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RCA Model 143 Tombstone Radio (1934)
RCA Victor 143... housed in an exceptionally beautiful neo-classic cabinet.
The RCA model 143 was introduced at the same time as its sister,
the model 128, in the second half of 1934. It was RCA Victor's top
of the line table set for the 1935 model season and had a list
price of $97.50.
The 143 is an upgraded version of the model 128. Electrically,
the tube count was increased from 6 to 8 to provide push-pull
output for enhanced audio quality and the long-wave 'X' band
was added. Ergonomically, a second hand was added to the tun-
ing dial, supplementing the "Double Vernier Tuning" mechanism
(based on a pull-out/push-in tuning knob) to provide improved
precision when tuning and relocating stations. Aesthetically, the
cabinet was enlarged and embellished with fluted trim along the
front and rear edges of each side and at the crown and sides in
front. In spite of these refinements, however, I have a sneaking
preference for the model 128, which to my eyes shows a greater
degree of finesse in its overall presentation. Was this set truly
worth $27.55 more than its sister model 128? Apparently most
buyers thought not, for today the 143 is much rarer than the
128.
The 143 uses eight tubes and provides almost continuous cov-
erage over four bands:- Band X (140 - 410KC), Band A (540 -
1720 KC), Band B (1720 - 5400KC) and Band C (5400 - 1800
KC). The set features a push-pull class-A output stage produc-
ing 4W undistorted output, automatic-volume-control and a
sensitivity control. The airplane type dial includes a "special
second hand for logging shortwave stations", a "double-ratio
vernier drive" and a "visual band indicator".
The tube line-up is 6D6 (RF amp), 6A7 (mixer/LO), 6D6 (IF),
75 (2nd detector/AVC/1st AF), 76 (AF driver), 2 * 42 (push-pull
audio output) and 5Z3 (rectifier). Schematic.
the model 128, in the second half of 1934. It was RCA Victor's top
of the line table set for the 1935 model season and had a list
price of $97.50.
The 143 is an upgraded version of the model 128. Electrically,
the tube count was increased from 6 to 8 to provide push-pull
output for enhanced audio quality and the long-wave 'X' band
was added. Ergonomically, a second hand was added to the tun-
ing dial, supplementing the "Double Vernier Tuning" mechanism
(based on a pull-out/push-in tuning knob) to provide improved
precision when tuning and relocating stations. Aesthetically, the
cabinet was enlarged and embellished with fluted trim along the
front and rear edges of each side and at the crown and sides in
front. In spite of these refinements, however, I have a sneaking
preference for the model 128, which to my eyes shows a greater
degree of finesse in its overall presentation. Was this set truly
worth $27.55 more than its sister model 128? Apparently most
buyers thought not, for today the 143 is much rarer than the
128.
The 143 uses eight tubes and provides almost continuous cov-
erage over four bands:- Band X (140 - 410KC), Band A (540 -
1720 KC), Band B (1720 - 5400KC) and Band C (5400 - 1800
KC). The set features a push-pull class-A output stage produc-
ing 4W undistorted output, automatic-volume-control and a
sensitivity control. The airplane type dial includes a "special
second hand for logging shortwave stations", a "double-ratio
vernier drive" and a "visual band indicator".
The tube line-up is 6D6 (RF amp), 6A7 (mixer/LO), 6D6 (IF),
75 (2nd detector/AVC/1st AF), 76 (AF driver), 2 * 42 (push-pull
audio output) and 5Z3 (rectifier). Schematic.
| Here's Value In Full! It is an instrument of truly glorious tone, wonderfully real in its approach to actual music and speech. It is housed in an exceptionally beautiful Neo-Classic cabinet, famous alike for its sturdy structure as for its mirror-like lustre. The cabinet is of hand-rubbed walnut, and measures 20" high, 177/8" wide, 14" deep. |
Table model 143... The radio with the "Magic Brain".
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See my model 128 page for more details on the RCA "Magic Brain".
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