Another project is under way. This Presto Type 6N professional record lathe, circa 1941, has been waiting in line for too long. There are many progress pictures, but first, a little history about cutting records.
Before the invention of audio tape, records were used to store and reproduce sound. Radio stations used lathes for delayed broadcasts and consumers used them to capture family voices. A consumer console entertainment system was usually equipped with a radio, phonograph and a lathe. Home recording was quite the thing of the time.
BEFORE.......IS IT SALVAGEABLE?
It's not just dirt. Corrosion is everywhere. Bearings are frozen and every screw is rusty. Parts are bent and out of alignment.
A DAY'S WORTH OF WORK
It's not finished, but it's on it's way. Where nothing shined, glitter is now everywhere. Bent parts are straight and everything is properly aligned. Notice the clean look of the platter and mat. The lathe was completely disassembled, cleaned and lubricated. Even the labels are shiny and clear. Does it work? That's still the million $$ question.
