The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Howdy,

I don't see a place to socialize so I thought I would introduce myself here and also ask a question at the same time. I've been restoring old tube radios for longer than I care to remember and have just discovered how fascinating old phonographs are. How something so simple can be so nice looking and for the most part work. So far I've spent a bunch of time researching different sites for information and seem to be migrating toward the Victor machines. I did buy a Brunswick Model 101recently and have it working. Now for the questions. How many turns should I crank before I have to worry about busting the spring and.....how far should I insert the needle? I know I should only use the needle one time per record so I bought several hundred needles for that reason. Anyhow, I'm glad to be aboard and I'm looking forward to getting my first VV-IX. Thanks, Andy

Welcome, Andy !

This is a super place to hang-out and learn about talking machines !


Quick answers to your questions:

1) How much to wind ? Generally until you start to feel significantly increased resistance to the crank. Never so tight that it won't wind another click.

2) How far to insert the needle ? Generally, until the needle "bottoms" in the chuck. The needle usually projects about 3/16" to ¼" beyond the chuck.

Please share some pics of your Brunswick 101... last fall I acquired a Brunswick 117 upright in golden oak... it needs some parts and love, but will make a handsome, impressive machine when I get it all sorted-out.

As for "which brand to get", at least when starting out, it's hard to go wrong with a Victor product... excellent engineering and build quality, and parts availability is generally very good.

Always try to buy a complete machine, in good to excellent condition... once you have your "sea-legs", you can think about taking-on a basket-case.



Frank

Welcome to the forum! I agree that a Victor is a very good choice and a VV-IX is an inexpensive and reliable machine. I second everything that Frank said, but if you're still concerned about over-winding your machine try to wind it while the turntable is running. This makes it nearly impossible to over wind the spring.

Andreas

There are other newbies here. (I also started with a Brunswick about six months ago.) There are some very knowledgeable collectors and dont be afraid to ask questions. I dont know where you live, but Craigslist is one of the best sources for local machines. There isnt a lot of competition for the lower priced models either. Be patient. You can get a nice machine for a very reasonble price.

Welcome to the Shellac Side! (where you don't have to use special equipment to play the original sounds! )

A Brunswick is a good start, especially if it has an Ultona reproducer - you have a wider choice of discs to play!

The VV-IX is also a great workhorse of a machine!

Bill