Bell Hood

Gramophone needles

Bell HoodThe 78rpm-Club2024-01-01T18:44:46+01:00

HISTORY

NEW ENGLAND MUSICAL INSTRUMENT TRADING CO.

127 EAST 23rd ST.
New York City (NY) / USA

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Bell Hood

ARTICLES

NEEDLE TINS

Material and Design:
Early gramophone needles were made of steel and were intended to be replaced after each use due to wear and tear from the hard shellac records.

Sound Quality:
The quality of sound reproduction was directly influenced by the condition of the needle. A worn or damaged needle could significantly degrade the audio quality and even damage the record.

Development of Needles:
Over time, needles were made from various materials, including tungsten, chromium, and even cactus spines. Each material offered different sound qualities and durability.

Electric Phonographs:
The development of electric phonographs in the 1920s introduced new needle types, like magnetic and later ceramic cartridges, which could last much longer than their steel counterparts.