The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Up for sale is this magnificent and excellent example of a very rare model 961 Columbia Viva Tonal radio/phonograph combination which has been completely restored mechanically as well as electronically by Paul Baker and Chuck Azzalina. The finish is original and as you can see from the photos is in superb condition. According to the Columbia Phonograph Companion Vol.II this unit sold for $600 in 1928 making it one of the most expensive radio/phonographs offered by Columbia for that year. $600 in 1928 would be around $11,000 in 2024 money. Can you imagine going out today and spending $11K on a TV? The phonograph in this unit plays beautifully and the radio also operates excellently being very sensitive and picking up all of the AM radio stations.
This unit is complete in every detail missing nothing and great lengths were taken during the restoration to maintain it's originality. If interested, you can contact me at [email protected] or call me at 716-982-2085. Also I will be going to Stanton's Auction in a couple of weeks and can deliver it there to anyone who might purchase it. Paul Baker

I saw this machine in person a week ago and I can tell you the performance and fidelity of this machine is second to none! Absolutely a fantastic phonograph!!