The original Hammond* Organ was Designed and built by Laurens Hammond in 1935 using technology from Cahill's Telharmonium of 1900, but on a much smaller scale. The tone generator assembly consists of an AC synchronous motor connected to a gear train, which drives a series of Tonewheels, each rotating adjacent to a magnetic pickup. The number of notches in combination with the rotational speed determined the pitch. Here's a photo of 2 Hammond Tonewheels with the drive gear in the center. Click here to see a rendering of a Hammond Tonewheel assembly.
It's a fact that musicians prefer the natural feel and tone of an Analog sound source. Players know the difference. When you play the B-free, you immediately know the sound. Sample schemes have always failed to catch the natural ambience of a Tonewheel. Various Analog schemes have faired somewhat better, but wind up sounding lifeless and sterile. Live players will love the portability and flexibility the unit provides. You can seamlessly incorporate it into any midi rig, and everyone will wonder where the B3 is hidden! Studio engineers can run sequences thru it, add any processing they wish with 0 hassle as well as earning a bunch of floor space. The B-free brings the electromechanical wonder into the 21st century.
Does the B-Free require oiling?
Yes it does. The oiling system is completely modified to better suit the needs of the B-Free.
Are Hammond B3’s being sacrificed to create the B-Free?
No.
When will the B-Free be available for purchase?
Orders are being taken now! Get on the list!
We are based in northeast Ohio.
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* Trademark owned by Hammond Suzuki Inc.