Edisons phonograph, 1880s
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Edisons phonograph, 1880s
Edisons phonograph. 19th-century artwork of the phonograph developed in 1877 by US inventor Thomas Alva Edison (1847-1931). This device both recorded and recreated sounds using a foil-wrapped cylinder (upper right). Sound waves made the receiver vibrate, leaving a trace on the foil as the cylinder was turned. The recorded sound could then be recreated by attaching listening tubes (bottom) to the receiver, adjusting the position of the needle to the start of the trace, and rotating the cylinder. Distorted but recognisable sounds were produced. This wood engraving dates from circa 1888
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Media ID 9230245
© BILDAGENTUR-ONLINE/TH FOTO/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1888 Audio Device Needle Phonograph Receiver Sounds Thomas Alva Edison Sound Recording
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print transports us back to the 1880s, showcasing one of Thomas Edison's groundbreaking inventions - the phonograph. Developed in 1877 by the brilliant American inventor, this technological marvel revolutionized sound recording and reproduction. The artwork depicts a wooden device with a foil-wrapped cylinder positioned at the upper right corner. As sound waves made their way into the receiver, vibrations were created, leaving an indelible trace on the foil as the cylinder rotated. To recreate recorded sounds, listening tubes are attached to the receiver while carefully adjusting the needle's position to locate the start of the trace. Although producing somewhat distorted sounds, this ingenious contraption marked a significant milestone in audio history. It allowed people to capture and relive moments through sound for perhaps the first time ever. The monochrome illustration beautifully captures both its historical significance and intricate design. Dating back to circa 1888, this wood engraving serves as a testament to Edison's remarkable contributions to technology during that era. With his relentless pursuit of innovation, he paved the way for future advancements in sound recording and playback that we enjoy today. This print from Science Photo Library offers us a glimpse into an era where technological breakthroughs like Edison's phonograph forever changed how we experience and interact with audio recordings.
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