Reproducer Rebuilding Recommendations

[GaryLC]

I have two or three machines that should probably have their reproducers rebuilt. Are there certain guys that the forum generally recommend? One or two are #2's, and a couple orthophonics (buzzing & rattling).
Thanks, folks!

[Victrolaman]

I have two or three machines that should probably have their reproducers rebuilt. Are there certain guys that the forum generally recommend? One or two are #2's, and a couple orthophonics (buzzing & rattling).
Thanks, folks!

Gary, the number 2 ones arew a sinch to do, parts are about 15 dollars if that, those you can do yourself, i can even help you if you like. The orthophonics are another ball game, those i would hightly recommend having someone do those, do a google search for Victrola repair, and there are a few people out there. There are a few guys in VT i use them all the time for parts and working on my machines. Send me a PM and i can give you the number or if you like.

[OrthoSean]

Gary,

Bring the #2s over. I can help you and show you how they're done, and I won't charge you a dime. It's not hard to do at all!

I'd suggest Walt Somers for ortho rebuilds, he does great work.

Sean

[GaryLC]

Sean,

Thanks, I'll take you up on that after the holidays! I didn't want to keep bothering you, so thought I'd see where they could be sent.

[wiaderko]

Do you now where I can find the parts for rebuild HMV reproducer no. 4 ? (mica , rubber)

[gramophoneshane]

The mica diaphragm is the same size as used in the Victor No.4 soundbos, so you're probably better off getting one from USA as postage is much cheaper.
The original style one-piece grooved red rubber gaskets are also available from USA, but a few people here on the forum have mentioned that the regular white tube gasket, as used in the Exhibition & No.2, give the No.4 even better sound quality.
I guess which you choose depends how much of a restoration purist you are. I haven't tried it myself, but I intend to redo at least one of my No.4s with regular white gasket, just out of curiousity.
You can obtain these parts from APSCO, Wyatts Musical Americana, and I'm sure George Vollema at Great Lakes Antique Phonographs would also sell them.
Personally I'd buy from Wyatt or George, as APSCO is generally more expensive.

APSCO-
http://www.antiquephono.com/

Wyatts-
http://www.wyattsmusical.com/

George Vollema-
http://www.victroladoctor.com/

[frenchmarky]

I've rebuilt about 5 or 6 Orthophonic Victor boxes (new ball bearings etc.), it isn't rocket science but requires a steady hand. You can find instructions on how to do it by searching the net. Main thing is mounting the soundbox in something and keeping the pivots centered and motionless with some soft material shoved into/around the needlebar when installing those tiny ball bearings. Might take a few tries to get the hang of it and a big desk magnifier or a magnifying visor is a must.