Does my 1920s gramophone damage newer records?

[mrrgstuff]

Looks like a HMV 162 in styling, which is about 1926 if I remember correctly.

The soundbox looks like the type with the cover over the diaphragm and probably therefore has a metal diaphragm, probably suitable for electric records.

Interesting that is has a close lid whilst playing label, which I wasn't aware anyone other than HMV used. If that was inspired by HMV, then that would suggest late 1920s

Motor looks to be Garrard, based on the winding handle

Just my thoughts. It would be nice to date it accurately, but it's often just guesswork.

[Patheno0]

Hey I watch your youtube channel, good stuff.
Thanks for the information, now I almost know for sure I can play electric records.
Yeah they weren't really good with recordkeeping of their products back in those days.

[OrthoFan]

I second that this was produced during the later 1920s.

It's important to keep in mind though, that the earlier victrolas were not instantly obsolete at the time electrical recording was introduced in 1925. While the Orthophonic Victrolas--and competing phonographs--were designed to play the new records with enhanced fidelity compared to the older models, the existing Victor Victrolas and most other "talking machines," gramophones, phonographs--whatever--would also play the new records without damaging them. Many, if not most of the pre-1925 models continued to be used without modification well into the 1930s and beyond.

Along this line, Victor's low end table model, the Victrolita (VV 1-1) from 1926, was actually fitted with an Exhibition sound box--the same type used on the earliest Victrolas. Certainly, it was no match from the standpoint of fidelity to any of the Orthophonic models--or even Victor portables and the VV-1-70 table model equipped with the Victor #4 sound box (which was also sold as an accessory to upgrade older Victrola models)--but it did the job without ruining the new records.

The best way to minimize record wear is to make sure that the reproducer or sound box is in good condition. If necessary, it should be overhauled with fresh diaphragm gaskets and a new throat flange. Also make sure that the tonearm moves freely back and forth.

And, when playing records with a steel needle, play only one side of one record--never more than two sides--before changing it.

HTH,
OrthoFan

[mrrgstuff]

Hey I watch your youtube channel, good stuff.

Thanks!