The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

http://www.ebay.com/itm/400781905173?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT

This is a really tempting listing. I almost already bought it. Is it worth it? Are the requisite parts available/affordable? Are Gems even strong enough to record on?

In my opinion that's a high price for the machine. You need a new case, a reproducer, and not sure of what else. To me the condition of the machine is the main drawback. It is missing the double pinstriping and the Gem decal. I just bought a complete Gem Model C with an original horn and a Model B reproducer for $600.00. Here is an example of a Gem Model C .

Rich Gordon

rgordon939 wrote:In my opinion that's a high price for the machine. You need a new case, a reproducer, and not sure of what else.
Rich Gordon

I agree with Rich, seems like a lot of money for what's there. There's probably a reason why the governor is missing, no telling what may be wrong with the motor. Even if you got it running for a couple of hundred in parts you're still left with a machine in poor condition.

Best Regards, Larry

On top of the great advice given.....a Gem is not for recording. Your lucky if it can play a record... .

That's what I'd been fearing. I'll wait for a good deal on a Standard or something.

I probably don't need to say much but of all the Edison models, Gem, Fireside, Standard, Home, and Triumph, the most difficult to complete when it is missing parts is the little Gem. There is a great deal of variation particularly with the Gem A series. The missing reproducer on the C Gem would be easy to find for $100 to $125 but the missing governor might be difficult. Be very cautious. Jerry

Wait for the right one to show up, if you really want a GEM. If it were me, I would wait to find a complete machine that works good in the $500-600 range...

However, if you want something to use for recording or regularly playing cylinders, then look for a good condition 2/4 minute Edison Standard, Home or Fireside... If it's going to be your main cylinder machine, then you definitely want a 2/4 minute setup, so you can play any cylinders that you find - black or brown wax, indestructible or blue amberol.