The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Is the Victor Monarch a decent machine? or is a Vic II or Vic III a better option.

The Monarch is a direct predecessor of the Victor III. With a double spring motor, it should be a very good machine.

Bill

Thanks Bill.

The Victor Monarch was indeed an earlier machine, which I believe had straight-cut and bevelled gears instead of worm gears like a Victor III. Meaning, the motor is noisier, particularly if it is worn. If you like the Monarch's ornate syling, quaint mechanical engineering, early history and rarity, that's all fine. I like them too, but just be aware those earlier machines in general are going to be noiser than the later ones with worm gears. If the machine is mostly for display, it doesn't really matter, but if you intend to play it a lot, you might prefer something with an improved motor.