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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 to enhance the audio quality and the long-wave 'X' band
was added. Ergonomically, a second hand was added to the tuning
dial, supplementing the "Double Vernier Tuning" mechanism (based
upon 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 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 air-
plane 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 to enhance the audio quality and the long-wave 'X' band
was added. Ergonomically, a second hand was added to the tuning
dial, supplementing the "Double Vernier Tuning" mechanism (based
upon 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 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 air-
plane 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".
