The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I believe that beeswax is harder than regular candlewax which makes it more suitable for the soundbox connection.

Phono48 wrote: Mon Oct 21, 2019 11:36 am This is my small collection of Japanese Columbias. In order of appearance they are: 204, 55 ,211, 213, 200, and 102, (which I think is Chinese, judging by the transfer in the lid.

As I have purchased a fair chunk of Barry's collection, I need to check if I have these now!

jamiegramo wrote: Mon Mar 31, 2025 12:44 pm I believe that beeswax is harder than regular candlewax which makes it more suitable for the soundbox connection.

As I see it beeswax is rather softer when it is freshly applied, and more elastic and sticky than regular stearine candle wax, what makes it really good for that job. When it is well-placed, only small amounts are needed, so that the weight stays low where you want it to be low. When it gets old, it hardens out, and sometimes it falls all off when you touch it. But for a good function it should be replaced then, anyway.