Midifying Baldwin pedalboard

[ab1078]

I'm new to the whole virtual organ thing, and have been able to find all the info I need except exactly what is needed to add midi to the pedalboard I just acquired. It is from a Baldwin 640 and it appears to have switches and magnets already.

I've done a fair bit of searching through the forum, but there is so much info I'm not sure where to start. If someone would be able to point me in the right direction as to the parts I will need and where to get them I would greatly appreciate any help or advice. I've added some photos in case they might be helpful. Thanks!!

[Mgbauer]

Looks like a great pedalboard to convert!

First step would be to decide what you'll use for a midi encoder. I've used the PIC-1 board from DTS Midi Systems. http://www.dtsmidisystems.com/midiencoders.html It's a little but of cash, but essentially plug and play and I'd definitely recommend. I know some people go the rasberry pi route with some coding involved, but that was more work than I was up for.

Does that back plate come off easily? If so, it'd be nice to get a better look at the wiring. It may need to be rewired if the insulation is breaking down, but that's up to you. If you do need fresh wiring, and 22 AWG stranded, insulated wire should work.
As long as you have all of the switches in working order and the wiring is solid, it should be a relatively quick conversion. Just put a fresh end on the wires and place them in the correct designated places in the included wiring harnesses. You'll probably need to fashion some sort of case for the encoder board as well.

Feel free to send me any specific questions as you get into it as well. I recently converted an Allen board and I'd be happy to share some more that I learned from that.