The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello!
I am looking to purchase an Edison Red Banner Home. I am not sure about a few things. I want an original set up, nothing that’s been altered to a point where it would have never been available when new. I see a few on eBay and Right away I see them with an automatic reproducer and I see some with a model c reproducer. I’m not sure if they came with a C? I see some with 2/4 gearing. That had to be a latter addition?
Is it correct that the red banner decal was on the lid and latter put on the base?
Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!

Are you thinking of a 'Suitcase' Home, or a 'new style' Home?

The red letter banner was originally on the lid of the 'Suitcase' model; when the 'new style' case was introduced in 1901, Edison used up the surplus stock of the old decals, putting them on the base, before using the black letter banner.

The 'Suitcase' model is more likely to have been fitted with the 'Automatic' reproducer; the 'new style' would probably either have a B or C reproducer as original equipment. If the carriage has the clamps, it probably had an Automatic; if it has a set screw, a B or C would be appropriate.

2/4 minute 'Combination Attachments' were introduced around 1908; you can even find 'Suitcase' models that were upgraded by their owners a decade later.

Such modifications are part of the history of a machine: I can understand the desire to find an 'unmolested' example, but machines have their 'lives', much like people do. Good luck in your search!

- Bill

I was hoping to find a suitcase model home with an automatic reproducer, but would be open to a new style with the decal on the lower case. I do agree with you that upgrades are part of the machines life.

columbia1spring wrote: Sat Jan 29, 2022 10:14 pm I was hoping to find a suitcase model home with an automatic reproducer, but would be open to a new style with the decal on the lower case. I do agree with you that upgrades are part of the machines life.

I do believe there is one for sale in Yankee Trader right now.

There is also a Suitcase Home up for auction at Goodwill. It looks to be in good condition except there is no reproducer shown. There could be one inside. You can't see the motor.