Instrument Makers

Hello - I'm a veteren jazz pianist making my way towards vibes and appreciate help.

I'd like to get feedback on artists using midi/digital instruments for vibes. I already have a physical modeling studio in my home and wondering about learning vibes using MIDI vs. the real deal since I'm and mostly playing there with occasional gigs out.

I play a set of vibes of unknown age and unknown make with a local community band. The only clue I have is a torn paper label -- only part of the half of the label is left with letters that read J (?) B (?) Percussion. There is no maker's model tag anywhere. I know it's a long shot, but can anyone help to identify? I need to find a source for spare parts if possible. Thanks

I am restoring a Musser model 25.
Does anyone have any information on one of these?
I am guessing it was made in the late 50's to early 60's, and looks like an early version of an M44.
Specifically, I am looking information as to what type of belt was used as there is no way to install the belt without splitting it.

Thanks Much,
Dean Dods

Added photos:

http://knjr.org/files/532a.jpg
http://knjr.org/files/548a.jpg

Hey everyone,

Hello,

I'm considering to purchase a Musser M55 (or decent alternative) in Belgium / Europe.
As i'm surfing around, there's quite a difference in price from dealer to dealer. Can anyone give me some good advice about a reliable dealer with the best price (& service)?
Already contacted Steve Weiss, but they don't ship Musser to Europe.

Thx a lot!

I just recorded some tracks with a Musser vibe. It is an old frame and has shiny/reflective silver bars. It is at a University in PA, and it is said that it was found in deep storage years ago in great condition.

Hi guys!

Im new here so Im apolozige if I dont get the right Forum, and also for my English. Anyway, I would like to ask you guys if you can get me some advice where can I buy Yamaha YV 3710 (with glossy bars and with tuning A = 440 Hz). Im from Slovakia and I have not many opportunities where to buy it.

Thank you so much for response.

Martin

Mainly due to the fact that it is much much too short for me, and I don't presently have the money for a new instrument, I'm wanting to have a new frame made for my Deagan Commander. I'm worried that it would affect the resale value of the instrument, though, seeing as how they are no longer in production. Is anyone here able to say one way or the other?

Also, does anyone have suggestions regarding frame builders? My first and only thought was Fall Creek Marimbas.

All comments on this are very appreciated.

Best,
Mackenzie

In 1985 I bought a "Premier 751" from an auction of lost container and played it in a student big band, using piezzo picups to be loud enough.
Because of job and children this instrument was unused in the cellar for nearly 20 years.
Last year a friend asked me, if I could make some music with him.
But after a few times I played the vibe, both springs broke and some of the bar holders made from rubber turned to dust.
Trying to get the instrument into a jazz club with spiral stair, I received a herniated disk.

Hey all,