The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I'd love to know how many 900 series Electric Columbia Viva Tonals are out there. I have 4 of them presently. A 900, 920, 940, and a 961. I had a 930 years ago and sold it. These are really great machines and perform beautifully!

I've got a 900, 961 and 980. I'd love to find a 902.

Here are some photos for those who are unfamiliar with Electric Viva Tonals

What an impressive and stately machine. Kolster radio innards, yes?

There was a time when I was looking for one of these along with Uncle Vanya. I can't tell you how many are out there, but if UV can't find one, you know they're scarce!

Looks great! Is that the 900?

Bill

Both the 900 and the 961

The quality of the cabinet veneers is just stunning. Thanks for posting the pictures.

Back in the day when manufacturers took pride in what they made. Unfortunately because of all of the corruption games played by the politicians in Washington, the value of the money has been so diminished( Monetizing of the dollar) and the cost of doing business so high(due to these parasites sucking the life blood out of a company through taxation and regulatory fees)That companies today churn out poor quality disposable products that won't be able to operate or be restored cost effectively in the future. Rapid technology changes play a role in this as well. I included a photo of an original record cover showing these two machines and their cost. $600 for the 961 and $475 for the 900. A lot of money for the day. Translates to over 9K for the 961 and over 7K for the 900 in todays money

It was cutting edge technology then which is expensive plus the gorgeous cabinets. Prices would come down in coming years, but so would the quality of the cabinets!