Google "Silvertone Wire Recorder" (with quotes) and you'll find info. You may even find your model.

I thought it was hilarious that at least one model can be used for wire recording AND 78 rpm records! Some also had radios. Top of the line!

You can probably get some pretty cool scratchy, band-limited lo-fi sound from it. Don't expect much fidelity. I have a friend who had one, and it was fun to play around with, but sounded horrible. I suppose if you wanted to add an old-time intro to something, and you wanted it to be authentic (instead of just one of those software plug-ins that emulate crackles, hiss, etc.) you may be able to figure out a use for it. I don't remember how much time it recorded, but I don't think it was very long.

Have fun!

Kapt.Krunch

does anyone know of any forums or websites devoted to thes machines?
ok, thanks
-Travis hagan

do what you will but frankly it will be worth more as a collector item if you dont fuk with it... it's a novelty... wonder who actually made it as silvertone was just an inhouse name for sears... ie.the old silvertone guitars are really dan electros..