Out of the authors' latest explorations, this gorgeous new book has come to life---illustrating entirely different talking machines from those in their previous books. Follow the progress of the acoustic talking machine from its crude beginnings in the 1870s to its most splendid and sophisticated heights in the early 20th century. An unparalleled archive of rare, fascinating, and previously undocumented objects has been assembled. The story behind the beautiful, bright machinery is told through clear and insightful descriptions, and many previously unpublished facts are revealed.

History of the phonograph in text and photographs covering the technology advances and the business enterprises that promoted phonographs and sound recording.

Traces the history and evolution of the gramophone, the intricacies of recording sound on discs or cylinders and the complex early development of the record industry. This book is suitable for music enthusiasts.