The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I just picked up a Brunswick model R lowboy phonograph. The crank works and the reproducer looks to be in good shape. My question- how do I turn it on? I wound it up but how do I start it?

Not sure what a model R is but with most Brunswick machines there is a little "tab" sticking out on the right side of the turntable that disengages the turntable break. You may have to lift up on the turntable and pull out the break and arm for it to not "catch" wrong on the turntable.

Thanks! I got the model name from my friend who gave me the machine. We're both radio collectors so we're as lost as last year's Easter eggs on crank phonographs.

The little "tab" above that one is the how to set the "semi auto" break to stop the turntable after the record is done playing. Sometimes those two tabs get caught out of wack under the turntable.

Remember to use a new needle after every record you play.

10-4 on the new needles. I have been restoring old radios for years and when they bring in a radio/phono combo I tell them I don't work on phonos. I end up keeping all the 78s and needles that came in with the cabinet. There is a pull knob on the side of the phonograph cabinet, same side as the crank. It slides in and out with no resistance. I'm betting it is supposed to do more than that, but what?

Just make sure your needles are new and not used. That knob is a qusi "volume" control knob.