The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I recently acquired a two clip Edison Standard A with an Automatic reproducer and have just about got it ready to test a cylinder on it. How do you adjust, align the reproducer in the carriage to make sure it is in the right position? I know the screw adjustment sets the reproducer, but how do you know when it's right? Thanks, Jan

George, Can you tell me when this left the factory. It is serial # S10850. Thanks, Jan

Jan,

Standard No.10850 left the factory about September 1899.

As far as knowing when the reproducer is properly adjusted, it's basically trial and error. Luckily, the stylus is a ball, so a little rotating while in play won't do measurable harm. You'll get the hang of it quickly - - and probably go back to a machine equipped with a Model C!

George P.

Thanks George. Will post pictures of this cute little machine as soon as I get the bottom board stained and shellaced. I figured they weren't much for sound, but I'm excited that I can now play the 2 brown cylinders. And the machine is REALLY cute

Good for you for not playing brown wax with a Model C!

I agree: those early Standards are nice. I've had at least one in my collection since 1973, and though they're hardly ever played, they're historic machines and pleasing to look at.

George P.