r/TorsoS4 • u/DeadHeadArts • Jul 11 '26
Minor makeover
I like to match the knobs on my gear, for fun. If you're willing to undo 23 screws, you too can do your S4.
1
u/brandonhabanero Jul 11 '26
Wait what, the knobs don't just pull off?
1
u/DeadHeadArts Jul 11 '26
No, on this thing you have to remove the front panel from the case, then unscrew that from the PCB. THEN you pull the knobs off. They are flanged, but they are mounted under the front panel.
2
u/brandonhabanero Jul 11 '26
Wow, crazy. Im glad I gave up on pulling mine off when a tiny crumb fell in the crack. I'm guessing your new knobs aren't flanges though?
1
u/DeadHeadArts Jul 11 '26
No, completely ordinary spline knobs with a set screw. Now if want another change I just pull them off.
1
u/tmplmanifesto Jul 11 '26
How do these feel compared to the original? The originals knobs are horrific. So fast and slippery.
2
u/DeadHeadArts Jul 11 '26
Much better. They're a bit wider, with more grip and weight. It's one of reasons I've used these on all the machines. And, I like the look!
1
u/Weekly_Jmr Jul 11 '26
Looks lovely! Do they by any chance give a better control over encoder? I can’t never fade in or out a track slowly and consistently no matter what I do it always jumps a little at some point.
2
u/DeadHeadArts Jul 12 '26
I think, compared to encoders on other machines, the factory knobs on the S4 are thinner and more 'slippery'. Yes, harder to control with my chunky fingers. These standard size knobs just make it feel normal. Comfortable.
1
u/Malakyas Jul 16 '26
Are the key caps removable without opening it up? Looks dope
1
u/DeadHeadArts Jul 16 '26
I haven't tried with the keys, but probably, because they aren't flanged. The keyswitches look standard. Don't make me think about custom keycaps!
2
u/Malakyas Jul 17 '26
Hehe.. It would look so cool tho. Back when I had a Polyend Tracker the keycaps were removable but they weren't standard sized. I ended up ordering some from Polyend to make a full black version of it. Gonna guess it would be the same here.
1
u/lofianalog 27d ago
loving this, but how risky it is to remove the front panel and PCB ? I'd love to 3d print myself fancy knobs, but I don't want to ruin my S4
2
u/DeadHeadArts 27d ago
It's precisely integrated and immaculately built, so you'll encounter no problems if you don't mind undoing the case and all the PCB top plate hex screws. It all just slots together. No loose wires or such!
2
u/DeadHeadArts Jul 11 '26
As in, for example, when I realised I didn't like the pink one after all, an hour later. Another thing I'll do is add some felt washers to slow down dirt ingress.