The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

In this Youtube video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XYCI9Ud2QE) at about 3:28, it looks like he rubs some wax unto the record as it spins. In fact, it seems that most of his records (if not all) have wax lines on them (I thought he just had scratched records at first). Is this a common/recomended practice?

As for his videos, I do like them. He has many reproducer comparisons.

Here is a brief discussion from the forums' section Tips, Tricks & Technical Info
http://forum.talkingmachine.info/viewto ... f=7&t=7077

Here is some stuff that was sold to juke box owners in 1944.
Don't know what it was, perhaps a type snake oil. Lightly waxing a worn record is my personal preference. If the record will never see an electric pick-up, less resistance will assist a fiber needle's journey along the groove. I only play my records acoustically. A few drips of wax worked into the fiber of a clean cotton cloth, and used to buff a clean record surface, that's all. This is usually a one time event after cleaning a worn record for the first time. Few records get a later application. Use a record duster before and after each play. No ill affects to be noted in ten years.

That youtube demonstration shows why I rarely use a steel needle any more. The range of fiber needles is kinder on my ears. You can also make the needle thinner with a razor to lower the volume to a whisper.

Experimentation is the best way to decide for yourself.

James.

James,

Thanks for the info. However, what about just using steel needles? Is there a benefit there or would the needle just cut through the wax?

In the past, when I used steel needles, I had a few records that would drag to a halt when played. It's fair to say; a spring could be weak, the motor could use an oiling, a heavy tone arm is in use, and all could factor into this. That being said, I experimented on it and rubbed a ridiculous coating of wax on it. It played. It also made a mess. I do not see it as an aide if you are using steel needles.

James.