The spring motor phonograph had two main controls: a
start-stop switch which activated the drive and screw to
retard accelerate the speed rotation. The cost manufacture had been reduced
significantly using many components the old type,
including the top plate and reproducer holder.
The new models 1896 were not radically new machines. Edison had
successfully reoriented the existing technology towards the
user simplifying the machine's operation, the user needed
only place the diaphragm the record. There were still several adjusting screws on
the reproducer assembly which were essential for precise
reproduction. The spring motor machine was planned retail at
about $40 (equal one years lease the old business
.VII-15
reproducer amplify the sound.
They were not "inventions" and hardly justified the label of
"innovations. The
"perfected phonograph" was not the result flash of
inspiration but the endpoint years basic research in
. this way he
eliminated many the operating problems which dogged the
business machine. was simple,
sturdy, and solid. 23
machine) and was aimed the mass market." Edison commented that the 1896 phonograph was
the result design changes rather than any patentable
23
technology. The all important musical reproducer had been
developed 1893, and all that was left after this was to
engineer commercial machine exploit the better fidelty
gained improvements the diaphragm and wax compound
