The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I saw this Victor R at Union last year and loved it. The only problem was the fact that I was committed to other purchases and was short of funds. I asked other collectors for their opinions. Opinions were either love or hate. There was very little in between. I loved it and was pleased when the seller called a few months later and offered it at a reduced price. I made payments and picked it up on my way to Union.

The origin of the machine was from a inventor / businessman that patented the chambered horn and also patented modifications to a Zonophone reproducer. (Actually, I need to do some research on the patents so see what was claimed and it they were awarded.) The machine was used to demonstrate the improvements to prospective investors. Investors apparently were not impressed and it never went into production. Thankfully, the family of the inventor preserved everything from the special carrying cases for the horn and machine as well as the records. I am delighted with it.

Is it the first talking machine with a wood horn?

Jerry Blais

I have no idea if it is the first wood horn machine but put me in the category of one that loves it! I think it is interesting and fun and rather well made.

Congratulations!

Dan

That's the Osten-Spaulding horn. Patented July 22, 1902, No.705,126.

George P.

Despite having the patent tag in a readable position, I have to wonder about horn position; vertical verses horizontal. (hornizontal ) I would think that one would want the projected sound to fill a room from side to side, rather than floor to ceiling???

Just a thought?
Jeff

P.S. Great, as always to see you at Union. Wish we would have had more time to chat!!!

I would be somewhere in between love and hate on this one. It is definitely a rarity. How does the weight balance on the tone arm cradle? Is there much weight on the needle?
Ken

There's an additional weight on the underside of the traveling arm. Jerry

Looks cool.

Andreas

What happened to all the extra's that were with it when it was originally listed and sold on Ebay..??? . I seem to remember some business cards or other ephemera and a second reproducer..??.
It's nice to see the horn was restored back. If I remember correctly, it was in a few pieces or the baffle was loose..??. I can't remember now...it was a few years ago.

I thought it was at Union that same year for sale..??.

There is a thread on here somewhere while it was on Ebay that shows patent drawings and a very interesting discussion about the whole set up.

If only someone could locate that thread.