Max Wurcker Reproducer c.1909

1909: Max Wurcker was a ‘jobber’ for Edison in Sydney. He would have been well acquainted with the Edison Phonographs he was assembling in Australia.

Looking to improve the quality of reproduction, Wurcker designed and built a compatible but much larger reproducer than the Edison Standard Type C. (Pic 1). The largest improvement was the use of a domed aluminium diaphragm patented by a J.G. Coombs, instead of the Edison mica-type. Coombs was clearly years ahead of his time. The horn was larger with a larger connector. Wucker supplied a horn with the kit, but a flexible tubing could be used to connect to a smaller Edison horn.

This increased bass and frequency range but unfortunately at a decrease in volume – which ultimately affected sales.

There were seven different models built, which were sold throughout Australia and New Zealand for 30 shillings. Nowadays, they are as rare as hens’ teeth.