[Phono-L] Orthophonic Reproducer Gaskets question...

[DanKj]

 The outside edge of the Orthophonic diaphragm isn't supposed to move, so is 
clamped down between those thin paper gaskets.  There's really no advantage 
in switching to something softer, as it'll be too thin to offer any 
cushioning AND will still be squashed down hard & flat by the reproducer 
shell.  Preventing air leaks is the only real function of the Orthophonic 
gaskets.  Brunswick used the same type of shellacked paper or cardboard in 
their acoustic "Panatrope" box.

 I have a portable (made specifically for the Linguaphone language courses) 
which has a weird combo:  an Ortho-like aluminum diaphragm AND hollow rubber 
gaskets, same as used with mica.  The box is of the one-piece type, on which 
the second gasket is tucked-in around the rim ... replacing those was 
frustrating as Heck, because until the entire top gasket was in, the uneven 
pressure buckled the diaphragm horribly!   The sound quality is good, but 
not any better than an Orthophonic.





----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Steven Medved" <steve_noreen at msn.com>
To: "Phono-l" <phono-l at oldcrank.org>
Sent: Monday, March 22, 2010 11:34 AM
Subject: Re: [Phono-L] Orthophonic Reproducer Gaskets question...


>
> Hello Al,
>
> The original looks like paper coated with shellac to me.  I have spoken to 
> people who rebuild them and they tell me you get better sound from 
> neoprene.  I would assume Ron Sitko is selling them.
>
> Steve
>
>> From: ClockworkHome at aol.com
>> Date: Mon, 22 Mar 2010 05:26:27 -0400
>> To: phono-l at oldcrank.org
>> Subject: Re: [Phono-L] Orthophonic Reproducer Gaskets question...
>>
>> Does anyone on this learned list know what material was used as gaskets 
>> on
>> the Victor Orthophonic reproducer?  I have been asked to make a punch and
>> die to cut them out but if someone is already making them I don't intend 
>> on
>> reinventing the wheel.