Name/Title
Graphophone "Type BM"Entry/Object ID
182Description
Columbia Phonograph Company, USA – ca. 1906
Original retail price: $75
The Graphophone BM is a rare, scaled‑down version of the better‑known BC and the elaborate Twentieth Century Phonograph. Produced only for a short time and in comparatively small numbers, it was intended to transfer the advanced technology of the BC into a more compact and affordable format – with mixed commercial results.
Technical Feature – Higham Reproducer
Like the BC, the BM employed the innovative Higham Reproducer, a mechanical sound‑amplification system. Unlike conventional soundboxes, which worked purely acoustically, this design transmitted the diaphragm’s vibrations to a rotating amber wheel via an ebonite‑mounted shoe. The motion was then mechanically amplified and delivered through an internal sound‑conducting system.
Cabinet and Design
A distinctive feature of the BM is its mahogany case – an unusual choice for a cylinder machine. The elegant deep‑brown finish and inlaid company nameplate gave it an especially refined appearance, placing it well above the look of standard home cylinder phonographs of the time.
Market Position and Reception
With a selling price of $75, the BM was priced well above basic home cylinder phonographs. Despite its technically interesting construction and high‑quality finish, it failed to achieve lasting market success. The high price, relatively complex mechanism, and limited application likely prevented broader adoption.
Rarity Today
Due to its short production run and low manufacturing numbers, surviving original BM machines are rare.
