Hello all, A few digests ago [210304 MMD] I had brought to light a
then-unidentified standalone player unit found in Buenos Aires, hooked
up to a Laukhuff organ of 1931. At this time, I had made my theories
that this was a Aeolian Duo-Art machine, and promised some more detailed
photographs of the machine when I have received them.

I have just received new photos. The machine is not Duo-Art. In fact,
I cannot identify it! The tracker bar has 71 notes, an odd number, but
one that was double-checked, and the take-up spool is above the tracker
bar as opposed to below. Minimal branding survives, but what is there
appears to be French.

My contact suggests it may be a one-off machine made for the organ alone.
I personally think this unlikely given the cost to make new components
and music as compared to ones that could be more mass-produced.

The condition is okay. All parts appear to be present, but with damage
to electrical wires at the relay. Some pneumatic elements seem to be
present, sans a pump or regulator for vacuum. The bottom front panel
is missing, and as such large amounts of dust coat the whole machine.
Thankfully, the sliding cover over the roll frame was closed, otherwise
the dust would be even worse!

I have attached all the photos in one PDF, with my annotations and
thoughts added in red writing. If you can identify it for me, please
email me and let me know. Also, I have been asked by my Argentinian
contact to ask the community for some estimates on restoration. I would
love some input so I could let him know.

Thank you all in advance for you help.
Christian Tedesco
cmt0817@gmail.com

 [ All of the pictures, with my annotations.
 [ https://www.mmdigest.com/Attachments/21/03/16/210316_202031_annotated_pictures.pdf

 [ Even the best restoration is worthless if no suitable music rolls
 [ exist. What firm published 71-note music rolls? If any can be found
 [ today, could they be played at an organ concert without damage?
 [ -- Robbie