FBM--Decca XL--Delta, BC

[Lah Ca]

There is an interesting Decca model XL portable listed on FBM here.

https://www.facebook.com/share/14A6ZHUrbr/

It is not without issues, it seems, but it mostly appears to be in reasonable condition, although we do not see all sides of the case. Decca machines of any model are rarities here.

The asking price of $250 CDN is probably a bit steep in relation to UK prices for this or similar Decca models in this condition, but it is not out of line for asking prices here for any name-brand UK-made portable in decent working order.

The most obvious issues would seem to be the handle and the odd plate (?) covering what I assume was once a hole for a needle cup (?).

Here is a picture of a different machine showing an intact needle cup (?).

[Inigo]

That plate is nothing but the lid of the needle container, the photo is taken vertically and one cannot appreciate the relieved shape, but it's the same as the other example. It seems complete.
And the grip handle seems also ok. In the second example it's simply missing the handle, but still you can see the two handle attachments in the dark..
Watch this other example

1100031677_PREVIEW.jpeg (123.84 KiB) Viewed 4209 times

[epigramophone]

Introduced in 1927, the Decca XL was a development of the Junior portable. The Junior models are easily distinguished from the standard models by their oval sound deflectors, as this picture of two of my machines illustrates :

[Lah Ca]

Gentlemen, both, thank you for the interesting replies.

Yes, I can now see that the fuzzy picture, taken from above, makes the needle cup and its cover look like a plate.

It was most interesting seeing the standard and junior Decca models. You have such an amazing collection.

For reproduction quality and volume, how do reflecting machines compare to internal horn ones? I have never seen or heard a reflecting machine in person. I suppose I could remedy this by taking the 15 to 20 minute drive required to see the XL unit. But then I might be tempted to buy it.

[epigramophone]

The first impression on hearing one of these machines is how loud it sounds. There are many dreadful YouTube video clips of badly maintained examples (search "Decca Trench") but this is a better one which should give you an idea of what to expect :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKd0s41Cx2I

[Steve]

I've never understood the purpose or place of the XL in the new 1927 range. This was after all the time of the Decca 66 and other machines which offered the extended horn under the motorboard which connected to a more conventional swan neck tonearm at one end and the dulciflex on the other, combining the best aspects of the HMV 101 with the already ingenious Decca "bowl in the lid" design.

The Junior I can understand being a hang over from the earlier range of machines but the XL was an oddball machine to bring out at that time. It's simply an enlarged Junior which is one of the smallest machines, discounting the 22 and 33 models.

I have every Decca model from the 1927 range onwards but I appear to be missing the XL. Maybe I need to get one?!

[epigramophone]

Although they make life interesting for the collector, I wonder whether having so many models in the Decca portable range was profitable. Perhaps they were trying to be all things to all men.
During the same period HMV very successfully pursued a one model policy with the 101.