The 1-70 was an economy tabletop model introduced late in 1926.This machine used the non-Orthophonic No. 4 Soundbox, and did not use an exponential horn; consequently the sound quality was not nearly as good as the higher priced models featuring more advanced designs.Approximately 38,000 were produced before the model was discontinued in late 1928.The serial number of this machine is 19360.Existing examples have a blended mahogany finish, although much of the cabinet trim is a stained ash.The original 1926 selling price of the 1-70 was $50.00.This machine was recently found in an estate sale for $26.50.Although a bargain, it came with minor problems.Two cracks were discovered and repaired in the wood cabinet, one of the three governor weights from the governor assembly was missing, but was found with its hardware, in the bottom of the case and the reproducer was missing altogether.All in all, not a bad weekend find and project.
The reproducer is the part that makes sound. Remember, no electricity, only mechanics. A steel needle is affixed to the reproducer and transfers vibration from the record to a diaphram. Like a mechanical megaphone, the sound is routed through a small opening and eventually reaches the large opening, the horn. No base, or trebble. It's straight, flat sound, sometimes loud and harsh.
Rule of thumb, replace the needle after each record play. Steel needles are very available in loud, medium and soft sound. Average price is about $3 per 100. At one time, needle were constructed of several different materials, some claiming to last longer. Wood needles could be easily sharpened in the sharpening kit.
Here is a selection from 1927 that might have been played on this vintage machine.
