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Hello, I have the opportunity to own a Conn 643 Theatre Organ. I have always wanted a theatre organ and would like to know if the Conn 643 is a worthwhile organ, or if I should wait and hold out for something else (the price is definitely right on this one). Also, does anyone know what years this model was manufactured? Lastly, is it tube or transistor? Thanks!
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1956 Hammond C-3
Circa 1965 Leslie 145
1963 Hammond D-152
1963 Hammond C-3
1959 Hammond HR-40 Tone Cabinet
Motion Sound Pro 3
Motion Sound Low Pro
1958 Hammond M-3
C.Bechstein D282 9'3" Concert Grand
1977 Wurlitzer 200A -
The 643 is all solid state. It dates from around 1972-1976, when it was replaced in the range by the 644 Martinique.
Has the 'classic' Conn sound, and can be very theatrical with the right registrations. Its Achilles Heel will be the vinyl keying rods used to key the non-Tibia voices. Plenty of threads on here about that, but watch for missing or intermittent notes on the reeds and strings on both manuals. Other than that, the electronics are 'old school' and are fixable - with the possible exception of the auto rhythm unit, which may have a dedicated IC.
If the price is right, then it should fit the bill nicely.
It's not what you play. It's not how you play. It's the fact that you're playing that counts.
New website now live - www.andrew-gilbert.com
Current instruments: Roland Atelier AT900 Platinum Edition, Yamaha Genos, Yamaha PSR-S970, Kawai K1m
Retired Organs: Lots! Kawai SR6 x 2, Hammond L122, T402, T500 x 2, X5. Conn Martinique and 652. Gulbransen 2102 Pacemaker. Kimball Temptation.
Retired Leslies, 147, 145 x 2, 760 x 2, 710, 415 x 2.
Retired synths: Korg 700, Roland SH1000, Jen Superstringer, Kawai S100F, Kawai S100P, Kawai K1
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