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vintage Masterwork Solid State Automatic 4-Speed Portable Record Playe - $35 (ALBUQUERQUE)
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Brand & Technical Background
• Brand History: Masterwork was the dedicated consumer electronics brand name utilized by Columbia Records (CBS) during the mid-twentieth century. They specialized in mid-tier home audio equipment, portable phonographs, and console stereos.
• Mechanism: This unit utilizes an automatic stacker-changer turntable mechanism (often manufactured by BSR or V-M Corporation for Columbia). It is a "4-speed" unit capable of playing vinyl records at 16, 33, 45, or 78 RPM.
• Amplification: The "Solid State" designation highlights that it uses early integrated transistor circuitry rather than older vacuum tubes. This allowed for a much smaller chassis, cooler operation, and a quicker startup time.
• Electrical Data: The back panel plate lists the model as M-1904 and states it operates on standard AC current (110–120 Volts, 60 Cycles, 50 Watts).
Design & Materials
• Chassis & Case: Designed as a "suitcase" style portable record player. It is constructed with a wooden structural frame wrapped in a distinctive two-tone, textured brown and cream vinyl cloth faux-leather finish with a sharp angled dividing line.
• Control Plate: Features a dark gold/silver glitter front panel fabric, fitted with clear plastic dials for tone and volume adjustment.
• Hardware: Outfitted with an integrated white plastic structural carrying handle, dual gold-tone metal latches, rear hinges, a protective metal ventilation grille, and small metal structural feet on the opposite sides for vertical storage.
Condition Assessment
The record player is in fair, unrestored vintage condition. The exterior vinyl wrap shows distinct water staining, surface grime, and corner peeling (visible on the top right edge of the case lid). Internally, the plastic tonearm, rubber turntable platter mat, and center automatic adapter rod appear structurally intact.
Note on internals: Audio components of this age almost universally require internal restoration before safe use. The grease inside the mechanical gears hardens over time, rubber drive idler wheels dry out causing speed inconsistencies, and electronic capacitors can degrade or buzz.