FOUND: Victor Improved Concert reproducer

[Flying Dutchman]

Hello,
I’m in the market for an Improved Victor Concert reproducer.
I can do a rebuild myself with what I understand to be Victrola No. 2 mica and gaskets…?
Would be interested in buying a nice presentable example that may need some cleaning and/or rebuild.
If anyone has doubles, triples or one they may feel like parting with please let me know. I’m available by PM, email or text. Thanks! Mike

[MarkELynch]

Mike,


Here is a photo for those of us who have never seen one of these rather scarce transitional Victor soundboxes.

I was lucky to locate this new old stock reproducer in its original box at Union probably 25 years ago.

“for fibre needle” just means that it has the triangular needle chuck.

Good luck in your quest. What machine are you going to install it on?

Mark

[Flying Dutchman]

Mark,
Thank you for sharing the photo of the improved concert. Finding one in the original box I’m sure was a pleasing bonus!!
As far a machine to play it on…not sure. My two current Victors aren’t suitable I believe. One is too early (Vic II humpback) and the other too late (Victrola Schoolhouse).
The VV-IX is now my Dad’s machine, it probably would have been suitable on that machine.
I think I’d like to own one to see if there is any difference in sound or “improved” in any way from the Exhibition which are current on both of the II and XXV.

There are two Victor Improved Concert reproducers current on eBay if anyone has interest. $295 is the asking on both I believe. Too rich for my blood. If that’s the price of one…I guess I’m out of luck!!

[Phono-Phan]

Let me do some digging. I might have one but I think it is the gold plated version. It sounds like you would be looking for the nickel plated one?

[Flying Dutchman]

Yes sir. Nickel finish is what I would be interested in. Thank you.

[mattrx]

I bought a VV-IX a few years ago that had a nickel Improved Concert installed. The IX was an earlier version.

Matt

[Flying Dutchman]

So the improved concert reproducers were offered as upgrade option just before the No. 2 was introduced? So we’re talking mid 1910’s….?

[Pathe Logical]

Hi Flying Dutchman,

I have a Victor machine catalog (dated August 13, 1912) which indicates all machines within were offered with either the Improved Concert or the Exhibition --- EXCEPT the Junior (equipped with its own special reproducer).

Machines offered in this catalog are the following Victors: Junior, 0, I, II, III, IV, V, VI and the following Victrolas: IV, VI, VIII, IX (early case style), X (spider leg), XI, XIV, and XVI.

I have another almost identical Victor machine catalog (dated July 16, 1913) which indicates all machines are equipped with the Exhibition only --- EXCEPT the Junior (equipped with its own special reproducer).

Machines offered in this slightly later catalog are the same as in the earlier catalog, except the Victrola X is now a full upright cabinet.

Hope this helps everyone out,
Bob

[Flying Dutchman]

Hi Bob,
That is excellent information for us all! Thank you for sharing sir!!

[Pathe Logical]

You're welcome!