I would also like to build a "universal" punching machine, mostly for
organettes (of which there are many different formats).  My idea was
to create a "MIDster" type machine, but with interchangeable punch/die
sets.  It seemed to me this would create a much more versatile machine,
whilst keeping the software and hardware requirements pretty much as
simple as the MIDster.  The secret would be to make the punch change
easy to do.  (There are hand operated metal punches which seem able
to do this).

I can see the advantage of having 2 or 3 different punches together
for punching piano rolls with expression, etc.  I think tune sheets for
the Autophone Organette would require the same capability.  The biggest
problem with organettes is that many use square holes, so alignment of
punch/die is more critical than round ones.  (Admittedly, many square
hole organettes will operate OK with round holes).

Spencer's project sounds a great idea.  My suggestions would be

1 - keep the software as versatile as MIDster's (i.e. user programmable
for most parameters).

2 - Include some of the "Standard" formats (e.g.  Duo-Art).

3 - consider getting the machine designed/made for easily changeable
punch/die sets.

4 - Make the software and the machine design available (for money
or free -- your choice) to others.  The proliferation of punching
facilities will help to preserve the music for Mech. Music machines
which are more difficult, if not impossible, to "Midify", e.g.
organettes.

Whether I will ever have time to actually build and operate one
is another matter -- anybody got a solution to the "time" problem?
I would also like to do the "Rollscanner" thing on organette rolls;
anybody done that?

John Farmer, UK
www.musicanic.com