This is a very nice example of a 1936 RCA model 5T. It is a tombstone-style radio receiver with "Standard Broadcast" (55 thru 180 KHz) and "Short Wave" (1.8 thru 6 MHz) reception
The radio measures: 13.2 x 18.5 x 8 inches. It was built to last and it is surprisingly heavy for its size weighing in at almost 22 lbs.
The radio is clean, attractive and functional. It powers up and looks great when the dial indicater glows. However, THIS RADIO PICKS UP ONLY A FEW STATIONS IN MY AREA. Newer AM radios that I have pick up a few more stations. Your area may produce better results.
The speaker grill cloth has been replaced with a period correct reproduction. My "restoration philosophy" is to preserve as much of the original finish and strip to bare wood only when necessary. Therefore you will still see some of the patina and wear and tear that has developed on this radio over the course of it's 90 plus year old history.
The controls have been cleaned and lubricated. The electronics have been thoroughly gone over. All paper and electrolytic capacitors have been replaced and every resistor has been checked and replaced if found to be defective. Any brittle wiring has been replaced. The pots have been cleaned with CDC contact cleaner. Each tube has been tested and replaced if weak or defective. A new power cord has been installed.
Depression Era - 1936 RCA Model 5T Tombstone Tube Radio
Nothing has been done to this radio that is not described here. THIS IS NOT A FULLY RESTORED RADIO but rather an original antique radio that has been inspected and repaired as necessary to make it function as it was originally intended. As with all of my radios, I have played this radio for hours several days a week before I put it up for sale. I do my best to describe every item in detail. Please look over the photos and contact me with any questions.
Vintage radios were manufactured decades ago in a time of relaxed electrical safety and with primitive technology as compared with today's standards. Many early radios were made with the metal chassis electrically connected to one side of the power cord. This can give you a strong shock if you happen to touch the radio chassis and anything else that is grounded at the same time. In addition, tubes can get very hot and cause serious burns if touched accidentally after the radio has been running for a while. These dangers are minimal if the complete cabinet, back, and knobs are all in place and no metal parts are exposed. Vintage Radio Electronics, whether restored or un-restored, are by nature hazardous due to their voltage, design, heat output and age. They should not be operated unattended, without adult supervision or for great lengths at a time. Any operation, adjustments or repairs are done at your own risk. None of the radios sold at this shop have been modified or upgraded to modern standards.