Edison C150 Diamond Disc Phonograph

c.1915 to 1919

This very well-preserved gramophone/phonograph is in beautiful original condition, with only minor aging of the original lacquer finish. The original gold signature is intact under the lid, and a plate is engraved with the model number, manufacturer, and patent date. Maintains beautiful original patina by way of fine crackling or crazing of the surface lacquer that only comes with age, and just enough wear for antique character.

Features of the Edison C150 Diamond Disc Phonograph

Cabinet and Hardware

• Floor model cabinet made of mahogany wood
• Nickel-plated hardware, including hinges, knobs, and crank
• Internal horn and disc storage compartment

Playback Mechanism

• Wind-up motor with automatic shut-off
• Spring-driven turntable
• Sapphire stylus for playing Edison Diamond Disc records
• Speed control lever
• Sliding volume control

Other Features

• Built-in amplifier
• Loudspeaker
• Removable crank

Technical Specifications

• Dimensions: 20″ wide (excluding crank), 21″ deep, 45″ tall
• Weight: 60 lbs.
• Speed: *Edison 80 RPM
• Record capacity: 10 records

Additional Notes

• The Edison Disc Phonograph Model C150 was introduced in 1913 and was one of the most popular phonographs of its time.
• It is known for its high-quality sound reproduction and its elegant mahogany cabinet.
• The Model C150 is also notable for its internal horn and disc storage compartment, which make it a convenient and stylish phonograph for home use.

Did you know?

Edison disc phonographs use a vertical modulation system, while traditional 78 rpm phonographs use a lateral modulation system.

In a vertical modulation system, the grooves in the wax disc move the stylus up and down. This is the same type of modulation system that is used in gramophones.

In a lateral modulation system, the grooves in the wax disc move the stylus from side to side. This is the same type of modulation system that is used in vinyl records.

The thicker Edison disc records are necessary for the vertical modulation system to work properly. The thicker grooves allow for more accurate, realistic sound reproduction, and decreased chance of warping or flex during playback. As such Edison machines play ONLY Edison discs, which are widely available but not as plentiful as the common lateral 78 records. Noteably, some Brunswick phonographs have a rotatable reproducer (stylus) that will play both variations.

Vertical modulation systems have several advantages over lateral modulation systems:

• Better sound quality: Vertical modulation systems can produce more accurate and realistic sound reproduction than lateral modulation systems.
• Reduced stylus wear: Vertical modulation systems are less likely to wear out the stylus than lateral modulation systems.
• Increased durability: Vertical modulation systems are more durable than lateral modulation systems, making them better suited for high-volume use.

However, vertical modulation systems also have some disadvantages:

• More complex technology: Vertical modulation systems are more complex to design and manufacture than lateral modulation systems.
• Less common: Vertical modulation systems are less common than lateral modulation systems, making it more difficult to find compatible records and styli.

Edison disc phonographs operate at 80 rpm, while traditional 78 rpm phonographs operate at 78 rpm. This difference in speed is due to the different modulation systems used. Vertical modulation systems require a faster speed to produce the same sound quality as lateral modulation systems.

Overall, Edison disc phonographs offer several advantages over traditional 78 rpm phonographs, including better sound quality, reduced stylus wear, and increased durability. However, Edison disc phonographs are also more complex and less common than traditional 78 rpm phonographs.

Which type of phonograph is right for you depends on your needs and budget. If you are looking for the best possible sound quality and durability, and you are willing to invest in more expensive equipment, then an Edison disc phonograph is the best choice. However, if you are looking for a more affordable and widely available phonograph, then a traditional 78 rpm phonograph is a good option.

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