Hammond Novachord (1939–1942)
A 72-note polyphonic electronic instrument using 163 vacuum tubes, first shown at the 1939 New York World's Fair.
Overview
The Hammond Novachord is a musical instrument developed by the Hammond Organ Co and introduced at the 1939 New York World's Fair. It was produced from 1939 to 1942, with exactly 1,069 units built. Designed by Laurens Hammond, John Hanert, and C.N. Williams, it is recognized as the world's first production synthesizer. The instrument features 72-note polyphony and uses 12-semitone oscillators across a 5-octave range.
Specifications
| Tube count | 163 vacuum tubes |
| Capacitor count | Over 1,000 custom capacitors |
| Polyphony | 72 voices |
| Dimensions (WHD) | 52.25 x 38.25 x 36.75 inch / 1327 x 972 x 933 mm |
Design
The Novachord contains 163 vacuum tubes and over 1,000 custom capacitors, with circuitry designed to allow dynamic control of tone and envelope. A service manual titled *A Manual For The Service Technician (Second Edition)* was published in 1939.
Context
Widely regarded as the father of the modern synthesizer, the Novachord was the first electronic synthesizer ever produced in quantity. Its debut at the 1939 World's Fair marked a milestone in electronic music technology.
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