1957 model D talking book reproducer

[radiotvnut]

Here's a talking book record player from 1957 that was the type that was loaned to the blind for playing talking books. This model came before the machines that would play the 8 rpm records; and, from the factory, would only play 16 and 33 rpm. From what someone in the past told me and from looking at this unit, these two speed machines actually came with standard 4-speed motors; but, there was a stop pin installed so that the user could not advance the lever to the 45 rpm or 78 rpm position. On this model, someone has already broken off the stop pin; so, this machine will now play the 4-standard record speeds.

Most of these older two-speed machines were converted to 3-speed by replacing the entire drive mechanism when the 8 rpm records came along.

This model contains a 3-tube (12AX7, 6CM6, 6X4) amplifier that I have already fixed; but, still need to overhaul the drive mechanism. The cartridge is an 83-7D; which, is physically the same size as an 89T. However, the holder is not the flip type. In order to use the spare needle, it is necessary to remove the cartridge from the holder and reverse it. Since I'll be using this for all four record speeds, I'll likely install a standard flip-style 89T holder and LP/78 89T cartridge.

These old talking book machines were built like tanks and this one should be a good machine when I'm finished with it.

[dieseljeep]

What firm built the unit for the L.O.C.?

[radiotvnut]

U.S. Recording Company out of Washington, DC. Actually, the LOC hired several companies to build record players to their specifications. DeWald Radio built at least one machine for them in the '50's. The '60's era machines were usually built by either Warwick, Waters-Conley, or Westinghouse (they were exactly the same except for the builder). The early solid state units from the late '60's-early '70's were usually either Warwick or Waters-Conley. From the mid '70's until around 1980, their record players were built by Interstate Industries. From 1980 until 1990, there were no new talking book record players made and the LOC relied on old stock. In 1990, two new models were issued. One was a record player only and the other was a combination 4-track cassette player and record player, with both units being made by Telex.