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Old 09-19-2010, 08:56 PM
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radiotvnut radiotvnut is offline
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Location: Meridian, MS
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Bud Radio "phono oscillator" (AKA, AM transmitter)

While moving some stuff around in the shop, I found this little gem - a "Bud Radio Inc" phonograph oscillator model WO-6 and was made in Cleveland, OH. This is probably from the '40's and, as most know, this is actually a small AM transmitter that was designed to be attached to a phonograph pick-up for the purpose of transmitting the content of phonograph records to a nearby AM radio. I think these were mainly intended to make it easier to run a phonograph through a radio that didn't have a phono input jack. I think Philco and other companies actually made turntables that had a self contained "phono oscillator" for the purpose of transmitting music from records to a nearby radio.

I have not tested this unit and it appears to have one octal tube inside. I'm sure this was designed for use with the old 2 to 3 volt crystal 78 rpm cartridges; so, I don't know how well it would do with a modern line level input. Also, if I ever actually use this, I'd run it through an isolation transformer, since this is likely a hot chassis unit.

Anyway, just thought I'd throw this little item up here for those who may be interested.

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