The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Was the crank extender made for phonos? Why?

And I have the same question about the needle extender. Why would it be necessary?

I know they made substantially longer crank extenders for console machines.

That other device is pictured in one of the Fabrizio / Paul books, it was supposed to alter the tone.

The needle extender is meant to make the manufacturer money, based on bogus claims of superior sound. I can't imagine it has any positive effect. I can however imagine that the added mass of the object dampens the needle vibrations and adds to record wear.

A little more info is given here: http://forum.talkingmachine.info/viewto ... =2&t=21199 from when I posted a query about the "needle extender" to the Forum awhile back.

Bob

The needle extender was used to soften the sound and make it less harsh. Yes, this was a gimmick. The longer the needle, the softer the sound. The shorter the needle, the louder the sound. With this gizmo, I wonder if the reproducer will be at the proper 60 degree angle. Not to mention the extra screws and weight will impair play-back. The crank extender was used for off-brand consoles. It was cheaper to use this extender for an existing crank, than to tool up a different crank.
Harvey Kravitz