Mellotronists

In a message dated 9/8/03 8:20:09 PM Pacific Daylight Time, 
bob.snyder@... writes:

> Here's your chance to own a Mark II in "mint condition" from Abbey Road 
> Studios. Only $20,000!  Hmmm. No photos... Seller says "Unfortunately I was 
> unable to download a picture of this product". Brand new seller - no track 
> record.
> Guess he doesn't want to sell it very bad.      
> http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2557121645&category=29552

My best guess is that this is likely Vincent Gallo's MkII #149 (formerly 
Steve Frothingham's).  If so, I have inspected this m/c while in the possession of 
both owners.  It has not been maintained at all; in fact, Steve found it in 
the late Mickey Newbury's barn in Washington state.  The cycling doesn't work 
(no big surprose there), the interior is pretty filthy, the keyboard action 
sucks, the exterior is pretty clean.  Not sure about the Abbey Road 
connection...and 1961?

It possibly might also be Kevin Augunas' #240 (formerly Erik Gavriluk's).  
Basically the same story exact story with this unit as well.  The only other one 
I am aware of that could be up for sale in the L.A. area is one belonging to 
Jeff Peters of Sonora Recorders.  Jeff never responded to my inquiry when I 
was still looking for a MkII.

I did write the seller for some additional information.

Frank Samagaio
San Diego CA
MkII #134 / M400 #908
author, The Mellotron Book