The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Columbia ? What the hell is this soundbox ? It looks like a Columbia 6 with typical Columbia back but has no markings , and has a very odd addition which when an outer modification is squeezed it moves parts of the attachment around the needle hole , presumably ? to allow a needle to be inserted but this squeezing doesn't allow access to the hole , presumably ? it isn't complete but has anyone any idea what it is ? pictures below including some of the bottom part removed

Looks like one of those automatic needle dispensers... Wasn't this fitted to certain model of Columbia soundboxes? Could it be a prototype?

I wonder if it might have been part of some sort of disc recording outfit?
Then again, perhaps it is intended to increase volume, like the friction amplifying reproducer on the BC/BM Graphophone or Edison's dance and Edisonic reproducer?

The modifications look like they'd add substantial weight compared to an ordinary no.6.
Does the fine wire act as a spring to spring load the clamping devise you squeeze, or could it be intended to slightly amplify the movement of the needle or the diaphragm?
It's a bit hard to tell from the photo's.

I'm also wondering if after you remove the clamping devise, can the steel plate be removed from the body of the soundbox, and if so are you left with a regular no.6 soundbox body, or has the body been altered with a cut out section to accept the extention plate, and does the cut out appear to have been plated at the time of manufacture or a later addition?

It's certainly an interesting find whatever it's purpose and provenance is.