• Year
  • 1922 ?
  • Category
  • Talking machine - Mechanical Gramophone/Phonograph 
  • Radiomuseum.org ID
  • 354392

 Technical Specifications

  • Wave bands
  • - without
  • Details
  • Record Player (not changer)
  • Power type and voltage
  • Solar- and/or muscle driven, also addl. power jack possible
  • Loudspeaker
  • Horn
  • Material
  • Wooden case
  • from Radiomuseum.org
  • Model: The Flamephone - Scientific & Projections, Ltd.
  • Shape
  • Portable set > 8 inch (also usable without mains)
  • Dimensions (WHD)
  • 17 x 14 x 8 inch / 432 x 356 x 203 mm
  • Notes
  • The most revolutionary discovery in modern gramophony.
    Something entirely new in acoustical science. By the application of a pulsating gas flame, the usual reproducing horn is entirely eliminated. The sound waves as they impinge the air are conducted through two columns of gas flame, thereby being reproduced in all their natural volume and tonality.
    Ordinary town gas is used, between ½  and ¾d per hour, burning continuously. 
    Obviously, this device is also equipped with a Garrad spring motor which is wound by hand like all turntables of the same type.
    The greatest revolutionary principle in gramophone construction.

    The lavish mahogany case and the mesmerizing reflection of the gas jets in the aluminum shield added a touch of elegance.

    Critical Reception and Commercial Realities (1923):

    A 1923 review in Gramophone magazine acknowledged the ingenuity of the Flamephone. The reviewer noted the "wonderful way" in which the gas jets improved sound volume and clarity. However, limitations were also identified. The semi-portability due to the gas requirement and a slightly "hard" tonal character compared to other gramophones were drawbacks. Additionally, the high cost of the Flamephone, at £17 10s for the semi-portable model, likely put it out of reach for many potential customers.

  • Net weight (2.2 lb = 1 kg)
  • 22 lb (22 lb 0 oz) / 9.988 kg
  • Mentioned in
  • -- Original prospect or advert (“Fonografi e Grammofoni” by Christopher Proudfoot, Italian edition “Silvana Editoriale” 1980.)
  • Author
  • Model page created by Pier Antonio Aluffi. See "Data change" for further contributors.

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