Re: The "best" Edison cynlinder machine for the newbie...
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2015 4:38 pm
In keeping with the topic which is the best Edison cylinder machine for the newbie, one must consider that a newbie will likely not have experience with removing a pot metal bearing. And, ideally, the newbie should never have to be concerned with making any repairs especially one as potentially disastrous as removing a pot metal bearing. I have seen more than one bearing 'boss' that was broken (not mine but I've seen them) due to too much force or improper force being applied to remove the bearing. If I had to keep just one phonograph in my collection it would be my Amberola 1A with its excellent design, superior sound reproduction and ability to play both 2 and 4 minute cylinders. However...if I did not own an Amberola 1A and financial constraints were a major factor in purchasing a first cylinder phonograph, the one that offers absolutely zero disadvantages is the Edison Fireside model A.
It features:
1. Factory installed 2 / 4 minute gearing
2. A compact and attractive cabinet
3. Superior designed motor and upper works utilizing a simple, yet tried and true internal mandrel shaft instead of a bearing and 'boss' to support the weight of the mandrel and mandrel gears.
4. No concerns about having to replace a pot metal bearing if it is swollen and seizing the mandrel shaft
5. An attractive and compact bedplate adorned with blue and gold decals.
6. A bedplate that is actually hinged for easy access to the motor instead of the old design of utilizing hinges and wood screws through the oak cabinet and bedplate frame that frequently loosen and become stripped.
7. A generally higher resale value since it is less common yet still very desirable versus most other Edison cylinder phonographs with factory installed 2 / 4 minute gearing in the same price range.
I don't mind being in the minority in my opinion on this topic. And please don't get me wrong - the Standard model D is a fabulous machine...provided the 'newbie' finds one that is in excellent playing condition. Otherwise, keep looking until you find a machine that is in fine playing condition and meets your financial and playing criteria.
Doug
Doug
It features:
1. Factory installed 2 / 4 minute gearing
2. A compact and attractive cabinet
3. Superior designed motor and upper works utilizing a simple, yet tried and true internal mandrel shaft instead of a bearing and 'boss' to support the weight of the mandrel and mandrel gears.
4. No concerns about having to replace a pot metal bearing if it is swollen and seizing the mandrel shaft
5. An attractive and compact bedplate adorned with blue and gold decals.
6. A bedplate that is actually hinged for easy access to the motor instead of the old design of utilizing hinges and wood screws through the oak cabinet and bedplate frame that frequently loosen and become stripped.
7. A generally higher resale value since it is less common yet still very desirable versus most other Edison cylinder phonographs with factory installed 2 / 4 minute gearing in the same price range.
I don't mind being in the minority in my opinion on this topic. And please don't get me wrong - the Standard model D is a fabulous machine...provided the 'newbie' finds one that is in excellent playing condition. Otherwise, keep looking until you find a machine that is in fine playing condition and meets your financial and playing criteria.
Doug
Doug
Jerry