difficult it would be to replace the cursor switches.

If the down button only fails in the drum matrix, then I don't know what to make of that. The only thing I can think of is to try a system reset. Power on while holding all three INPUT SELECT buttons (GUITAR/BASS, MIC, and LINE), then press ENTER.

QuoteSo I took it partially apart and tried to spray near the contact point with a product similar to WD-40.

I put it back together again, turned it on....it began to blink on and off. It was ok so long as I didn't put the flash card in.

What blinks? Just the display, or the display plus all switch lights? Are you saying the blinking only occurs when the card is in place? If you switch the BR on with no card, does the display light normally and consistently?

If everything blinks (display and switch lights) simultaneously, then that sounds like the operating system is indicating an error condition -- probably that it doesn't recognize the memory card.

QuoteThought about replacing the card (1 Gig), but I don't think that is the problem...? I went nearby to my local Wal-Mart....they don't even sell that type of flash card anymore.

Have you tried the 128MB card that came with your BR-864?

Carefully inspect the memory card slot of your BR-864 for bent pins. I've heard of several users who had similar problems and it turned out to be bent pins.

1GB CompactFlash cards are still available but they're getting hard to find. Here's one source:

http://www.flash-memory-store.com/1gb-compact-flash.html


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"When one person suffers from a delusion it is called insanity. When many people suffer from a delusion it is called religion." - Robert M. Pirsig

mikespi8

Thanks guys.
Before I messed with it, the only thing wrong was it was hard to arrow down in the drum matrix.
Now, when I have a card in it, the screen blinks on...off on.....of on.....(says BR-864).

I will check the pins again, but I think they are ok.
Hey, at least I can use it for the effects. I know my wife could use a good digital delay for her singing.

Thanks again!

JasonBR864

Mike was the cleaner petroleum based? If so that could be the problem. I use a q-tip and contact cleaner or a keyboard type duster gas. Try cleaning out any excess cleaner near the flash drive. If i develope the same problem ill keep ya posted.

Jason

mikespi8

OK, now I am in real trouble!
My new BR-1200 is being delivered soon. The problem is I managed to fix my BR-864 last night....but don't tell my wife. It would be hard for me to justify two recorders.

You know, I carefully checked those pins inside the flash card area. But last night I checked again using a flashlight and a magnifying glass. It was still hard to see, but there was one bent post. Three hours later, I had everything put back together. It works like new, because I removed and cleaned everything in it.

Thanks again for your help!
Mike

64Guitars

Quote from: mikespi8 on June 04, 2009, 02:06:05 PMMy new BR-1200 is being delivered soon. The problem is I managed to fix my BR-864 last night....but don't tell my wife. It would be hard for me to justify two recorders.

Glad you fixed the BR-864. If the wife finds out, some possible justifications to try are:

  • The BR-864 is smaller and can be run on batteries, so you need it to take to rehearsals or gigs. The BR-1200 with its built-in hard drive is too delicate for that and is best left at home.
  • You've got a collection of CompactFlash cards with all your songs on them and they're not compatible with the BR-1200.
  • The BR-864 has a Guitar Synth effect and a Harmonizer effect, neither of which are available in the BR-1200.

Good luck!

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"When one person suffers from a delusion it is called insanity. When many people suffer from a delusion it is called religion." - Robert M. Pirsig

Kody

Hah!!!  That's great!!!.....Don't worry, I won't tell your wife lol!.....I know, I have 2 recorders...the BR900cd and the MicroBR.  It was hard to justify purchasing a 2nd, but hey, I'm a happy camper!!  Good luck on your musical journey my friend!
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mikespi8

Does anyone know where I can download BR-1200 DVD Owner's Manual???
I know I can order it, but I have a couple of days off. I would like to play with my new toy.

Kody

#9
http://media.rolandus.com/manuals/BR-1200CD_OM.pdf


If that doesn't work, just go to http://www.bossus.com/

There's a link to product manuals under the Support Menu.  You have to register for free to receive emails from Boss...don't worry I hardly ever get any....Then you get the Boss Backstage pass 8)
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