The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I picked up a VV 50 portable. The wood integrity is incredible. It just needs to get a little more luster, as its a little dulled over the years. I am mostly used to stripping most beat boxes i pick up, but unsure whats a gentle safe product to just brings its shine out....Howards?

You will undoubtedly get a variety of opinions here. Everyone swears by whatever has worked for them and there are several good approaches.

Personally I would only use Restor-A-Finish if there are scratches, water rings, etc. that need seeing to. From you description it does not sound like that is the case with your 50. Otherwise I am really fond of the Kotton Klenser products, which are very effective and super easy to use. Clean it first with the Klenser, then follow that with their Protective Wood Feeder. Let everything dry thoroughly for a couple of weeks and then apply some of their Lemon Oil and Beeswax polish (light coat). This has always worked well for me. Gets rid of all the grunge, gives a gentle luster without looking over done, and has never ever resulted in any damage to the original finish. You can reapply the polish later from time to time as needed.

Clay