The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hey yall, I was wanting to know what would be the biggest rule of thumb in identifying a repro horn vs. an original on those smaller gem machines. I just picked one up the other day and the horn on mine is in pretty good shape, the machine is in wonderful shape too though.. I want to say if its in good shape it might be a repro but the machine is in awesome shape as well so it makes it kind of hard to tell. I tried looking online and I can not find too much on this subject. Any tips and pointers will help! Here's a picture of my machine for reference. (yes thats an old empty victrola cabinet it's sitting on, I picked it up cheap and use it as a bar to store my bourbon. ;P )

To differentiate between an original and reproduction 10" cone horn, I would look at the small end of the horn. If the connection point for the reproducer is soldered to the cone, it's reproduction. If the small end is crimped and a continuation of the body of the horn, it's original. The better quality reproduction 14" black & brass "witches hat" horns have a crimped small end. Has that level of authenticity been accomplished with any reproduction cone horns? Jerry

Jerry B. wrote:To differentiate between an original and reproduction 10" cone horn, I would look at the small end of the horn. If the connection point for the reproducer is soldered to the cone, it's reproduction. If the small end is crimped and a continuation of the body of the horn, it's original. The better quality reproduction 14" black & brass "witches hat" horns have a crimped small end. Has that level of authenticity been accomplished with any reproduction cone horns? Jerry

I don't see any soldering so I guess they check out, also I spoke to a lady regarding the larger horn I got with the Gem and she said it is not meant for this machine because it will weigh down the stylus. Is this true?

Yes, the 14" black & brass horn was standard equipment with the Standard, Home, and Triumph models for many years. Jerry

Jerry B. wrote:Yes, the 14" black & brass horn was standard equipment with the Standard, Home, and Triumph models for many years. Jerry

Awesome, I have something to trade!