The Polyphone attachment represents one of the more unique innovations in the early development of the phonograph. Patented 1898 by Leon Douglass, Polyphone attachments were designed to be compatible with the Edison Gem, Standard, Home, Concert, Spring Motor, and Class M models, as well as the Columbia Type A and Columbia Type B ‘Eagle.’ The operating principle of the Polyphone was straightforward: it employed two distinct reproducers, each with its own horn, which simultaneously tracked the same groove of the cylinder, albeit with a slight delay of just a fraction of a second. This specific Polyphone attachment is mounted on an early Edison Standard, often referred to as a ‘Square Top’ or ‘Suitcase’ Standard due to its square lid and suitcase-style latches. It comes complete with the original horns along with the carriage. While it is believed that the reproducers may be reproductions, this remains uncertain. The overall appearance of the machine is quite remarkable, and it includes the lid as well. The Polyphone was among the limited number of phonograph inventions that nearly fulfilled their initial promise;, it ultimately did not achieve widespread success and was made obsolete by the introduction of the louder molded cylinders in 1902. Very few units of this attachment still exist today, likely due to the challenges associated with adjusting them for perfect tracking. Any questions, feel free to ask!
