A George P. Bent Company player piano in my collection is also a
Crown-Combinola in a very large case, easily the size of a big
nickelodeon and similarly styled.  The piano is a 65/88 note player,
using the Autopiano player action.  I presume it to date from circa
1910-12.

I always thought the "Combinola" in the name was referring to the fact
that it was capable of playing both formats of rolls, although others
here have seen Crown-Combinolas that are not 65/88 capable, yet still
have "Combinola" in their nomenclature.  Perhaps "Combinola" refers
simply to the fact that it is both a straight and player piano.  The
case is beautifully match-veneered and the construction methods seem
superior to most other players, reminding me much of Chas. M. Stieff
and Weber pianos.

It has a mandolin bar controlled by a lever under the keybed, which
does have two positions for two different types of effect.  It also has
a separate fourth pedal which blocks the hammer action.  When this
pedal is depressed and locked to the side, the hammers do not strike
the strings.  I imagine it is for use during practice playing so junior
does not disturb others with endless scale runs and annoying practice
pieces!

Another feature is a glass panel which slides across the spoolbox area.
There are lines lithographed upon it guiding the eye from the top of
each number on the tempo indicator upwards to the tracker bar area
where they then sort of "fan out".  I guess this was used to follow the
Metrostyle lines on Aeolian rolls without the need for an extended
needle from the tempo pointer.

Also, there is a large panel that slides out from under the left side
of the key bed.  This extends about a foot, and I surmise it is for
holding the rolls you have selected to play.

The piano has a beautiful ringing quality, with bass that is very deep,
rich, and obviously powerful without being overbearing.  The player
action is Autopiano.

John D. Rutoskey
Automatic Music Machines
Baltimore, Maryland