Hi all,
Many years ago I bought a second-hand Simmons SDSV brain, which came with an interface unit branded Spaceward. I never used the unit, as I was triggering the SDSV direct from a sequencer, but now I've dug it out, done some research, and discovered that it has an interesting history.
Built by Mike Kemp of Spaceward Studios, Cambridge, for Dave Stewart, the unit was used in Dave's sessions with Barbara Gaskin (presumably including UK No 1 hit It's My Party). The aim of the unit is to modify the trigger signal from the SDSV pads to give a different tone to the drum sounds - so it's not just a trigger unit, it actually makes the SDSV sound better. It also has what I assume are Moog trigger outputs.
As Mike says, 'Anyone with an interest in Simmons drums would find this fascinating, and I suspect, irresistible. I only built one unit, so the result is, of course, a unique sound for the Simmons owner interested in getting more innovative sounds than you can get with a basic kit.'
You'll find more details and photos on the Spaceward site here:
http://www.spacewardstudios.ukf.net/guestbook.htmI'm interested to receive any offers for the Spaceward unit, and can be e-mailed at
jenkinsc01@.... Coincidentally, I now live in St Albans, about 100 yards from the site of the old Simmons factory.
Chris Jenkins