[HAM] H100 -good or bad ?

[Dave Bishop]

>I currently have an L-100 and I'd like something with the full size 
>manuals and 25 pedals.The H100 might be a good intermediary untill I can 
>get a A100 or something, if the price is right.

If you have an L-100 the H-100 is a natural step up.  Its a terrific 
practice organ, and you are already aquainted with the diving board keys.  I 
have a flock of Hammonds to chose from, and I still like the sound of the 
H-100.  Plus, if you're adventuresome, there is plenty you can do to make it 
emulate the B-3 sound more closely.  By reputation the earlier models (those 
without printed circuit boards) have more technical problems.  You'll 
probably need a service manual and will get to know the insides pretty well. 
These models have a lot of weight, so make sure you are clear about what it 
will take to make it playable before you accept it.  While a B-3's market 
value is high enough to justify a total makeover, an H-100 can become a boat 
anchor if costs too much in time and money for repairs.  It wouldn't 
surprise me if you got both the organ and the cabinet for $300 or under, but 
you may have to educate the owner about the Hammond market to get a decent 
price.

If you go through with a purchase, why don't you give some thought to 
donating the L100 to some neighborhood kid who shows talent at the piano? 
I've given away three now, and the rewards a just outstanding.

Regards,

Dave Bishop.