Edison Model C reproducer - Some questions

[berntd]

Thanks so much for the picture!!

Now I can see what you mean.

Very interesting!

Can it be that the whole reproducer is a Model B perhaps and just the weight is a C?
How can I identify it further?

Also, does it matter if it is a doorknob or ball?
Do I need to get another stylus?

Best regards
Bernt

[gramophoneshane]

If you click on the link below, theres pictures and info on all the various Edison (and other brand) reproducers, including the B & C.
After looking at the B pictured there, it appears your stylus is different to the Model B stylus, so I'm guessing it must belong to a Dictaphone or some other brand of reproducer.
The Model B is actually recommended for playing brown wax cylinders because it causes less wear than the Model C, but seeing as no-one (as yet) has been able to say exactly what your stylus belongs to, it's probably safer to get a new 2 minute stylus designed for use with the Model C reproducer.
Once you've fixed up your reproducer, I suppose you could try the current stylus to see how it goes, but if you find theres a build up of wax swarf on the stylus after playing a cylinder, it'll indicate the stylus is causing wear so I wouldn't continue using it if thats the case.

http://www.edisonshop.com/reproducers/ducer.html

Marcel in Sydney sells the new styli for $65 if I remember correctly, but if you only play wax cylinders with it (& dont play 2 minute celluloids) the stylus should last a lifetime.

[VintageTechnologies]

Although the stylus is not a doorknob shape, it should work well enough if the diameter is correct. I would not heasitate to use it on a celluloid 2M cylinder, regardless. The doorknob stylus can track higher frequencies, but it hardly matters. If possible, you should examine it under a microscope to see if there is any flat spot; if there is, it is possible to loosen and rotate it to a fresh surface. Just don't try that working over carpet. One of our members lost his.

[berntd]

Hi Folks

I have now disassembled the reproducer.
The previously "repaired" parts are in bad shape. The threads have been drilled out of the holes for the hinge block stud and also in the weight. I will look for another reproducer.

The membrane looks original and is made of a plated (nickel / silver?) riffled metal.
Interestingly the gaskets seem to be some sort of paper or cardboard.

The reproducer states something like
REPRODUCER
LICENSED FOR USE ON EDISON PHONOGRAPHS SOLD BY NATL PHONO CO

Regards
Bernt