A while back, a reader posted about my intentions to re-cut Regina
Sublima/Polyphon Orchestrion rolls [180116 MMDigest].  I just want to
give a 'heads up' on that and provide some details.

Last week I turned in drawings to my machinist to construct a new
perforator based on the modified Ed Schmidt unit we are currently using.
This a traveling arm, single punch type. Trimmers and pinch rollers are
adjustable/removable, and punches are interchangeable. The advantage to
this is that, though the punching speed is slow, it is easy to quickly
switch from one format to another. The new perforator will function in
the same manner, and will handle material up to 24" wide.  This means
that I can cut the widest known formats, e.g., E.P. Needham rolls
(21-1/4" wide).

I am very interested in recutting Sublima rolls.  I have the program to
punch scanned music from MIDI, the punch and die, and a source of paper
that is comparable to the original.  I hope to be able to produce these
rolls by the end of the year.

I have received emails of support, enough to keep me enthused to
continue the project. There is still much information I need which I am
sure some of you collectors out there can provide. It would be great if
someone could loan meAÿ a 'junker' roll to so I can build a reader for
scanning original rolls. I also would like to acquire a working Sublima
to test the rolls and create new arrangements. For now I would like to
get together a list of those interested in recuts or rolls to copy.
Please drop me a line.

Brian Thornton
Woodbury, Tennessee