A Complete Manual of the Edison Phonograph with Introduction by Thomas A. Edison Paperback – June 24, 2013

The main thing to know about this little book is that it is a reproduction of a book dating from 1897. Curiously neither the seller’s ad nor the book itself includes the copyright date. I had to find it elsewhere.The book of course speaks from the time that it was written, and that means that it focuses in detail on the two main Edison phonographs extant at that time, the Class M battery operated phonograph and the “Spring Motor” phonograph, both using the same or similar upper woks. The “Spring Motor” would go on to be renamed the Edison Triumph phonograph around 1901. If you have an interest in either of these two early machines, you will find the book useful. There are details on how they are constructed, their operation, and their maintenance. If your focus is on later machines, this is probably not the book for you.There is also a short, but interesting introduction by Edison himself reflecting on how far the phonograph had then come.

Quaint, dated language, short, with a limited number of drawings - this is still one of the essential books for the vintage Edison cylinder record player. I get a kick out of the early-1900's phrasing and explanations - yet they are crystal-clear, as are the drawings. An absolute "must-have" if you are an Edison cylinder machine owner or think you might want to get one in the future. Absolutely fascinating machines developed by a true genius.

It gives you the basics of the operation of the unit one would have. Could have had better graphics and parts list.

Very informative. Great for old phonograph lovers.

A great read! I didn't realise how long ago the first Dictaphone was used and that battery powered units were available before the wind up clockwork units.

Good Information

The book is okay but wasn't what we wanted. We are restoring an old Edison phonograph and needed a book that lists parts and graphics of how the phonograph originally 'went together.'

Beware this book only covers the Cylinder Edison Phonographs. (not the Disc machines)

Really enjoyable and knowledgeable book.

bought for a friend - they liked it

Excellent book, delivered as promised.

My unit was built 1n 1908, and is not covered in this book. But it was interesting.

This was a gift for my husband. He loves the old phonographs....good read.