Book Description

For many people born in the second half of the twentieth century and brought up in the age of the transistor and microchip, valve radio is a mystery - assuming they have even heard of it. In truth, for too long a time the great technical achievements of the era of the electronic valve was allowed to slip into the past, unnoticed and unloved except by a comparatively few devotees. Now, things are changing for the better and an ever-widening appreciation of the remarkable skill and artistry that went into the creation of the life and society-changing technological marvels of radio communication is coming about. Vintage radio receivers housed in often magnificent wooden and Bakelite Deco cabinets have passed their 'fallow' period and, no longer in decline are becoming sought after in much the same way as steam power, both locomotive and static and vintage cars have become revaluated and even revered. Topics include the concise history of radio, the development from scientific instrument to household essential, the influence of Art Deco, streamlining and the modern versus the traditional. What valves are and how they work. What to buy, and what not to? How vintage radios work, how to trace faults, repair and restore, with many practical examples of chassis and cabinet restoration and a section devoted to test items the reader can build at a minimal cost. Also included is a glossary of radio terms, suggestions for further reading and details and web addresses of suppliers of radio-related components and materials. This is a fully revised and greatly expanded version of the original book.