The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I picked up a Edison B-19 Chalet in Rouge (Mahogany look). After cleaning it with Go-Jo and Howard Restor-a-finish. I am amazed. Just some patience with some elbow grease and fine steel wool. I finished it up with a nice coating of Howard Feed N Wax, nice stuff.

I had to adjust the governor (that was simple). Replaced the worn felt and grille cloth.

I set it up, the reproducer stylus was gone (e-mail out to Steve M. for a Bruce replacement).

I had a friend over (he has a VV-XI floor model), he could not believe how nice the Edison sounded, I was playing "Yep! Long about June" by Vaughn Deleath, he said it sounded as she was in the room. I guess love Edison or hate them, Edison's are over-engineered, very tough machines. Downside, some of the music is blah and the cost of a stylus. I purchased the Edisonic reproducer that was for sale here on the forum, cannot wait for it to see how well the late Edison's sound.

My friend said he will be buying a Edison, I told him go to Union in June, should be a easy find.

In closing, I must have both Edison and Victor, they are both great machines.

Congratulations on obtaining the B-19. I have a Sonora and a A250. Enjoy playing both, but it's much easier buying records I like for the Sonora. I sure wish I could win more bids for Edison fox trots, but it seems deep pockets always pay more. I'm planning to come to Union in June so I will be shopping for music. I don't have much hope of finding great Edison records.

My friend said he will be buying a Edison, I told him go to Union in June, should be a easy find.

You'd think so but I'd sure advise advertising first and have it delivered to Union. Many sellers, like myself, are reluctant to take large machines because they take up so much booth space. Every big machine in my trailer is pre sold. I'd appreciate any comments from other sellers at large phono shows. Jerry Blais

Jerry, I think that's wise because you don't always know if you are going to find a buyer for a common type floor model. And of course, they are hard to move and take up a lot of space. Yes, the most desirable Edison DD's and cylinders are very pricey due to their rarity and high quality. Buying a hot Edison electric, especially on Ebay, can be a trying experience. For example, Kansas City Kitty by Billy Murray and his Melody Men recently commanded $565! But another Edison electric, Heebie Jeebies by Harry Reser only sold for $15 in E+ condition. So, sometimes there's a chance.