I'm only 29, started collecting at 17...and my interest has always been more on the cylinder side of things. Then a few years ago I expanded into DD, but until now my focus has been machines. (Getting my Opera after Jan 1st!!!
) Now I have started to expand my collection of cylinders and records...as I have a bunch of nice machines but not as many quality cylinders. I very much enjoy listening to these old cylinders...sometimes I wish I could download good versions on my phone to listen to when on the road. Some friends think its strange...but there's just something about the simplicity of the time, and the wholesomeness of the subject matter...my son and family can have a blast picking out records and playing them. Its something I hope he remembers and appreciates when hes older; and hopefully he does with his kids.
One thing that has always kept me from getting more into 78rpm is the availability of quality machines locally, and the confusion I seem to have between what records are good to play on what machines...I just cant tell the difference most of the time...but that's mostly just ignorance of that part of the hobby. Perhaps soon ill get myself a nice upright Victor to start myself off...but id like to get some more good cylinders and DD's...and a nice new cabinet to store them in!
I really want to get with some school or museum around here and do demos...I just don't know how to get started...or even what to talk about. I think younger kids and people would find this stuff fascinating...as around here most didn't survive the years due to hurricanes, humidity, etc...so when someone new comes over its always an hour or so discussing things they have never seen...which I love doing
J.F.