Soundbox restoration (HMV 5a)

[bart1927]

I recently bought an HMV 130, and I think the soundbox might benefit from a restoration. It's an HMV 5A, it looks similar to a Victor Ortophonic soundbox, but it's not the same. I have no experience whatsoever in rebuilding soundboxes, so maybe you could recommend someone? (either in Europe or the USA?) There is a little split in the outside of the reproducer, and there are some strange brown spots on the diaphragm. The rubber is also a little hard, not rock hard, but I think it should be a little more flexible. Of course I've been searching the internet for soundbox rebuilding specialists, but all I can find is people who restore Edison and Victor reproducers, there is no mention of HMV.

So if anyone could give me advice, I would really appreciate it.

[richardh]

Bart, if the rubber connecter has hardened and no longer gives a good seal onto he tone arm - I usually use a generous smearing of something like vasaline (petroleum jelly) aroud the inside of the rubber. This will help to ensure a good seal at that point.

RJ

[wjw]

It would be nice if a more flexible replacement isolator were available. The ones I see seem too stiff. If your 5a sounds ok, just get a small drop of oil on the needle bar pivots and be done with it.
If the soundbox is a little loose on the tone arm, wrap a little teflon tape (plumbing supply) where the soundbox goes, razor cut the pin-hitch and this will tighten up the fit and of course improve the bass response.

[Emidicta]

I asked Ken Priestley about these rubber connectors on the 5a, and he told me to leave as-is, if it plays ok. It's not worth the risk of breaking the back to replace it. You're lucky though, the connector on mine is completely hardened

[frankt]

it is a fairly easy task to rebuild a hmv box. basically all you need to do is replace the back gasket with a neoprene gasket, you'll have to cut it down a wee bit, using an orthophonic gasket. on the joint of the gasket after cutting it down, use a toothpick and dab a little heavy grease on the joint to assure it is airtight. also, remove the front of the reproducer and hold it over a flashlight to see if there is any tiny leaks on the diaphragm. even the tiniest leaks will diminish volume. if any present, dab with shellac or nail polish. be sure to grease the elbow end before replacing reproducer. these easy steps will surely make a great difference in sound output. i have done several of these by this method with great results. just ask orthosean!