First we have to find the jukeboxes! Sounds easy but as some are over 50 years old they are getting harder to find. Quality is also important, even at this stage as a jukebox with the wrong parts or wood worm is never going to make a good investment. For this reason we often import machines directly from the USA as they tend to be in better condition.

After a full assessment, to check for any major mechanical or structural problems, the strip down starts. The “bright work” is removed from the cabinet, polished and replated where required. The cabinet is cleaned and prepared for painting or for new veneer to be fitted. For customs, the theme is decided so that the new colour scheme can be selected.

The record changer mechanism is removed, cleaned and inspected. All motors are stripped, lubricated and service parts added where required (brushes etc). The tone arm will be dismantled and reassembled with a new cartridge and any other parts that are required. Rubber components tend to have perished so these are replaced as a matter of course. The set-up of the mechanism is very important for reliable operation and so we use the original factory service manuals to ensure they are correctly adjusted.

The electrical system will benefit from a comprehensive overhaul with relays serviced, connectors cleaned and any dodgy looking wiring is replaced. If the jukebox has been imported from the USA it is converted to work safely on our 240V mains electricity.

The sound system is fully checked at this stage (our favourite part of the restoration) right down to component level. In the case of valve amplifiers, all electrolytic and signal path capacitors will be renewed to ensure reliability and sound quality. Even the resistors are checked and any noisy, or out of tolerance parts replaced. Valves and loud speakers are tested and replaced as necessary - we won’t cut corners!

For the custom jukeboxes the designs are created using professional graphics software and the finished artwork digitally printed on specialist material using UV stable inks. This results in bright, vibrant colours that last.