The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

This weekend I came across this Oak VV-IX at one of my local haunts. I know that the IX's are common but, I just loved the grain pattern of the Oak and could not pass it up. They really knew how to make a nice cabinet back in the day. I thought I would just share a few pictures with all of you. One thing that is nice, it has the smoothest running motor of any Victrola I have.

That certainly is a nice one! Even a "common" machine like an IX looks better in oak! I've been negotiating a deal on a VIII that looks factory new for several months now. I want it badly because it's perfect and untouched. I know they're common as well, but in this condition, like yours, they look great! Speaking of which, I need to call the guy who has this VIII and see what he's going to counter on my last offer...

Nice machine!

Sean

Very nice condition indeed! I've always felt the table models with the apron and little feet was a much more attractive design than those with normal moulding around the cabinet base. I only wish I could find one to add to my collection.
Congratulations.

BTW: Should the green felt buffers be where they are, or on the lid?

Indeed, this is a handsome machine. Congrats on a great find! Thanks for sharing!

Wonderful machine and the graining makes it special. I believe the felt pieces are in the correct place. Jerry

Lovely machine, Mike. I, too, love the grain on the face of it!

gramophoneshane wrote: BTW: Should the green felt buffers be where they are, or on the lid?

I'd like to know the answer to this question as well for my own IX...

Great find! I also keep an eye out for mint condition common machines. I picked up a VV-VIII several years ago for the same reason you bought the VV-IX. Gotta treasure the common machines too.

Tinkerbell,
According to Jerry they are (thank you Jerry).
They do look a little odd to me though. I have machines with them on the cabinet as well, but usually they are either made from leather, or are coloured to match the cabinet.
The ones pictured above I presume are replacements, but even if they matched the turntable felt, they'd be a little too "out there" for my liking.
I've never understood why any company would choose that position, instead of on the lid, where they get so grubby from hands and dust and furniture polish etc..

gramophoneshane wrote:Tinkerbell,
According to Jerry they are (thank you Jerry).
They do look a little odd to me though. I have machines with them on the cabinet as well, but usually they are either made from leather, or are coloured to match the cabinet.
The ones pictured above I presume are replacements, but even if they matched the turntable felt, they'd be a little too "out there" for my liking.
I've never understood why any company would choose that position, instead of on the lid, where they get so grubby from hands and dust and furniture polish etc..

Oops! Don't know how I missed that... must be sleep deprivation! Thank you for pointing out Jerry's response.

I was wondering because my IX still has the original (very worn) felt, but one side is on the lid, one on the cabinet. It appears over time one migrated to the opposite surface. I had thought to replace the felt, but wasn't certain which surface it should be on, so I just left it alone. I, too, agree it would be a lot more subdued if they were located on the lid, or colored differently.