The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I recently purchased a Sonora Elite. At least, I think it is an Elite from the descriptions I have been able find on the net. The machine is missing the lidded needle cup, the door knob, and the grill is in many pieces as can be seen in the photos. I am willing to buy or trade for any of these parts that you may have.
Thanks,
Matt

Also, any help in positively identifying this machine's model would be appreciated. It may or may not be an Elite, Elite is just my best guess. There is nothing on the underside of the drawer, or under the turntable. There is a license sticker IN the drawer, but it does not state the model. The needle cups are almost funnel shaped with a screw in the bottom. I need the one with the lid, I have 2 round bottom ones with lids, but neither of them fit. The top most diameter is the same as the two without lids, it is the shape of the cavity that prevents them from seating properly.

The machine is 47.5 inches tall, and 23.25 inches deep and wide.

These pics are after the first pass of cleaning the machine.

Matt

Gramp's Treasures can make you that grille, very easy for him to duplicate it

I had contacted Tom about a month ago. He does not make the bombe style grill to fit the Sonoras. I wish he did. George Vollema did not have one either.

Matt, That grill can be restored. Fortunately, the pieces are there. It will be tedious, but it can be done. If you ever worked on Balsa wood model airplanes, the technique is very similar. If you have any questions, let me know, and I will guide you through it.
Harvey Kravitz

If Nick at Deep South Phonographs is still in business, he can make a replacement if the repair doesn't work out

schweg wrote:If Nick at Deep South Phonographs is still in business, he can make a replacement if the repair doesn't work out

Thanks. I tried him a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, no luck.

The needle cup and speed control are on their way to me from George V. at Great Lakes Phono. I could still use a grill, although I am trying to rebuild it from the pieces and some veneer.
Matt