I have a Califone 1620 model economy classroom phonograph in need

try increasing stylus (needle) weight. this is done by turning the tone arm counterweight clock wise when viewed from end.

Ask them what the part is they can't get and report it back here. Fixya experts like myself sometimes can track them down.

Try www.ebay.com Type phonograph needles and cassette deck, make and model of unit will narrow the search.

The easiest way to find out the issue is to get an OHM reading to see if you are getting power from the switch when you select phonograph. If it is putting out, then the issue is with the phonograph, if not it is with the switch, and you will need to find a replacement.

YOUR manual can be downloaded from the below link
http://www.sewingpartsdirect.com/white-model-1620-instruction-manual.aspx

White Model 1620 Instruction ManualPrice: $11.99
Item Number: WHITE-1620
Manufacturer: White
Manufacturer Part #: WHITE-1620
Quantity:1


or
check out at sites like
http://www.hammerwall.com/Manuals/White/Description/1620/White%20Sewing%20Machine%20Manual/1095_White%201620,1630%20x/

when you go to above link you can read it fully.Just take a hardcopy of it..


I THINK I WOULD HAVE BEEN MORE HELPFULL

http://www.califone.com/search.php?zoom_query=PA&zoom_page=1&zoom_per_page=10&zoom_cat=-1&zoom_and=0&zoom_sort=0 Try Support at this site. Icouldn't find a 716 but that doesn't mean there isn't one.

try this..
www.2instructions.com

If you take the platter off you may find a rubber "idler wheel" that rides on the inside rim of the platter. It may be worn or glazed over and hardened. Might try cleaning with denatured alcohol. If that doesnt work you may need a new idler wheel. West Tech Services is a place that comes to mind that may carry what you need.