The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

It seems like I find far more moldy Columbia wax cylinders than comparable Edison wax cylinders. Does this have any basis? I was wondering about the differences in the wax formula that Columbia used versus Edison, and if perhaps Columbia cylinders were inferior in some ways. Thanks.

I can't speak to the wax composition, but in my experience Columbia cylinders are definitely more prone to mold than Edison.

If I remember correctly,Columbia used a different formula for their wax than Edison.That'd be why Columbias have more of a tendency to mold than the Edisons.edisonplayer

and Busy Bee's seem to be even worse, although you would think they should be the same.

Personally, I haven't noticed any real difference to that as the Edison 2-minutes (with the exception of the later ones) are also heavily prone to develop mold. I think a good part is owed to the fact of boxes with tighter lids, such as the European style Edison boxes, which tend to provide a better micro climate than the US Edison boxes.

However, there does seem to be a strong emphasis with Pathé cylinders, which I rarely encounter without any signs of mold.

Why else do you think that they call them Gold "Molded"...!!!!!! Hehehehehehehe.....Sorry, But I couldn't resist....!


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Tony K.

Edison Collector/Restorer