The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello all,

Does anyone know if the XVI model H and the mid-2000#ed Victrolas have interchangeable parts? It seems to be the case, but is anyone able to verify that for me? The reason I ask is that the parts on an XVIII I have exhibit serious wear, and they really should just be replaced. Are the motors completely different? Parts in question are:

tone arm and bracket
speed control screw
crank

I've always believed that the XVI was the "flagship" of the Victrola line. I'm not suggesting that it was the most expensive but it always had Victors best motor, tone arm, reproducer, etc. The XVII or XVIII were more expensive but that's because they had more expensively made cabinets. I believe that a XVI made at the same time as a XVIII would have the same motor, turntable, tone arm, reproducer, and crank. The "at the same time" is the important part. If sub-models or types changed gradually, there may be some differences but I doubt it. Jerry Blais

Since both machines were made in the same time period, the parts are likely interchangeable. However, there could be differences in the length of the tonearm and crank even though they appear to match. The best thing to do is to compare the actual parts to be sure they match.

Jim