Motorola tube console
 

I went by one of the antique stores and out on the porch, they had a Motorola console stereo that looked like someone "antiqued" the cabinet. Looking at the speaker grille, it appeared to be a 3-channel job. Opening the lid, I discovered that this model is a record player-only unit with the controls arranged horizontally, with record storage behind the controls. The record storage bin looks like it may possibly accept an optional tuner; but, who knows. To my surprise, the record changer (located to the right of the control panel) is a BSR/Monarch (looks like a UA8) and it has the gold colored tonearm and overarm, like what Motorola used at the time. Before today, I've only seen VM changers in Motorola consoles; so, I wonder what the deal was with them using a BSR in this model?

We were in my friend's car; so, no way to haul it today. However, I went ahead and paid them the $25 for the stereo and I'll pick it up as soon as I can round up someone with a truck. My friend was in a hurry; so, not much time to examine it very well at ths store.

I need another console like I need a hole in the head; but, it's hard to pass up those old tube models (especially the ones that have a reputation for being of better quality). If this Motorola is like other Motorola's that I've had, it will be a good performer.

Anyway, I'll tell you more about it once I get my hands on it.

I absolutely love my 3 channel Moto. It did not need a recap, just control cleaning. Even the original cartridge was good, just a new needle. It has excellent sound quality for the size of the unit. Better than any China junk out there.

A hole in the head probably would have been cheaper too. Some of the shadier medical schools might have done it for research purposes.

Here it is, an SK24W from 1960. Uses a single ended 6BQ5 for the bass channel and SE-6BM8's for the other speakers. The output tubes and the rectifier tube appear to be Mullard sourced; so, that's a good thing if they are still good. The record changer is a BSR UA8, fitted with a Sonotone 8T cartridge and tracking at a light 18 grams; which, I know is way too heavy. The biggest thing I'm worried about is what to do about the cabinet that someone painted brown. I don't know if these cabinets were originally photofinished or if they had real finish on them. Looking at the amp, it uses all disc caps; which, is nice.

http://i538.photobucket.com/albums/f...ps1650f726.jpg

http://i538.photobucket.com/albums/f...ps03d76c93.jpg

http://i538.photobucket.com/albums/f...psc3b40e99.jpg

That stereo was mid-line and a great performer. The cabinets were photo-finish and were well constructed.
I have an optional AM/FM tuner that has a separate power supply. As mentioned before, it was designed to drop into the record storage bin. :yes:

Looks like a quality piece. Must be a pain to lug these consoles around though !

I took a closer look at the pictures. That has to be the fanciest BSR changer, I've ever seen.
In the mid to later 50's, Motorola used BSR, VM and Webcor. I never was too thrilled about Webcors.

Who autographed the changer next to the Motorola logo?

Looks like the "Golden Voice" script there.

That's what it is.

I've got a loose tuner and Amp for this, I think from the same year.

At least the amp controls look the same. I never did see the cabinet it came out of or the record changer.