The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Need help on a Columbia upright machine E2 Grafinola. I have a local guy wanting to sell it. He is asking 295, but I don't think it is worth that much. It is really in nice shape and really no dings or scars, etc, but the reproducer has a pot metal junker ready to break on it. So, I have two questions, I guess. What type of reproducer went on these machines, and what would one of these be realistically worth in todays market. He also has an Edison LC in nice shape with 200+ Edison records, kent type adapter, Edison oil can,tube grease, record brush and instruction sheet. I am not really interested in the LC and he won't be able to sell either one around here, so what would it be worth? Any help would be much appreciated.(I guess there are three questions)
Dave

I have an L2. I have not yet bought a book that discusses Columbia but I do have the directions for assembling and operating which blankets all the later models together. I got my L2 for $125 which is probably a little low. Columbias do run cheaper as they seem to get less respect from the community from what I can tell. I think because of their use of pot metal. That being said, I love mine. It looks great, sounds great, and has very nifty features. Here is a picture if my reproducer. Hope it helps.

I appreciate the reply and picture. That helps a great deal.
Dave

I believe there is a rebuilt one on ebay often for about $75 if you end up getting it. I would definitely use the reproducer as a bargaining tool though.

Columbia reproducers do not have deteriorating gaskets like Victors. Clean one with a Q-tip and it should do fine. Only problem is buzzing due to lack of tension springs. The needle bar pivots need to be just right. Be sure to loosen the little lock nut on the pin before adjusting or a shoulder on the slot will break and then it's ruined. Good thing the whole reproducer costs only ten bucks. Your attention should be paid to the potmetal soundtube elbow.

Good to know. Thank you for the info.
Dave