Kustom Theremin 1966

In 1966 Kustom produced a black tuck and roll Theremin. It is an exceedingly rare item. Mine has drifted out of tune. I was wondering if anyone happens to know the proper proceedure for tuning the coils?

I can't give you hints without deeper knowledge of the circuit. But if you had schematics which you could send me by email, I could figure it out and write complete diagnosing/tuning instructions as recently done for the EPE circuit based theremins and published here.

I don't have schematics for it. I wish I did. I contacted Kustom to get schematics and service help but there have been two owners of Kustom Inc. in the years since my theremin was made. The current owner of Kustom didn't even know Kustom made theremins back in the 60's.

So there is another way: Find a theremin expert in your neighborhood who will be able to help you in analyzing the circuit by "eyes and experience" and finding out the proper adjustment procedure.

Don't know where you are based, but in case you live in Western Europe, I'll be your neighbored expert.

Great idea, I'm traveling between Reno, Nevada and Sacramento, California most of the time. If there are any Theremin tuning experts out there who want to lend hand, let me know. Thanks!

If your California route takes you close to San Diego, I could give you a hand with it.

Don

I think Zoom bought the Kustom name, or maybe some other Japanese FX pedal maker. They are very stingy with ANY information. They typically tell you to take it to an authorized repair shop ... who will also not have any information to work from!

Don

I have one of those!
I make my living in electronics, so tuning mine was not hard.
How rare are they? This post is the first reference I've found.

WOW w0ttmm I'm stunned, you are the first person I have encountered, since 1966, that owns a Kustom Theremin - I'd have to say they are very very rare.

Could you provide me with step instructions for tuning the my theremin?

I have some hobby level electronics experience and access to typical entry level electronics hobby tools, meters, scopes etc. But I don't have a clue how to tune my theremin. I've never worked with RF circuits. Man I would really appreciate any help you can give.

I don't think I've even heard of the Kustom Theremin from the '60s before. Would one of you be willing to share a few pics of your instrument for all who are curious?