The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

What kind of old phonograph are you hoping to buy?

What part of the country do you live in?

Hey Jessie! I'm a new collector as well and I think your best bet for getting a deal on a machine would be Craigslist or Facebook market. That is where I was able to get nice machines for reasonable prices. I was able to get a VV-105 for $100 in working condition. It just takes time to find the right deal.

-Greg

JerryVan wrote:What part of the country do you live in?

His initial post says he's from the Boston (MA, I assume) area. Perhaps some of our members out that way can help him out.

Sean

OrthoSean wrote:

JerryVan wrote:What part of the country do you live in?

His initial post says he's from the Boston (MA, I assume) area. Perhaps some of our members out that way can help him out.

Sean

You know, I read his original posting twice and missed it both times... duh. Thanks! Wish some of these new guys were closer to me. I've got some projects for them.

Yea from the Boston area. As for the machine not sure there's been a few. Trying to see how much money I want to spend and narrow it down.

JerryVan wrote:Wish some of these new guys were closer to me. I've got some projects for them.

I know what you mean, I've managed to pass along some projects over the Summer, but I still have several left that I'd pretty much give away or sell very cheaply to anyone locally.

Sean

Keep checking up on your local Craigslist: look for flea markets, estate sales, etc.

I found several machines on CL, as well as some good cylinders...

Bill

If it is your first machine you have a lot of ways to go. You can go with a portable disc machine which are reasonable and readily available. Discs come in a big variety and are around a dollar for the common ones. If you like the cylinder machines the Edison standard and homes are also reasonable and available in the two minute and four minute machines. That would be an A or B machine. Cylinders run 3 to 10 dollars .. The machines are more expensive than the portables but also resale better. One word of caution.... when you buy one machine you will be surprised at how many you will have in five years. This hobby s a hoot working with 100 year old phonographs. You also have Edison disc machines and upright machines. They come in Edison disc, regular disc and cylinder machines. As the machines get fancier the price goes up. If you are handy you can purchase some fixer uppers The Edison cylinder phonographs seem to be easier to work on than others and they are bullet proof. Take your time and look around they are available on the East cost, E bay, thrift shops and Craig list. Tom B

Why not list your items on the "Yankee Trader" section here and see if there is interest at your proposed price?

Clay