The Chamberlin keyboard is a tape-based sample playback keyboard, invented in 1946 by Harry Chamberlin. It’s considered by many to be the first sampler, though it was primarily used as a sample playback keyboard.
According to stories, Chamberlin got the idea while recording himself playing the organ. He figured that if he could record and playback the organ, he could record other sounds and play them back, triggered by a keyboard.
Chamberlin went on to actually build 100 or more of his proto-samplers before his idea was “borrowed” to create the Mellotron. The Chamberlin has 8 tracks (Sound Effects, Trumpet, Flute, Cello, Organ, Violin, Female voice, Organ) and has stereo output.
Chamberlin’s story is featured in the excellent Mellotron documentary, Mellodrama.
via btpro
I love my grandpa for leading the path to a new wave of good music to be made by many famous artist . I to hope to lead in his footsteps as i build my company up of CHAMBERLIN DESIGNS in metal crafting and graphic designs . May the CHAMBERLIN name live on to be strong .