EDISON CONCERT PHONOGRAPH

In 1898, the Columbia Phonograph Company announced an entirely new format of cylinder record. Since the late 1880s, an accepted standard size of cylinder record had been in use. Yet, Columbia introduced a new type of record that was FAR larger, measuring 5" in diameter. Compared to existing records, these "Grand" cylinders, as they were called, were enormous. The technical concept behind this radical step was fairly simple -- the greater the diameter of the cylinder, the greater the surface speed at which the record passed under the reproducer stylus. Greater surface speed meant better "fidelity," and in fact the Grand records were louder and better sounding than the average 1890s conventional, small record.

The success of the new format in the market made it impossible for Edison to look the other way. Edison rushed a rival instrument into production, introducing the Edison "Concert" Phonograph, and 5" diameter "Concert" records, in 1899. The Concert was sold in one, very expensive model, based on the Edison "Spring Motor" Phonograph, using the formidable "Triton" triple-spring motor. 

This is a early example of the Concert, and it is in outstanding original condition. Original cabinet finish. Original paint and decorations.

Further examination shows the freshness of the mechanism.

Looking even closer demonstrates the crispness of the original decorations.

Speaking of details, this early winding crank, with its nickel-plated ID plate is among the rarest artifacts in the Edison arsenal.

Our "mint" condition Concert comes with a highly polished  brass horn and original tripod support stand for the horn. PLUS we are including four of the hand-made replica 5" Concert cylinder records produced by our friend Paul Morris in the UK. If you want to get some original Concert cylinders, we have those for sale separately.

Price: $4250.00 US, including FOUR "Phoenix" brand, artisan-made replica Concert cylinder records, plus s/h (NY State residents must pay tax, if applicable).

E-mail: phonotim@gmail.com

Telephone: 585-244-5546   

US Post: Phonophan   

               PO Box 747

               Henrietta, NY 14467 USA

Click here for Terms & Conditions of sale

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