Regarding Daniel Sokolow's audio query:

It sounds like you have some transcription discs that may be LP but more
likely have larger grooves like 2.0 to 2.3 mil which would require a
larger stylus.  It also sounds like they are the standard aluminum based
acetates or lacquer discs. (probably nitrocellulose acetate)  It is
unlikely they are on a glass base unless they are from the WWII era.
You can easily tell by putting them up to a strong light source. If you
can't see light through them - like looking through very dark
sunglasses- then you can be sure about the base being aluminum.  There
are two sources to look for transfer information.  On is at the CLIR
website - the Library of Congress/National Recording Board discussion of
best practices for digitizing sound recordings. In short, they need to
be cleaned properly (can be a lengthy explanation)  and played back with
the appropriate sized stylus and playback equalization.  NBC recordings
are pretty standard. Broadcast WAV files at 96 kHz 24 bit are
recommended for archive transfers with standard CDs as reference copies.
The other source you may also want to get a hold of the IASA
(International Association of Sound and Audiovisual Archives) guidelines
on digitization.   You should not play them back unless they are
properly cleaned (Keith Monk's record cleaning machine if possible) and
you have the right size stylus and equipment.  Since these are
instantaneous recordings the coating is softer than your average LP or
certainly commercial 78 rpm disc. As a result any playing will produce
more wear and tear risking sonic loss for subsequent playing.  

 
Andy Lanset
Archivist
WNYC New York Public Radio
One Centre Street
New York, NY 10007
(212) 669-4685
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