The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hey all. I have a Pathé Actuelle that appears to play a little quiet. Should the needle bar springs be screwed in tight? I tried that and it plays quiet. When loosening a tiny bit better but sounds a little muffled. Any other places I should look for adjustments? Thanks all!!

There is a rod that runs continuously from the needle bar to the center of the diaphragm. The pivot point near the needle bar is a bit fragile and can break, eliminating the ability of vibration to pass along the bar. Usually that causes low volume, distorted or buzzing sound.

startgroove wrote:There is a rod that runs continuously from the needle bar to the center of the diaphragm. The pivot point near the needle bar is a bit fragile and can break, eliminating the ability of vibration to pass along the bar. Usually that causes low volume, distorted or buzzing sound.

Gotcha. So is there any way to adjust this other than the needle bar screws?

Well I figured it out. The transmission rod needed to be adjusted perfectly into the diaphragm. Not too tight or too loose. Has to be perfect or you get low sound or distortion!

Nice going!

startgroove wrote:Nice going!

Thanks!!

https://youtu.be/bOFjx_e_29E