Retro Tech: The Pianocorder Player Piano System
2025-06-02
In the late 1970s, Superscope introduced the Pianocorder, a solenoid-driven player piano system using cassette tapes as its storage medium. Streaming data at 35 frames per second, it directly plays from the tape without needing memory. While lacking true polyphonic expression, it cleverly simulates it by splitting the keyboard into treble and bass halves. Boasting a vast library of recordings, including performances by famous pianists, the Pianocorder continues to fascinate enthusiasts, with ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade the system, even including PC control plugins.
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Hardware
player piano