The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFKmxkSBh94

Is the machine working okay?

Amberolaguys wrote: Another problem is the cylinder that came with it that's on the machine. I can't seem to remove it even when I push the carriage all the way to the right. I tried pushing hard with no luck.

Try twisting the cylinder and the mandrel in opposite directions. You could also push your thumbs on the mandrel end and pull the far cylinder end with your fingers.

Why not warm up the cylinder with a hair dryer? I used to have one. After heating it might be easier to remove. Jerry Blais

Amberolaguys wrote:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFKmxkSBh94

Is the machine working okay?

It sounds pretty decent: the trouble near the end of the cylinder may be due to its being a bit out of round (which may also contribute to its being hard to remove from the mandrel).

I hope you have solved the carriage problem, which is probably from the half nut not lifting entirely off the feed screw: by easing off slightly on the screw that presses on the spring, you can adjust it so that it is clear when the lever is raised.

As for the rest, you can consult the manual.

BTW: you can measurably improve the sound quality if you insulate the horn at its points of connection: some vaseline on the neck of the reproducer where it fits into the horn, to prevent air leaks; a bit of rubber tubing on the hook to which the bottom of the suspension spring is fastened; and a felt washer or two between the bottom pivot and its guide. (Some larger rubber tubing to sheathe the suspension spring may also be helpful).

Bill

It sounds pretty good, and your Amberola 30 Late Series 1 (1916) is in very good shape! What did you pay for it??

By the way, Your machine can also play 4 Minute Black Albany Indestructible cylinders labeled "4M", and also Black 4 Minute "Lakeland" Indestructible cylinders as well.

Now all you have to do is get the cylinder off the mandrel.... Jerry B's suggestion of trying to heat the cylinder with a hairdryer is a good one in order to get it off.. Heat it with the dryer on a low, warm heat setting.

The Edison Blue Amberol cylinder you are currently playing in the video is "Lu Lu" 1915 Edison cylinder #2492 and is a good sounding song.

)

Tony K.

Edison Collector/Restorer

Thank you for all the help and the information everyone.

I really appreciate it.