Crumar mojo XT: increasing line-out signal

[martin62]

Hello
I play a Crumar mojo XT and a Hammond M-100, both connected to a Leslie 760 by using the two input channels of the Combo Preamp II. The problem is the rather weak lineout signal of the Crumar. Although the volume control of the Preamp input is much more open than the one of the Hammond, the sound intensity is lower compared to the Hammond.
Because I prefer a clean organ sound I think it makes little sense just using a simple preamp/overdrive unit that produces a distorted tube sound. So how can I increase the Crumar signal to the level of lets say the Hammond lineout without any distortion?
Any useful hints which extern device would suit to my demand? Thank you.

[Bosoxok]

Hi Martin, I found your post because I was actually trying to find some opinions on the XT... But to answer your question first, I have an SK1 that I use with a Leslie 145. I was lucky enough to find a Speakeasy VTP on CL for only $75 but before that I used an Art Tube MP to boost the signal. These are really cheap starved plate preamps so don't expect them to add any real color to your sound, but I got them just to boost the signal. Bought two on CL for 25 bucks for the pair.

So back to the XT. How do you like it? I've been looking at the XT and the Viscount Legend but I am leaning towards the XT. Most recommendations on the Internet seem to point folks towards the Mojo 61 because of the newer DSP design but I really want to get a dual manual. I've been scared off mostly because the XT runs an embedded Windows OS. How long have you had it and how has reliability been for you?

[martin62]

Hi Bosokok
Thank you for answer. Meanwhile I was trying out the real cheap Behringer MIC 100. Gives a little more punch but goes into distortion too soon for my taste.
You ask for the Mojo XT. Well I still like it. But I had to learn again that there's is nothing like the real thing. As I don't use it on stage I can't say much about its reliability. I starts up properly and I never had a crash or something similar. You have to drive it hard if you play it in a band. It has a soft, mellow sound despite the generator model you use. I think it a fine organ for jazz, but not so much for rock. It lakes a little bit the punch, the assertiveness. Even if I compare with the M-100 from which it's been said that it has a mellow sound. But over all I like the sound. It's damned close to a A, B or C model.
The percussion is another issue which leaves me not really satisfied. Is a little shrill, not that wooden characteristic we like from the originals. What I really like is the C3 chorus vibrato, very close to the original.
All in all I would buy it again. The price is unbeatable, also the look and feel. And I hope for updates from Crumar. There's always something to improve.
Kind regards

[Bosoxok]

Thanks Martin. I've heard good things about the C3 on the Mojo XT. You are right—nothing compares with the real thing—but my A100 is not leaving the house. 😃 glad to hear that you have not had any reliability issues.

[Bosoxok]

Hey, so one other thought. The XT has an 11-pin Leslie connector right? Do you know if the 11-pin outputs at higher voltage like a vintage Hammond would? Or is it just line level? With the right adaptor, you might be able to go straight into the Leslie without a combo preamp at all.

[Bosoxok]

BTW - found this in the Mojo XT manual:

“Mojo XT is also equipped with an internal preamp system to match the audio signal coming from the instrument with the external rotary cabinet. If you would like to regulate the output audio level of 11 pin out, locate the little hole on the left of the connector, insert a small screwdriver and turn it.”

So if you can buy, or build, an 11-pin to 9-pin adaptor, you should be able to direct connect without the combo amp. I haven't worked with the 11-pin before, but I know that it does not supply AC power like older Hammonds and the speed switch for the Leslie works differently too. But it definitely can be done. I will likely go down this path if I end up buying the XT.

[Drawbar Dave]

Plug the Mojo into the input on the swell housing of the M100 preamp. I always add a 1/4 jack on the outside of AO28/AO29 organs so that the owner has an accessible line in function.

[martin62]

Dave: Nice idea. I'll try this.
@Bosoxok: Yes I know about the 11pin-out. Some one has built me a 11-to-9 adapter which also supplies AC power. Output has higher level to drive a Leslie directly without preamp. Leslie motor control also works fine with the this. Next to the 11pin socket there is a small controller for the amount. But at the end you don't get more gain this way and you have no access to the signal. Since I have the M-100 beside the Mojo I prefer the solution with the combo preamp to run both organs at the same time.