The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I have an Edison Model C reproducer that is missing the stylus. I'm trying to decide if I want to have it repaired and rebuilt or just buy one that is already in working condition. Thoughts on the pro's and cons, particularly cost of either approach are appreciated.

Thanks

Bill

If the body and plating are in good condition, and all it needs is a new stylus, I would have the one you have rebuilt.

That way, you know what you have.

Is yours an original, with the serial number stamped in the cover ?


Buying another always exposes one to a bit of the unknown, unless you can see & hear it before committing.

Frank you asked

"Is yours an original, with the serial number stamped in the cover ?"

I'm not sure what you are asking? Is there a serial number on the Reproducer? I don't see one on the outside?

The serial number on Edison reproducers is usually located on top near the front of the reproducer near the horn tube or on the edge near the notch where it fits into the carriage. The key to rebuilding reproducers, is that the diaphragm is not creased or dented in any way, to use soft supple gaskets. (I see on ebay cork gaskets, I have not tried them but they might work quite well.) One gasket goes on the bottom followed by the diaphragm which must be centered to not touch the sides of the reproducer cup, anywhere around the circumference, next another gasket on top of the diaphragm. After that the tabbed ring spacer, followed by the retaining ring. When tightening the retaining ring down It is only put down air tight, and no more, as too loose will buzz and too tight will be tinny, and low volume. New diaphragms work ok, but they are not made of the alloy Edison used which is a little more springy, although the new ones work, none the less. Try not to change the link between the diaphragm and stylus, use the original as they are set for maximum safety, for varying thickness of cylinder records. Use small screwdrivers, first removing the stylus bar, and next the limit loop screw, next unscrew carefully the hinge block, before removing the retaining ring. Most suppliers have retaining ring removal tools, that fit in the notches. Follow these steps and you should have a good sounding rebuild. Gaskets are about 3.00 and a new stylus around 40.00. You can also turn the old stylus 180 degrees to a good section too and use it for years.

"usually located on top near the front of the reproducer near the horn tube"

I do see a number here but it is very hard to read. I got out a lighted magnifier and it looks to be only three digits?

I haven't done a rebuild and would be hesitant to attempt unless I had to. I would probably defer to having it done by an experienced professional.How much do you think it would cost to have someone rebuild it with a new Stylus?

Steve Medved is supposed to be the go-to guy for Edison rebuilds...

The only thing that frightens me away from working on them is removing that spanner-ring.

If you are going to do this frequently, or just want the specific tool for the job:

You need one of these handles: http://www.micro-tools.com/store/P-T-13 ... andle.aspx

With a set of tips like this: http://www.micro-tools.com/store/P-SP4B ... r-Sp4.aspx

Or perhaps one of this model: http://www.micro-tools.com/store/P-SP2/ ... Small.aspx


Taking off the retaining ring is a piece of cake with the correct tool, which can be adjusted for all reproducers, and
also photographic lenses.

De Soto Frank wrote:Steve Medved is supposed to be the go-to guy for Edison rebuilds...

The only thing that frightens me away from working on them is removing that spanner-ring.

IIRC, APSCO sells a spanner wrench specifically for this job.

I might be inclined to give it a try if there were specific instructions or a video detailing the process. I've seen them for the DD reproducer and for disc reproducer, but don't recall seeing anything for Cylinder reproducers. Does anyone know of such instructions?

Bill