The Edison phonograph monthly (Jan-Dec 1914)

10 EDISON PHONOGRAPH MONTHLY, FEBRUARY, 1914 DEALERS' QUESTIONS ANSWERED We propose in this column to answer questions which are apt to arise in the handling or operation of any style of Edison Phonographs, or in regard to the records. We invite the jobber and dealer to send in any questions on which information is desired. Of course the questions should be of a broad nature, the purely personal ones we will answer direct by mail. I. Does it Hurt a Sapphire or a Diamond Point to Play Them Over a Cracked or a Damaged Record? Ans: — Should the crack in record be of any perceptible width, there is a possibility of the reproducer point being broken. As far as playing a damaged record is concerned, the word "damage" being so broad in its meaning, it is impossible to advise one without seeing the record. In any case, it is much better not to take any chance with broken or damaged records. II. What Causes a Phonograph (Cylinder) to Stutter and Repeat Over and Over Again a Note or a Phrase. Ans: — There are a great many causes for this, but we find that the following are the most common: — (a) Dirt in gears. This can be remedied by cleaning with benzine or kerosene. (b) Governor has become "drunk," or it runs out of balance. This should be remedied as follows: Allow the motor to run down completely. Loosen the screw in the governor collar where same is fastened to governor shaft. Then press this collar yi" toward the large disc (which makes contact with the governor friction) holding the disc with thumb, thereby expanding the springs to which the balls are attached. The cause of the phonograph repeating is usually found in the reproducer being out of order. Examine the reproducer and see that the swinging weight is perfectly free to swing sideways and up and down. Also see that the reproducing point is free from dirt and that the arm into which the reproducer point is fastened is free on its pivot. Repeating is also caused by not placing the reproducer on the record or by the phonograph not being on a level surface, or by dirt having accumulated between the feed nut and screw, thereby not allowing the feed nut to make a proper engagement with the screw, or by record not being pressed firmly on the mandrel. III. Will a Diamond Point Ever Wear Out on an Edison Cylinder or Disc? Ans: — The diamond, being the hardest substance known, cannot wear out on a record. We have received numerous complaints, however, from customers stating that the points are worn out; but, on investigation, we invariably find that the points were broken. IV. Please Explain How I Should Proceed to Put a New Belt on My Cylinder Machine? Ans: — This operation is almost too simple to need explanation. All that is necessary is to turn the phonograph cylinder with the right hand and pass old belt (with left hand) over flanges of pulley on cylinder shaft. To replace new belt, reverse above operations. V. How Far from the Phonograph Ought One Stand or Sit for the Best Effect? Ans: — This is purely a matter of personal taste, as some individuals cannot get a phonograph loud enough and others desire it very soft. VI. Are Attachments for Playing Blue Amberols Obtainable Without the Ten Special Blue Amberol Records? Ans: — No, we supply no attachments apart from our Special Offer to include with such attachment the Ten Special Blue Amberol Records. CONNECTION FOR LATERAL CUT DISC RECORDS In response to considerable demand we have placed ourselves in a position to furnish a connection for the Edison Diamond-Disc Phonograph whereby lateral cut disc records can be played with any sound box that will fit the connection. We have established the following prices: List 31-75 To Dealers L25 To Jobbers LOO The connection can be furnished at these prices in either gold or nickel finish.