What to do with a Rodgers 32BC?

[John Kinkennon]

This afternoon I brought home a Rodgers 32 BC. That's how it's labelled. I thought there was a model B and a C, but perhaps someone can enlighten me. Anyway, think 1960's (I suppose) with three manuals withwood-core keys, roll top, 50 SAMs (that surprised me) and the parts that I actually wanted, two more swell pedals and some toe studs. This started as a quest for two inexpensive swell pedals.</P>


The original idea was to add the pedals and toe studs to the Rodgers 321A Trio theater organ that is now running Midi and a Hauptwerk setup. If I stick to the plan then it's just all gravy that the wooden keys look like something I could modify for second touch. I've even wondered if the 50 SAMs might be adapted to fit the very different rails on the 321A.</P>


However, I'm having second thoughts. The organ came without speakers and with some previous repairs and modifications that aren't quite up to par -- like wires wrapped and taped -- wrapped, not soldered or crimped. So even if I liked the old analog sounds I don't think this looks like the right instrument to try to repair. But it does seem like a nice candidate for a Midi conversion of it's own. The console has minor blemishes, but it could be a really cheap Hauptwerk console with the addition of a midi conversion kit. Hmmm, any ideas?</P>


If the console ends up as parts there will be a nice 32 note pedalboard available for a Midi project. And a bench that needs refinishing. And other semi-desirable parts. I'm all ears if anyone has a suggestion or two!</P>

[Guest]

Re: What to do with a Rodgers 32BC?



John</p>

If the organ is still up for parts, do the SAMs seem like they would work as an add-on to the 321?</p>

Also I am desperately searching for an old Rodgers keyswitch to turn on an old organ (and the relay if it was retrofitted). Does your 32BC have the keyswitch?</p>

Ben
</p>

[John Kinkennon]

Re: What to do with a Rodgers 32BC?



I held on to the SAMs, the 3 keybd stack, the pedal assembly, and the bench. The rest of the console went via craigslist, so I can't help with the switch. The electronics had seen one too many incompetent repairs in my opinion, so I was happy to get the swell pedals and toe studs that I needed at a sensible price. I would like to do a second touch keyboard, but don't know when that will happen... </P>


I see there's a Rodgers 340 (I think) on the Portland craigslist. It's a bit pricey but has second touch on at least one keyboard -- that would be a nice one for someone.</P>