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Post by davestandingalone on Apr 8, 2015 13:33:16 GMT -5
Hi, Newbie here just looking for some advice... I have a Edison Home Model A phonograph which is in okay condition but is missing some critical pieces which i am hoping to find. Firstly I am looking for a Home Model A Crank, I understand the model A crank requires the slotted variation? They seem more difficult to get a hold of if that's the case, I seen one on ebay at about $75 does that seem reasonable? Also i have highlighted two areas of the reproducer. From pictures I have seen on other phonographs the cylindrical arm which is loose usually has two screws to hold it into position, if this not the same on Home Model A? And also i am missing a reproducing looking screw, is this necessary? The serial number on it is H6868, does anyone know the build year? Thanks in advance!
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Post by lucius1958 on Apr 9, 2015 2:52:56 GMT -5
Judging from the boss with the serial # on it, plus the brass mandrel, you have a 'suitcase' Home - is that correct?
In the early Homes, there was some variation between the 2-screw and 4-screw reproducer clamps: it wasn't until after 1901 that the clamps were replaced with a single set screw.
The C reproducer shown is actually some years later than the phonograph: it would probably have originally been equipped with an 'Automatic' reproducer. The large screw on the right (missing) was a hold-over from the early 'Standard Speaker' recorder/reproducer, meant to get the reproducing stylus in correct alignment with the record.
George P. will give you the date of manufacture...
BillS
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Post by phonogfp on Apr 9, 2015 9:38:24 GMT -5
Hello Dave, Home No.6868 left the factory about July 1898. What Bill says about the carriage screws/clamps is true. Your carriage retains its original reproducer clamps. These are often each secured by two screws, but your machine is early enough to feature single-screw clamps. The Model C Reproducer will work in the carriage, but be aware that the reproducer is NOT in proper playing position in the photo you provided. The weight (stamped "Model-C") should be in a horizontal position - parallel to the top of the mandrel (the part that holds the cylinder record). There's also a little notch on the front of the reproducer right on the perimeter - - at the "O" of "REPRODUCER." That notch will be at the 12:00 position when the weight is horizontal. Also, if you have cylinder records that are light brown to dark brown in color, you shouldn't play them with a Model C Reproducer. Black wax or celluloid cylinders should do fine. Here's an article that will explain all this: www.antiquephono.org/basic-antique-phonograph-operational-tips/The cylinder record section begins about one-third of the way down. You'll also see a photo of a Home like yours sporting the same single-screw reproducer clamps and an Automatic Reproducer. You're correct about the early Home crank being slotted, but be aware that the Home crank will have a short shank (about an inch) whereas the more common crank for the Standard will have a longer shank (about 2.5 inches). Be sure you get the proper crank. I should think you can locate a Home crank for $35-$50. There's a very active forum called the Talking Machine Forum where (among other things) you can post for items you need under the "Yankee Trader" section. That forum is here: forum.talkingmachine.info/I'd like to see some overall photos of your Home. Good luck! George P.
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Post by davestandingalone on Apr 9, 2015 11:47:37 GMT -5
Yes, it is the suitcase version.
Thanks Bill and George for the info. I'll keep you updated with how I get on and post some pictures, sure i will have plenty more questions!
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