Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $3,100
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$799
$2000+
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Description
Introducing the Hammond C-3, a classic instrument that resonates with vintage charm and exquisite craftsmanship. This organ finds its roots in the iconic B3 model, but is gracefully housed in a C-type cabinet that adds an extra layer of sophistication. The Hammond C-3 is available in two elegant finishes, walnut and oak, each adding a unique aesthetic appeal to this timeless instrument. With its rich tones and classic design, it's an invaluable addition to any musician's collection, promising to deliver a profound and unforgettable musical experience.
Key Features:
- Inspired by the iconic B3 model
- Housed in a sophisticated C-type cabinet
- Available in Walnut and Oak finishes
- Delivers rich, vintage tones
- Classic design and superior craftsmanship
Product specs
| Brand | Hammond |
| Model | C3 |
| Finish | Natural |
| Year | 1955 - 1974 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Organs |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| Number of Keys | 61 Keys |
FAQs
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What makes the Hammond C-3 different from the B-3 model?
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The Hammond C-3 is essentially the same as the B-3 in terms of sound and features, but it has a full wooden cabinet, making it more suited for church and home use where aesthetics are important.
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Does the Hammond C-3 require a Leslie speaker for optimal sound?
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While the Hammond C-3 can be played without a Leslie speaker, pairing it with a Leslie greatly enhances its iconic sound, adding dynamic tremolo and vibrato effects that are highly sought after.
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How many keys does the Hammond C-3 have, and what is the key action like?
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The Hammond C-3 features 61 full-size keys with a synth action, providing a smooth and responsive playing experience typical of classic Hammond organs.
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Is the Hammond C-3 suitable for live performances?
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The Hammond C-3 is renowned for its rich, full sound and is a staple in live performances, especially in jazz, rock, and gospel genres, although its size and weight may require careful transportation planning.
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What is the primary sound characteristic of the Hammond C-3?
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The Hammond C-3 is celebrated for its warm, rich tones and the ability to produce complex harmonics, making it a favorite for creating lush soundscapes and soulful solos.
Videos
GigiAO28
Hammond C3 Beast sound (Jon Lord - Deep Purple)
Hammond C3 Beast sound (Jon Lord - Deep Purple)
GigiAO28
Old Gal 57 Hammond C3 with 122 Leslie Groove
Patrik Gudmundsäter
Comparing A-100, B3 and C3 Hammond Organs
Jim Huss, Keyboard Exchange International
Berklee College Of Music - Hammond C3 with Dave Limina
Dylan James Shaw
Hammond C3 Organ Demonstration with special guest Don Shinn
Vintage Keys Studio
Everything you need to know about the Hammond C3 organ (Part 1 of 2)
Nick Foley UK - Hammond for Hire
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hammond C-3.
Mods and upgrades
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Some C-3 models have been retrofitted with a 3-series preamp, providing full 3-series functionality via cheekblock switches.
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It's possible to modify a 6-pin Leslie connector to a 9-pin for better compatibility with different Leslie models.
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Modifications may include replacing the matching transformer with a dual transformer from a 2 or 3 series model to enable selectable vibrato.
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Value and pricing
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A PR-40 tone cabinet may require only minimal investment compared to a Leslie, providing an interim solution for new Hammond C-3 owners.
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User experience
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Reconing old speakers is an option, but costs might match purchasing new ones, making replacement a practical consideration.
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Owners note that the PR-40 tone cabinet is often available for under $50 with regional price variation, making it an affordable option for many.
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Despite advances in digital emulations, the physical experience and sound of a real Hammond console remain unmatched for many organists.
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The C-3 is preferred for its gothic cabinet design, providing more presence and being a staple of British rock bands.
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Features and functionality
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A Leslie speaker, especially models like 122 or 147, is crucial for capturing the classic Hammond sound with its rotating horn and rotor.
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Original 82-tone generators in early CVs can be identified by a blank section on the terminal strip and produce different bass tones compared to 91-tone generators.
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An early CV cabinet may include a wooden line box, wooden expression pedal, and unique woodwork, indicating its pre-1947 origins.
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The A-100 model includes internal speakers and reverb, offering more versatility than the C-3 and B-3, which have identical sounds but different cabinets.
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Setup and maintenance
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If the startup motor grinds, letting it sit with Hammond oil and holding a chord while spinning the motor can help alleviate the issue.
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Regular maintenance includes oiling the organ annually with Hammond oil, essential for the tonewheel generator's longevity.
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Properly securing the generator's T-screws is crucial when moving the organ to avoid catastrophic damage.
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Use cases and applications
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Some owners replace a traditional Leslie 122 with a Leslie pedal for direct recording, finding the tone satisfactory when paired with quality monitors.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 8 Ratings
94
The ultimate organ sound
If you are looking for a real organ sound and not a bad synth imitation, this organ is made for you. Like Hammond said: "The sound, the soul, the one"
Hammond C-3 with Leslie 122
Had this through the 70s with my old band
41029
the church version, right on!
Artist usage
Add artist
This video shows John Evan playing on a Hammond C3
In this photo, Don Merrill can be seen playing a Hammond C-3.
In the official music video for "Heart Stopping Kinda Show" by DeWolff, Robin Piso is seen playing a Hammond C-3 organ, showcasing its impressive sound.
In this video he can be seen playing a Hammond C-3.
Visible throughout this 1977 studio session starting at 0:20 and this live performance of "Giro, giro tondo" at 1:43.
In this Instagram video you can see it playing the Hammond https://www.instagram.com/p/BxQNss3g2C4/
Matthew Fisher confirmed his use of the Hammond C-3 organ in an interview with Keyboard Review, stating, "We were using C3s in Europe, and in America mainly B3s. There’s more B3s in America and there’s more C3s in England."
Andy Richards is confirmed to use a Hammond C-3 organ, as detailed in the "Programmer's Protocol" article from Music Technology, June 1988. The article highlights Richards's transition to professional music with The Strawbs in 1978, where he amassed an impressive collection of equipment, including a grand piano, Hammond C-3, two Mellotrons, Fender Rhodes, Yamaha CS80, ARP Odyssey, and Minimoogs.
In a TikTok video posted by Maxwell Butler, Inc., Jai Winding is shown with his Hammond C-3 connected to a Leslie 122.
Mentioned by Hornsby in this May 2017 Road to Jacksonville interview.
From your point of view, what are the best organs and pianos you played? That’s an easy one. I like a Yamaha or Steinway grand piano. Sometimes a Wurlitzer electric piano for a vintage “Ray Charles” sound. For a stage rig I have a Yamaha digital which I like a lot. As for organs, it’s gotta be a Hammond B-3, or C-3 which is basically the same thing. A Hammond A is good too.
Album Usage
The Hammond C-3 has been featured on the following albums:
Dragons and Wizards
Eloy Fritsch (2025)
Parsifal - L'uomo delle stelle
Roby Facchinetti (2025)
Starship Trooper
Rick Wakeman (2016)
The Complete BBC Sessions (Remastered)
Led Zeppelin (2016)
Figure 8
Elliott Smith (2000)
XO
Elliott Smith (1998)
Godbluff
Van der Graaf Generator (1975)
The Six Wives Of Henry VIII
Rick Wakeman (1973)
Led Zeppelin III (Remaster)
Led Zeppelin (1970)
Atomic Rooster
Atomic Rooster (1970)
Led Zeppelin II (Remaster)
Led Zeppelin (1969)
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Hammond C-3, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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