In starting a record, release the brake and allow the turntable to make several revolutions to attain its full maximum speed. Then take the circumference of the soundbox between the thumb and two first fingers of the right hand and lower gently until the reproducing point comes, gently, into contact with the smooth, shiny rim at the circumference of the record. That is the right way and the only right way to start a record.
In stopping the record without the use of the automatic brake, the soundbox should be lifted off and doubled back until it lies on the taper tone arm or other rest provided for it.
SPEED
The dealer from whom you purchased your Victrola will see that it is properly assembled and that the speed of the turntable is set at 78 revolutions per minute. That is the speed at which all Victor records should be played, and we most strongly advise that the speed regulator be not tampered with under any circumstances, except when it may be necessary to reset the regulator in order that the turntable shall actually turn at 78 revolutions when the soundbox is not in contact with the record.
From time to time it may be necessary to test the speed of the turntable to see that there is no variation from the designated speed of 78 revolutions. This may be done by putting a record on the turntable and inserting a small piece of paper between the record and the turntable so that a portion of the paper protrudes. The actual number of revolutions per minute may then be counted by holding a watch close enough to the turntable so that the eyes may have a simultaneous vision of the paper “marker” and the face of the watch.
CARE OF RECORDS
Be sure you keep your records in the albums provided for them, for dust or dirt should not be permitted to accumulate in the fine spiral groove which contains the sound wave impressions. Records should be dusted off with a brush or soft rag before and after playing. If this is done systematically and the records kept under cover they will need no other attention, even over a period of many years.
VICTOR NEEDLES AND STYLI
Use Victrola needles or Victrola Tungs-tone Styli. These products are the result of many years’ experience and thousands of dollars’ worth of experimentation. They are built to conform to the exact requirements of our records, which obviously will be better understood by us than by any one else.
A permanent point can be permanent only because it is too hard to wear—in which case it must inevitably wear the records. The Victor system of changeable needles permits you to replace a worn stylus or change a needle instantly with the result that perfect reproduction can be secured at all times without serious wear on your records. The changeable needle system does more than that, for it enables you to use the same discretion in playing records as the artist who made the record would himself use if he knew in just what kind of room he would be required to play.