The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi friends! I'm new to older records, I have a Victor J1-95 from my grandfather, but I'm more used to more modern stuff (I have a Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT). Where do I start with getting it to work? I've cranked it up and moved the brake into the move position, but nothing happens, I can hear spinning and an occasional thump though. With records- do these old machines only play 78's? I have "Hill of Pure Heart/China Night", but that's all.
I'm sorry if these are all novice questions but I'm just trying to get an understanding.

Hi there. Am assuming you are in the Far East? Japan?

Yes, they do only play 78s, and your Japanese Victor J1-95 was built around 1930. Quite a good machine. Crank it up and release the brake and if the turntable does not move something is probably broken in the motor. It can be repaired. Parts are still manufactured but I don't know if there are parts sellers there or if you'll need to order from elsewhere.
Once you get the motor to spin you will want to have the reproducer rebuilt and then order fresh needles, not from India.

Hi! Im Japanese but my family and I moved to North America, the J1-95 is a hand-me-down haha. For the broken motor is there a good book or video tutorial on how I can open the machine and fix it?- Or are there repair people I could reach out to that you know of?

Maybe this seller has advise?
https://jp.mercari.com/item/m8012244683 ... 6SAnwRiatb

Here are photos of the motor from the above link ...
James.

Thanks! I opened the machine with some help from my father and I see that the small cog in the center has worn down to where it no longer catches. Probably what is causing the problem!

m_nakamura wrote: Thu Feb 13, 2025 10:43 pm Thanks! I opened the machine with some help from my father and I see that the small cog in the center has worn down to where it no longer catches. Probably what is causing the problem!

Can you post any pictures of the problem?

I would but my computer is a desktop.

m_nakamura wrote: Fri Feb 14, 2025 12:14 pm I would but my computer is a desktop.

So is mine. Digital camera? Webcam? Friend with a smartphone to email a pic to you?

If the J1-95 isn't too new, you could look for a replacement for the broken part at The Phonograph Shop.