For many years, there has been confusion about the Nelson-Wiggen models
4X and 5X.  By studying original literature and many examples of extant
instruments, we have undisputedly confirmed that the Nelson-Wiggen 4X
is the shorter model.  It is about 5'2" high, similar to a Seeburg KT.

The Nelson-Wiggen 5X is about 5'10" high, which is taller than a Seeburg
KT Special, and its case is wider and deeper than the 4X case.  (This
larger case was also used for the Nelson-Wiggen 6, which has a full set
of drums.)  Minor height variations occur, depending on caster height
and mounting.  A 28-note xylophone commonly appeared in both models, but
certain examples of the 5X had a 22-note marimba instead.  (The marimba
plays an octave lower than the xylophone.)

In other words, the presence of a 28-note xylophone doesn't tell the
model, but the height of the cabinet does.  Both the 4X and 5X have
snare drum and triangle.

With the help of many enthusiasts, including many MMD readers, I've
been compiling information on all major American brands of coin pianos
and orchestrions since the 1960s.  Terry Hathaway and I are currently
organizing this information by serial number, model, date, art glass
style, mechanical features, etc.  Reports will be added to the
Mechanical Music Press web site in the near future, which I'll announce
here in MMDigest.

There could be a few errors in the Nelson-Wiggen master list due to
past confusion between the 4X and 5X models. If you own one of these,
would you please measure the height, note the serial number (rubber-
stamped on the piano plate and die-stamped somewhere on the back) and
the type of extra instrument, and email it to me?

When the piano registries are in place, there will be an on-line form
for submitting corrections, but it would be nice to get as many entries
as possible right the first time.

Thanks for your help.
Art Reblitz
orchestrion@comcast.net.geentroep [delete ".geentroep" to reply]

 [ An advert for "The Nelson-Wiggen Orchestra - Style 5-X", reproduced
 [ on page 61 of "Put Another Nickel In", by Q. David Bowers, says the
 [ instrument was 68 inches high (5' 8"), 46 inches wide, 27 inches
 [ deep, shipping weight about 800 pounds and "furnished regularly with
 [ curtains."  -- Robbie