KEYSTONE STATE

Gramophone needles

KEYSTONE STATEThe 78rpm-Club2024-01-28T13:33:31+01:00

HISTORY

The company, established in 1864 in Philadelphia, was initially a small store selling musical instruments and later became a significant player in the industry, known for manufacturing and distributing a variety of musical instruments and related products.

Their business expanded significantly over the years, moving to larger premises and incorporating in 1904.

The company was known for its line of Weymann string instruments, including the Keystone State brand of banjos, mandolins, and guitars.

H. A. WEYMANN & SON

1108 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia (PA) / USA

TYPES

Full Tone
Half Tone

ADVERTISING

KEYSTONE STATE – Needle Ads

ARTICLES

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.

KEYSTONE STATE

Gramophone needles

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