The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I just replaced the 83 year old ball bearings and retainer gaskets on the orthophonic sound box from my VV4-3. The difference in sound quality is amazing. Doing this is just as important, if not more so, than cleaning the old grease from the springs and gears. I also applied ACC (Crazy Glue) to the many cracks in this pot metal reproducer as well as silicon sealant over the tone arm throat gasket in an effort to stabilize it. Eventually I will acquire a brass or reproduction nickel one to replace it. Here is Fats Waller playing Love Me or Leave Me on Victor orthophonic recording 22092-A, August 1929. (changed to link on 06/18/2011 due to poor feed)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNs6kRZ0a9o

Here is a photo of the reproducer that is currently on my 4-3. This was taken before I did the overhaul.

That record sounded very good!

It sounds great. I coated all the line cracks on my Orthophonic sound box about ten years ago with Krazy Glue, and so far -- knock wood -- it's help up fine. There's been no additional cracking, and the ones that were already there have not opened up.

It sounds like you did an excellent job seating the new ball bearings. As you note, it DOES make all the difference in the world.

BTW, the later production pot metal sound boxes, such as those used on the portable Orthophonic Victrolas --



(See -- http://myvintagetv.com/updatepages1/cha ... r2-55a.htm )

-- are normally found in very good condition, and seldom have issues involving cracking or swelling. These are a great, affordable alternative to the very expensive brass replacements. In terms of sound quality, many collectors actually prefer the pot metal version.

Ortho_Fan wrote:

BTW, the later production pot metal sound boxes, such as those used on the portable Orthophonic Victrolas -- snip -- are normally found in very good condition, and seldom have issues involving cracking or swelling. These are a great, affordable alternative to the very expensive brass replacements. In terms of sound quality, many collectors actually prefer the pot metal version.

How much would a pot metal sound box in good condition (no or very minimal cracking) go for? There is a show coming up in October in Wayne New Jersey where I may be able to fine one.

Thanks,