Amberola VIII - any thoughts on this model?

[antique1973]

This one popped back up on CL for a reduced price of $250.
Do you guys have any thoughts on the quality of this model, etc? Thanks!

[SonnyPhono]

I don't think that is a VI. Not sure exactly what model of Amberola it is, but I'm sure someone else can help out with that and it's general value. The only Amberola I have ever owned is a VI and is one of my favorite phonographs. I have read about issues with noisy motors etc. with the VI's but haven't had any problems like that with mine. It is really quiet and I think it's an attractive phonograph to display as well. Here is my VI:

[antique1973]

It is quite possible I am mistaken about the model since I am
new to the Edison game. I was using info from this website which
does not show detailed pics of the motor board:


http://www.intertique.com/EdisonAmberolaTutorial.html


The seller is standing firm at $250, which is not too bad a deal
if you are buying to hold. I have a limited space however so I know
that I may very well have to liquidate it before too long, and have
to leave some cushion accordingly. The market here is tough, it will
likely sit for some time at that price.

[Valecnik]

I don't think the price is out of line. I paid that much for one 15 years ago.

It's an VIII btw, not a VI as Sonny pointed out. The VIII is a good runner with a tried and true Fireside motor. With the optional N (I think) you can play 4 min wax too. They sound pretty good. The horn is bigger than a 30. I think that helps.

[antique1973]

I don't think the price is out of line. I paid that much for one 15 years ago.

It's an VIII btw, not a VI as Sonny pointed out. The VIII is a good runner with a tried and true Fireside motor. With the optional N (I think) you can play 4 min wax too. They sound pretty good. The horn is bigger than a 30. I think that helps.

Thanks for the clarification Bruce. I agree, its a fair price assuming everything
is original. I am hoping to negotiate on a C19 in the near future so I
have to limit the extent of any sidetracked funds. Otherwise I would probably
just pay the asking price.

[OrthoSean]

That's a perfect example of a machine I'd be running, not walking, to get at that price. You'll regret it later, at least I would. VIIIs are very nice and not very common. At $250, you're paying probably half what it would sell for at a show. A deal indeed.


Sean