Around 1900 aluminum was used in many different applications. The most successful ones capitalized on aluminum’s innate properties. Commentator’s often remarked on the metal’s sonorousness, which along with its light weight, made it perfect for phonograph trumpets.

Pathé, French, ca. 1895–1928, Phonograph, ca. 1906–08 aluminum, oak, nickel-plated steel, and metal, 30 1/4 x 25 1/2 x 21 3/4 in. (77 x 65 x 55 cm) Jean Plateau–Institut pour l’Histoire de l’Aluminium Collection, Paris