The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Johnny Smoke wrote:Taking your time and looking at several models and makers will help in deciding what you want.
I looked for 2 years , off and on , before I found a decent machine at a good price.
Keep your eyes open and cruise yard sales and such.
I am going to an auction on weds, the listing includes "2 upright phonographs". Could be anything. Or nothing, or the buy of my lifetime. Cant wait to find out! Regards, Johnny

That's it, basically: see what's out there, do research, compare prices, and don't be afraid to make an offer.

And I agree: don't overlook the Amberola 30 - that was how I started my collection…

Bill

GrafonolaG50,

Where are you located?

Thanks to everyone who replied, I was able to get my mother to agree to buy me one when I graduate high school next year. I live about 45 minutes north of St. Louis Mo

I listed three cylinder machines in the Trader section today. Jerry

GrafonolaG50,
There are more than a few collectors in St Louis that would probably be glad to help you with your first machine. I met one recently (I am from Memphis) and have heard from 2 more since that visit. Let me know if you want contact info for them. If I run across a decent machine down here, I'll let you know. St. Louis is not that far from Memphis-easy day trip.
Thanks,
Matt

Please feel free to contact me as well. I am always willing to help a younger, interested collector out.

GrafonolaG50;
There are indeed more than a few collectors in the St. Louis area, we actually have a chapter
of the Antique Phonograph Society here in St. Louis. I live in the South County area of St. Louis,
and am always happy to help new collectors in the hobby. Especially the younger ones, we need more
young blood in the hobby. Fell free to call me, Bill Feiner, (314) 843-0610 if I can help you in
any way.

Bill

GrafonolaG50 wrote:Thanks to everyone who replied, I was able to get my mother to agree to buy me one when I graduate high school next year. I live about 45 minutes north of St. Louis Mo

Good for you! I'm always glad to see younger folks getting interested in the hobby as well.

That would be a great graduation gift. And no matter how many you acquire in your collecting future, that first one will always have a special place in your heart.

GrafonolaG50 wrote:Thanks to everyone who replied, I was able to get my mother to agree to buy me one when I graduate high school next year. I live about 45 minutes north of St. Louis Mo

Since this one will be from your Mom, it will be special and I imagine that it will never leave your collection. Good for you!!

Good idea! Maybe I will hit my Mom up for one! Even tho I graduated 30 years ago Regards, Johnny