Maison Robert Business Name & Tagline

Phonograph Repair & Restoration

Our repair techs are here to lovingly restore your cherished phonographs to their former glory, carefully balancing time-honored techniques with modern methodologies. We understand the unique challenges of vintage phonograph repair and restoration, and we take the time to carefully assess each piece thoroughly before we begin work. We’re dedicated to using only the finest original parts and materials, ensuring we preserve the character and optimize the function of each and every phonograph.

Welcome to Our Shop

Common Phonograph Repairs

Mainspring Repair: The mainspring, often a tightly wound coil of steel, stores and releases energy to drive the turntable. Over time, these springs can become worn, damaged, or lose their tension entirely, leading to issues with the phonograph’s functionality.

To perform mainspring repair, we carefully disassemble the phonograph, assess the condition of the mainspring, and either restore or replace it as needed. Most springs can be repaired and re-greased at a lower cost than replacement.

*It most common for us to remove the phonograph’s motorboard on location for bench repair in our shop. No need to worry about risking damage by transporting the phonograph as a whole.

Motor Refurbishment: We believe in fair and transparent service. If your repairs are straightforward and require minimal bench time, we won’t charge you for a full overhaul – you only pay for the time we invest, which is often much less than you’d expect. We’re dedicated to providing hassle-free experiences, which is why our repair estimates are always complimentary before any work begins. Whether you require new governor springs, a broken mainspring replacement, or a comprehensive motor disassembly for thorough cleaning, inspection, adjustment, and testing, we’ve got you covered.

Reproducer Refurbish & Repair: Our prices encompass a complete rejuvenation package, featuring ultrasonic cleaning, fresh gaskets, mica replacement, meticulous polishing, and precise adjustments. For any additional parts or specialized repairs necessary, we offer the lowest fair pricing, with no surprises. Your satisfaction is our priority, which is why we never proceed with any repairs or add parts without your explicit approval. Rest assured, all our work undergoes rigorous testing, and we stand by our commitment by guaranteeing the quality and performance of every restoration.

Structural Repair:

Aesthetic Repairs: These repairs are focused on improving the overall appearance of the woodwork while preserving its original integrity. They may include tasks such as:

  • Refinishing: Stripping off the old finish, sanding, and applying a new finish (e.g., varnish, lacquer) to restore the wood’s luster.
  • Polishing: Buffing the wood to a shine, which can remove scratches, dents or water marks and enhance the natural wood grain.
  • Wood Staining: Applying a stain to enhance the wood’s color or match it to the intention of the original finish.
  • Inlay or Veneer Repair: Fixing or replacing decorative inlays or veneer that may have become damaged or detached over time.
  • Cleaning: Removing dirt, grime, or old adhesive residue from the wood surface.

Structural Repairs: These are essential for ensuring the phonograph’s functionality and stability. They may include tasks such as:

  • Crack and Split Repair: Mending any cracks or splits in the wood to prevent further damage.
  • Gluing and Clamping: Rejoining loose or separated parts using specialized wood glue and clamps.
  • Reinforcement: Adding internal supports or braces to strengthen weak or compromised areas.
  • Replacement: Replacing severely damaged or missing wooden components with carefully crafted replicas or matching materials.
  • Alignment and Adjustment: Ensuring that all wooden parts are properly aligned to maintain the phonograph’s operational integrity.
Maison Robert Minneapolis
MRM Phonograph Repar & Restoration

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pres·er·va·tion

|ˌprezərˈvāSH(ə)n|

 

“Preservation transcends mere historical custodianship; it’s the silent keeper of our cultural dawn..”

Maison Robert Preservation & Restoration

Restore

The goal of vintage restoration is to preserve the original character and integrity of the item. This means using materials and techniques that are as close to the original as possible. Vintage restorers also take care to preserve any unique features or patina that the item may have developed over time.

Refinish

At Maison Robert, we believe that vintage items are treasures that should be cherished. That’s why we take the utmost care in refinishing our vintage pieces, using only the highest quality materials and techniques.

We understand that every vintage item is unique, and we work to preserve its original character and integrity while also improving its appearance and functionality.

Repair

We believe that vintage items have unique value, have a history and character that cannot be replicated, and that should be preserved.

Vintage items are often made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, and they can last for many many years if they are properly cared for. They made it this far. We also believe that preservation is a way we can show our respect for the past, pay homage, and contribute to creating a more sustainable future.

How It Works

Phonograph Repair & Restoration

Tell us about what you have, what your requirements are, or vision is for that piece, and we’ll take it from there.

Book An Appointment

Get In Touch

11 + 14 =

01

Contact Us For Quote

Reach out via the “start here” link, or call directly if you prefer to. We’ll assess time & cost and send a quote to you.

02

Schedule A Pickup or Dropoff

Once the quote has been agreed to, we will arrange a time for you to drop off (no charge), or to pick up (small fee) your item. We also offer onsite repairs in some cases.

03

Project Complete

We will notify you by email/text that you item is complete, along with an online payment link. If we are dropping off, we will work with you to choose a suitable time for you to receive your item.