Topic: 78 Rpm

The Internet Archive and its founder Brewster Kahle face multiple lawsuits from record labels over the digital preservation of 78 RPM records from the early 20th century. Despite many of these recordings being obscure or out of print, labels claim performance rights violations. Collectors argue that digitizing these fragile discs is essential for cultural preservation, as the physical media degrades with every playback.

The hosts play a classic, profanity-laced outtake of radio legend Casey Kasem struggling to transition from an up-tempo song to a somber "long distance dedication" about a dead dog. This leads to a discussion about the history of recorded music, from Thomas Edison's cylinders to 78 RPM shellac discs. Dvorak highlights the "78 Project" on Archive.org as a significant resource for preserving high-fidelity historical recordings.

A Thorens turntable was rediscovered in an obscure closet, prompting a discussion on the mechanics of vintage audio formats. The conversation covers the collection of 78 RPM Broadway show tune albums from the 1920s and 1930s, which often contain recordings never re-released on modern formats. Technical details regarding 16, 33, 45, and 78 RPM speeds are explored, noting that higher rotation speeds were originally necessary to maintain audio fidelity in mechanical recordings.

Dustin Hoffman has been accused of sexual harassment involving an incident from 35 years ago. The discussion of historical misconduct in the entertainment industry transitions into a look at "The Queen of Party Records," Ruth Wallis. Her song "Boobs," which features lyrics about having a third breast in the back for dancing, is cited as an example of the "mixed messages" found in vintage comedy and pop culture.

In response to a listener question, Dvorak describes his use of a Kyocera 620 receiver, which he considers one of the finest ever made. He also mentions owning a crank-style gramophone for playing 78 RPM records, specifically referencing a 1920s comedy act called The Black Crows.