Mellotronists

In a message dated 10/24/2002 4:47:29 PM Eastern Daylight Time, 
felixfish@... writes:


> Having now delved a  bit deeper into the workings of a MKII, I stand
> behind my contention of some time ago regarding the ingenious design and
> robustness of these MKII machines.  They're really quite impressive and
> 37 years old !!!
> 
> 

Yes, I totally agree here.  I have a whole new appreciation for the quality 
built into these machines, and attention given to detail when making them.  A 
lot of little things, but they all add up.  Things that I didn't notice 
before getting under the hood.  Such as the turnbuckles, which are larger and 
feature actual rollers inside.  Then there's the huge brass capstan.  Also, 
the little pieces of felt near the tape combs, which make for a smoother 
ride.  The separate pressure pad assembly, which may have something to do 
with the light touch of the MKII keys.  There were no shortcuts taken when 
they built these beasts.  Most of the parts are massive, and the cabinet is 
sturdy, not cheaply made.  The wiring (or should I say cabling), the 
mechanical track selectors, the station selector buttons and the other 
controls, all first rate.  This must be why these things weigh so much, and 
have lasted so long - 37 years!.  I guess if there is an "Achilles Heel" to 
the MKII it is the cycling, but I'm still amazed at how it works.  And now I 
know how to cycle it manually in case it ever comes to that.  The built in 
reverb is pretty much non existent, but that can be overlooked, it sounds 
great without it.  The separate audio outs are there to feed your own reverb 
unit, allowing you to bypass the Wharfedales when needed.  I recently bought 
a new Demeter "studio quality" spring reverb unit for just this purpose.

Plus, the MKII just looks cool ;-).
  

Ken M.