
( Brand: The Voice Of Music ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 42150 ), ( Part Type: Changer Motor ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )
The **Voice Music 42150 Record Changer with Alliance Motor (1968)** is a meticulously crafted, mid-century masterpiece of audio engineering, embodying the golden era of turntable design when craftsmanship and innovation harmonized to deliver unparalleled sound quality. This fully functional, Alliance-motor-equipped changer is a rare and highly sought-after piece from the late 1960s, a time when record players were not just appliances but statements of style and sonic fidelity. The 42150 stands out as a premium model from Voice Music, a brand synonymous with durability and precision, and its Alliance motor a legendary component known for its smooth, consistent performance ensures flawless operation, even by today s standards. The changer features a sleek, mid-century modern aesthetic with a dark walnut or mahogany finish, accented by clean, angular lines and a minimalist control panel that exudes timeless elegance. The motorized turntable mechanism is both elegant and efficient, designed to handle records with effortless grace, reducing wear on both the player and the disc while delivering a rich, dynamic listening experience.
Under the hood, the Alliance motor renowned for its reliability and low-speed stability drives the changer with near-silent precision, eliminating the need for manual cueing and allowing for seamless playback of entire albums with minimal effort. The turntable itself is built with a sturdy, cast-aluminum platter, ensuring optimal heat dissipation and weight distribution for superior tracking and reduced surface noise. The anti-skate and counterweight mechanisms are finely tuned, allowing for effortless tonearm adjustment and a balanced, accurate tracking path that preserves the integrity of every groove. The changer s design also includes a built-in tonearm with a high-quality stylus, likely a Shibata or similar brand, which, when properly maintained, can deliver an exceptionally clean and detailed sound, capturing the nuances of vintage recordings with remarkable clarity.
Beyond its technical excellence, the 42150 is a collector s item, reflecting the cultural and technological advancements of the late 1960s. Its presence in a room immediately evokes nostalgia for an era when vinyl was the dominant medium for music, and the act of playing records was an art form in itself. The changer s manual operation complete with a lever for loading and ejecting records adds a tactile, almost ritualistic quality to the listening experience, making it not just a piece of audio equipment but a functional heirloom. For audiophiles, vintage enthusiasts, and collectors, this 1968 Voice Music 42150 represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of history that bridges the gap between mid-century design and modern audio appreciation. With its Alliance motor tested and confirmed in good working condition, this changer is ready to serve as the centerpiece of any vinyl lover s collection, offering both aesthetic charm and sonic performance that remains impressive even by contemporary standards.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying a 1968 Voice Music 42150 Record Changer (Alliance Motor, Tested/Good Condition)**
#### **Pros:**1. **Vintage Aesthetic and Collectibility** The 1968 Voice Music 42150 is a classic piece of mid-century design, blending wood, metal, and chrome in a stylish, retro look. For collectors or those who appreciate mid-20th-century furniture, it adds character to a room.
2. **Functional and Well-Built** Voice Music was known for producing durable, high-quality record changers. The Alliance motor was a reliable component, ensuring smooth operation when properly maintained. The mechanism is designed to handle vinyl records efficiently.
3. **Space-Saving Design** Unlike bulky standalone turntables, the 42150 is a compact record changer that stacks records vertically, saving floor space while still offering a full stereo experience.
4. **Stereo Sound Capability** Being a stereo unit, it provides a richer listening experience compared to mono record changers, making it suitable for serious audiophiles of its era.
5. **Potential for Restoration and Upgrades** With some effort, the unit can be restored to working order. Modern components, such as a new motor or tonearm, can be installed to improve performance, making it a project for DIY enthusiasts.
6. **Nostalgia Factor** For those who grew up with vinyl or appreciate retro technology, owning a piece of this era adds sentimental value.
7. **Resale Value for Collectors** Well-preserved models, especially those with original components, can hold value among vintage audio collectors.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Age and Wear** At 56 years old, the unit may show signs of wear, such as scratched wood, faded paint, or worn-out rubber feet. Even if tested as "good," there may be hidden mechanical issues.
2. **Maintenance Requirements** Older record changers require regular upkeep, including cleaning the mechanism, lubricating moving parts, and ensuring the motor functions properly. Neglect can lead to jams or breakdowns.
3. **Limited Availability of Parts** Finding replacement parts for a 1968 model can be difficult. While some components (like motors or tonearms) may still be available, others (such as specific gears or switches) could be obsolete.
4. **Potential for Hidden Defects** Even if the seller states it s "tested and good," there s always a risk of undetected issues, such as a failing motor, worn-out belts, or misaligned record loading. A thorough inspection is essential.
5. **Not Ideal for Heavy Use** Unlike modern turntables, the 42150 is not built for constant, high-volume use. Frequent operation may accelerate wear on the mechanism.
6. **Compatibility Issues** The unit may not work seamlessly with modern audio systems unless adapted. Some users may need an amplifier or phono preamp to connect it to modern speakers or receivers.
7. **Cost of Restoration** If the unit needs significant repairs (e.g., motor replacement, electrical work), the cost could outweigh its value, especially for casual listeners.
8. **Space Constraints** While compact, the record changer still occupies vertical space. If storage is limited, it may not be as practical as a modern turntable.
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### **Conclusion:**The 1968 Voice Music 42150 record changer is a fascinating piece of vintage audio equipment with strong appeal for collectors, retro enthusiasts, and those who enjoy DIY restoration projects. Its pros such as its classic design, functional stereo capability, and potential for upgrades make it a unique addition to a home or collection. However, its cons including maintenance demands, part availability, and the risk of hidden issues mean it is not a practical choice for casual listeners or those seeking a hassle-free audio experience.
For someone with mechanical skills, an appreciation for vintage aesthetics, and the willingness to invest time in restoration, this record changer could be a rewarding purchase. For others, a modern turntable or a simpler, more reliable vintage model might be a better fit.
### **Recommendation:**- **Buy if:** You are a collector, enjoy retro design, have experience with electronics/mechanical repairs, and are willing to restore or upgrade the unit. Consider it as a project rather than a plug-and-play device.
- **Avoid if:** You prioritize convenience, have no interest in maintenance, or are looking for a turntable that works seamlessly with modern systems without additional effort.
- **Alternative Considerations:** If you love the vintage look but want something more reliable, look for a newer (but still classic) record changer from brands like Rek-O-Kut or a well-preserved model from the 1970s 1980s. For modern use, a high-quality turntable with a built-in preamp (e.g., Pro-Ject, Audio-Technica, or Technics) may be a more practical choice.
Before purchasing, inspect the unit closely, test it thoroughly, and consider consulting an audio restoration specialist if unsure about its condition.
Works good tested on Mauriac 117 VAC.