The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Members,
My question is in regards to playing a Black Berliner record. I like to play and video rare and interesting records
so that it’s only played once and it keeps ware and damage to a minimum. In my feedback I was told using a steel needle is a huge no-no!
I’ve been reading some articles about the correct way to play then without causing serious damage.
Can anyone share how-to and why on playing these records.
Thank You To All
Paul G

Electric playback with a modern lightweight tonearm and right size stylus will cause the least wear.

IMHO playing them occasionally with a steel needle, on a later machine (not travelling arm etc) and with the soundbox/reproducer in good order and therefore compliant, won't cause serious or even significant damage. Most of them have been played many times with steel needles, after all! Some collectors may find this heretical, but unless discs are extremely valuable and/or in glowing condition, I wouldn't worry.

I play mine freely with thorn needles, usually with a tiny trace of ibota wax powder lubricant. This side of the pond, Berliners were made of ebonite (not shellac) which I think might be more susceptible to wear, but I've never been able to discern the slightest issue.

Orchorsol wrote: Fri Jun 13, 2025 9:14 am I play mine freely with thorn needles, usually with a tiny trace of ibota wax powder lubricant. This side of the pond, Berliners were made of ebonite (not shellac) which I think might be more susceptible to wear, but I've never been able to discern the slightest issue.

I follow the same recipe, there is no harm to the records by playing them with a thorn needle.