[78-L] Speaking of portable equipment/cutter back in 1940?

[Milan P Milovanovic]

Dear list members,

about 3 years ago, I've heard interesting story about Norman Chalfin, who 
recorded sound for Hurston Beaufort expedition. Norman Chalfin was "audio 
technician who had accompanied Hurston and Belo to South Carolina to record 
the music, religion and language of a people before their heritage and 
culture were lost to history".

Also, he recorded one night club appearance of great Lester Young, in 
December 29, 1940.

All those information I found here:
http://www.loc.gov/loc/lcib/0605/young.html

Now, my question is: what, way back then 1940. was portable equipment? Were 
those cutter machines/lathes designed for 16" blank inserts? "Audiodisc" 
sample as shown on photograph - was it amateurish or pro? If it was 
professional disc, how come that it was used on portable equipment?

Judging from what can be heard from Lester Young clip (here: 
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5344114), it is so well 
recorded with rather clear frequency response down to the lowest register 
(bass drum) and way up in highest sounds of cymbals and hi-hat.

Thank you,

Milan Milovanovic