Featured Phonograph - Sonora Elite

[audiophile102]

 

Presenting my new acquisition, a Sonora Elite serial number 1070472.  Finding one of these isn't easy and finding one with an oak cabinet even harder.  I believe that this is an early version due to the details of the grill and the 1914 patent date.  The condition of the cabinet is excellent with the usual marks here and there.  No plant stain on the top!  I spent several hours cleaning the cabinet.  The turn table fabric appears to be original.  The reproducer was in dire need of rebuilding.  The gaskets were so hard and brittle they shattered into dust when removed. The sound made with the rebuilt reproducer is really quite nice. The Swiss made motor didn't require any service, but a few drops lubrication oil.  The auto stop mechanism did require service as it clicked right along with the record, but refused to activate the stop lever.

In order to make room for the Sonora I sold my Victrola IX with the matching Pooley cabinet on Craigslist.  It was a fine machine, but it doesn't come close to the beauty of the Elite.   I misidentified it as a Baby Grand which is on one of the proof sheets.

The Sonora was found at an estate sale in the Chicago suburbs last year by my good friend Roger Merenkov who generously gave it to me as a gift after I helped him move out of his shop. I will be making a video in the coming days and posting it on my You Tube page. 

Edited March 26, 2023 by audiophile102
Misidentified the model

[PatheLogical]

Please see my PM.

[Django]

Beautiful machine.  Thanks for sharing.

[phonogfp]

I've always been an admirer of Sonoras - especially the bombe models.  Outstanding build quality, excellent Paillard motors, and a distinctive appearance - what's not to like?

 

Congratulations!

 

George P.

[BruceW]

Double winner.  A beautiful majestic machine and in oak.  Congratulations and thank you for sharing

 

Bruce