From jake92028@yahoo.com Sun Sep 14 09:36:26 2003
Subject:Re: Swell (not Expression) vs Volume Pedals

I can't agree with your overall example, although some 'Loudness'
science may apply in part per how a 'Swell' effect is obtained. More
than just bass is boosted and not at lower volumes. Quite a bit more
is going on with the swell effect. To confuse the subject, swell and
volume are each labeled Expression by Roland for both VK clone swell
effect and non-organ volume control. Roland's historical term for
keyboard VOLUME = Expression = 3-wire cables and tips connected to
Expression for volume control only. Plug into a VK's Expression and
you'll get swell control. Plug into a Roland EP's Expression and
you'll get volume control. (Plug into an Electro's Control and you'll
get swell control, but lose volume control of the piano's!)

I don't think Mr. Hammond was aware before stereo came along of the
inexpensive stereo loudness switch option that didn't exist when he
designed the Hammond 'Swell' pedal (correct term) which replicated a
pipe organ's volume, i.e., swell pedal effect of increasing air flow
and turbulence into the organ's pipes/flutes. On some old organs an
actual bellows, like bagpipes, swelled up as more air was pumped in.

Roland Expression pedals have always been simple volume controls, not
a stereo loudness effect. With evolving clone Swell effect: The same
been-around-for-years application, plug and cable 3-wire keyboard
volume pedals, like an EV-5 or FC-7, will work in a modified electric
circuit to mimic the swell pedal effect of a Hammond. 'Loudness'
theory must play a part in all the electronic acoustics we're
enjoying the benefit of - but if you're pedal to the metal
(er ...carpet?) with 'swell,' it's not Walmart home stereo.

Walter J

> off when you back the volume off.
>
> Why bother? Well, the theory is that your ears become less
> sensitive to bass at lower volumes, so the expression curve is
> designed to compensate. Basically it is more musical, as you
> effectively get a larger more usable range of volume. You can find
> out more by searching on "Fletcher Munson", the scientists who were
> first recognised for identifying this phenomenom.
>
> James