Hi All!  We now use a B.A.B.-type of snare drum in our band organ.
The first one had reiterating beaters similar to a 165.  This works
only when the tempo of the piece matches the settings on the drum
engine.

Today, we use a very fast single beater.  This unit even uses the
rebound of the drum head to accelerate it to the clean position.  It
will play any of the fast, crisp rolls found in the Sousa marches.  We
use a pressure system instead of the traditional vacuum type.  With a
5-7" wind source and a vacuum primary, this might do the trick.

I could arrange for John to borrow one if it helps the cause.  I could
also get a chance to photograph his Wurlitzer! ;)   We also have a
complete Wurlitzer snare unit on the shelf.

Victoria Webb
Seventails Productions
http://www.seventails.com