Justme,Brad wrote:Welcome Justme,
You have been bitten. Start making space now, as your home will quickly fill with machines. (for me - 7 years, 50 machines)
I can add a few things to what has already been said:
-Don't use alchohol to clean your records as it will desolve the shelac.
-I purchased from Wyatts a couple of months ago and he was very much in business http://www.wyattsmusical.com/ I buy my needles there. Best deal is by the 1000 (You will use them!) There are two types commonly available: Soft and Loud. Louds are loud, soft, not as loud. I pretty much use the soft needles and only use a loud when demonstrating the difference to an interested guest. Another good source for needles is APSCO http://www.antiquephono.com/
-There is not much you need to do mechanically other than lubricate it if it needs it. These machines were extremely well built and do not require much care. If you are interested in the mechanics, restoration, and repair, I would recommend you buy a copy of "The Compleat Talking Machine" It is great book with a wealth of information.
-Records - I pretty much stick to the Acoustic era (~pre 1926). Big band type of music is very prevalent and available. Jazz and Blues are harder to find and more expensive. Check out the record auctions by Kurt Nauck and Tom Hawthorne. I would also recommend hitting estate sales and flea markets. People have a hard time getting rid of 78's and you can get them cheap. Start buying cheap and see what you like.
-Advice - This board is the place. (Just watch out for Aaron )
Finally, yes, at $50 you got a very a good deal.
I can't really help on this subject because other than 1 disk machine, I'm a cylinder fanatic. I am only chiming in to say, who's the bad person here? The 15 year old cylinder collector, or the 50 some year old man who's picking on him
Aaron
P.S. I'm sure Brad will add something to this thread again after he wakes up from his nap and get over to his computer via his jazzy scooter