Using the Integrated EVB3 Scanner Vibrato

The EVB3 emulates the Scanner Vibrato facilities of the original B3. The Scanner Vibrato is based on an analog delay line, consisting of several lowpass filters. The delay line is scanned by a multipole capacitor that has a rotating pickup. It is a unique effect that cannot be simulated with simple low frequency oscillators (LFOs).

Note: The vibrato of the organ itself should not be confused with the Leslie effect, which is based on rotating speaker horns. The EVB3 simulates both.

Figure. Scanner Vibrato parameters.
  • Type knob: The Type parameter knob allows you to choose from three Vibrato positions (V1, V2, and V3) or three Chorus positions (C1, C2, and C3).
    • In the Vibrato positions, only the delay line signal is heard, and like the Hammond B3, the EVB3 vibrato types have different intensities.

    • The three Chorus positions (C1, C2, and C3) mix the signal of the delay line with the original signal. Mixing a vibrato signal with an original, statically pitched signal results in a chorus effect. The organ’s chorus sounds different from modern chorus effects (such as the Chorus plug-in included with MainStage).

    • If the C0 setting is chosen, neither the chorus nor the vibrato is enabled.

  • Rate wheel: Sets the vibrato or chorus speed.
  • Chorus wheel: Allows you to freely mix the dry signal with the vibrato signal. This parameter is active only if one of the chorus settings is engaged (C1, C2, C3).
  • Upper and Lower buttons: These buttons switch the scanner vibrato (and its associated treble boost) on or off, independently, for the upper and lower manual. As the B3 mixes the bass register (pedal) signal with the lower manual signal, the pedal register is affected by the lower manual’s scanner vibrato settings.

    Note: The treble portion of the organ is boosted slightly when any vibrato setting is used. This treble boost also occurs if the C0 setting is active.

    Tip: Few organ players use the Scanner Vibrato, preferring to work with a Leslie in isolation. Others, like B3 virtuoso Brian Auger, prefer the integrated organ vibrato over the Leslie. Compare the Chorus and Vibrato effects with the sound of the rotor cabinet simulation to see which you prefer.