Magnavox Transistor Radio, Model AM-2, 1956

Summary

The size of radios shrank following the advent of transistor technology. Even the smallest vacuum tubes were bulky, and their power consumption ensured the need for large batteries. Transistor radios made of lightweight plastics were cheap and truly portable. With the addition of an earphone a radio such as this allowed the listener to enjoy a completely personal listening experience.

The size of radios shrank following the advent of transistor technology. Even the smallest vacuum tubes were bulky, and their power consumption ensured the need for large batteries. Transistor radios made of lightweight plastics were cheap and truly portable. With the addition of an earphone a radio such as this allowed the listener to enjoy a completely personal listening experience.

Artifact

Transistor radio

Date Made

1956

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

78.7.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Aluminum (Metal)
Leather
Paper (Fiber product)
Plastic
Steel (Alloy)
Copper alloy

Dimensions

Height: 6.5 in

Width: 1.875 in

Length: 3.875 in

Inscriptions

label, interior: Magnavox AM-2 Civil Defense Frequencies 640KC and 1240KC Indicated by Symbol on Dial Face [operating instructions] The Magnavox Co., Fort Wayne, Ind.

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