Turn-of-the-century sound machines enjoyed a viable commercial existence as did their accessories and options. The writers, who are both collectors and researchers, examined some 20,000
documents and photographed examples from over 35 collections for this compilation of phonograph horns (made of glass, brass, wood and aluminum), cylinder gadgets, needle tins, record cleaners,
record repeaters and autostops, talking machine toys, and cylinder and disk storage cases. (And that’s only the beginning of the intriguing, sometimes hilarious products on the market to
enhance enjoyment of the early phonograph.) Each item is shown in a color photo and is fully identified, with value information included. Introductory essays discuss the products’ makers,
marketers, and consumers; and historical photos show the products being used. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
