The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Has anyone rebuilt a Maestrophone reproducer? I'm rebuilding this "Piccalo" model which appears to never have been previously opened up. It seems the back plate (joins the tone arm) was sealed with a white material which was either some sort of sealant or perhaps a white flat rubber washer/gasket. Can anyone tell me what this material is and what might be a good substitute? Thank you.

Normally in these European soundboxes, this is a white flat rubber gasket. I've found it on Thorens reproducers too.

Thank you.

If you’re not bothered about the colour being white again, you can get a thin piece of rubber (cheapo car mats are good!) and fashion a similar replacement. I’ve found there’s less choice in white than black.

You could go to Brico-Mart or similar stores with a good variety of plumber's supplies... You'll get surprised how many things rubber there are, you may find many things usable for gramophones...

Thanks. I found a source for white neoprene about 1.6 mm thick: McMaster.com.