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The Majestic Riviera (model 996) was the top-dog in the line-up
of four modernistic console radios introduced by Grigsby-Grunow
in September of 1933 as part of their ongoing "smart set" series.
It listed at around $99.50. The other members of this quartet were
the Ritz, Park Avenue and Lido. All can be seen in my Majestic
Radios Gallery. Each of these sets is diminutive in size and dist-
inctive in style. Considered to be Art Deco masterpieces of their
genre, all are today highly collectible.
The Riviera portrays asymmetrical form, a characteristic
beholden to its contoured right side, resplendent with useful
knick-knack portals artfully framed with richly-grained cross-
wise veneers. By way of contrast, its leftmost planar features,
comprising minimalist instrument panel and loudspeaker grille,
exquisitely unified by six superposed vertical stripes in ebony,
reveal almost perfect bi-lateral symmetry. The ensemble
creates an elegant, masterful impression that is pure and
simple eye candy. Oh, and did I forget to mention that this
is a radio that's meant to be listened to and not just admired?
The Riviera is 38" (H) * 20" (W) * 101/2" (D).
of four modernistic console radios introduced by Grigsby-Grunow
in September of 1933 as part of their ongoing "smart set" series.
It listed at around $99.50. The other members of this quartet were
the Ritz, Park Avenue and Lido. All can be seen in my Majestic
Radios Gallery. Each of these sets is diminutive in size and dist-
inctive in style. Considered to be Art Deco masterpieces of their
genre, all are today highly collectible.
The Riviera portrays asymmetrical form, a characteristic
beholden to its contoured right side, resplendent with useful
knick-knack portals artfully framed with richly-grained cross-
wise veneers. By way of contrast, its leftmost planar features,
comprising minimalist instrument panel and loudspeaker grille,
exquisitely unified by six superposed vertical stripes in ebony,
reveal almost perfect bi-lateral symmetry. The ensemble
creates an elegant, masterful impression that is pure and
simple eye candy. Oh, and did I forget to mention that this
is a radio that's meant to be listened to and not just admired?
The Riviera is 38" (H) * 20" (W) * 101/2" (D).
Majestic (Grigsby-Grunow) 996 'Riviera' Console Radio (1933)
Authentic Modernism in a stunning console...
Four tones of wood - rosewood, walnut, natural and ebony.
The Riviera model 996 is a 6-tube superheterodyne covering
the standard broadcast band. Tube line up is G58-S (RF amp),
G2A7-S (mixer/ LO), G58-S (IF amp), G55-S (2nd-det/AVC/1st
AF), G-2A5 (AF power amp) and G-80 (rectifier). The "G" deno-
tes a Grigsby-Grunow tube and the "S" the company's propriet-
ary spray shielding. Grigsby-Grunow claimed the equivalent of
8-tube performance for this set by virtue of its use of two multi-
functional (Duo-Valve) types (the 55 & 2A7).
There is no schematic explicitly identifying the 996 in Riders.
However, that of chassis type 460 can be used.
I purchased this fabulous radio cosmetically and electrically
restored as shown. The grille-cloth is an era-representative
repro that nicely complements the set. The cabinet has been
refinished. For other "smart sets" see my Majestic gallery.
the standard broadcast band. Tube line up is G58-S (RF amp),
G2A7-S (mixer/ LO), G58-S (IF amp), G55-S (2nd-det/AVC/1st
AF), G-2A5 (AF power amp) and G-80 (rectifier). The "G" deno-
tes a Grigsby-Grunow tube and the "S" the company's propriet-
ary spray shielding. Grigsby-Grunow claimed the equivalent of
8-tube performance for this set by virtue of its use of two multi-
functional (Duo-Valve) types (the 55 & 2A7).
There is no schematic explicitly identifying the 996 in Riders.
However, that of chassis type 460 can be used.
I purchased this fabulous radio cosmetically and electrically
restored as shown. The grille-cloth is an era-representative
repro that nicely complements the set. The cabinet has been
refinished. For other "smart sets" see my Majestic gallery.
| "What a pace these 1934 Majestics are setting - in appearance as well as performance! Imagine - they LOOK like new radios...They have flatly disobeyed the Mid-Victorian rule of radio - that all sets should dress alike, in old fashioned sombreness. These Majestics are alive.. with new lines, new individuality, new distinction; and their crisply contrasting new woods, hand rubbed to a super piano finish" |
"a perfectly stunning radio"
20" (W) * 101/2" (D) *38" (H)
Copyright TubeRadioLand.com
Nov 1933, Orlean NY
Dec 1933
Dec 21st, '33,
Iowa
Iowa
Oct 1933, Radio Retailing