..The Funky VOX Page..   

THE VOX CONTINENTAL HISTORY

One of the first purpose built portable organs designed for stage work was the Continental. Originally produced in England by Tom Jennings’ Vox company.
 
 
When the Vox Continental was released , it absolutely blitzed the competition. It was 1962, and the world at large got its first glimpse of the organ. The Continental stood out because it looked so radically different from the staid, homely designs of its contemporaries. The fact that it still looks funky today 37 years on is testament to its futuristic design .
 
 
On release, the Continental was considered to be the absolute ultimate - charcoal black Vynide covering, a burnt orange top with Gold Vox logo, ‘Z’ shaped polished chrome legs, and reverse colour keys- white on black.
 
 
The Vox was extremely successful in the U.K., directly attributable to Vox’s very aggressive and farsighted marketing tactics. The ‘Mersey’ sound of bands like the Searchers and the Dave Clark Five increased it's popularity and when the Animals’ House of the Rising Sun burst onto the scene, it defined the Continental as THE keyboard to have. The enormous success of this single contributed to the Continentals’ popularity resulting in the November 1964 signing of a U.S. distribution deal with the Thomas Organ Company to sell Continentals in the States. Bands such as the Monkees, Paul Revere and the Raiders, Grateful Dead, Iron Butterfly and the Doors all helped to make the Continental a legend.
 
 
  Hmmm....what a groover!!  


 

Buying a VOX Continental Today is now going to set you back a nice few £££, as they seem to be increasing in popularity again. In the U.K. prices seem to floating  at about £400 for a half decent working organ, as for picking one up in Ireland...they don't seem to exist here...I know I've tried but I'm still looking so if anyone out there has no to part with then just get in contact with me!!

 

INTERESTING VOX LINKS:

 

All Vox Organ Spare Parts can now be easily obtained through NORTH COAST MUSIC , where you can browse online & purchase over the internet.

 

Also check out THE VOX SHOWROOM, where they have more pictures and info. on VOX equipment.

 

In the U.K. CRAVENDALE ELECTRONICS who specialise in the repair and restoration of Hammond organs, Leslie Speakers, Vox, Rhodes, Farfisa, etc

 

 

If you know of any other VOX Organ or related sites, please let me know.
 
 
 
 
 Why not drop me an e-mail on any of the above to neibeas@hotmail.com

 
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