The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I recently won a bid for an Oak VV-VIII on ebay. I have a Victrola VV-IX but it is in Mahogany. I really like Oak better. When I get it (hopefully it is not damaged in shipping), I plan to rebuild the reproducer, and clean and lubricate the motor and replace the old governor springs. At $ 165.00 plus $40ish shipping, I hope I did ok.

My VV-IX is really nice but I was thinking..should I keep it or should I sell it? The motor was rebuilt with new mainsprings about 10 years ago, reproducer rebuilt etc. (I have about $400.00 into the VV-IX back in 2005).

Does the VV-VIII and VV-IX perform the same?

Any thoughts??

The IX was a click more expensive in the Victor lineup. The IX had a slightly more powerful motor and probably a longer tone arm. The longer tone arm results in better tracking and less wear on your records. The VIII is smaller and is much less frequently seen than the IX. Personal preference varies but I'd rather have an oak VIII than a mahogany IX. Jerry Blais

Jerry B. wrote:The IX was a click more expensive in the Victor lineup. The IX had a slightly more powerful motor and probably a longer tone arm. The longer tone arm results in better tracking and less wear on your records. The VIII is smaller and is much less frequently seen than the IX. Personal preference varies but I'd rather have an oak VIII than a mahogany IX. Jerry Blais

I agree Jerry. I've had a golden oak VV-VIII but a few weeks ago I picked up this beautiful matching set in oak also.

Rich Gordon

Jerry B. wrote:The IX was a click more expensive in the Victor lineup. The IX had a slightly more powerful motor and probably a longer tone arm. The longer tone arm results in better tracking and less wear on your records. The VIII is smaller and is much less frequently seen than the IX. Personal preference varies but I'd rather have an oak VIII than a mahogany IX. Jerry Blais

Jerry,

When you say the VV-IX motor was a little more powerful than the VV-VIII, do you mean it can play more plays during a winding or is it just a weaker motor?

When I bought the VV-IX, the springs were shot, it could not play through a record fully wound. I ended up spending $ 250.00 for two mainsprings installed and cleaning. Today, I just install my own mainsprings, its not that difficult.

I have not received the VV-VIII yet, but I think chances are it will need new mainsprings, it seems these Victors have weaker springs than Edisons.

All the best,

Jerry

Well the VV-VIII arrived, and holding my breath, it arrived in great condition. The cabinet is nice, will need a little Restore-A-finish, and since it is oak looks great. The motor looks clean, but will find the time to get it out and Clean, lube and adjust. (Have to find the time).

Also, I notice the motor is a little noisier than the IX. Also, it seems a little harder to turn the crank, Is that common on these VV-VIII motors? Maybe a good cleaning will help.

Just for your info I have a VIII and it's motor after cleaning and Mobil 1 wheel bearing grease is very very quiet.
Abe

I cleaned the motor on my VV-VIII, and installed new governor springs. The motor still runs kind of loud. This motor has the governor which contacts the spindle drive gear at an angle. Does the angle of the governor seem to cause the motor noise?