The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

You see many examples of coin operated cylinder phonographs, but early on did they ever have any coin operated disc phonographs? There are some obvious problems of course, with not having records be able to repeat and even if that was fixed the problem with steel needles, but even so I feel it had to be tried at least once.

This is a working Polyphon ...
(this horn is styled after an original) These are original types of horns used ... See it work ...
https://www.ecommerceplayer.com/MediaPl ... 7d2298351c

https://www.ecommerceplayer.com/MediaPl ... 263e1aedc6

James.

There were several coin operated disc machine brands and were more prevelant in Europe than here in the US. The one I have is called Le Autophone and was made in France, presumably by Pathé. There were several styles of this machine but this model used a cabinet similar to the Edison Eclipse. It plays laterally recorded records and has all original parts including the listening tubes.

Le Autophones were made around 1910s and lasted well into the 20s and 30s and would be in French arcades and train depots.

Here is a YouTube video of mine in action.
https://youtu.be/DZ9QZSTxp-Q?feature=shared

Scott

Very nice to see that style used for a disc record too.

James.

Coin operated Berliner phonographs were also made. Here is a Youtube video of one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9BnT6nuCmw

Is Phonoguy a Forum Member? He has some nice machines!

Phonoguy is Mark Caruana-Dingli. The machines he has been highlighting in his recent series of videos are from the collection of the late Dominic DiBernardo, one of the most prominent Canadian collectors.