The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

VintageTechnologies wrote:Someone has been selling new bamboo needles on eBay for some time. He sells two different grades, and in various quantities. Once I use up my originals, I plan to buy his.

eBay # 252119411995 , 252104579965 , 252130931978

About a year ago, I purchased the 252130931978 batch. I cannot say anything good about them at all. I sharpened them correctly with my Victor sharpener and, using several machines and records, had the same result: black dust and distortion towards the end of each recording. This may, however, have been the result of a badly cured batch but my experience cannot allow me to recommend them.

Torjazzer wrote: About a year ago, I purchased the 252130931978 batch. I cannot say anything good about them at all. I sharpened them correctly with my Victor sharpener and, using several machines and records, had the same result: black dust and distortion towards the end of each recording. This may, however, have been the result of a badly cured batch but my experience cannot allow me to recommend them.

Hmmmm... maybe the new growth bamboo isn't as good for needles as the old growth stock. Thank you for that input.