The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I managed to score a VV-XVI today from a co-worker for $300. S/N is 168070. I probably should have done my research prior to a purchase, but it was an impulse buy at what I think was a fairly low price. The unit presents well although could be refinished (particularly on the exterior), appears to be complete, and based on a demo, to my untrained ears it sounded good and steady. What a wonderful sound these machines make.








I'm looking for advice on things to do to "run through" the machine prior to heavy use. Any ideas, links, etc. would be appreciated!

Thanks in advance.
-Matt
Fredericksburg, VA

I know how excited you are right now because I also brought back a VV-XVI a couple of days ago from a member in Lubbock, TX. (I drove about 700 miles on that day!)Mine had cabinet damages when I got it. The attached picture is after cabinet restoration. About advice, I am not an expert, either.

That is a good price and definitely worthy of excitement. I am picking one up from a member on here in Oct and can't wait. Have you tried cleaning it with Gojo or something first? You'd be surprised how well that stuff brings back the shine.

I found this post about restoration to be very helpful:
http://forum.talkingmachine.info/viewto ... ?f=7&t=146

You should also check out the motor and reproducer, and make sure they have a basic restoration:

. Cleaning and regreasing the mainsprings (have this done professionally, if you're not experienced).

. Cleaning and relubricating the motor.

. Replacing the gaskets (and, if necessary, the back flange) on the reproducer.

Bill

Congrats! It looks good and you've done well in terms of purchase price I think.

Lots of good advice already given.

A reproducer rebuild is almost certainly in order unless you find that the rubber gaskets around the diaphragm are soft (indicating that has already been done). I have come to the place that I don't dig into the springs (or have it done) unless there are thumps and bumps as it unwinds. If there aren't, I just do the lubrication recommend on the chart under the motor board.

I definitely would not refinish! Clean with GoJo or Kotton Klenser and, when it has thoroughly dried a couple of days later, apply a good wax. Personally I like Kotton Klenser's lemon oil and beeswax polish. It is also a good periodic maintenance polsh.

Clay

well done,looks great!good player,and the XVI sound very good with a reproducer refurbish.