Mellotronists

Hello,

I just joined this list about 2 weeks ago, though I've been a fan of 
the Mellotron for years.  I was first exposed to its subtle, sublime 
yet intoxicating sound when I listened to "In the Court of the 
Crimson King".  I've been hooked ever since, and have become acustom 
to everything from the Moody Blues to Turin Brakes (I'm quite sure 
they use a 'tron in their most recent recording - no?)

I've been watching for a used Mellotron, as I do not (yet) own one.  
I realize that many of you own one (if not more) Mellotrons, so I 
apologize if my questions are too sophomoronic.

- Can Mk II tapes be used in an M400 ?

- What kind of maintanence is involved, do the tape heads need re-
alignment?

- I live in San Francisco.  I would love to put my fingers to the 
real deal.  Is there anyone on this list, living in San Francisco?  
I'd be happy to show my studio, I have the other 'Greats' at my 
place; a Yamaha CP-70b 'Elecric Grand', a coule Fender-Rhodes, a 
Hammond organ + Leslie (waiting for a Bob Schleiker mod), and Hohner 
D6 Clavinet.  Clearly, I'm missing an Arp and a Mellotron!

The posts that I've read in the past 2 weeks have been fantastic.  I 
really dig 'Seventh Sojourn' and have been listening to 'Selling 
England by the Pound' for the past month.  Of course, I'll never 
recend my Debussy, Deep Purple, or Swervedriver - I just wish they'd 
use(d) the Mellotron!!!

Regards,

John Hofmeyer