Re: [ARSCLIST] Using desiccant with audio recordings

[Robert Hodge <rjhodge@xxxxxxx>]

Hello Barbara,

I have worked with large collections of shellac discs stored in
unheated
outbuildings. As long as critters are kept out of them and they remain
dry, they never audibly degrade !! At least that's my experience. 

Of course, cold shellac or wax is extremely prone to breakage due to
brittleness !! Double that for wax amberol cylinders !!

The dessicant would be a good idea for wax cylinders. 
But then I wouldn't store wax cylinders or shellac anywhere where I
myself could not live !!

Bob Hodge


         
>>> mrichter@xxxxxxx 2/13/2007 3:17 PM >>>
Language Archives wrote:
> I have to pack up my archive for storage in the University library
while 
> construction happens around my space. I was asked about the need to
put 
> (advisability of putting) desiccant in with the recordings. I don't
know 
> for certain how long they will be in boxes--we may unpack them for 
> access on the other end, and while they think construction will end
in 
> August, who knows!

I suspect that it will be important to know two things: what sort of 
material (cylinders, 78s, lacquers, LPs, ??); what sort of storage 
environment.

Mike
-- 
mrichter@xxxxxxx 
http://www.mrichter.com/

Robert Hodge,
Senior Engineer
Belfer Audio Archive
Syracuse University
222 Waverly Ave .
Syracuse N.Y. 13244-2010

315-443- 7971
FAX-315-443-4866