I have a Memory-Moog synth on top of
mine (slightly Wakeman-esque, yes), so I solved not only the weight problem,
but my even bigger concern of being able to open the lid without having to
remove the heavy synth first. I found an old Ampeg amp dolly I'd had, that fits
perfectly between the Mellotron skids, turned the 2 fixed castors on it so they
went sideways instead of lengthwise. It's JUST high enough to lift the
Mellotron very slightly, so it rolls front-to-back perfectly, and still remains nicely stable and balanced.
Then I built a simple 3-board
(3/4x12) pine frame/stand, just high and wide enough to straddle the Mellotron on the
dolly, braced in the rear with one crosspiece positioned to clear the plugs on the
back of the 'tron. I stained it a dark cherry, if I remember
right, to somewhat match the wood on both the Memory-Moog and the adjacent
Mini-Moog. Now, any time I want to get into the Mellotron, I
just move the swell pedals and pull 'er straight out. Works like a charm!
If you feel the stand is a little narrow to be secure (mine's 12" deep),
you can attach it to a wall behind it in any preferred way. It's not only
practical, but looks great, too! The stand barely even shows; it looks like the
Memory-Moog's just floating slightly over the Mellotron.
I've attached a photo in which you
can see just the edge of the dolly under the Mellotron, and a bit of the right
end of the Memory-Moog stand, under the Mini.
It's an afternoon project, maybe shorter-time
and prettier-looking for those good with woodworking, and it works.
Cheers, & HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Berington
Berington Van Campen
Van Campen Productions / V.C.MusiCorp Scoring Services / Sessions
VCMusiCorp1@yahoo.com
The BEATUNES - Beatles Tribute Band
www.TheBeatunes.com
NEW Home/Office: (818) 508-3154
www.facebook.com/berington
