Edison DD players "in the rough" Question?

[repeal18th]

I am relatively new to the antique phonograph hobby and only have experience with my two Victor Victrolas, a VV 4 - 3 and a VV XVI both of which are / were in "as found" shape when i got them.

I am looking for a Edison DD in original shape that I can repair and restore, pref a C250 or C19, and am wondering what I should look for whem examining a DD player?

I have a handle (thanks to the net and "The Compleat Talking Machine" ) of cosmetic issues a player might have, but what are common mechanical problems I should look for with a DD player?

Thanks in advance.

Ed

[larryh]

Ed,

It would be nice if the Diamond is not showing wear to the records such as in the run off area. Most good needles will not be leaving any mark in the surface of that shiny area after the grooves. If the records look badly worn it may be a clue to the needle condition.

Larry

[repeal18th]

Larry H -

Thanks for the reply! Reading the board it seems that the Edison discs can be very hit or miss quality wise as well.

Ed

[larryh]

Seems like on ebay they are more miss than hit.. Worst some people are paying incredible prices for some electrics yet again. How do they know they aren't getting a worn copy? If you an buy a machine records and all cheap or a set at a auction that is from an original owner where you can see the condition is about the only way to come close to getting a decent bunch. They seem to be more prone to damage than even Victor type records to me. When they are bad they are often really bad, and that can take probably one play with a damaged needle or the wrong kind of needle to do it..

Larry

[repeal18th]

Today I had a chance to buy a BC 34 at a local flea market. It was in very, nice condition visually. There were scratches on the top of the cabinet that looked like easy fixes and the working parts inside were clean and original looking.

The seller wanted $175 for it, and seeing I really would prefer a upright I offered 100 cash which he refused. I did not counter offer. I may let it sit for another week or two and try again.

It had less than 10 records as well, but had the original owners manual ect. The grill cloth looked like burlap so that had to be a replacement.

If anyone on the board in the Northeast is really hot for a BC34 I can give them the lead....

Ed

[tarheeltinkerer]

Might I recommend you try: www.searchtempest.com/ Just plug in your zipcode and search under "Edison," "phonograph," or "victrola." You'll find many a machine within driving distance. I find using craigslist superior to ebay, because at least this way you can inspect the machines up close and personal and unlike auctions, you are the only prospective buyer in most cases.

[larryh]

Frank,

I don' t know how you turn up those sites but that is a great one!

Larry

[tarheeltinkerer]

Larry,

Part of my job is research...I find things and then find ways to find them with greater efficiency.

Frank

[repeal18th]

Hello Larry-

That site is phenominal. Will cut my time searching Craigs List down by 90% and probably make my wife think I am less insane over looking for phonographs.

I am an advanced collector of antique bottles and pre 1950 beer advertising and I got the ...."wait, you are collecting these now?" question today.

Thanks again.

Ed

[repeal18th]

Should have given Frank - tarheeltinkerer - Kudos for that search site. I will be staying away from it for awhile now.....see my other thread!