My latest acquisition- VE 8-35X

[NateO]

Hi all,

I wanted to share a few photos of my latest addition, as I'm really excited about it! I purchased this machine last Sunday, and was finally able to bring it home today. I had to borrow a bigger car!

This is VE 8-35X, serial #854. It's missing the albums, and I just purchased a set of the reproduction spines. Apart from that, it has a few veneer chips on the back, and one ding below the horn door (regrettably caused when getting it into the house). Otherwise, it is very clean, and seems to me to have been left indoors most of its life.

I didn't have a chance to test it before purchase, but I felt it was worth the gamble for $300. Thankfully, I plugged it in and it runs fairly well! I think it needs some lubrication, because it is fairly noisy right now, but I was glad it at least runs.

The one question I have is how to remove the tonearm bracket. I have removed the 4 large screws at the base, but it refuses to budge from the cabinet. Any tips?

The 8-35 has always been one of my favorite models, though I never expected to actually find one. I am thrilled to be able to own one!

[HisMastersVoice]

Very nice 8-35! I love mine, you will enjoy it for sure. I think it's interesting that the electric versions tend to turn up with all of their paperwork while the spring motor version doesn't.

[alang]

Very nice, the VV8-35 is an impressive machine and looks very sophisticated with the albums in it. Congratulations!
Andreas

[EdiBrunsVic]

Thanks for sharing the news and photos. It looks like a nice Victrola!

[fran604g]

Very nice, Nate, congratulations!

Best,
Fran

[CharliePhono]

Beautiful machine. I've never heard one in person, but only via YouTube, but I understand the all-metal horn produces impressive tone and volume.

You asked about the tonearm bracket; I am unaware if this model has the dreaded pot metal composition of same. Are you attempting to remove it secondary to the fact that it is crumbling/disintegrating? My experiences with removing these was to do so with a modicum of brute force utilizing screwdrivers and the like, literally breaking it off at the base and then arduously cleaning the surface from whence it detached. But, though I've many years in this hobby, I'll defer to others who may have a more delicate approach. If there is one, I'm not aware of it.

Congrats on your purchase. Certainly can't argue with the price!

Charlie

[NateO]

Thanks everyone!

I was thrilled that it came with all the paperwork, I just wish the original sales receipt were there. I found it interesting it came with a record index that seems to have come from an L door XVI, as the owner even drew a diagram (pictured). Narly all the records listed are under the heading "List-1933" I suspect the owners of the 8-35 were upgrading an earlier machine.

Charlie- The back bracket is disintigrating, but I think it might still be serviceable for now. However, the pin that secures the tonearm has slipped out, and is stuck behind the tonearm. I was hoping to remove the entire assembly and see if it will work, though it is probably best to just replace it all now.

[phonogfp]

Nate,

That looks like a sweetheart - - congratulations!

One of the toughest decisions I made in my collecting was whether to keep a Credenza-X or an 8-35X. They sounded a bit different, but I couldn't decide which I really preferred. I kept the Credenza, but every time I see an 8-35, I feel a little twinge of regret.

My experience with these later electric motors is that with lubrication they quiet right down.

Good luck!

George P.

[wjw]

Very nice machine and very nice price too. I paid twice that several years ago for mine. Does yours have the light inside? Also, if that is the old power cord it's a good idea to replace or rewire it. I keep my old electric beasties on power strips that I can trip on and off with my toe. Helps me sleep at night!
-bill

[Mr Grumpy]

I've always wanted one of these machines and have had a few chances to get the Canadian version, but
like the common saying goes around here, I don't have any space left. If I get a bigger house, this machine
is definitely on my list.

It's a beauty for sure, congrats!