The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

http://charlotte.craigslist.org/atd/4846519745.html

We have a vintage Victrola made by Columbia in great shape. It does play but a spring in the arm needs fixed or replaced. But will wind up and play!! Was asking $350. Reduced to $200!!!

If you have any questions, just ask for Breanna or Danny

I had something that was the same shape, but without the paint. Always regretted selling that one, whether it was 700 or 710 or whatever. A cheaper Viva-Tonal lives in my car ...

The Viva Tonal 711 is a later model of the 710. I don't think the 710 was any less decorated, unless you are thinking of the walnut 700 model which lacks the painted motifs. I think the 711 means it came out in 1927 and had the new, better Garrard motor made in England. I've looked at these models before and own a large 800 model. One thing I would always check out before buying is for cabinet damage to the front lid. It's hard to believe that something this old survived 80 plus years without some kids sitting on that big door!

I love those large viva-tonal Columbias. If i only had the space. $200 is a steal.

Andreas

I think the Columbia machines in that era (especially the higher end models) were very good looking. They don't turn up very often here in my part of the Midwest, but it's certainly nicer looking than a lot of the Victor models in that year. I've had Columbia guys tell me that the Viva-Tonal models sound better than the Victor stuff, but I have no idea on that one. Some of those debates will never end.... Ha!

There were 2 versions of the same machine, circa 1926, identical except for the finishes. The 700, at $160, had a two-tone walnut finish. The 710, in brown mahogany at $175, had the painted finish you see in this example. I have a 710 that I bought because I thought it was so striking. The sound is not as good as the Orthophonics, though.

IMHO $200 is an excellent price if somebody is nearby and has the room and it checks out when examined.

Clay