The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

That first Columbia in the picture was probably the best sounding portable ever made. It is incredibly heavy, but produces a volume and quality comparable to the smaller orthophonic machines, if not better. The first time you hear it, you simply don't believe you're listening to a portable, with a relatively small amplification chamber. It delivers great bass and thanks to the reproducer has less surface noise than all other portables I ever heard. And I heard at least 50 different types. I wish I had one, but they are very much sought after and even in today's market command a hefty price. I doubt whether I could find a good one for less than 500 Euros.