Oddity Archive (Season 0)

Donny Osmond - Soldier of Love (Michael Bay Salute) (Episode 1)

Air date: 2012-07-26

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: Michael Bay directed music videos? That would explain a lot.

National Anthem Conspiracy Theory (Episode 2)

Air date: 2012-08-23

Runtime: 4 min

Overview: This video has been censored by "The Man" for your pleasure.

Everlasting Love (Episode 3)

Air date: 2012-09-20

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: What the hell would make this overplayed moldy-oldie count as an oddity? Find out...

The Max Headroom Incident of 1987 (Commentary) (Episode 4)

Air date: 2012-10-18

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: The first Archive Riffs episode. Ben tackles a supposed promotional film for the "Butter & Egg Days Festival" that the Rifftrax guys already did--but they don't know real art (like Ben does).

Sounds to Make You Shiver (Episode 5)

Air date: 2012-10-31

Runtime: 5 min

Overview: A nice, compact little review of one of the most (in)famous "drugstore" records ever released. Bet you thought we didn't have a copy!

TV Sign-Offs (Commentary) (Episode 6)

Air date: 2012-12-13

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: An informal discussion of the TV Sign-Offs episode.

Emergency Broadcast Salute (Commentary) (Episode 7)

Air date: 2013-02-07

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: Something about February always gets Ben thinking about Civil Defense Broadcasting.

Freedom is a Hammer (Album Review) (Episode 8)

Air date: 2013-03-07

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: At the time of the Conservative Folk Music episode, some of the artists discussed had yet to make their digital debuts. Naturally, Ben would want to take a look at the CD that rounds up the complete folk-rock works of Janet Greene.

American EXXXtasy (Commentary) (Episode 9)

Air date: 2013-04-04

Runtime: 16 min

Overview: Perhaps the Archive's most infamous episode needed a little more context. Maybe not. Nevertheless, it got it anyway--the context, that is.

Greetings From the Stars (Sort Of) (Episode 10)

Air date: 2013-05-02

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: Ever wanted to get an (impersonal) birthday greeting from Milton Berle? How 'bout an answering machine message from "Richard Simmons"? Yeah, didn't think so.

Ask the Archive (Episode 11)

Air date: 2013-05-30

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: An informal Q & A session. Yep, that's about it.

Archive Riffs: Petaluma Chicken (Episode 12)

Air date: 2013-06-06

Runtime: 5 min

Overview: The first Archive Riffs episode. Ben tackles a supposed promotional film for the "Butter & Egg Days Festival" that the Rifftrax guys already did--but they don't know real art (like Ben does).

Local TV Special (Commentary) (Episode 13)

Air date: 2013-06-13

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: A commentary cut for the Local TV Special that was originally shelved due to a factual error regarding Indianapolis-based Horror Movie Host, Sammy Terry. Well, that and a couple of other brain farts.

Archive Riffs: Greedy Humpty Dumpty (Episode 14)

Air date: 2013-06-20

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: Ben riffs the sole survivor of his childhood Public Domain VHS collection.

VHS Vault Vol. 1 (Amvest Video) (Commentary) (Episode 15)

Air date: 2013-06-27

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: Recorded before the original episode premiered. Since then, we've learned that: 1. Audiofidelity Records started in the mid/late 1950's and issued some of the first stereo records. 2. Someone at Audiofidelity went berserk sometime in the '70's and started issuing pirated Beatles albums. 3. Those that signed up for the Kid Pics newsletter wound up on mailing lists for sleazy child beauty pageants (are there any other kind?). Ben has since learned that: 1. Playing a record at 75% of it's original speed is equivalent to flattening the "key" by a fourth, not a flat-fifth. 2. Audio frequencies are exponential. 2. Ben cannot do math in his head.

Archive Riffs: Say No to Strangers (Episode 16)

Air date: 2013-07-25

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Learn to take the safe way to school (but only if you have to walk through Chinatown).

National Anthem Conspiracy Theory (Redux) (Episode 17)

Air date: 2013-08-22

Runtime: 5 min

Overview: One of the Archive's earliest episodes seems to have gone missing. As such, Ben has been forced to remake it. Or, this was Ben's (unsurprisingly, failed) submission to the ConBravo indie video showcase.

Halloween Special 2012 (Commentary) (Episode 18)

Air date: 2013-10-17

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: An all-too-brief look back at the Archive's first Halloween special.

Hallmark Presents: Spooky Sounds (Episode 19)

Air date: 2013-10-31

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: Given we followed up the first Halloween Special with a review of a "spooky sound effects" album, we figured it wouldn't hurt to do it again.

Archive Riffs: Dining Together (Episode 20)

Air date: 2013-11-28

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Chain Aunt Phyllis to the family piano and enjoy an old-fashioned Thanksgiving.

Christmas Special 2012 (A Fair Use Christmas) (Commentary) (Episode 21)

Air date: 2013-12-12

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: A much-maligned commentary to a forgotten Archive episode.

Archive Riffs: A Christmas Fantasy (Episode 22)

Air date: 2013-12-24

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: Because nothing says "Christmas" quite like creepy wax figures and a bargain-basement Bing Crosby.

TV DX-ing (Episode 23)

Air date: 2014-01-09

Runtime: 5 min

Overview: ...because the local stations suck.

Archive Riffs: Live & Learn (Episode 24)

Air date: 2014-01-30

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: Sid Davis would like to remind you that he loves his wallpaper and hates your child.

Archive Riffs: Cigarette Commercials (Episode 25)

Air date: 2014-02-27

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: Since we spent so much time with anti-smoking propaganda last time out, in the name of fairness, we thought we'd share some pro-smoking propaganda. Sorry, no dancing Luckies here (seriously, what can you say about it? Insert smart-ass comments below).

Backwards Masking (Commentary) (Episode 26)

Air date: 2014-03-27

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: Everything Ben has to say about the Backwards Masking episode in a mere 12 minutes!

A Nice Pair (of early, European VCR's) (Episode 27)

Air date: 2014-04-24

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: Can your heart take the sheer sex appeal of the Philips N1500? No (prescription) pills necessary!

Blooper Reel (Episode 28)

Air date: 2014-05-15

Runtime: 5 min

Overview: Alternate Title: Why The Archive isn't terribly conducive to outtake specials.

VHS Vault Vol. 5 - Y2K (Commentary) (Episode 29)

Air date: 2014-06-05

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: One of those rare occasions where there was a little TOO much to say in an episode.

Archive Riffs: Atomic Alert (Elementary Edition) (Episode 30)

Air date: 2014-06-12

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Released about five minutes before the Conelrad system was established (and featuring some nice undercranking), 1951's Atomic Alert teaches you how to keep your nuclear experience nice and peaceful.

Ben's Junk: Sony Super Betamax (Episode 31)

Air date: 2014-06-19

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: A new spin-off of the Archive in which a piece of equipment is discussed that either has already been discussed in greater detail or that simply wouldn't amount to even a minisode of Archive.

Ben's Junk: VideoNow PVD Player (Episode 32)

Air date: 2014-06-23

Runtime: 5 min

Overview: The rejected pilot of Ben's Junk (for reasons that should become readily apparent fairly quickly). This time out, Hasbro's failed attempt at a portable DVD player for kids.

Format Wars 2 (COMMENTARY) (Episode 33)

Air date: 2014-07-03

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: By request, Ben discusses "Format Wars". By unilateral action, Ben discusses both "Format Wars" videos in one convenient (for him) commentary.

Ben's Junk: VHS Camcorder (RCA CC285) (Episode 34)

Air date: 2014-07-31

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: A "by request" Ben's Junk. Taking a look at the camcorder used to film "Going Analog" and "Y2K Apocalypse Party".

The Great Archive Treasure Hunt (Commentary) (Episode 35)

Air date: 2014-08-28

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: Who'da thunk the making of this episode AND the episode itself was about rediscovery?

Ben's Junk: Tascam Cassette Portastudio (Episode 36)

Air date: 2014-09-25

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Perhaps a too-personal installment of Ben's Junk. Don't take that the wrong way...

Halloween Special 2013 (Commentary) (Episode 37)

Air date: 2014-10-09

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Must be that magic time of year again when Ben lazily dusts off the previous year's Halloween episode for a commentary.

Ben's Junk : 8-Track/Cassette "Adaptor" (Episode 38)

Air date: 2014-11-20

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: SPOILER ALERT: Whoa-oh here it comes/Watch out boy, it'll chew them up/Whoa-oh here it comes/It's a tape eater!

Ben's Junk: Multi-System VHS VCR (Hitachi VT-M768EM) (Episode 39)

Air date: 2014-12-04

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: Finally, a VCR that can play all international formats! What do you mean, it only has mono sound?!? What you do mean I need converter boxes?!?

Ben's Junk: JVC S-VHS VCR (S7600U) (Episode 40)

Air date: 2014-12-18

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: The long-awaited conclusion to the two-part Ben's Junk VHS extravaganza. Does this count as the climax?

Ben's Junk: LaserKaraoke/Laserdisc Player (Pioneer CLD-S304) (Episode 41)

Air date: 2015-01-08

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: Two episodes of LaserKaraoke and still no demonstration of the machine? Yeah, I'm kinda slow...

1-900 ARCHIVE Vol. 2 (Commentary) (Episode 42)

Air date: 2015-01-22

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: A dual commentary for both 1-900 ARCHIVE volumes. WARNING: Wrestling aficionados may not like what I have to say.

The DuMont Network (Deleted Game Show Segment) (Episode 43)

Air date: 2015-02-05

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: The DuMont episode ran ridiculously overlong (gotta love that molasses-slow early TV!). Here is a deleted segment giving an overview on the Game Shows aired on the DuMont Network.

Ben's Junk: Handheld Electronic Games (Episode 44)

Air date: 2015-03-05

Runtime: 5 min

Overview: Pouring some additional salt in the gamer wounds...

Ben's Junk: B-Movies & cult Classics (Episode 45)

Air date: 2015-04-02

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: Slightly bastardizing the usual Ben's Junk format--but not Ben's Junk itself (that'd hurt).

Ben Tries Finnish Candy (Episode 46)

Air date: 2015-04-30

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: ...and welcome to (probably the only edition of) "Ben Tries"!

Ben's Junk: WebTV Box (Episode 47)

Air date: 2015-05-28

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: A day late, a dollar short--you know the deal.

The Death of Analog TV (Commentary) (Episode 48)

Air date: 2015-06-11

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: Little did I know... NOTE: If you don't like my dry, rambling (and stutter-heavy) commentaries, you might wanna skip this one.

Ben's Junk: Super 8 Sound Projector (Sears Sound II - Model 9258) (Episode 49)

Air date: 2015-06-18

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: Nothing but the cutting edge in home video technology in Archive-land!

Archive Riffs: Self-Conscious Guy (Episode 50)

Air date: 2015-06-25

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: I'm so vain, I KNOW I think this short is about me...

Oddity Archive: Episode 78.4 - VHS Vault Vol. 6 (How's Your Sex Life?) (COMMENTARY) (Episode 51)

Air date: 2015-07-02

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: I really wanted to be hypnotized! Seriously!

(Unofficial) Ben's Junk: Philips CD-I (model 220) (Episode 52)

Air date: 2015-07-09

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: The original "demo" segment in the CD-I episode ran long. REALLY LONG! This is the complete, intended segment shamelessly re-purposed as a "Ben's Junk" episode.

Ben's Junk: 8-Track (and related) Oddities (Episode 53)

Air date: 2015-08-06

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: Just going through some (relatively) recent additions to the Archive's 8-track (and associated) pile.

Ben's Junk: Sony DT-30 (External VCR Timer) (Episode 54)

Air date: 2015-09-03

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: DVR? Two-week advance recording? Wusses.

Ben Tries Bonomo's Turkish Taffy (Episode 55)

Air date: 2015-09-17

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: Made as a thank you to the viewer who sent this. A thank you for not sending us any Magic Clown ephemera, that is.

Ben's Junk: Rejuvenique Revisited (plus Contest!) (Episode 56)

Air date: 2015-10-01

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: Looking back on the mental and physical scars sustained while making the Rejuvenique episode--and the mask too.

Halloween Special 2014 (Archive Wares: Rejuvenique) (Commentary) (Episode 57)

Air date: 2015-10-15

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: Recounting one of the Archive's more memorable production experiences.

An Overly Nostalgic Halloween (or, For The Want of a Pail) (Episode 58)

Air date: 2015-10-29

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: I hate it when my ideas for holiday specials fall through...

For The Want of a Pail (Conclusion) (Episode 59)

Air date: 2015-10-31

Runtime: 1 min

Ben's Junk: Fisher-Price PXL 2000 Camcorder (Episode 60)

Air date: 2015-11-12

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Discussing what was arguably the most difficult restoration project I’ve (successfully) undertaken. Special thanks once again to Stephen Greer for his generous donation.

Ben Tries (Thanksgiving Edition) (or, Ben tries Australian Stuff) (Episode 61)

Air date: 2015-11-26

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: 'Cause, you know, Thanksgiving, food...it all makes sense.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) (Episode 62)

Air date: 2015-12-10

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: What's with the box? Who's that creepy guy in the intro? Is Chuck Swirsky really a freakin' nerd? Those questions (and more) will be answered in this video.

Archive Riffs: A Christmas Dream (Episode 63)

Air date: 2015-12-24

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: The Archive dusts off a minor (albeit severely butchered) art-house classic. Merry Christmas!

Ben's CED Collection (Deleted Segment from CED Episode) (Episode 64)

Air date: 2016-01-14

Runtime: 4 min

Overview: Filmed for inclusion on the CED episode (Episode 92), but left off for time.

Ben's Junk: Guitars! Guitars!! Guitars!!! (Episode 65)

Air date: 2016-01-28

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: Ben geeks out about guitars for 25 minutes. Watch at your own peril.

Ben's Junk: Ben's Philips CD-I Collection (Episode 66)

Air date: 2016-02-11

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: Let’s just say it all just kind of fell into my lap.

Ben's Junk: Philips CD-I Peacekeeper Revolver (Episode 67)

Air date: 2016-03-10

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: As promised, here's the second installment on the CD-I collection. Was it worth the wait?

Ben's Junk: Ben's (Incomplete) Comedy LP Collection (Episode 68)

Air date: 2016-03-24

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: The one time where it's ok to giggle at Ben's Junk.

Ben's Junk: Fisher-Price Movie Viewer (Episode 69)

Air date: 2016-04-07

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: It takes a steady hand to run one of these. Unfortunately, that's something I sorely lack.

Ben's Junk: Commodore 64 (& Peripherals) (Episode 70)

Air date: 2016-05-05

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: A wise man once said: “Save the big (stuff) for Ben’s Junk—it needs all the help it can get.”

Ben's Junk: Sony TT-100 Tuner/Timer (for U-Matic) (Episode 71)

Air date: 2016-05-19

Runtime: 16 min

Overview: Sometimes it takes a while for Ben's Junk to get in motion.

Commodore 64 (Commentary) (Episode 72)

Air date: 2016-06-02

Runtime: 32 min

Overview: Admittedly, a very stream-of-consciousness commentary here, but a(n apparently) necessary one.

Ben's Junk: VCR Co-Pilot (Episode 73)

Air date: 2016-06-09

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: I already discussed this one back on the VCR Ephemera episode, but didn't have one, so I couldn't test it. Let's rectify that situation.

Archive Riffs: Fox Hour Promotional Reel (Episode 74)

Air date: 2016-06-16

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: Taking a look at a (rather cryptic) promo reel for a series of silent, educational two-reelers.

Record Ripoffs (Commentary) (Episode 75)

Air date: 2016-06-23

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: A look at the first installment (and, to a lesser degree, the subsequent installments) of the recurring Record Ripoffs series. This is a commentary I’ve been wanting to do for awhile.

Ben's Junk: Magnavox Odyssey 2 (Video Game Console) (Episode 76)

Air date: 2016-06-30

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: A look at one of the many competitors to the Atari 2600.

Ben's Junk: Colecovision Video Game Console (Episode 77)

Air date: 2016-07-14

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: Discussing another bit of donated junk--'cause, you know, everybody apparently wants a hand in Ben's Junk.

Ben's Junk: (Some Of) Ben's Vinyl Collection (Episode 78)

Air date: 2016-08-11

Runtime: 42 min

Overview: Lately, I've been getting asked quite a bit about my music collection. All I can say is, be careful what you wish for.

"The Voice" Module (for Magnavox Odyssey 2) (Episode 79)

Air date: 2016-08-25

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: Oh-oh, won’t you tell me again…and again…and again…

Flexplay Disposable DVD Update (Episode 80)

Air date: 2016-09-08

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: Taking another stab at the now-infamous "zombie" disc.

Ben's Junk: Fisher-Price Star Station Sing-Along Machine (Episode 81)

Air date: 2016-09-22

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Fairly recent for an Archivism—let’s take a look at how the current generation of middle and high-schoolers grew up to be such narcissists.

Fisher-Price PXL-2000 Camcorder (Commentary) (Episode 82)

Air date: 2016-10-20

Runtime: 20 min

Overview: Yeah, there were some ghosts in the camera—or were they gremlins?

Ben's Junk: bob (Another Nanny Box) (Episode 83)

Air date: 2016-11-03

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: ACTUAL (paid) TESTIMONIAL: Parenthood turned out to be a real bitch and we were totally unprepared. Thanks bob!

Ben's Junk: DVD Recorder (Panasonic DMR-E55) (Episode 84)

Air date: 2016-11-17

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: Another weapon in the Archive’s—well, archiving arsenal.

Ben's Junk: Gemmy Douglas Fir Talking Christmas Tree (Episode 85)

Air date: 2016-12-15

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: Well, I already discussed Big Mouth Billy Bass. Might as well finish the 90’s/Gemmy/Talking Novelty Item concept.

Ben's Junk: Ben's Comic Book Collection (Episode 86)

Air date: 2017-01-12

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: Superheroes? What are those?

Ben's Junk: Learn To Solder Kit (Episode 87)

Air date: 2017-02-23

Runtime: 16 min

Overview: A soldering kit for kids? Yeah, that about fits my skillset.

Ben’s Junk: MD Walkman (Minidisc Addendum) (Episode 88)

Air date: 2017-03-09

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: Like clockwork, I get my hands on a MD Walkman with a mic input just after I finish making the Minidisc episode. I swear it's a conspiracy.

Ben's Junk: RCA Selectavision CED Player (SGT 250) (Episode 89)

Air date: 2017-03-23

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: I was downright embarrassed by my old CED Player (see the CED episode). Obviously, an upgrade was in order.

Ben's Junk: Ben's Audiophile Albums (Episode 90)

Air date: 2017-04-06

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: For all the overpriced hunks of plastic in my possession, it’s kind of a wonder that this segment of my record collection is so small.

Ben's Junk: Vtech Socrates Educational Video System (Episode 91)

Air date: 2017-05-04

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: (conversation overheard at VTech, 1988) Boss: What’s a name that sounds good and smart for our quasi-educational video game console? Engineer: Um, Socrates! Boss: Is he smart? Engineer: Yeah. Boss: Perfect! What’s for lunch?

Ben's Junk: Videocipher II Plus/Manhattan Cable TV Box (Episode 92)

Air date: 2017-05-18

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: A couple of obsolete, useless (to me) bits of Pay-TV history—so, of course, I bought them.

Ben's Junk: go reader (Audiobook Device) (Episode 93)

Air date: 2017-06-08

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: Ben helps save the environment—with bad audiobooks on a cheap, low-capacity, unalterable mp3 player!

Archive Riffs: Dear Miss Gloria (Episode 94)

Air date: 2017-06-15

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: I’m ready for my mail, Mr. DeMille.

DBX Noise Reduction System (Commentary) (Episode 95)

Air date: 2017-06-22

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: Effectively tackling the three “(100% showtune-free) Musical March” episodes all at once. Who’da thunk old audio gear could be so controversial?

Ben's Junk: Las Vegas Vacation (1997) (Episode 96)

Air date: 2017-06-29

Runtime: 20 min

Overview: A decidedly different installment in the Ben’s Junk series. This time, I take a(n admittedly lengthy) stroll down memory lane about a family vacation from 20 years earlier.

Ben's 10 Favorite Albums (Part 1) (Episode 97)

Air date: 2017-07-13

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Alternate Title: God, Ben! Don’t you listen to anything from this century?!?!

Ben's 10 Favorite Albums (Part 2) (Episode 98)

Air date: 2017-07-27

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Remember kids, these are MY favorite albums, not yours. If there’s any overlap, consider it a happy accident.

Ben's Junk: MFSL Geo-Tape (Azimuth Alignment Cassette) (Episode 99)

Air date: 2017-08-10

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: A slightly askew edition of Ben’s Junk. Let’s rectify that situation.

Ben's Junk: DBX Cassettes (DBX Addendum) (Episode 100)

Air date: 2017-08-24

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: When researching the DBX episode, as best as I could gather, there were no (legit) pre-recorded DBX-encoded audiocassettes. Turns out there was a line of Classical tapes.

Ben's Junk: MFSL Geo-Disc (Turntable Cartridge Alignment Tool) (Episode 101)

Air date: 2017-09-07

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: …and the great Archive A/V tune-up continues.

Ben’s Junk: (New) Speed Calibration Cassette (Episode 102)

Air date: 2017-09-21

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: The Archive kicks it up a notch—or at least about one-fifth of one.

Ben's Junk: CVS One-Time-Use Video Camcorder (Episode 103)

Air date: 2017-10-05

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: Remember the single-use 35mm camera? How ‘bout a single-use camcorder?

Conelrad (Halloween Special 2016) (Commentary) (Episode 104)

Air date: 2017-10-19

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: The Archive gets nostalgic for nukes…

Ben’s Junk: The World of Yesterday (Classic Hollywood Fanzines) (Episode 105)

Air date: 2017-11-02

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Ben gets nostalgic for nostalgia—he’s meta like that.

Ben's Junk: Realistic Phono Pre-Amp (Model 42-2109) (Episode 106)

Air date: 2017-11-16

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: Taking a look at an external preamp for the turntable—largely only because the cool kids are into it.

Ben's Junk: Vidicraft Vidimate Video Enhancer (Model VDM300S) (Episode 107)

Air date: 2017-11-30

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: An especially dull (or sharp) edition of Ben’s Junk—it’s capable of both.

Ben's Junk: Star Shower Laser Light (Episode 108)

Air date: 2017-12-14

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: Ben gets ambitious with his Christmas lights—in that, he’s putting any up at all.

Ben's Junk: Sankyo Dualux Dual8 Projector (Model 2000H) (Episode 109)

Air date: 2017-12-27

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: …or, Telecine redux.

Ben's Junk: Allsop 3 Orbitrac Record Cleaning System (Episode 110)

Air date: 2018-01-11

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: It’s no secret that the LP’s discussed on Archive were usually (presumably) buried in someone’s backyard. Naturally, we’re open to any new method of cleaning them up.

Ben's Junk: JVC KD-A6 Cassette Deck (Episode 111)

Air date: 2018-01-25

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Ben’s second new (to him) cassette deck in a year. What makes this one so special?

Ben's Junk: Discwasher Compact Disc Cleaner (Episode 112)

Air date: 2018-02-08

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: Taking a look at (possibly) the first-ever CD cleaner/repair thing to ever hit the market. Is it a lost classic?

Ben's Junk: Royal Disc Repair System (Episode 113)

Air date: 2018-02-22

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: The second installment on CD cleaning/repair devices. Is it Royally good or Royal garbage?

Ben's Junk: The Archive HQ Bookshelf (Episode 114)

Air date: 2018-03-08

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: What’s that thing with the face in the background? This, and many (well, a few) other questions will be answered at long last!

Ben’s Junk: MP32C64 Adapter (Commodore Datasette Substitute) (Episode 115)

Air date: 2018-03-22

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: Let’s commit a bit of Luddite blasphemy, shall we?

Archive Thrifting #1: Impromptu Investigations (Episode 116)

Air date: 2018-04-05

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: Testing out a new, potential subseries—and hitting every conceivable pothole along the way.

Archive Thrifting #2: Arc of a (Dumpster) Diver (Episode 117)

Air date: 2018-04-19

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: …figured I’d better shoot at least one episode in Beautiful Downtown Aurora before leaving.

Ben's Junk: K-Tel Record Selector (Episode 118)

Air date: 2018-05-03

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: At last! Ben reviews a K-Tel product!

Ben's Junk: Teac V-770 Cassette Deck (Episode 119)

Air date: 2018-05-17

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: The MCS deck kinda got fried. Time for another fixer-upper!

Discovision Dead Sides (Episode 120)

Air date: 2018-05-31

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: Let’s unearth some (unintentional) pre-DVD Easter Eggs…

Ben's Junk: ABC Talking Monday Night Football (Board Game) (Episode 121)

Air date: 2018-06-21

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: An early, talking board game—whose (nearly) every move is dictated by a tiny record.

Archive Riffs: Selling Your Home? (Episode 122)

Air date: 2018-06-28

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: Rather serendipitously, just in time to move, we’ve unearthed a promo video for an item that we’ve used on Archive many times—namely, the Talking House Transmitter. Talk about timing!

Archive Thrifting #3: Beautiful Downtown Aurora's Last Stand (Episode 123)

Air date: 2018-07-05

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: …because I totally needed a bunch more junk to try and pack up.

Ben's Junk: Rocketfish Wireless Rear Speaker Kit (Episode 124)

Air date: 2018-08-02

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: There were a precious few hallmarks of the old Archive HQ that I did NOT want to carry over. Speaker wire running all over the room was one of them.

Ben's Junk: Audio Technica AT-LP120 Turntable (Early Thoughts) (Episode 125)

Air date: 2018-08-16

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Already went over to a direct-drive cassette deck, might as well do the same with vinyl…

Ben's Junk: Ben's Makeshift Bedroom Stereo System (Episode 126)

Air date: 2018-08-30

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Looking into the most intimate areas of Ben’s…half-baked stereo system.

Ben's Junk: Ramsey FM Transmitter (Further Experiments) (Episode 127)

Air date: 2018-09-13

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: Sergei’s Catacomb of Classics in stereo, anyone?

Ask The Archive Live (9/14/2018) (Episode 128)

Air date: 2018-09-17

Runtime: 30 min

Overview: The Archive’s first livestream since 2014…and just as lo-fi as ever.

Archive Thrifting #4: Elvis Sightings (Episode 129)

Air date: 2018-09-26

Runtime: 29 min

Overview: Archive Thrifting®: Now in ESTEREO!!!

Archive Thrifting #5: Low Money Hu$tla (Episode 130)

Air date: 2018-10-11

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: A mere 3½ months in the making!

Sounds of Terror! (Halloween Album Review) (Episode 131)

Air date: 2018-10-25

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: The return of the Halloween album reviews! Now in screaming, spooktacular stereo!

Ben's Junk: Pac-Man Fever (Pac-Man Mini Arcades) (Episode 132)

Air date: 2018-11-08

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: I’ve got search-for-a-reissue-of-the-original-Pac-Man-arcade-game fever…it’s driving me crazy.

Archive Riffs: Thanksgiving Commercials (Episode 133)

Air date: 2018-11-22

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: A (non-filling) seven-course meal of Turkey Day commercialism!

NES Classic Edition (The Last Word?) (Episode 134)

Air date: 2018-12-06

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: So, what is the Oddity Archive guy doing with a reissue console?

Christmas LaserKaraoke (Deleted Segment) (Episode 135)

Air date: 2018-12-24

Runtime: 5 min

Overview: A little stocking stuffer of yuletide caterwauling—er, caroling!

Ben's Junk: Nagaoka MP-110H Phono Cartridge (Episode 136)

Air date: 2019-01-03

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: New year, more audio kit. It’s tradition, ya know?

Ben's Junk: Sega Pico ("Edutainment" Console) (Episode 137)

Air date: 2019-01-10

Runtime: 16 min

Overview: Time to learn…that edutainment consoles rarely end well.

Ben's Junk: SNES Classic Edition (Belated) First Impressions) (Episode 138)

Air date: 2019-01-24

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Wait, didn’t we already cover this? Talk about déjà vu…

Ben’s Junk: Tyco VideoCam (Another Kiddie Camcorder) (Episode 139)

Air date: 2019-01-31

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Ben’s recovering from a virus (and middle-ear dysfunction). Sounds like a good time to do a (kiddie) camcorder review.

Archive Riffs: Valentine’s Day Commercials (A Semi-Romantic Tale) (Episode 140)

Air date: 2019-02-14

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: We’re just a bunch of old softies…with a taste for bent story arcs.

Archive Thrifting #6: Frostbite Falls (Episode 141)

Air date: 2019-02-28

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: Will our scrappy hero escape the clutches of the snow monster? Find out in our next installment: “Frosty The Slowman, or, Snow Thanks to You”!

Ben's Junk: Ronco Mr. Microphone (Episode 142)

Air date: 2019-03-14

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Tagline: Ben: Hey, good lookin’! How ‘bout I pick you up later? Attractive Lady: (smacks Ben so hard his fillings are rearranged) Ben: But it worked for the guy in the commercial…

Ben’s Junk: GAF 3100S Super 8 Film Projector (Episode 143)

Air date: 2019-03-28

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: Another fixer-upper? In Archiveland? Never!!!

Ben's Junk: The Big Reel (Film Collector’s Magazine) (Episode 144)

Air date: 2019-04-11

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: While researching the recent VHS Distributors episode, I kept running into references to a publication known as the “Big Reel”. Turns out, it’s most (in)famous of the old film collector publications—and it’s easy to see why.

Discovision/Laserdisc Quirks (An Informal Discussion) (Episode 145)

Air date: 2019-04-25

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: In a way, Laserdiscs never really outgrew their experimental phase. Here’s an informal, overview of SOME of the more idiosyncratic Laserdiscs out there (and/or their packaging).

Discovision Dead Sides Vol. 2 (Episode 146)

Air date: 2019-05-09

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: DVD Easter Eggs? Nah, way too easy.

Ben’s Junk: VGA Converters/Public Domain CD-ROMs (Episode 147)

Air date: 2019-05-23

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: A double dose of turn-of-the-millennium PC goodness!

Ben’s Junk: Innovative Technologies ITNS-500 Slide “Scanner” (Episode 148)

Air date: 2019-06-13

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: After a long delay…well, I’ve got some good news and some bad news.

Archive Riffs: Clutch Cargo (Big “X”, Pts. 4 & 5) (Episode 149)

Air date: 2019-06-20

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: The Archive finally gets to “see the X”! Spoiler: It’s a rock.

Mystery 8mm Films/The Ballad of Ben & 8mm (Commentary) (Episode 150)

Air date: 2019-06-27

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: Let’s see if we can’t clear up some misconceptions about this episode…

Archive Thrifting #7: Wii, Wii, All The Way Home (Episode 151)

Air date: 2019-07-04

Runtime: 20 min

Overview: I was going a little stir crazy at the end of last season. So, naturally, I decided to add a little to my at-home clutter.

Record Ripoffs Commercial Parodies (Vols. 1–9) (Episode 152)

Air date: 2019-07-18

Runtime: 20 min

Overview: New from K-Smell Records, it’s all those irritating moments that lead off each Record Ripoffs episode in one convenient package! ORDER NOW!!!

Ben's Junk: Video Action Magazine (Issue #1: December, 1980) (Episode 153)

Air date: 2019-08-01

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: Readin’ and dreamin’ ‘bout those Archivisms that’ll probably never happen.

Bennytronics Guitar Noise Experiment (Analog, Circa 1980-style) (COMPLETE SEGMENT) (Episode 154)

Air date: 2019-08-09

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: All seven minutes of the Archive’s low-grade, wannabe Frippertronics experiment! Earplugs are highly recommended.

Ben's Junk: Ben's Laserdisc Collection (2019 Edition) (Episode 155)

Air date: 2019-08-15

Runtime: 49 min

Overview: Uh, oh. Ben’s geeking out again. Get comfy.

Fostex X-14/Ben's Music "Career": The Gear (Episode 156)

Air date: 2019-08-29

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: …or, how Ben unwittingly jumped on the “lo-fi” bandwagon.

Ben's Junk: Whippany Rhythm Master (Circa 1972 Drum Machine) (Episode 157)

Air date: 2019-09-12

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Who says Ben’s got no rhythm? He’s got 10 of them!

Ben's Junk: Burns Theremin (Episode 158)

Air date: 2019-09-26

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: …or, The Space-Age Sounds of the Oddity Archive! (now available on vinyl and 3¾ips reel)

Archive Thrifting #8: Break IT You Pay For IT (Episode 159)

Air date: 2019-10-10

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: Featuring our very Special Guest: Zippy The Chimp!

Haunted House (Halloween SFX Album Review) (Episode 160)

Air date: 2019-10-24

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: Can your heart (or better yet, head) stand a trip through this haunted house? No, seriously, this is our most headache-inducing one yet.

Telesound 13 (Moog/Realistic Concertmate MG-1) (Episode 161)

Air date: 2019-11-06

Runtime: 4 min

Overview: The first new piece of music I've written and released since 2012. As a challenge to myself, I tasked myself with creating a song using nothing but my old Moog/Realistic Concertmate MG-1 synthesizer--which is a REAL challenge given that I'm not a synth geek and my keyboard skills are dodgy at best. It also had to sound like something that could've been made and released around the time the synth was made (circa 1982). As such, effects are used sparingly and are confined to the basics (read: EQ, reverb & compression). Written as part of my ongoing attempts at creating some new, original incidental music for Oddity Archive. NOTE: Just in case you couldn't tell, the synth pics shown are NOT representative of the patches used.

Ben's Junk: Realistic Concertmate (Moog) MG-1 Synthesizer (Episode 162)

Air date: 2019-11-07

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: Whatdaya mean you forgot you had a Moog? Also, synth snobs need not apply.

Ben's Junk: Sony DCR-TRV320 Digital8 Handycam (Video8 Addendum) (Episode 163)

Air date: 2019-11-21

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: Since we were already talkin’ Video8, it only seemed right to cover the Archive’s first camcorder…not to mention, a piece of gear still (as of this episode, at least) in regular use around Archive HQ.

Ben's Junk: Archer Video Processor/Stabilizer (Model 15-1272A) (Episode 164)

Air date: 2019-12-05

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: Guaranteed to keep this (internet) video from rolling!

Algorithmic Audio Mastering (CloudBounce Review) (Episode 165)

Air date: 2019-12-09

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: Can online audio mastering render audio mastering engineers obsolete? The short answer: No. Having said that, it’s not as bad as you’d think.

Archive Thrifting #9: Christmas Confidential (Episode 166)

Air date: 2019-12-12

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: Just your standard, good, old-fashioned, combustible, unnerving, overpriced Country Christmas…

Archive Riffs: Boxing Day Commercials (er, Adverts) (Episode 167)

Air date: 2019-12-26

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: Celebrating the true meaning of Boxing Day… a whole lotta furniture and carpet sales.

MovieCD (Episode 168)

Air date: 2020-01-09

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: A would-be full-fledged video format episode…which got curtailed by (amazingly enough) a lack of computer stuff at Archive HQ.

Ben's Junk: Cult VHS (& A Few DVD's) (2020 Edition) (Episode 169)

Air date: 2020-01-23

Runtime: 29 min

Overview: An informal stroll few some cherry-picked titles from Ben’s (somewhat unintentional) collection of B-Movies and Cult Classics.

Ben's Junk: Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD Audio Interface (Episode 170)

Air date: 2020-02-06

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: …or, what happens when ol’ Benny-boy decides he needs more than 2 microphone inputs.

Ben's Junk: Behringer neutron (analog, Monophonic) Synthesizer (Episode 171)

Air date: 2020-02-20

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: Yes, I bought another synth. Yes, I swatted myself on the nose with a rolled-up newspaper over my lack of self-control.

F.D.G. (Oddity Archive Sign-Off Muzak) (Episode 172)

Air date: 2020-03-02

Runtime: 3 min

Overview: Now you can enjoy a classic OA sign-off without all that pesky talking and technical junk! F.D.G. = Fully Digital Gunk? Faulty Daily Gherkins? Make up your own acronym.

Ben's Junk: Industrial Laserdiscs/ Anderic (Reproduction) Service Remote (Episode 173)

Air date: 2020-03-05

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: Lookin’ under the hood of Ben’s laserdisc player (quite appropriately) with some General Motors discs.

Ben's Music "Career", Vol. 4.5: Greetings From Elderbush Gulch Multitracks (An Addendum) (Episode 174)

Air date: 2020-03-19

Runtime: 32 min

Overview: Benny-boy’s (non-accredited) Audio School is now in session!

Enhanced CD's (& other multimedia CD's) (an informal chat) (Episode 175)

Air date: 2020-04-02

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: Please note that this episode may not run correctly unless your monitor is running at a minimum of 256 colors and your system has at least 12MB of available RAM.

Ben's Junk: The OA (semi-)Supercomputer/OA Recording Studio Redux (Episode 176)

Air date: 2020-04-16

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Well, my last attempt at a semi-regular home audio recording rig failed…and my regular laptop is on its last legs. Here’s my attempt at solving both issues at once.

Ben's Junk: Sony SLO-325 Industrial Betamax (Episode 177)

Air date: 2020-04-30

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Time to take a bet(t)a look at the Archive’s first Betamax—from before the Archive even existed (in every sense).

Ben's Junk: 1953 & 1956 Hoffman Television Catalogs (Episode 178)

Air date: 2020-05-14

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: A genuine televisual feast.

Ben's Junk: Tiger Quiz Wiz (Episode 179)

Air date: 2020-05-28

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: Question #196.5: What is the Quiz Wiz lacking? Multiple Choice: A. An objective B. A reward C. Entertainment value D. All of the above

Ben Minnotte - Switched-On Pavanned (Moog Instrumental) (Episode 180)

Air date: 2020-06-03

Runtime: 1 min

Overview: In honor of the "Switched-On Archive" episode, I figured I'd make two pieces of music, one to represent both extremes of the trend of late '60's/early '70's Moog Synthesizer albums--the good and the "bad". This rendition of the Archive's usual theme song is intended to salute/work within the realm of the album that (unwittingly) started it all, Wendy Carlos' "Switched-On Bach" (1968). This was created entirely on a Moog MG-1 and was done strictly within the realm of what was possible in the late '60's and early '70's. Keeping in spirit with the original, monophonic synths of the '60's, I used NONE of the polyphonic settings.

Ben Minnotte - The Happy Moog (Gets Stuck In Rush Hour) ("Moog" Instrumental) (Episode 181)

Air date: 2020-06-05

Runtime: 2 min

Overview: My half-salute to/half-parody of those especially tacky late '60's/early '70's Moog Synthesizer albums. The cheese factor goes to 11 here. This was created...without a Moog. Instead, I used a Behringer Neutron monophonic synth (more potential whiz-bang sound effects than my Moog MG-1) and a circa 1972 Whippany Rhythm Master. This was recorded with the general limitations of this period of recording gear.

Ben's Junk: First Alert FTR-960R Time-Lapse VCR (+ Time-Lapse Tape) (Episode 182)

Air date: 2020-06-18

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: The Archive gets secure...or just paranoid.

Archive Riffs: Moving Up To Amateur Radio (Episode 183)

Air date: 2020-06-25

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: OA calling CQ, hopefully DX, lookin’ for the QT on the DL while TCB.

Archive Thrifting #10: Before We Were SO Rudely Interrupted (Episode 184)

Air date: 2020-07-02

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Archive Thrifting is a magical tool of last resort…Why? Because it NEVER fails!

Ben's Junk: Sony U-Matic & Industrial Betamax Wired Remotes (Episode 185)

Air date: 2020-07-09

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: …or, Ben’s weirdest pet-project to date! (kerchunk)

The Battle At Elderbush Gulch (2020 Redux) (Episode 186)

Air date: 2020-07-20

Runtime: 4 min

Overview: Initially intended as a full-band "electric" tune, but recorded as a folk piece back in 2004. Sixteen years later, I'm finally getting around to an electric version--albeit with some slightly cinematic modifications.

Archive Thrifting #11: This Can Not Be The Right Price Deal (Episode 187)

Air date: 2020-07-23

Runtime: 27 min

Ben's Junk: Pioneer RH-65 8-Track Deck (Episode 188)

Air date: 2020-08-06

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Meet the Archive’s new (to us) 8-track deck…

Ben's Junk: Denon UD-M30 CD Receiver (Episode 189)

Air date: 2020-08-13

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: A rare, intimate, bedroom edition of Ben’s Junk…

Pavanned (Documentary Style) (Vaporwave?) (Episode 190)

Air date: 2020-08-24

Runtime: 1 min

Overview: I was informed that the regular version was too upbeat and concise for the Episode 200 OA documentary. This was my best attempt at making it as dreary and hazy as possible.

In Your Hands (Violin & "Mellotron" Thing) (Episode 191)

Air date: 2020-08-24

Runtime: 2 min

Overview: Representing the dry, yet thoughtful end of Episode 200...

Ep. 200 Rebuttal & Deleted Scenes (Episode 192)

Air date: 2020-08-27

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: Ok, time for my side of the story...

Nitrogené (Synth Instrumental) (Episode 193)

Air date: 2020-09-10

Runtime: 2 min

Overview: Somehow I started with what I thought was a pretty cool-sounding canned rhythm (running through a guitar delay pedal) and wound up with a Jean-Michel Jarre pastiche. No idea how I got there.

Ben's Junk: JVC HR-S7600U S-VHS ET VCR (REVISITED) (Episode 194)

Air date: 2020-09-24

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Since I had S-VHS and VCR’s on the brain already (moreso than usual), it seemed like the right time to revisit one of the early, ultra-wonky Ben’s Junk topics.

Ben's Junk: Buster Keaton Video Collection (Episode 195)

Air date: 2020-10-08

Runtime: 41 min

Overview: October 4, 2020 marked the 125th anniversary of comedian/filmmaker Buster Keaton’s birth. Consider this the Archive’s (slightly belated and rambling) tribute to one of the greats…

Archive Thrifting #12: (Not-So) Scary Deals (Episode 196)

Air date: 2020-10-22

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: It’s the first Archive Thrifting Spooktacular! Strangely enough, it’s probably one of the least scary Thrifting episodes to date.

Ben's Junk: (New) Polaroid 600 Film (& old camera(s)) (Episode 197)

Air date: 2020-11-05

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: You can keep your fancy digital cameras, thank you very much.

Ben's Junk: (Some of) Ben's Audiocassette Collection (Episode 198)

Air date: 2020-11-19

Runtime: 36 min

Overview: A slow-speed ramble for a slow-speed format.

Ben's Junk: (New) Dubreq Stylophone (Episode 199)

Air date: 2020-12-03

Runtime: 16 min

Overview: We be stylin’…stylus(in’), that is…y’all.

Archive Thrifting #13: Deck The Hauls (Episode 200)

Air date: 2020-12-17

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: Fillin’ up the ol’ one-horse open sleigh with…some junk.

Ben's Junk: (some of) Ben's Vinyl Collection Vol. 2 (Episode 201)

Air date: 2021-01-28

Runtime: 47 min

Overview: Time to get back in the groove! (dodges tsunami of rotten produce)

Ben's Junk: Sega Genesis Mini (Miniature Game Console) (Episode 202)

Air date: 2021-02-11

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: Finishing up the trilogy of belatedly-acquired, nostalgically-motivated miniature video game consoles…

Home Video Recording, 1972-Style (or, Ben's Complete U-Matic Rig) (Episode 203)

Air date: 2021-02-25

Runtime: 29 min

Overview: Only about seven years in the making… With the occasional small liberty, a recreation of the first, commercially-available home videotape recording setup in North America. Depending on your perspective, it’s either hardcore or half-baked.

Ben's Junk: Toshiba 20AF43 CRT TV (Episode 204)

Air date: 2021-03-11

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: No one should ever get this excited over something this mundane… Or, this CRT is 20 AF…y’all.

Archive Thrifting #14: (Non-)Luck of the (Non-)Irish (Episode 205)

Air date: 2021-03-18

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: You’ll be green with envy over these finds…or not.

Phonies (Answering Machine Greetings) (Episode 206)

Air date: 2021-04-01

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Just when you thought the Archive couldn’t get any more phake…

Archive Riffs: A Taxing Set of Commercials (Tax Day Special) (Episode 207)

Air date: 2021-04-15

Runtime: 8 min

Overview: It’s time to get down to business in Archiveland!

Ben's Junk: GPX Digital TV Tuner + Recorder (Episode 208)

Air date: 2021-04-29

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: Can a (relative) cheapie from Menard’s drag the Archive’s off-air recording capabilities (kicking and screaming) into the 21st century? Sort of…

A Geeky Evening With Benny-Boy (Episode 209)

Air date: 2021-05-13

Runtime: 32 min

Overview: A late-night, low-light, romantic fishing expedition with everybody’s favorite Oddity Archivist…fishing for ArchiveAnnex material, that is.

Ben's Junk: ClonerAlliance Box Pro (Video Capture Device) (Episode 210)

Air date: 2021-05-27

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: Could it be I’ve finally stumbled onto the rightful heir of the VCR? Looks like it…

Ben's Junk: JVC HM-DH30000U & Mitsubishi HD-HS2000u D-VHS VCR's (Episode 211)

Air date: 2021-06-10

Runtime: 16 min

Overview: A double-(4)-header of D-VHS (when possible) goodness!

Episode 200 (Behind The Box) (Commentary) (Episode 212)

Air date: 2021-06-17

Runtime: 27 min

Overview: If ever an OA episode needed a commentary track, it’s this one…

Archive Thrifting #15: Out Of This World Deals (Episode 213)

Air date: 2021-06-24

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Featuring deals so far outta sight, they’re outta mind!

Ben's Junk: Akai GX-220 Reel-To-Reel Audiotape Deck (Episode 214)

Air date: 2021-07-08

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: Of course, I had to pick up a rare and unusual deck for a tape cleaning rig. Also, not to be confused with the Akai GX-220D.

History of VHS (COMPLETE SERIES) (Episode 215)

Air date: 2021-07-15

Runtime: 104 min

Overview: You wanted a history lesson? You got a history lesson!

Ben's Casino Travelogue (Deleted Segment From How I Spent My Summer VIII) (Episode 216)

Air date: 2021-07-29

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: The Archive delivers its first real travelogue…granted, it was all of a half-hour away from home, but still.

Archive Thrifting #16: La Cage Aux Thrifting (Episode 217)

Air date: 2021-08-05

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: Thrifting can be a real drag…but not when Ben’s around!

VCR Cleaning (A Public Service Video) (Episode 218)

Air date: 2021-08-19

Runtime: 31 min

Overview: A bit of VHSMR for everyone…

Channel Update (9/2021) (Sony AV-3600 Update, Sencore VA62, etc.) (Episode 219)

Air date: 2021-09-02

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: There’s plenty in the OA oven right now, just none of it is rising.

VCR Rabbit Revisited (Episode 220)

Air date: 2021-09-09

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: I got things just a hare wrong the first time around, so let’s hop to another round of tests…

Ben's Junk: Video Store Regulars (& Memories) (Episode 221)

Air date: 2021-09-23

Runtime: 27 min

Overview: Most people would rent a video once…Benny-boy was just insane enough to rent the same tapes over and over…then eventually buy them.

Ben’s Junk: Wolverine Moviemaker Pro 8mm & Super8 Film Scanner (Episode 222)

Air date: 2021-10-07

Runtime: 30 min

Overview: A half-hour Ben’s Junk? You might say the machine caused it to run reely long.

Archive Thrifting #17: Spooktacular Savings (Episode 223)

Air date: 2021-10-21

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: Get a witches shawl on and find a broomstick you can crawl on…and go thrifting with Benny-boy! (snap, snap)

Thereminiature/Pavanned (Version 6.66) (Episode 224)

Air date: 2021-10-31

Runtime: 6 min

Overview: 0:01 - Thereminiature (featuring Sty Lo Phone) (A bit of B-Movie cheese) 1:36 - Pavanned (Version 6.66) (A half parody of/half tribute to the Alan Parsons Project)

Ben's Junk: Sony Digital Mavica (Model MVC-FD73) (Floppy Disk Digital Camera from 1999) (Episode 225)

Air date: 2021-11-04

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Finally getting into this newfangled digital camera stuff…whatdaya mean you can’t get 3.5” floppies anymore?!?

Ben's Junk: Coolmusic Ring Modulator (& other FX) ("Max Headroom" Hijacker Voice) (Episode 226)

Air date: 2021-11-18

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: Does Ben really think he’s better than Chuck Swirsky? That freakin’ liberal…

Ben's Junk: Christmas TV VHS & DVD's (Episode 227)

Air date: 2021-12-02

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: ‘Tis the season…for holiday specials. Here’s some of my favorites…

Archive Thrifting #18: Shortwave Santa (Episode 228)

Air date: 2021-12-16

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: Run, run Rudolph…towards another pile of junk!

Ben’s Music “Career” (The Complete Saga) (Episode 229)

Air date: 2021-12-30

Runtime: 202 min

Overview: Move over, “History of the Eagles”. There’s a new rock doc opus in town…

Ben's Junk: Keyfax Update/Pioneer GGF1381 Laserdisc Service Remote/Discovision Dead Sides Vol. 3 (Episode 230)

Air date: 2022-01-06

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: Going down a mental rabbit hole…in the most Archivian way possible.

The Wire (via Sony PCM-701ES, Betamax) (Episode 231)

Air date: 2022-01-12

Runtime: 2 min

Overview: Not so much chosen for musical content, but because of the long spaces between phrases and major volume drops. Shame it isn't more EQ'd, this'd the ultimate stress test for a PCM unit otherwise.

Ben's Junk: VuPoint Digital Video Converter (or, the circa 2010 YouTube video device) (Episode 232)

Air date: 2022-01-20

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Feeling nostalgic for those early YouTube potato video captures? I’ve got just the scratch for that itch…

Ben's Junk: The Clapper (Episode 233)

Air date: 2022-02-03

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: At long last, Ben’s Junk gets the clap…per.

Laserdisc Laser Rot (Episode 234)

Air date: 2022-02-17

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: A little mythbusting (and philosophizing)…OA style.

Ben's Junk: Magnus Chord Organ (Episode 235)

Air date: 2022-03-03

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: After last week’s video, I had to seek a 600-second miracle of my own. It seems to involve turning into a less-charming Daniel Johnston.

Ben's Junk: Blonder-Tongue BTX-111 "Ultraverter" (& ONTV Box Update) (Episode 236)

Air date: 2022-03-17

Runtime: 14 min

Overview: An addendum to the “Prehistoric UHF” episode…and the “ONTV/Pay TV Vol. 2” episode—about three years too late.

Ben's Junk: Prog & Metal VHS, Beta & Laserdiscs (Episode 237)

Air date: 2022-03-31

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: For those about to rock (in 11/4 time), we salute you…

Ben's Junk: Newtek Calibar (A Pen-Sized Test Pattern Generator) (Episode 238)

Air date: 2022-04-14

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: Ben recreates the best TV program of all time—the color bars!

A BENefit for a new computer…or a loose Ask The Archive (Episode 239)

Air date: 2022-04-22

Runtime: 100 min

Overview: Flying by the seat of Benny's ripped (by wear and tear) jeans using only an iPad and his (half-)wit to try and raise money for a new computer.

Ben's Junk: Hotronic AP41 (Frame Synchronizer & Time Base Corrector) (Episode 240)

Air date: 2022-04-28

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: It takes a lot to keep Ben’s Junk together…‘cause Ben’s Junk ain’t no good when it’s distorted and out-of-sync.

The “Can I Remember It?” stream (or, a smaller BENefit) (Episode 241)

Air date: 2022-05-07

Runtime: 142 min

Overview: A little (non-alcoholic) wine, a little song...which'll all cease if the price is right. Otherwise, we'll chat and I may pick a techie brain or two.

CD Frustrations & Easter Eggs (Episode 242)

Air date: 2022-05-12

Runtime: 20 min

Overview: A casual chat…if only because the prospect of the sixth “Ben’s Junk” in a row was too much to bear.

A Tour of the New OA Computer Rig (OA Computer Tour 2022) (Episode 243)

Air date: 2022-05-19

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: Please note, these are the statements of an analog-brained lunatic and are probably woefully inaccurate. In other words, never give an analog brain a computer.

Ben's Junk: Sony CVM-51UW and Panasonic WV-BM990 CRT Monitors (Episode 244)

Air date: 2022-06-02

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: CRT’s are for squares…which we proudly are.

The Eraser Laserdisc Experiment (Episode 245)

Air date: 2022-06-23

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: Tackling one of the great urban legends of the Laserdisc format. Are there any “good” copies of Eraser? And, no, I’m not referring to the film itself.

Archive Thrifting #19: Radios, Radios (Episode 246)

Air date: 2022-06-30

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: Got a new phone (not by choice)…which means a new camera…which means…test drive time!

Archive Riffs: Hey, Stop That! (Episode 247)

Air date: 2022-07-07

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: It’s a(n apparent) fine line between deep expressionism and wonky student film.

Ben's Junk: Midland WR400 NOAA Weather Radio (& other Radio Ramblings) (Episode 248)

Air date: 2022-07-14

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: Mother Nature: (throws flash floods, tornadoes, derechos and blizzards at Archive HQ) Ben: I get the hint already! Geez…

Ben's Junk: Sony SRF-A100 AM/AM Stereo/FM Portable Radio (Episode 249)

Air date: 2022-07-20

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: A truly nice little radio (especially on the AM front)…and a nice little prelude to the OA 10th Anniversary episode.

Archive Thrifting #20: Fair(mont) (St.) Clouds over Mankato (Episode 250)

Air date: 2022-07-28

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: Taken while shooting the AM Stereo episode. If nothing else, it was the least sticker-shock-intensive part of the trip.

Ben Repairs: Radio Shack Executive Stress Eliminator (Episode 251)

Air date: 2022-08-04

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Testing out a potential, new occasionally recurring thing in which I undertake minor repairs on some item…and, as always, mock it a bit.

Sony Videocorders Update (CV-2100 & AV-3600) (8/2022) (Episode 252)

Air date: 2022-08-18

Runtime: 34 min

Overview: …and the single most challenging project I’ve ever taken on…continues to kick my butt. Share in the frustration, won’t you?

Ben's Junk: Tyler Portable TV (model TTV701-7) (Episode 253)

Air date: 2022-09-01

Runtime: 46 min

Overview: Hope you like fussy, fidgety, unintuitive setups…and 45-minute Ben’s Junks.

Ben's Junk: Sears Whisper-Matic IV (& Victorian-Era Theater Slides) (Episode 254)

Air date: 2022-09-15

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: Hey Buddy, wanna see some early 20th century movie theater slides? Didn’t think so.

Ben's Junk: Ben's Blackhawk Films Collection (minus the videotapes) (Episode 255)

Air date: 2022-09-22

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: …or, Ben gets nostalgic for other people’s nostalgia.

Ben's Junk: Sony Trinitron PVM-1343MD (Professional Video Monitor) (Episode 256)

Air date: 2022-10-06

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: A rather unprofessional look at a truly professional piece of gear. Such is the Archive… And, yes, “Junk” is used in the loosest way possible here.

Archive Thrifting #21: We Already Have Halloween At Home (Episode 257)

Air date: 2022-10-20

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Mom, can we buy some Halloween? (see title for answer)

Benny M.'s TV Party (Commentary) (Episode 258)

Air date: 2022-10-24

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: I think I have some ‘splainin’ to do regarding this one. NOTE: I recorded this back in early June (2022) as a fail-safe in case the thrifting episode I was trying to make fell through. Some of the points discussed here are now outdated.

Halloween Special 2022 Blooper Reel (Episode 259)

Air date: 2022-11-03

Runtime: 4 min

Overview: …or, as some might call it, “Ben’s Final Descent Into Madness”.

Ben's Junk: Telemeter Pay TV Box (Circa 1960) (Episode 260)

Air date: 2022-11-17

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: It’s (apparently) a fine line between your TV and a taxi meter…

Ben's Junk: Favorite (and/or Notable) Christmas Albums (Episode 261)

Air date: 2022-12-01

Runtime: 42 min

Overview: Even old scrooge Benny-boy has those Christmas tunes that get his foot (arrhythmically) a-tappin’.

Archive Thrifting #22: Christmas In Elbonia (Episode 262)

Air date: 2022-12-15

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: The merriest* thrifting video of the year! *FACT CHECK: Mostly false.

Archive Thrifting #23: Holiday Hangover (Episode 263)

Air date: 2022-12-29

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: Old year, old junk. Poetic, ain’t it?

Magna-Guard (or, Copy-Protection, Vol. 3) (Episode 264)

Air date: 2023-01-05

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: And the quest for that form of copy protection that’ll make my VCR burst into flames continues…

Ben's Junk: RCA BW003 (1978 Home Video Camera) (Episode 265)

Air date: 2023-01-19

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: Please inspect Ben’s Junk for damage before use…and let it warm up for awhile…and don’t point it at anything bright for more than a second or two. You know what, forget it.

Ben's Junk: Forbidden KLAK (via the Archer Multiple Video Distribution System) (Episode 266)

Air date: 2023-02-02

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: You wanted more Oddity Archive…After Dark? Here ya go. Just don’t expect anything too hot.

Ben's Junk: Realistic (Radio Shack) FM Wireless Lavalier Microphone System (Circa 1988) (Episode 267)

Air date: 2023-02-23

Runtime: 20 min

Overview: For those looking to up their YouTube microphone game…had such a thing existed in 1988.

Ben's Junk: (Some of) Ben's TV-on-DVD Collection (Episode 268)

Air date: 2023-03-09

Runtime: 30 min

Overview: For how much TV I watched when I was younger, it’s a wonder my brains didn’t completely leak out of my ears. See the beginning of the de-evolution of Benny-boy here…

Ben's Junk: Hitachi Visionbook Pro 7560 Laptop (or, My 1st, failed attempt at a Windows 98 Rig) (Episode 269)

Air date: 2023-03-23

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: …because I MUST get my Diamond Rio loaded (ideally, with Diamond Rio songs)!

Ben's Junk: Ben's Mad Magazine Stash (Episode 270)

Air date: 2023-04-06

Runtime: 27 min

Overview: What—Me Ramble?

Noelle's Mystery Tapes (& Channel Update - 4/2023) (Episode 271)

Air date: 2023-04-20

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: Some like roses on a date, some like candy. Benny-boy likes uncatalogued analog magnetic media.

Ben's Junk: 80's Music Videos (on Laserdisc) (Episode 272)

Air date: 2023-05-04

Runtime: 29 min

Overview: Oddity Archive and MTV have a momentary cease-fire to appreciate some 80’s tuneage.

Ben's Ugly A/V Rack (Episode 273)

Air date: 2023-05-18

Runtime: 11 min

Overview: Hey! Nice rack, Benny-boy! (snicker)

Betacam SP (1st Test...From A Newbie's Perspective) (Episode 274)

Air date: 2023-05-22

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: A ferric-oxide (or metal, depending on the tape) baptism…by fire.

Christmas Morning on a June Evening (or, Mail Day From Tyrone) (Episode 275)

Air date: 2023-06-22

Runtime: 20 min

Overview: Hope you have your June tree up (ideally, something deciduous), 'cause we're about to celebrate Christmas in June.

Archive Thrifting #24: The Delicate Sound of Thrifting (Episode 276)

Air date: 2023-07-06

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: Some things don’t come easy…like the first thrifting video of 2023 (more than halfway into the year, no less).

Ben's Junk: X-10 Videosender (another VCR Rabbit-esque device) (Episode 277)

Air date: 2023-07-13

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Coming right at the end of the usefulness for something like this. Let’s see if it’s too little, too late…or right on time.

Revenge of the Sony AV-3600 Videocorder (1st Test) (Episode 278)

Air date: 2023-07-20

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: Some people’s sinuses come back from Arizona…my AV-3600 came back from Arizona—arguably the same headache.

Archive Thrifting #25: 3M (Moderate Minnesota Madness) (Episode 279)

Air date: 2023-08-10

Runtime: 30 min

Overview: Celebrating the 25th OA Thrifting video by doing one in Minnesohta, doan ‘cha know?

Fix It or Forget It? (NEC S-VHS Deck) (Episode 280)

Air date: 2023-08-10

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: It’s everybody’s favorite new (not quite) nerdy game show…Fix It or Forget It!!!

Ben's Junk: 1966 (partial) Zenith Phonevision Pay TV Box (Episode 281)

Air date: 2023-08-24

Runtime: 16 min

Overview: The Archive phones it in…phoneVISION, that is.

Ben's Junk: SelecTV Pay TV Box (Episode 282)

Air date: 2023-09-07

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: Oddity Archive®: Only for the most SelecTiVe viewers!

Ben's Junk: ClonerAlliance ViewLite AV (Video Capture Device) (Episode 283)

Air date: 2023-09-21

Runtime: 37 min

Overview: A little device with a lot of potential…but does it live up to it?

Ben's Junk: Sears Du-All Eight (8mm Viewer/Editor) (Episode 284)

Air date: 2023-10-05

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Well, it does du all, I’ll give it that…

Archive Thrifting #26: Indian Summer (Episode 285)

Air date: 2023-10-12

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: Dragging out the Summer a little longer…whether you like it or not.

Ben's Junk: Sharp VL-E47 "Viewcam" (Video8 Camcorder, circa 1995) (Episode 286)

Air date: 2023-11-30

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: Oddity Archive®: Now in glorious Hi-Fi Mono!

Archive Thrifting #28: Scandalous Santa (Episode 287)

Air date: 2023-12-14

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: Just hear those cash tills jing-a-ling’—ring-ting-tinga-ling…

Archive Thrifting #29 (Christmas Leftovers) (Episode 288)

Air date: 2023-12-28

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: From that part of the Archive that’s a bit like that old take-out in the back of your fridge…that you forgot about.

Ben's Junk: Ben's Rifftrax DVD & Blu-Ray Collection (Episode 289)

Air date: 2024-01-04

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: Looking at the Rifftrax collection…with only minimal snark…which may very well go against the laws of riff comedy.

Ben's Junk: Denon RCD-N10 CD Receiver (Episode 290)

Air date: 2024-01-18

Runtime: 37 min

Overview: …because Benny-boy apparently goes through mini stereos like (insert absurdly famous pop star) goes through boyfriends.

Ben's Junk: Magnavox H2160MW9 (or, Exploring Someone's Old Personal DVR) (Episode 291)

Air date: 2024-01-25

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: The tech geek equivalent of rummaging through someone’s medicine cabinet…

Ben's Junk: Wometco Home Theatre (WHT) Pay TV Decoder Box (Episode 292)

Air date: 2024-02-15

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: Archiveco Home Theatre®: Now serving Lawn Guyland & New Joisey!

Ben’s Junk: ClearClick Video2USB/ A Tour of Ben’s Livestream Setup (Episode 293)

Air date: 2024-02-22

Runtime: 27 min

Overview: Some livestreamers run PC games…Benny-boy likes to run Betamax tapes.

How To Unstretch Video (via HandBrake) (Episode 294)

Air date: 2024-02-29

Runtime: 7 min

Overview: For us old fartknockers that haven’t yet warmed up to stretch-o-vision…

Ben's Junk: Laser Video File Laserdisc Catalog (Mid-1992) (Episode 295)

Air date: 2024-03-14

Runtime: 35 min

Overview: Thumbing through the catalog of the hottest new video format (by OA standards).

Ben's Junk: Some More of Ben's Audiocassette Collection (Mystery Box!) (Episode 296)

Air date: 2024-03-21

Runtime: 24 min

Overview: Come on down to Crazy Benny’s for…a bunch of audiocassettes that you probably don’t care about.

Magnavox H2160MW9 Personal DVR/DVD Recorder UPDATE (A Failure) (Episode 297)

Air date: 2024-03-28

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: Trying to bulk dump the contents of the DVR. Here’s how NOT* to do it… *No Hard Drives were harmed in the making of this episode. It was reinstalled and all material is still 100% intact.

Ben's Junk: Videolok (VCR Anti-Theft Device) (Episode 298)

Air date: 2024-04-11

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: Inconvenience and mildly annoy those evil VCR thieves with the Videolok!

Ben's Junk: Rhoades Teledapter (TV Stereo Simulator) (Episode 299)

Air date: 2024-04-18

Runtime: 15 min

Overview: Don’t wanna wait for Stereo TV’s to be invented? Here ya go!

Windows 98 Laptop Update (4/2024) (Episode 300)

Air date: 2024-04-25

Runtime: 12 min

Overview: The saga continues. On and on…and on…and on…

CD Rot Rant (Episode 301)

Air date: 2024-05-09

Runtime: 27 min

Overview: Benny-boy’s (non-accredited) Physical Media Studies class is now in session!

Ben A.'s Mystery Tapes (A Not-So-Livestream) (Episode 302)

Air date: 2024-05-16

Runtime: 48 min

Overview: An unintentional episode of Oddity Archive…After Dark…in the most literal sense.

Windows 98 Laptop Update (5/2024) (She Lives!) (Episode 303)

Air date: 2024-05-23

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: Ben christens his newly-functional laptop…by playing a little Slim Whitman.

Ben's Junk: Whole House FM Transmitter 3.0 (Episode 304)

Air date: 2024-06-20

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: Ben’s 3(.0)rd attempt at FM, Part 15-legal microbroadcasting! Let’s see if it’s the charm…

Ben Vs. The Cursed U-Matic Tape (Episode 305)

Air date: 2024-06-27

Runtime: 30 min

Overview: A quick experiment evolves (er, devolves) into a borderline documentary…on the subject of cleaning mold off an old ¾” “U-Matic” videotape. And they say OA isn’t mainstream…

Archive Thrifting #30: Wet Fireworks (Episode 306)

Air date: 2024-07-04

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Spend the 4th of July the American way…shopping for junk.

Ben's Junk: A Tower of Vidicraft (Episode 307)

Air date: 2024-07-11

Runtime: 28 min

Overview: (with apologies to Frank Sinatra) …’cause it’s Vidicraft, wicked Vidicraft. And, although I know it’s strictly taboo…

Quasar Great Time Machine (Round 2?) (Episode 308)

Air date: 2024-08-01

Runtime: 10 min

Overview: After making the Great Time Machine episodes in 2023, I was offered another unit in exchange for transferring some tapes. I may not have gotten the better part of that deal.

Ben's Junk: My First DVD's (Episode 309)

Air date: 2024-08-08

Runtime: 31 min

Overview: Something I never thought I’d have…warm, gooey nostalgia for the Y2K era.

Ben's Junk: JamC@m Digital Camera (Episode 310)

Air date: 2024-08-15

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: A trip back to the late-90’s. Of course, that means being unnecessarily EXTREEEEME!!!! (insert dorky camera zoom)

Archive Thrifting #31: Summer's End (Episode 311)

Air date: 2024-08-22

Runtime: 20 min

Overview: The little brats are finally back in school. Let’s go thrifting…

More Fun With Moldy U-Matic Tapes (Episode 312)

Air date: 2024-09-05

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: Mold®: Now available in yellow and brown!

Ben's Junk: :CueCat Barcode Scanner (Episode 313)

Air date: 2024-09-12

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: Truly from the audiovisual litterbox, an impractical solution to a problem that didn’t/doesn’t exist. Or, Benny-boy officially becomes a cat herder...and hoarder.

Ben's Junk: Sencore "Little Huey" Test Pattern Generator (Episode 314)

Air date: 2024-09-19

Runtime: 13 min

Overview: A color bar generator called “Little HUEy”. No, it’s not a Norm MacDonald joke…I think.

Ben's Junk: Casio CMD-10 watch (Episode 315)

Air date: 2024-10-10

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Keep losing that remote control? Perhaps there’s just too many gosh-darn buttons? We’ve got a (borderline-toy) solution for you!

Ben's Junk: Laserviews Laserdisc Magazines (Episode 316)

Air date: 2024-10-17

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: I set out to discuss laserdiscs and wound up on a tear about various movies. Ain’t that always the way?

Archive Thrifting #32: Halloween Hootenanny (Episode 317)

Air date: 2024-10-24

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: Grab yer pardner, do-si-do…and go thrifting with ol’ Benny-boy!

Halloween Special 2023 (Season of the Wince) (Commentary) (Episode 318)

Air date: 2024-10-28

Runtime: 21 min

Overview: Discussing the great swindle that is my little parody of “Halloween III”…and mustaches.

Ben's Junk: Realistic (Radio Shack) Astronaut 8 Radio (Episode 319)

Air date: 2024-11-09

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: A radio that’ll send you into outer space…8 times!

Ben's Junk: Down Beat Magazine (10/23/1975) (Episode 320)

Air date: 2024-11-14

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: An Up Beat (by my standards) look at an issue of Down Beat magazine. Now, excuse me while I clap out-of-rhythm…

Ben’s Junk: Thanksgiving Traditions (and not-so-traditions) (Episode 321)

Air date: 2024-11-21

Runtime: 20 min

Overview: You can get anything you want at Benny-boy’s (non-existent) Restaurant…

Ben’s Junk: VHS is Life Mold Cleaning Rig REDUX (Episode 322)

Air date: 2024-12-05

Runtime: 26 min

Overview: A product so nice, I had to review it twice…

Archive Thrifting #33: Christmas Clutter (Episode 323)

Air date: 2024-12-12

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Out in the stores there’s so much clutter/Let’s listen to Benny-boy groan and mutter…

Ben’s Junk: Epiphone ED-100NS Acoustic Guitar (Episode 324)

Air date: 2024-12-26

Runtime: 16 min

Overview: My first steel string acoustic guitar…which was even cheaper than the ones Esteban was hawking on TV at the time.

Ben’s (Failed) Gimmick CD (A Rant) (Episode 325)

Air date: 2025-01-09

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: The OA soundtrack album was SUPPOSED to be the most tricked-out CD of all time…of course, things didn’t pan out. And, yes, this may very well be the geekiest, most jargon-heavy discussion I’ve ever given.

Ben’s Junk: NuReality Vivid 3D (Mock Surround Sound Processor) (Episode 326)

Air date: 2025-01-16

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Mono reprocessed for stereo? How quaint. How ‘bout stereo reprocessed for surround sound?

Ben's Junk: Optoma PK320 Pico Pocket Projector (Episode 327)

Air date: 2025-01-23

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Benny-boy covers a projector…but not a film projector. Blasphemy, I know.

Albums I Love (That I’m Supposed To Hate) (Episode 328)

Air date: 2025-02-27

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: …because it’s (apparently) cool to be contrarian.

Monkeeing Around (Episode 329)

Air date: 2025-03-06

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: Hey, hey…the Ben’s Junk items I was gonna cover fell through. Let’s get nostalgic.

Ben’s Junk: Sony eMarker (SoundHound before SoundHound) (Episode 330)

Air date: 2025-03-13

Runtime: 9 min

Overview: You’ve heard of “oddware”, right? This is outright “deadware”.

DiscoVision Dead Sides Vol. 5 (Episode 331)

Air date: 2025-03-20

Runtime: 23 min

Overview: Easter Eggs are earned, my friend…

Ben’s Junk: RCA RC5230Z DIVX/DVD Player (More “Deadware”) (Episode 332)

Air date: 2025-03-27

Runtime: 25 min

Overview: Fulfilling another one of my utterly pointless life missions…almost.

25 Pounds of Laserdiscs (Mail Day From Paul C.) (Episode 333)

Air date: 2025-04-10

Runtime: 16 min

Overview: True Archive® excitement, doled out by the pound…

Ben's Junk: Half A Halloween Movie Collection (Episode 334)

Air date: 2025-05-01

Runtime: 19 min

Overview: Let’s celebrate (Halfway to) Halloween with…half a Halloween movie franchise collection.

Ben’s Junk: APF TV Fun (“Sportsarama” Model) (Episode 335)

Air date: 2025-05-08

Runtime: 18 min

Overview: Sportsarama®: Somehow even less convenient than scheduling an actual game of tennis (or hockey or handball)!

Pre-Recorded SuperBeta (and some minor mythbusting) (Episode 336)

Air date: 2025-05-17

Runtime: 17 min

Overview: With all the hype about the 50th anniversary of the Betamax home video format, let’s not forget the 40th anniversary of…SuperBeta(max).

Ben’s Junk: Sears Tele-Games Pinball Breakaway (Atari Video Pinball) (Episode 337)

Air date: 2025-05-23

Runtime: 22 min

Overview: I always wanted a pinball machine…

State of the Archive Address/General Chat/Q&A (5/30/2025) (Episode 338)

Air date: 2025-06-05

Runtime: 137 min