Name/Title
Aérophone No. 4 – French Disc Phonograph with Patented Volume ControlEntry/Object ID
241Description
French Disc Phonograph with Patented Volume Control
Manufacturer: Aérophone, Paris – c. 1910–1912
Historical Background
The Aérophone is a prime example of the innovative spirit of early 20th‑century French disc phonograph manufacturers. Active around 1910, the Aérophone company produced several technically sophisticated models distinguished by elegant cabinet designs and patented technical features.
In competition with major international brands such as Pathé, Odeon, and the Gramophone Company, Aérophone relied on its own engineering solutions rather than merely copying foreign models. The company’s most distinctive innovation was its patented volume control integrated directly into the tonearm – a rare feature at the time.
Technical Features
Patented tonearm‑integrated volume control (Breveté S.G.D.G.): An adjustable internal opening allowed the listener to mechanically regulate loudness without significantly affecting playback quality.
Curved mahogany cabinet with turned corner columns – finely crafted and beautifully lacquered.
Large copper or brass horn (Grand Pavillon), polished or nickel‑plated, providing strong and vibrant sound projection.
Precision motor mechanism with large 27 cm turntable, durable spring motor, and smooth running performance.
Aérophone soundbox bearing the company’s name on the front, optimised for shellac disc reproduction.
Advertising and Marketing
A 1911 catalogue promoted the No. 4 as the choice for discerning music lovers:
“Cet appareil joue 5 disques sans être remonté” – “This device plays 5 records without rewinding.”
Priced at 190 Francs, it was positioned in the upper‑mid to premium segment of contemporary disc phonographs. Advertisements praised:
The precision mechanism (mouvement de grande précision)
The luxurious mahogany case (boîte grand luxe)
The patented acoustic regulator in the tonearm (bras acoustique régulateur de sons)
Significance
The Aérophone No. 4 is a rare representative of French disc phonograph production before the First World War, combining technical sophistication with aesthetic refinement. Its blend of fine craftsmanship, striking design, and the innovative tonearm‑integrated volume control makes it a prized collector’s piece.
The example displayed at the Edisonium illustrates the elegance and ingenuity of French phonograph engineering of the period – a work of technical artistry that marries musical enjoyment with engineering excellence.
