i was hunting for records this weekend, and came across the biggest collection of 78s that i've ever seen in my life. lots of classic early jazz and blues, and all very reasonably priced. only problem is i don't have a working record player that can play 78s--does anyone have experience with these? do they have different needles, are there cheap players floating around on ebay? most of the records i was interested in buying were in good condition, but is the sound quality even worth it?

No different needles.

Sound quality is definitely worth it -- it's the equivalent of half-speed mastered.

Good luck finding a player -- don't skimp.

don't know anything about components, but a stereo system my sister had in the mid to late 70s still had the option of playing 33/45/78 rpm records. I wouldn't think it'd require a different type of needle.

my stanton str80 can play 78s. you have to push the 33 and 45 buttons simultaneously and then both sides light up. it wasn't until then that i realized that 33+45=78.

There's an old swiss made turntable called Lenco which DIYers are very fond of upgrading that plays 78s, at least the moldel L75 does. They often come up for sale on ebay, but because they are more popular now with audiophiles looking for a project, they are relatively expensive, usually go for about $150.00. They are built like a tank, have a very reliable and quiet drive system, (which is why they are so popular with DIYers/audiophiles these days) and sound pretty good even without mods.

Here's one that's up for auction on ebay: Lenco L75 on ebay

I actually think that there are a number of players which play 78s. My fiance's does. I own a few 78s, but don't give them much love. I hear though people who start 78s become obsessive though.

Ha! The mold for him:

Warning, this does not work on most players.

I've got 3 cigarette carton boxes jam full of 78's that my great uncle, who was a DJ handed down to me. Some of them are in excellent condition, some not so good. There are titles from Sinatra to Train Sounds. I've always wanted to fire them up (or sell them), but have never had the means (or market).