From holsen5629@aol.com Tue Oct 05 23:56:35 2004
Subject:Re: 11 pin leslie

<< Is there a vintage 11 pin leslie model that will plug into the XK3? >>

The 11-pin system was designed to be "universal." In theory, any 11-pin
Leslie will plug into an XK-3, or any other keyboard or organ with an 11-pin
hookup. In practice, however, some older 11-pin models are less compatible.

The XK-3 and other keyboards send a full-range rotary signal via pin 1. This
means "add-on" modules like the 515 and 540 and the "non-rotary" 520 are not
usable. (The 515 and 540 have no input at pin 1, the 520 has no rotors.)
Also, some two-channel 11-pin models like the 705, 720, and 730 carry bass
frequencies in the "main" or non-rotary channel only. These models can be used, but
require an electronic crossover accessory to function properly with later
keyboards.

Most other 11-pin Leslies will work okay including the multichannel models
(not all channels will produce sound if the keyboard only sends a rotary
signal). Also, 11-pin models with conventional bass rotors and rotary horns usually
work better than the multichannel models with Rotosonic drums. Bottom
line--there are many earlier 11-pin Leslies that will work just fine with current
keyboards. Send me a private note if you have a question about a specific model.

<< The older Leslie were mostly 6 pin models... >>

True, in the beginning all Leslies were 6-pin. The first 9-pin Leslie wasn't
introduced until 1961. (Model 100GK for those into Leslie trivia.)

<< I think in the late 60's Leslie went to the 11 pin setup in order to take
the AC current out of the hookup cable and to have more channels to work with.
The later tube and solid states all use the 11 pin hookup now.  And they
have a seperate cord for AC power. >>

Also true except the 11-pin system is actually somewhat later--mid-70s. UL,
CSA, and other safety organizations insisted on changes that made the old 6
and 9-pin systems obsolete. All new Leslie designs after 1975-76 were 11-pin.

Harvey Olsen

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