Viscount have introduced a new line of premium organs consisting of the Legend Soul 273 and Legend Soul 261. Developed in collaboration with Joey DeFrancesco, the instruments utilise the latest tonewheel modelling technology and feature Viscount’s patented keybed, which they say is able to reproduce the iconic nine-contact mechanical keyboard design.
Sounds & Effects
The Legend Soul 261 features two 61-key keyboards, whilst the 273 offers an additional 12 reversed keys for each row, totalling 73. Both models also boast four sets of nine drawbars, and are equipped with a selection of sounds that model vintage transistor and pipe organs, in addition to reproducing key noise. There are also over 15 bass sounds available which can be played from the instruments’ pedalboard.
Both instruments share the same collection of sounds and features, but the 273 offers an additional 12 reversed keys for each keyboard row. Transpose options between -6 and +5 semitones are provided, there are also options to fine-tune each instrument between A427.5 and A452.9Hz. A Left Hand Bass function is also present, allowing the bottom two octaves on the lower keyboard to be routed to a different output.
A range of built-in effects are provided, with new rotary simulation offering a selection of different speaker and amplifier models, and an improved vibrato/chorus effect providing a variety of modes based on different electromechanical organ models. A number of reverbs are also on offer, along with a three-band master EQ, overdrive, ring modulator, flanger, phaser, wah, tremolo, and a delay.
I/O
Each instrument provides a stereo audio output on a pair of quarter-inch TRS connectors, with an 11-pin connector offering compatibility with Leslie rotary cabinets. A dedicated audio output for the pedals is also available, as well as send and return connections to allow the use of external effects processors. An additional input also allows the instrument’s effects to be used to process external sources.
In terms of control, five-pin DIN sockets offer a MIDI input and output, with a third connector providing a MIDI signal from just the pedalboard. USB connectivity is also present, allowing MIDI communication with a host computer as well as integration with a software editing application. A number of pedal inputs are also provided, with the instruments allowing the connection of two footswitches, an expression pedal, and a dedicated pedal to control the speed of the built-in rotary effect.
Power is delivered to an internal PSU via a standard IEC mains connector.
Pricing & Availability
Viscount say that the first shipment of the new instruments is planned for late December 2022 / early January 2023. The Legend Soul 273 is priced at €4990, and the Legend Soul 261 will cost €3590.
