The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello. I'm new to Phonograph scene and am looking into my first phonograph purchase.

I've currently got my eye on a Vic II with an Exhibition Reproducer. From the pictures, it appears to be in good shape and also seen the machine played and it sounded good. The only thing that concerns me is that I noticed that the needle on the reproducer is facing straight down instead of an angle. Is that a reasonable position?

I've included a photo of the reproducer so people can see what i'm talking about.

The reproducer is probably ok, its just turned in the wrong orientation. If you rotate
it to the right a bit it will be fine. Straight up and down like that can cause excessive
wear on record grooves.

In addition to the angle, the sound box looks to be in need of an overhaul. The (once soft) gaskets holding the diaphragm in place have petrified, restricting the diaphragm's movement. This causes distortion and increased record wear.

You can find step by step rebuilding instructions on this page -- http://www.nipperhead.com/old/reproducers.htm

DS

Here is a picture of the correct orientation of the soundbox...