The Columbia "Multiplex Grand" did indeed exist - and one of the two known
examples built may someday miraculously show up. We illustrated the only known
piece from a "Multiplex Grand" in our first book ("The Talking Machine
Compendium"), and the upcoming second edition will include the same photograph
of
Allen Koenigsberg's surviving reproducer carriage w/three reproducers. As
stated
in our book, the "Multiplex Grand" was exhibited at the Paris Exposition in
1900, and one was purchased by the Shah of Persia. A second exhibition of the
"Multiplex Grand" took place during the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. In our
last book ("Phonographica"), a 9 3/4" x 14" circular featuring the "Multiplex
Grand" is shown on page 52. The illustrated flyer offers a lot of information
on this fascinating Graphophone, including its ability to not only play three
different tracks separately (stereo), but to also play a ten-minute recording
by employing only one of its three reproducers and utilizing the entire
nine-inch length of the 5" cylinder!
If I could make a wish and discover any antique phonograph tomorrow in
a local shop, the "Multiplex Grand" would be my choice. That includes the
three 56" horns and special stand, of course!
A Happy New Year to all -
George Paul
