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I have always wondered which is the best table model Edison Diamond Disc machine?
Which one collectors prefer? B-60, B-80, B-19?

I own a B-19, but never owned a B-60 or 80, always heard about the belt problems, but again it appears the B-60 and B-80 have nicer cabinets. Would it even be worth me selling my B-19 for a B-60 or 80?

My significant other thinks I have too many phonos.

The B-19 , with it's standardized motor and plate operates a little better than the earlier models and of course has a larger horn for more output. I am not poo pooing the 60 and 80 models, I own a B-80 in oak and it is the most attractive phonograph here and it is used often with no problems what so ever with the belt motor. Keep the B-19 and get one of the earlier ones when it is feasible. Too many phonographs ??? My wife is of the same mind as yours but never too many !
Mike

I would choose each of the 3 for different reasons.

The A/B/C-60 is a relatively scarce machine, particularly the very early metal case version, so among collectors there's more of a "wow" factor.

The A/B-80 has a solidly built cabinet and is probably the best looking of the 3.

However, the 60 and 80 machines have the drawbacks of the belt drive and the relatively small spring.

The B-19 has the full B-series works, which is a plus, but the cabinet is not made as well. The gum wood is soft and oddly grained, the stain looks odd, and the shellac is usually found with smears and drips.

Also keep in mind that none of these is exactly a small machine, even though they are all table tops.

I would probably pick a B-80 or A-80 if I had to choose one and everything else was equal.

I have both the B-80 and B-19, and like each for different reasons. The B-19 is the superior machine, no question about it. Better motor, bigger horn.

The sheet-metal 60 is most worth "having". The Oak 60 is the most attractive, in my opinion. I own neither!

The "best" for me would be the A-60. Jerry Blais

Jerry, let me know if you ever get a spare oak A-60 .. I want !

I've seen a wood-grained metal A 60.

How many actually exist in the world?

Fran

fran604g wrote:I've seen a wood-grained metal A 60.

How many actually exist in the world?

Fran

According to Shawn O'Rourke in his column, I Saw It In A Catalog, there are four known complete examples of the metal-cased A-60. He showed one in the installment that appeared in the September 2014 issue of The Antique Phonograph.

George P.

Thank you, George!

Fran