The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Greetings, New member and first post.

I've acquired what seems to be a very rare but not especially coveted console/floor model machine manufactured by Starck Piano Company in Chicago, Illinois. Condition isn't great but it plays.

Being a newbie, a question arose about the arm to which the sound box is attached. It seems like the first two metal elbows (the one coming out of the soundbox and the one connected to the black arm) look like they ought to be turnable but appear to be frozen. Perhaps it is the way it's supposed to be, not sure.

I don't want to run it on records if it isn't properly orienting to the grooves. Does anyone know whether that joint MUST be able to turn or are there exceptions?

Don't want to try forcing it and possibly breaking something.

Welcome to the Forum. Many machines used pot metal which swells over time. I suspect that's your problem. A photo would help a great deal.

Jerry B.

This is the only mention of a Starck on this Forum.
viewtopic.php?f=2&t=28783

Clear photos of the whole machine and of the problem areas always are helpful.

James.

It's always best to post pics for members to see what your machine in question looks like in order to help provide any information to you with your inquiry. Posting pics is very easy on our forum.

(Photos would help.)

Most machines of the late teens through the early 20s used a swivel tonearm design to accommodate lateral/vertical records. The pot metal has probably swollen over time, you'll have to stick it in the freezer for awhile then put penetrating oil to try and make it come apart. Don't force it, as pot metal can be extremely fragile, you may have to repeat the process a few times before it comes apart. Once off sand down the reproducer joint just a little before putting it back together.