I want to thank all the people who took the time to answer my
questions as to the possibility as well as advisability of converting
an Orchestrelle.

When I asked the question, I knew absolutely nothing about Orchestrelles.
Now I realize that even though it may be possible to convert an
instrument with a rubber-tubed brass tracker bar, the combination of
the 58-note limitation and the inherent differences in piano and organ
playing make such a conversion a bad idea.

I must say that I was disappointed by the person who wrote that he
is amazed at the number of people who think they can improve these
instruments.  I would like to know where I said that converting the
Orchestrelle would be improving it.

Let me again say that I am personally horrified when I see irreversible
changes done to original instruments, but reversible conversions are
okay.  Just to give an example, I found it very clumsy to add
expression to rolls on my 88-65 note push-up Pianola.  I had been
spoiled by the wonderful Temponamic knob system used on my Steinway
grand foot pumper, and the push-up had two sliding levers to vary the
volume in the bass and treble.

After a little planning, I was able to convert the push-up to a
Temponamic system, and it works just fine -- but I was careful not to
drill or saw any original parts so that the machine could be restored
to its former self.  As far as I am concerned, I have improved the
Pianola, and since I am the only person who plays it, there is nothing
more to say.

Randolph Herr