The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi Everyone,
I didn't realize I was running low on my 7/32" belting that I bought from Wyatt a couple of years ago. Now I'm nearly out and I've been unable to find any of the thin, supple, light brown 7/32" leather belting anywhere lately that Wyatt carried for years. I could use at least 10 feet if anyone has any to spare. I contacted Wyatt and he is hoping to source some more but I could use some in the meantime if possible.

Thanks,
Doug

Doug,
I believe the belting material you're looking for is now carried by The Phonograph Shop. Below is a link to their 7/32" premium belting.

https://thephonographshop.com/products/ ... s=e&_v=1.0

Thanks,
David

Thanks for your suggestion, David, but they no longer have the belting that I want that is like Wyatt’s belting.

What are the differences between these two belt materials?

Skihawx wrote: Thu Jul 06, 2023 11:11 pm What are the differences between these two belt materials?

I'm certain that, generally speaking, all phonograph belting materials are similar. But there is a noticeable difference in leather belting characteristics that, in my own opinion, are important to yielding the best possible performance from a given belt-driven cylinder phonograph motor.

I've attached a couple of pictures below that visually demonstrate the difference in belting characteristics. The light brown belting shown was purchased from Wyatt and as can be seen it is noticeably thinner than the other belting material. Along with this, the lighter brown belting is softer, more supple and has just enough "stretchy" quality to adapt to subtle adjustments in length that may be needed after the belt is installed. The other belt is thicker, less supple and resistant to even the slightest amount of stretching. So, once made and installed, any adjustments will most likely require removing the belt and re-splicing. Not really that much of a hassle.

My preference is for the thinner, supple and very slightly stretchy lighter brown belting. And this is what I am seeking if anyone can help me.

It has been conveyed to me by the supplier of the thicker belting shown in my picture (The Phonograph Shop) that they had received concerns that the light brown (tan) belting was too stretchy and the color was not agreeable to customers so when their stock of this belting expired they changed to the current belting.

I'm 100% certain that the thicker belting will work absolutely perfectly for many cylinder phonograph customers. My own preference is to use the thinner and more supple belting that has been sourced and supplied for years by Wyatt.

So, if anyone can spare some I would be sincerely grateful.

Thanks!
Doug

What is the thickness of the "good stuff"?

JerryVan wrote: Fri Jul 07, 2023 12:46 pm What is the thickness of the "good stuff"?

Hi Jerry, It appears to be about 1/16" in thickness. Wyatt has informed me that he hopes to source some more in the future. He mentioned a few collectors that might have some of his belting to spare (to sell to me) but so far it seems those folks are in the same boat as I am.

Thanks,
Doug