This Old Synth
Chris Hewitt

Synthesizer Repair

This Old Synth was created out of our AmpTech guitar and amplifier service (AmpTech) with a specific focus on vintage analog synthesizers (preferably the ones with knobs on!) and is now 99.9% of what I'm doing in the shop. More and more vintage synths were being brought in, especially MiniMoog's. My focus is more and more on vintage Moog, especially the MiniMoog for which I acquired the sole rights to Synthfool's Opto-key for MiniMoog which finally solves the key contact problems with this synth. I also do a lot of vintage Roland synths and drum machines. The focus here is vintage analog from the 70's. Read more

6 recommendations

  •  

    Google Verified

    I first found Chris when I needed someone to do some minor fixes to my Moog Prodigy. Amazingly enough, and handily since I was coming from SF, he worked while I waited, which isn't something he usually allows - and he had never met me before. (Might have been something to do with the fact that both Chris and I are English, but that's unsubstantiated!) Since that episode I won't allow anyone else to work on my Moogs. He takes such excellent care of my Mini that it always plays perfectly, no tuning wobbles, no control flakiness, everything works as new, despite it being 40+ years old. Chris is a friendly cheerful bloke who is always a pleasure to deal with, and an utter professional at this endeavour. I have referred many synth friends to him and they have always been more than satisfied.

  •  
    Lance Hill

    Shared on thisoldsynth.com

    Chris has repaired several items for me ranging from vintage synthesizers, drum machines and guitars, to modern day samplers. His skills, insight, communication, and rates are top notch. A true blessing to the local community of musicians in need of his services.

    Original recommendation
  •  
    Chris

    Shared on thisoldsynth.com

    I left 3 synths with Chris – a Musonics MiniMoog, Taurus 1 pedals, and a Roland RS-505. All were in various states of disrepair – and some needing a major overhaul – the Mini in particular. Not only did Chris fix these units to 100 % operational specs – but he did at a very reasonable price. He is an excellent communicator, easy to work with – and documents what he is doing with progress reports throughout the entire process. I can’t recommend him highly enough .. he is an amazing technician, and I will be going back to him again for sure.

    Original recommendation
  •  
    John Walker

    Shared on thisoldsynth.com

    Chris, Just spent over on hour playing the Minimoog- wow great job sir!

    Can't tell you how much it means to have it back-to-life in good form after too long a hiatus until now, and it sounds great as ever- just as I remember it should be.

    The keyboard feels particularly good with fresh bushings and the Opto-key mod seems to perform perfectly- it's a relief to know the oxidation problem is forever gone.

    I realize I'm very fortunate to have found someone so dedicated and knowledgeable to do this restoration as it shows in the work. Big kudos :)

    As far as I am concerned everything regarding our transaction has been flawless, and on top of everything I much appreciate the very reasonable price. I'd recommend you to anyone needing Minimoog work without hesitation.

    I'll stay in touch. Many many thanks!

    Original recommendation
  •  
    Alain

    Shared on thisoldsynth.com

    Thanks again for your passion to customer satisfaction ! I will certainly continue to recommend your Opto-Key upgrade to all who have a beloved Minimoog and want to enjoy trouble-free keyboard action.

    Original recommendation
  •  
    Scott

    Shared on thisoldsynth.com

    Just wanted to let you know the package arrived today (already!) Everything looks GREAT. From your pictures, I couldn't discern the nice taper you put on the plexiglass MiniMoog props (they just looked rectangular somehow in the pics.) But "in person" they look terrific. And your cabinet guy clearly does high-quality work. I couldn't be more pleased. My Mini project is off to a great start now.

    Original recommendation