As I previously announced, I have developed an attachment for the
Ampico B piano that improves the performance of "A" coded rolls.
Testing continues on this device.  The proof of concept is complete
and now refinements are taking place.

Initially, I planned on equipping the device with some type of cut-off
switch to isolate the device when playing "B" coded rolls.  The switch
would have been very simple, but finding a logical place to mount it
was a real problem.  In short, there is no good place to put it.

As a result, I started testing the device while playing "B" coded
rolls.  Tests showed in some cases, the device kept the piano from
canceling the amplified modes when the rolls coded a return to "Normal"
amplification.

To solve the problem, the device was modified to cut-off any inputs
it might generate during any amplifier locking event coded on the roll.
Tests proved the cut-off to be effective.  Now the device can remain
connected to the piano at all times and no switch is necessary.

Previously, the device had been modified to cancel its input to assure
soft playing.  With each of these modifications, I was forced to add
another control tube. Now, five tubes are attached to the device.

Connecting this unit to the piano is still simple and can be done in
just a few minutes.  Nothing is modified on the piano.  No tubes are
cut as "Tees" are used to attach the device at existing component
nipples.

In keeping with the Ampico "B" method of control, within this device,
the only moving parts are pouches and check valves.  This allows the
device to operate in any position, which makes mounting it much easier.
One screw is used to regulate the operation which must be balanced to
the specific piano.  Once set,  the system should operate with no
further attention.

Realistically, the market for this is very small.  When the right time
comes, I'll announce how many I plan to produce, but it will be only
about 25.

Bob Taylor
Missouri