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I've been told it's not worth repairing my Allen T12A as it's filled with lead and no one is interested in an analog organ that old. I've been told to just dispose of it. Any thoughts??
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Re: 1965 Allen T12A heeds repair?
It depends on the problems you are encountering and what you expect from the repair. The reference to lead is probably in both the solder and the solid core resisitors in the tuning system, but I don't think either of them would pose any health hazard in use. (In disposal they would be much more undesirable). The downside of the 12 is that it had rather limited voicing. We have discussed this at some length in the past if you'd like to search the archives for more information.</P>
The good thing is that the 12 has a genuine motor driven gyro that is capable of some really nice theatrical tones and while limited to flute voicing that was just as true of the Hammonds and look how many folks love to play them still today. So you have the start of a nice hobby organ, a lovely cabinet of fine wood, customer support from the manufacturer -- a rarity in vintage organs. If you have the will and the funds to keep the organ going; Bravo for you!</P>
Regarding the analog instruments it is highly exaggerated to say no one is interested. There is a camp here on the forum (mostly those not into baroque music) who think it is the best organ sound in the world of electronics. The truly digital organ was of such a sterile sound characteristic that most today convert the sound back to analog before it goes out the speakers! I owned a S15 (earlier big brother tube organ) as my first vintage organ and continue to be a fan of the early Allens to this day. My older Allen right now is a custom carousel which Allen created to capture more of the home organ market in the late 60's and it has somewhat brasher tones than church models but can be very gentle with careful registration.</P>
Again the present condition and your interest and ability are the best guidelines for you to consider. Don't dispose of the T12 unless you feel there's no hope for it and if you do, try to part it out for spares to others. If you sell on Ebay or Craigslist, you can possibly make more than selling the organ whole. Even the cabinet and pedalboard can bring a nice price from people building digital organs from kits.</P>
Post Script: I have located your duplicate post offering to donate this instrument and have moved it into the active file to make it more prominent as well as letting you know there are some organ enthusiasts in your region who may be interested.</P> -
Re: 1965 Allen T12A heeds repair?
Thanks for you input. I really appreciate your advice.Comment
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