The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Having used the red neoprene gaskets on three different reproducers had only resulted in unacceptable sound quality. After some experimentation, here's what I've found.

Use one of the neoprene gaskets on the front side of the diaphragm. On the back side of the diaphragm use two turns of square silicone cord, 1/16", McMaster Carr part # 1177N11. It cost $.45 for three feet, you'll need about a foot per reproducer. A picture of it coiled (how to place it behind the diaphragm) is attached.

Reassembly - only finger tight the four screws that attach the two halves of the reproducer. Just use two fingers and light pressure. There will be a slight gap between the two halves, this is ok. After playing a few records, re-tighten the screws with the same light force.

Adjust the needle bar so it just barely touches the diaphragm. Then screw it in and apply beeswax.

I hope this helps until someone starts making an accurate reproduction of the correct No. 2 gasket.

Donnie,

Have you found the ready-made gaskets to be too stiff / hard ?


For yuks, has anyone tried using hollow white tubing to rebuild a #2 ? If so, what were results like ?




Frank

Hi Frank,
The two red gaskets that are commonly available are too thick and squeeze the diaphragm too much. This causes them to "blast" on high tones.
I couldn't swear to it, but I believe the white tubing like for the Exhibitions is too thick.

Yes the gaskets available now are a bit too thick. I dont tighten the back plate screws past snug. They are nice and soft though.
-bill

I might try the new gaskets you suggest. Yes I use the white tubing normally associated with Exhibition in the No. 2 and it sounds much better, than the red material sold. My No. 2 has a glass diaphragm not mica. Glass sound very good in a No. 2. I got the glass diaphragm from a collector who had custom diaphragms made, and they made the large size ones by accident but they fit perfectly in the No. 2 the center arm is cemented to the glass as no center hole is present.