The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi everyone. I've had a lot of people recommend I shave old Brown Wax cylinders to make new cylinders from. Is this a good way of saving money instead of buying blank cylinders and will it work? I just got an Edison Gem Phonograph.

There is some controversy on this point. If the cylinder is a fairly common one (i.e., a selection already well documented, with plenty of good examples), then it might be permissible to shave it. However, if it is something uncommon - a little known company or artist, or a home recording - then it would be better to preserve it for future restoration.

As for really moldy cylinders, it might not be worthwhile, as the mold may be too deep to produce a usable blank.

Forum: what say you all?
(BTW: do you have a shaving machine? A Gem is not capable of shaving cylinders.)

- Bill

m_nakamura wrote: Fri Aug 01, 2025 9:11 pm I just got an Edison Gem Phonograph.

Great! Show us some pictures

Here's the Gem I got. The reproducing thing is on the way. Apparently I'm missing a piece of wood that goes underneath- also here's the number if anyone cares.

Ah gotcha. *brown wax

I really wouldnt suggest shaving a brown wax cylinder unless it is super worn, or very moldy (as in zero sound left). from what ive heard gems arent the best for recording cus they dont have such a powerful motor as the edison homes, standards, and firesides. aside from that congrats on the new machine!