Key Action
The organ with an electric key action has no mechanical connection between the key and the pipe valve. Instead, an electrical connection is made (a circuit is closed) under or at the end of a key when depressed. This connection is broken (a circuit is opened) when the key is released.
As a key is depressed, a magnetic valve opens underneath the pipe, allowing air to enter. The action is immediate and sudden, with no response to any variation in the quickness or gentleness of the organist's attack or release (other than the timing of the attack or release).
Electric key actions are less expensive to produce than mechanical or pneumatic key actions. They are used today in many pipe organs and in virtually all electronic organs.
