- Rockin’ Patent: US Patent No. 2,940,351
- Filed: 16 October 1953
- In the name of: Harry C Chamberlin (inventor)
- Title: Magnetic Tape Sound Reproducing Musical Instrument
- What’s claimed: “In a sound reproducing device: a plurality of sound pickup heads; a plurality of record tapes each having a sound track thereon; power driven means for moving said tapes forwardly so that the sound tracks thereof will move relative to said pickup heads; control means for effecting operation of said power driven means to move said tapes forwardly, said control means including a plurality” of keys adapted to be respectively actuated when reproduction of sound selectively from said tapes is desired; reversing means for moving said tapes in reverse direction; and means acting upon release of said keys to effectuate said reversing means so as to return said tapes respectively to their starting positions.”
- Why this patent rocks: This patent appears to relate to the ‘Chamberlin’ electro-mechanical keyboard that was a precursor to the Mellotron. Although there are multiple patents linked to this instrument, this article by J. Donald Tillman suggests that this patent is likely the first. For a detailed insight into the specifications of the Chamberlin, see here.
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The information above is for general interest and information only and does not constitute legal advice.