State-of-the-Art electronic systems that operate and cooperate
with pipe organs
Merging technology with tradition, we achieve the delicate balance of
building a versatile and user-friendly
instrument with rock-solid
stability and easy serviceability in the future. Today's control
systems are upgradeable,
therefore as computer technology advances,
your pipe organ will
not be left out in the cold.
Organ Solid State Components
- Switching Systems
- Multiplex Control Systems
- Combination Action (Piston capture system)
- Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI)
- Record/Playback Interface
- Digital (Electronic) Stops with automatic tuning control
- Blower Switching/Control
Multiplex
system backplane,
Ahlborn
digital module,
amplifier
and organ DC rectifier.
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- Switching Systems
- Our basic switching system consists of basic transistor logic
circuits; components that are available at any local Radio
Shack. While this type of system is extremely reliable, it is
large by today's component standards, and is labor intensive to build
and install. Typically, we configure these switching systems for
existing organs upgrading from earlier mechanical relays, or smaller
instruments with minimal configurations.
- Multiplex Control Systems
- For new installations, or larger complex installations, we specify a
multiplex system for keying and stop control. This type of
installation requires only a simple computer-grade LAN (8 conductor)
cable to connect the console to the organ chamber. Changes in
specification require simple reprogramming, saving hours of technical
re-working.
- Combination Action
- We offer solid-state combination action systems, of course for new
installations, but for reconstruction projects as well. A smoothly
operating combination action allows an organist freedom from concern
about registration changes, and this seemingly small item does make
a difference! Systems are designed for each installation, from a small
single-level memory system, eight levels, twenty-five levels, and
beyond. In conjunction with a disk drive, there are unlimited
combination memories available. This type of system would be desirable
in a school or large church with multiple organists.
- MIDI
- The advent of MIDI to the organ world has changed everything.
Forever. MIDI allows many different options to the performer,
but for brevity' sake, its primary job in the instruments we have
built is two-fold. First, to interface digital stop modules to
the pipe organ, and secondly to allow the installation of a
record/playback device.
- Record/Playback Interface: Sequencer
- Once an organ is equipped with MIDI, we can install a sequencer to
allow the storage and retrieval of performance on standard computer
disks. There are a few different options for sequencers, the most
common being the industry standard Yamaha MIDI data filer. This device
has a small footprint, is economical and is very user-friendly.
Another option is to connect a personal computer to the organ. While
all MIDI files can be edited with a computer, this option allows
direct, real-time editing, but is somewhat more bulky, and not often
practical.
- Digital Stops
- There are installations where we would prefer to include any
number of stops in a tonal specification, but due to space or other
considerations, we are unable. Perhaps an older instrument could
be significantly improved with the addition of a few selected stops,
but again limitations of resource do not allow. These are but a few
instances where the use of digital stops is indicated. Following the guidelines
of the American Institute of Organbuilders, we do not allow the tonal
scheme to be hinged on the digital voices, but the organ would
sufficiently stand on its own with speakers disconnected.
- Blower Control Systems
- A seemingly minor issue, we offer complete solid-state motor
starters for most organ blowers. This type of control requires only a
small-signal cable to be connected to the console, and in smaller
spaces, the solid state contactor is perfectly silent, rather than
hearing the great "klunk" of an old mechanical relay.