This is the Brunswick Cortez, an extremely rare floor-standing phonograph for playing SP records, developed by Brunswick Records and released in the 1920s.
Brunswick was a long-established manufacturer that had been producing piano parts since the 1800s. In the early 1900s, following the release of phonographs by companies such as Victor Talking Machine and Edison, Brunswick also began developing its own phonographs. The company started developing parts in the 1910s, and in 1920, it officially introduced its first phonographs: the Panatrope series and this Cortez model.
From around 1925, phonographs began transitioning from hand-wound operation to electric drive systems. Alongside Bell Laboratories’ cylinder phonographs, Brunswick’s phonographs can be considered among the world’s oldest manual turntable/phonograph systems, making this an exceptionally rare piece.
A Large Open-Horn Phonograph Unlike Victor or Edison Models
Because Brunswick had long specialized in the precision manufacturing of piano components, its phonographs were exceptionally well made compared with many competitors. Even at the time, they were highly regarded for their stable operation and sound quality.
The company’s original large open-horn design, also seen in this unit, produced sound pressure that surpassed many other models of the era. Brunswick was able to offer sound quality and functionality comparable to, or even greater than, the flagship models from Victor and Bell at a more affordable price, which helped establish the company’s reputation.
Fully Tested and Guaranteed Working
This unit has been tested and confirmed to be in working condition.
The motor operates very smoothly, with virtually no abnormal noise or uneven rotation. Its smooth performance gives little sense of its age and reflects the high level of craftsmanship and precision of the engineers of the time.
Note: Since this is an antique item, restoration has intentionally been kept to a minimum. We recommend this piece for those with some knowledge of vintage equipment. Please note that this item is sold as-is with no claims accepted.
Handling Notes
- Please replace the playback needle with a new one after approximately every two SP records, or about 2–4 songs.
- The motor is powered by turning the dedicated crank.
When fully wound, it can play for approximately 20 minutes.
Please refer to the operation video below for details. - Depending on the record label and the material of the SP record, speed adjustment may be required.
Winning Bid Bonus
As a bonus for the winning bidder, this unit will include several dedicated SP needles in two types:
- Soft Tone
- Loud Tone
Note: SP needles and SP records can vary in compatibility. Depending on the depth and width of the record grooves, some needles may not perform consistently. When playing an SP record on this machine for the first time, please always test it first with a Soft Tone needle, then select the most suitable needle.
[Specifications]
Motor Specifications
Supported Speed:
78 rpm
Compatible Records:
10-inch SP records
Drive System:
Hand-wound motor
Platter:
11.75 inches / 30 cm
Playback:
Monaural
Cabinet Specifications
Dimensions:
755 mm W × 1100 mm H × 570 mm D
Approx. 29.7 in W × 43.3 in H × 22.4 in D
Weight:
Approx. 75–100 kg
Approx. 165–220 lbs
Volumetric Weight When Packed:
Over approx. 150 kg
Over approx. 330 lbs
[Operation Video]
Operation and sound output have been tested and are guaranteed.