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Copyright TubeRadioLand.com
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 basically an upgraded version of the model 128. Elect-
rically, the tube count was increased from 6 to 8 to provide a push-
pull output stage with enhanced audio quality, and the long-wave 'X'
band was added. Ergonomically, a second hand was added to the
tuning dial, along with a "spreader" (i.e. "Double Vernier Tuning"),
based upon a pull-out/push-in tuning knob, for improved precision
when tuning stations. Aesthetically, the cabinet was enlarged and em-
bellished with fluted trim along the front and rear edges of each side
and at the crown 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 the 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 coverage
over four bands:- Band X (140 - 410KC), Band A (540 - 1720KC),
Band B (1720 - 5400KC) and Band C (5400 - 1800KC). The set
features a push-pull class-A output stage producing 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 amp), 75
(2nd detector/AVC/1st AF), 76 (AF driver), 2 * 42 (push-pull audio
output) and 5Z3 (rectifier). Schematic.
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 basically an upgraded version of the model 128. Elect-
rically, the tube count was increased from 6 to 8 to provide a push-
pull output stage with enhanced audio quality, and the long-wave 'X'
band was added. Ergonomically, a second hand was added to the
tuning dial, along with a "spreader" (i.e. "Double Vernier Tuning"),
based upon a pull-out/push-in tuning knob, for improved precision
when tuning stations. Aesthetically, the cabinet was enlarged and em-
bellished with fluted trim along the front and rear edges of each side
and at the crown 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 the 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 coverage
over four bands:- Band X (140 - 410KC), Band A (540 - 1720KC),
Band B (1720 - 5400KC) and Band C (5400 - 1800KC). The set
features a push-pull class-A output stage producing 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 amp), 75
(2nd detector/AVC/1st AF), 76 (AF driver), 2 * 42 (push-pull audio
output) and 5Z3 (rectifier). Schematic.
| Here's Value In Full! |
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more...
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".
