VV-80 / VE-80

VV-80 / VE-80

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The VV-80 was Victor's 'economy' floor-model phonograph when introduced in early 1921. Its launch was concurrent with the reorganizing of the entire Victrola product line. These new models used conventional number designations rather than the previous Roman numerals, but they were essentially the same products that had been offered for more than 10 years prior, with moderately redesigned cabinets. The VV-80 was the lowest-priced floor model in the new series. It was considered to be a basic entry-level machine, with a minimum of features and decoration. The VV-80 was considerably smaller than any previous Victrola floor-model; at only 40" tall, it was verging on being 'child-like' in height. Like most of the low-price models in the early 1920s, the VV-80 was produced via automated machining processes, with no hand-carving or ornate trim. All VV-80 models had the semi-automatic brake and a two-spring motor. It was available in a selection of mahogany, oak or walnut veneers, but the most popular choice by far was mahogany with a dark stain applied (left). While the VV-80 sold quite well, increased competition in the talking machine business forced Victor to significantly enlarge the cabinet at the end of 1922, making it appear more substantial and appealing (right). This upgrade also included a bigger horn opening and a sleeker, low-profile lid. Production of the VV-80 was discontinued toward the end of 1924, but this product remained in the Victor catalog throughout 1925. Due to the overproduction of these machines during 1923 and 1924, it is quite likely that many late-production VV-80's were sold during Victor's well-advertised "half-price" sale during the summer of 1925. For more information on Victor's financial crisis of 1924-1925 and the overproduction of phonographs, please click here. The original 1921 selling price of the VV-80 was $100.00, which equates to more than $1,900.00 in today's money. An estimated total of 185,000 VV-80 models were produced. A very small quantity of VE-80 (electric motor) models were also produced during the latter part of 1924. Due to the large volume that were originally produced, the VV-80 (and many similar Victrola models) are typically ignored by collectors today, unless in exceptional original condition. They are simply too basic in design, and far too many were produced to be considered 'collectible' in the current market.

The survival database currently shows the earliest existent VV-80 to be S/N 507 and the latest to be S/N 185829. Only one surviving VE-80 has been documented to date.

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