I just brought home my first gramophone so what the hell do I do now?

Just purchased your first gramophone and don't know where to start? Well here are some handy hints for new collectors.

• Service the motor - unless you buy from an honest collector who knows the service history, assume the spring motor in your new purchase hasn't been re-greased or lubricated for many years. The old grease is graphite based so can go rock hard over many years. Unless you are feeling brave I recommend you find somebody to do this for you as removing springs from spring barrels can be dangerous. There are a few people listed here that service machines and supply parts.
• Service the sound-box / receiver - the part that holds the needle and amplifies the sound will also benefit from a service. New rubber and gaskets may be required. These parts vary from sound-box to sound-box depending on design and time period. Parts can be sourced online or possibly from the same service people listed above. 
• Wash the records - see here for more info on washing records
• Buy new needles - needles need to be bright and sharp. Don't use old or used needles unless they are sharp. Needles come in different tones (soft, medium, loud and extra loud) which is evident by the thickness and length of the needle. They can be purchased cheaply in bulk online.
• Replace the needle after each record or side - steel needles are designed to go blunt so replace the needle regularly - best to replace after each record side (1 play) or at least each record (2 plays).