Opera Phonographs and Opera cylinders

[doctor t]

A question about Edison Opera Phonographs - do they play regular Edison 2 minute or 4 minute cylinders? I have seen some "Edison Opera" Cylinders listed on eBay which appear to be a different form factor than normal Edison cylinders - doe the opera only play these?

Thanks for the education...

- Tod

[HisMastersVoice]

The Edison Opera phonograph ONLY plays 4-minute records. The Model L reproducer will play Wax Amberols or Blue Amberols, and the Diamond A reproducer will only play Blue Amberols. The Grand Opera Cylinders you are referring to are merely operatic selections, they have nothing to do with the Opera Phonograph (though it can play them so long as they are the 4-minute type).

[52089]

Tod,

I highly recommend buying some of the basic reference books, like Frow's Diamond Disc and Cylinder books, Look for the Dog, etc. You won't believe how much you'll learn about the numerous machines, models, variations, etc. All are well worth your investment.

Kevin