- Rockin’ Patent: US Patent No. 2,563,477
- Filed: 1 May 1948
- In the name of: Constant Martin (inventor)
- Title: Electronic Musical Instrument
- What’s claimed: “In an electronic musical instrument in combination with an oscillator unit, a tube-coupling unit, a filter unit, an amplifier unit and a loud-speaker mounted in sequence from the output of said oscillator, said oscillator unit comprising a first tube and a second tube having its grid coupled through a capacity with the anode of said first tube and having its anode coupled through a resistance with the grid of said first tube, variable grid-resistance means for said second tube to vary the output frequency thereof, and supply means for said oscillator.”
- Why this patent rocks: This patent appears to involve the monophonic electronic musical instrument named the ‘Clavioline’ invented by Constant Martin in the 1940s. The instrument is regarded by some as one of the precursors of the synthesizer. The Clavioline generally comprises two parts: a keyboard unit, containing the sound generator and controls, and a combined power supply, valve amplifier, and speaker cabinet. These two parts are connected by a dedicated multi-pin cable. For a more detailed take on how the Clavioline works, see here.
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The information above is for general interest and information only and does not constitute legal advice.
