[78-L] Frequently Asked (or otherwise clueless) Questions

[George Anglin]

Thanks Rod for your inquiries about record collecting. I began collecting records about fifty years ago for the purpose of acquiring the music which I loved very much, which was the music of the 1920's and 1930's. Back then, 78's were more plentiful and easy to acquire. Now, of course records are still obtainable thru auctions, yard sales etc. Ask yourself, "What kind of music do I really like," then go from there, and start searching for the music you want. Even now that's what I do. Even though much of the early music can be found re-released on the CD format, there is still so much on early recordings, which will never be offered today. Thats why collecting 78's will always be exciting. George of Packard-Marmon

--- On Wed, 1/25/12, Rod Brown <raudiobrown at gmail.com> wrote:

From: Rod Brown <raudiobrown at gmail.com>
Subject: [78-L] Frequently Asked (or otherwise clueless) Questions
To: 78-l at klickitat.78online.com
Date: Wednesday, January 25, 2012, 4:04 AM

>
> Professors,


I'm wondering if there is an on-line site to visit with basic beginners'
questions about collecting 78s. I ask because I often feel like asking my
little elementary queries of 78-L list members is too like asking Mr.
Hawking to help me with my long division homework. As much as I hesitate to
flatter anyone to that degree, asking questions can be a little
intimidating for this newbie.

Since I doubt there is such an on-line resource, I guess I should be asking
about what a 78 Collector's basic library should include. I know lots of
money can be spent on books, but what titles would any of you nominate for
a basic collector?

This past weekend, I was trying to choose some 78s to take home out of a
batch of about 1,500 of them. I was never more acutely aware of how little
I know about this whole complex endeavor (I can't call it merely a
'hobby'). I'd have loved to know even a little more than I do, to help me
make decent decisions.

In any case, I added what might be the oldest record in my small
collection. That's a Monarch Record with a black label. Mainspring Press
seems to describe this as the "straight-line" design. The number (both on
the label and in the matrix) is 1799. The music is a sextette called "Tell
Me Pretty Maiden" from "Floradora." The label is recessed. Nothing at all
on the back of this one. I haven't seen much on the 'net about the Monarch
name and why, when, or for how long it was used.

The record has a deep dimple exactly on the last groove, that seems as
though it might have been put there intentionally, as an alarm: clunk,
clunk, clunk means "The record is over; please remove the tone arm." Or is
this more likely a pressing accident, or later damage?

Guess I'll timorously hit 'send.' Thanks for any wisdom you have the time
to share.

Rod
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