The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi All, I have an extensive collection of Edisons, Victrolas and other miscellaneous machines including roller organs. Last night I bought a Graphophone BI disc player at an auction. Today I cleaned and glued the case and cleaned/oiled the mechanism. It works great, but it only came with one needle and one record "Little Bo Peep", which is fascinating but not quite my taste.

Would someone be kind enough to tell me what needles I am looking for and what records will work with it. My newer 78's don't and I haven't tried any other needles. I have searched the web and cannot find much on either question. Thank you. Dan

The BI uses the same steel needles that you'd use in any of your Victrola phonographs.

-- Grant

Awesome. Thanks kindly. What about records? A guy told me last night he thought all 78's that were single sided from the teens would work. Do they have to be Columbia or any 78?

Any pre 1920 would work, single or double sided. Just change the needle every record (steel needle) Have fun!

Thanks kindly. This is a really cool machine. And with all the players I have, that is saying something. My nickel plating on the horn is pretty faded, but other than that, it looks and runs super nice.

It's best suited to acoustic records (up to 1930 in some cases). Early electric records do fairly well, though, if you use a soft tone needle.

The BI is a very handsome machine, in my humble opinion. Some gentle polish and a soft cloth might brighten the horn up a bit, if the nickel's not worn through.

- Bill

Thank you, Bill. I really like it and the sound is good. Still getting the hang of the speed adjustment though. Appreciate your input. Dan