Hey guys!

I have zero knowledge about phonographs.

I have this 1946 Silvertone portabe. It has a crank for the turn table and a power cord to supply the volume.

When I crank it up and place the needle on the 78 I hear the sound but it's very weak.

Could this be a needle issue?

Your thoughts.

Mark

Phonographs from that era often used crystal pickups. The crystal had a short life, as I understand it the moisture in the air would cause it to deteriorate. That could be your problem. Later on, the ceramic pickup was developed and lasts indefinitely. I replaced the pickup in my thirties era phonograph with a modern ceramic version and works great now. Mark from Kalamazoo

Thanks!
How can I determine the model number of my needle?

Kalamazoo??? Neat! As a kid in the 60s I lived in Kalamazoo.
One of my sisters was born there.

Mark
St. Louis

:Phonographs from that era often used crystal pickups. The crystal had a short life, as I understand it the moisture in the air would cause it to deteriorate. That could be your problem. Later on, the ceramic pickup was developed and lasts indefinitely. I replaced the pickup in my thirties era phonograph with a modern ceramic version and works great now. Mark from Kalamazoo

Mark: As far as a model number, I don't know what to tell you. I don't think it's critical. I ordered mine from a gentleman in Mississippi (I think) and he assured me it would work. Might want to do a search on the internet. Small world, you having lived here in Kalamazoo. Mark from Kalamazoo.