0811 OSCAR SCHMIDT Marxophone Circa

Review OSCAR SCHMIDT Marxophone Circa Case

The Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone, manufactured between approximately 1926 and 1931, is a fascinating and historically significant musical instrument that merges the unique qualities of a zither and a piano. This Marxophone, a product of the esteemed Oscar Schmidt Company, is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its time.

Upon first glance, the 0811 Marxophone exhibits a vintage elegance with its rich mahogany cabinet, adorned with intricate inlays and ornate decorative elements. The instrument's dimensions measure approximately 58 inches in length, 20 inches in width, and 14 inches in height, making it a substantial yet manageable size for both home and stage performances.

As you carefully approach the instrument, you'll notice the 0811 Marxophone's unique layout, which features 17 metal resonator bars arranged in a fan-like pattern, each bar spanning the width of the instrument. These bars are played by lightly striking them with mallets, which are held in the player's hands. The bars are tuned to specific pitches, allowing the player to create melodies and harmonies by striking the bars in various combinations.

Beneath the resonator bars lies a row of 72 strings, which are played by the left hand using a plectrum. The strings are arranged in five sets, each set corresponding to a specific chord or tonality. By pressing the appropriate keys with the left hand, the player can produce the accompanying harmonies that complement the melody played by the right hand on the resonator bars.

The Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone is equipped with a damper pedal, which allows the player to sustain notes and add expressiveness to their performance. The instrument also features a sustaining pedal, which allows the player to hold down multiple notes at once.

The 0811 Marxophone's soundboard is crafted from a high-quality spruce wood, which contributes to the instrument's rich and resonant tone. The sound is further amplified by a set of wooden resonators located beneath the instrument, which help to project the sound and fill a room with beautiful, harmonious music.

In conclusion, the Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone is a captivating and historically significant musical instrument that offers a unique blend of melodic and harmonic possibilities. Its vintage elegance, intricate craftsmanship, and rich, resonant sound make it a treasured piece for any collector or performer. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a curious novice, the 0811 Marxophone is sure to captivate and inspire you with its timeless charm and boundless potential.

A Detailed Analysis of the Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone (Circa 1926-1931) - Pros, Cons, and Conclusion

The Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone, manufactured between 1926 and 1931, is an intriguing and historical musical instrument. Let's explore the pros and cons of purchasing this unique instrument:

1. Authentic Historical Instrument: The Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone is an authentic historical instrument, providing a unique playing experience and adding character to any music collection.

2. Unique Sound: The Marxophone produces a sound that is a mix between a zither and a harp, creating an interesting and distinctive tone.

3. Durable Construction: Known for their high-quality craftsmanship, Oscar Schmidt instruments are built to last. The 0811 Marxophone's solid construction ensures that it can withstand the test of time.

4. Versatility: This instrument can be used for various musical genres, from classical to experimental, making it a versatile addition to any musician's arsenal.

5. Rare Find: Given its age and rarity, owning an Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone is a significant accomplishment for any collector or musician.

1. Limited Availability: Due to its age and rarity, finding a well-preserved Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone for sale can be quite challenging and time-consuming.

2. Potential Repair Costs: Given its age, there is a chance that the instrument may require repairs, which can be costly.

3. Learning Curve: The Marxophone has a unique playing style and technique, which may require some time and effort to master.

4. Size and Weight: The instrument's size and weight make it less portable than other musical instruments, limiting its versatility for musicians who travel frequently.

5. Limited Resale Value: Given the rarity and specificity of the instrument, resale value may be limited, making it a potentially risky investment for some.

In conclusion, the Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone offers a unique playing experience with its distinctive sound and historical significance. However, its rarity, potential repair costs, and limited availability for sale are important factors to consider. Ultimately, the decision to purchase this instrument depends on an individual's personal interest in historical musical instruments, willingness to invest time and resources into learning and maintaining the instrument, and the value they place on its unique sound and historical significance.

If you are a serious collector, musician, or historian with a passion for unique and historical musical instruments, the Oscar Schmidt 0811 Marxophone may be worth considering. However, it is essential to thoroughly research the instrument's condition, potential repair costs, and availability before making a purchase. Additionally, it may be helpful to try playing the instrument before purchasing to ensure a good fit and to fully appreciate its unique sound.

Details:

Refer to photos. Number 15 hammer a little sticky needs to be oiled. Couple of strings missing. In used condition.

specifications stringinstrume:

• brand: Oscar Schmidt
• mpn: 0811
• part type: Case
• instrument: Marxophone
• year manufactured: 1931
• material: Wood
• country/region of manufacture: United States
• vintage: Yes

returns stringinstrume:

• time: 30 days
• policy: returns accepted
• method: money back
• paid by: buyer

offer stringinstrume:

• sold #: 13
• started: august 5, 2025
• options: ship-to-home
• quantity: 1
• availability: in stock

general stringinstrume:

• category: Musical Instruments > String

shipping stringinstrume:

• service: standard
• type: fixed
• class: standard
• transit: 4-10 days

seller stringinstrume:

• city: costa mesa, california
• # reviews: 24713
• rating: 98.2%

payments stringinstrume:

• credit card: mastercard
• wallet: paypal
• other