Pianotech

Hi Scott:
You might want to call Russell Berkley here in San Diego. The Gulbransen units were manufactured here years ago. Russell installs a lot of players, and probably has some spare parts. He's also a friend and neighbor of Dave Starkey, who is the inventor of the system. It's possible he might also have spare parts. Russell's number is 858 488=5810.
Good luck
Paul McCloud


Original Message------

Hi everyone,

I have a customer who just purchased a 1990 Yamaha C7 in which a Gulbransen Pianomation midi player was installed. The sensing unit is screwed under to the key bed, and black plastic levers are pushed down with the keys to actuate what look like optical sensors.

I have two issues: the first is that one of the arms broke off. The other is that some liquid, possibly beer, was spilled on the piano and two other levers are gunked up. I'm afraid to spray anything in there due to the electronics. As of yet, the new owner has yet to turn it on and try it--the liquid may have fried the circuits long ago. But if it does work, I'd like to try to find spare parts or someone who will service it. QRS, who bought the technology, can't fix something this old. I've queried Midi9 on their suggestion, but so far no answer.

Anyone have an old unit lying around, or know where I can get one for parts?

thanks,

Scott

Paul,
Thanks, might be just what I need.
*update though...the owner tried the unit, and it doesn't receive a signal from the sensors. It's possible the spill fried the electronics.
Scott

------------------------------
Scott Cole
Talent OR
541-601-9033
------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 07-09-2018 19:09
From: Paul McCloud
Subject: Midi repair/spare parts

Hi Scott:
You might want to call Russell Berkley here in San Diego. The Gulbransen units were manufactured here years ago. Russell installs a lot of players, and probably has some spare parts. He's also a friend and neighbor of Dave Starkey, who is the inventor of the system. It's possible he might also have spare parts. Russell's number is 858 488=5810.
Good luck
Paul McCloud


Original Message------

Hi everyone,

I have a customer who just purchased a 1990 Yamaha C7 in which a Gulbransen Pianomation midi player was installed. The sensing unit is screwed under to the key bed, and black plastic levers are pushed down with the keys to actuate what look like optical sensors.

I have two issues: the first is that one of the arms broke off. The other is that some liquid, possibly beer, was spilled on the piano and two other levers are gunked up. I'm afraid to spray anything in there due to the electronics. As of yet, the new owner has yet to turn it on and try it--the liquid may have fried the circuits long ago. But if it does work, I'd like to try to find spare parts or someone who will service it. QRS, who bought the technology, can't fix something this old. I've queried Midi9 on their suggestion, but so far no answer.

Anyone have an old unit lying around, or know where I can get one for parts?

thanks,

Scott

Hi Scott:
Other than finding someone who has removed the sensor rail and has one available, it is indeed your best bet. I'm pretty sure there are different iterations of the strip, and compatibility is likely going to be a factor. Beer spill?? Gulp! If the power was off, you might get lucky. Otherwise, I wouldn't bet on it working. Actually, your best bet would be to gut and replace with the newest version of sensors. I'm sure Russell will give you all the details.
Paul


Paul,
Thanks, might be just what I need.
*update though...the owner tried the unit, and it doesn't receive a signal from the sensors. It's possible the spill fried the electronics.
Scott

------------------------------
Scott Cole
Talent OR
541-601-9033



Original Message------

Paul,
Thanks, might be just what I need.
*update though...the owner tried the unit, and it doesn't receive a signal from the sensors. It's possible the spill fried the electronics.
Scott

------------------------------
Scott Cole
Talent OR
541-601-9033
------------------------------