75Q"

MECHANIX ILLUSTRATED
321

GU
By Donald Carl

Setting Up a Hi-Fi Unit

Improving Your Hi-Fi System
Building From Kits
Trouble Shooting
and Maintenance
Stereophonic Sound
Adding Radio, TV
and Tape Recorder
Hi-Fi on the Highway

1/(,
The nation' top disc jockeys
SpeeI9i Section: picl* their favoris te wi-Fi records
 WHEN YOU BUY A "DO-IT-YOURSELF" SPEAKER ENCLOSURE KIT
4!'f*e

Your speaker enclosure is not just a

box. It's an important component of
Model KEN 15 - Same
as Model EN -15 enclosure
your Hi-Fi system. A "build -it -your- used in the "MASTER"
self" enclosure should oe as good as Speaker System except for
the finest factory -assembled enclos- simplified frame. Baille
ure. When you "build your own" board is pre-cut for 15"
don't end up with a cleesebox
make sure that the kit you buy has
... speakers and supplied
with adapter for 12"
all these features: speakers. Adapters also
1. Full 14" Hardwood Cabinet Ply-
supplied for most of the
wood used throughout. Select Grade White Birch used for all fin- popular 2 or 3 way P.S.E.
ishing surfaces. Speaker Systems. Com-
pleted enclosure measures
2. All wood pre -shaped. Almost all assembly done with 37" H x 28" W x 1914" D. KENIS
a screw-
driver. Complete instructions supplied with each kit. KEN -15-$49.75 Net.
3. Flexible, speaker mounting board permits countless P.S.E. and Model KEN-12- Simil:ur
multi -speaker combinations. to Model KEN -15 except
that mounting board is
4. "Decor-Coustic" design. A perfect union of the most advanced pre-cut for all 12" speak-
principles of acoustic baffling and interior decoration. A true corner. ers. Adapters also sup-
less -corner enclosure. plied for most of the pop-
Only University "KwiKìts" have all these important features. Don't ular 2 or 3 way P.S.E.
forget, the ditierence between mediocre kits and the finest is only a combinations.Dimensions:
matter of a few dollars. Don't jeopardize the quality of your whole 30"E x 211/2" W x 153/4" D.
system by a false economy. KEN -12-$39.75 Net.

Model EN -CB Unfinished -Utility Enclosure THE P.S.E. STORY

A true folded self-contained exponential PSE - Progressive Speaker Ex-
horn, operates with highest quality wher- pansion plan (a concept first in-
ever placed independently of walls or floors. troduced by University) is the
most revolutionary development In
Complete in itself with all acoustically cor- loudspeaker history.
rect elements always in place. EN -CB is 'University speaker components, en-
identical in design to the enclosure used its closures and networks have been su
uniquely designed that It is pos-
the famous "Classic" "Decor-Coustic" sys- sible to start an excellent basic
tem. Ideal for the do-it-yourself home deco- system at low cost and
rator finishing is limited only by the add to it later-while
enjoying immediate
imagination. Can be used horizontally or vertically. Fully assembled, con listening satisfaction.
structed throughout of 14" Birch plywood with locked and mitre joints 5'SE makes possible
and braced with heavy glue blocks. Supplied unfinished, less base and building up to any fine
system in successive,
frame, but with necessary hardware for mounting speaker. Recommended inexpensive steps
components are: Model CI5W Dual Impedance Woofer, Model HF -206 using KwiKits and
Super -Tweeter, Model Cobreflex-2 Midrange Horn with T-30 Driver, EN -CB enclosure. For
the fascinating story of 1'. 5 E please
Model N-3 Network. 40" x 30" x 24". Shpg. Wt. 150 lbs. $120.00 Net. vend for FREE illustrated brochure.

LISTEN
UNIVERSITY LOUDSPEAKERS, INC , Oa SOUTH KENSICO AVENUE, WHITE PLAINS, N. Y.
 24Y
frr,iff
Comments on
Diamond
Phonograph
Needles

"Nothing less than the best will suffice for those interested in
hearing phonograph records played properly. My listening
experience has convinced me that the diamond phonograph
needle is superlative in terms of quality and economy."

nr Be sure your phonograph has a DIAMOND

TETRAD
WORLD'S LARGEST
PLAY SAFE MANUFACTURERS
PLAY DIAMOND OF DIAMOND STYLI

For further information write to: Dept. L C 62 St. Mary St., Yonkers, N. Y.

1
 Mechanix Illustrated
Hi-Fi Guide
by Donald Carl Hoefler

A FAWCETT BOOK NUMBER 321

LARRY EISINGER EDITOR-IN -CHIEF FAWCETT BOOKS
GEORGE TILTON MANAGING EDITOR

W. H. Fawcett, Jr. President

Roger Fawcett General Manager
Ralph Daigh Editorial Director
James B. Boynton Advertising Director
Al Allard Art Director
Ralph Mattison Associate Art Director

DAN BLUE EDITOR

Jean Galloway Associate Editor

HAROLD KELLY ART EDITOR

Silvio Lembo Associate Art Editor
Nick Carlucci Art Associate
Murray Cooper Art Associate
Harold E. Price Art Associate
Michael Gaynor Art Associate

Anne B. Ragno Production Editor

Phyllis Goodman Assistant Production Editor

MECHANIX ILLUSTRATED HI-FI GUIDE, Fawcett Book 321, is published

by Fawcett Publications, Inc., Greenwich, Connecticut. Editorial and Ad-
vertising Offices: 67 West 44th Street, New York 36, New York. General
Offices: Fawcett Building, Greenwich, Connecticut. Gordon Fawcett
Secretary -Treasurer. Roscoe Fawcett -Circulation Director.
-
Submissions
should be directed to Managing Editor, Fawcett Books. Not responsible
for lost manuscripts and photographs though every effort will be mode to
return unacceptable material if occomponied by self-addressed envelope
with sufficient first-class postage. Trademark of Fawcett Publications, Inc.
Printed in U. S. A. Copyright 1956 by Fawcett Publications, Inc.
 NOW: SAVE up to 50%

BUILD YOUR OWN

BARONET KIT. Phenomenal repro-
E -V
THE
HIGH FIDELITY ducer for such small size. This folded -
horn corner enclosure is designed for
use with E -V Model SP8B 8 -in. Radax
Speaker Enclosure speaker. E -V T35 or T356 Super Sonax
UHF driver can be added for a sep-
arate two-way system. Finished size:
23 in. high, 14 in. wide, 13 in. deep.
Shpg. wt. 24 lb.
Model KD7 Net, ;26.00

THE ARISTOCRAT KIT. Folded -horn cor-

ner enclosure designed for 12 -In. speak-
ers and separate 2 and 3-way systems.
For use with Electro-Voice SP12 or
SP12B coaxial speakers, 12TRX or
12TRXB triaxial reproducers, and 108,
111 2 -way and 108A, 111A 3 -way sys-
tems. Smooth reproduction down to 35
cps, with remarkable purity and effi-
ciency. Finished size: 29318 in. high,
19 in. wide, 154 in. deep. Shpg. wt.
37 lb.
Model KIM Net, ;39.00

THE EMPIRE KIT. Economical, folded-

horn enclosure for use in a corner or
flat against one wall. Designed for
15-in. speakers and separate 2 and
3 -way systems. Particularly effective
1 when used with SP15B coaxial speaker,
15TRX8 triaxial reproducer, or 116
2 -way or 116A 3 -way system. Recom-
EVERY PIECE PRECUT mended components for Regency kit
may also be employed. Finished size:
295/a in. high, 32 in. wide, 16 in. deep.

in Zead, -ta -,iddedidie KITS Shpg. wt. 45 lb.

Medal KOS Net, ;51.00

Now you can own an acoustically correct THE RECENCY KIT. Most popular low-
Electro-Voice high-fidelity folded -horn speaker boy style folded -horn enclosure that
can be used in corner or flat against
enclosure for your home music system and save up one wall. Improves the bass range and
to one-half! Build it yourself ...seven models to response of any 15 -in. speaker. Makes
choose from...wall types...corner types...for an outstandingly efficient reproducer
when used with E -V SP15 coaxial speak-
full range loudspeaker... for separate two, er, 15TRX triaxial reproducer or 114A
three and four-way speaker systems. 2 -way or 1148 3 -way system. Finished
size: 293/4 in. high, 3342 in. wide, 19
All parts are precut-ready to assemble. Exterior in. deep. Shpg. wt. 70 lb_
surfaces are clear-grained birch. Easy, step-by-step Model KIM Net, ;73.00
instructions show you how to "Do -it -Yourself"
THE CENTURION KIT. Four-way system
Beautiful furniture finish is easily obtained with folded -horn, corner enclosure. Uses ex-
an E -V Finishing Kit.* E -V Decorative Trim Kit* clusive E -V "W" type single -path In-
adds the final touch. (*Available separately.) direct radiator for propagation of ex-
tended bass. Sealed cavity behind 15
in. low -frequency driver cone promotes
superlative transient response, subdues
cone excursions, lowers distortion. For

gler.
ELECTRO -VOICE INC.
(wed
BUCHANAN, MICH.
use with E -V Model 105 or Model 117
package of driver components. Finished
size: 424 in. high, 29 in. wide, 221/2
in. deep. Shpg. wt. 75 lb.
Model KO3 Net, $87.00

THE PATRICIAN IV KIT. An interior THE GEORGIAN KIT. An interior as-

assembly kit for those desiring the sembly kit that creates authentic
finest. This augmented design of the Klipsch indirect radiator type corner
Klipsch corner folded -horn bass sec- folded -horn bass section for 15 in.
tion delivers an added full octave of 4 -way speaker system. Exceeded in
bass. Designed for use with E -V range only by the Patrician IV. For
See your F -V Hi-Fi Model 103C Patrician IV four-way use with E -V Model 105 or Model 117
Distributor for driver components. For built-in in- package of 4 -way driver components.
Construction Books stallations or to be decorated as you For built-in installations or to be
and K -D Kits choose. Finished size: 5742 in. high, decorated as you choose. Finished
-or write for 341 in. wide, 267/e in. deep. Shpg. size: 384 in. high, 2644 in. wide,
Bulletin 211 -FB wt. 150 lb. 224 in. deep. Shpg. wt. 88 lb.
Model KD1 Net, ;118.00 Model 1(02 Net, $65.00

3
CONTENTS
The 10 -Year Hi-Fi Cycle 6
Hi-Fi for Everyone 11
Starting Off Right 16
Hi-Fi in a Package 22
Building From Kits 30
Adding Radio and TV 44
Adding a Tape Recorder 49
Expanding and Improving Your Hi-Fi System 58
Your Complete Hi-Fi System 68
Maintenance and Trouble Shooting 76
How Hi the Hokum? 86
Stereophonic Sound 90
Hi-Fi on the Highway 96
What About Loudspeakers? 100
The Best Hi-Fi Records 112
Free Items and Special Bargains 120

INTRODUCTION
WHILE HI -Fl is hardly new to
the American scene, it is now
enjoying an unprecedented
popularity. More people have
hi-fi systems today than ever
before, and millions of others
are considering putting a hi-fi
system into their home. Inter-
est in this field is ever-growing.
WITH THIS growth has come
many new hi-fi systems and
products, and a need to eval-
uate them. Thus, this book has
been published to bring the public up-to-date on all the latest
developments in the hi-fi field.
OUR AUTHOR, Donald Carl Hoefler, has counseled with all the
leading manufacturers and engineers in the hi-fi field. The result
of this research is the latest information, photographs, and illus-
trations of new hi-fi products. Of even greater value is his appraisal
of this equipment.
HE HAS also included an entire section devoted to all the free
information, booklets and gimmicks you can get by writing the
hi-fi manufacturers. Also in the book is a survey of the top hi-fi
records chosen by the nation's top disc jockeys.
MR. HOEFLER has written our two previous hi-fi best sellers, Hi-Fi
Manuol, and Low Cost Hi-Fi. He has been engaged in music and
sound activities since high fidelity first created a flurry in America.
One of the pioneer frequency -modulation broadcast engineers,
he was for several years associated with Major Edwin H. Armstrong,
the inventor of FM. Hoefler later designed and built FM stations,
and served as Chief Engineer of the Continental FM Network.
He is currently engaged as sound engineer for RCA Victor; in this
field he has been responsible for a number of innovations in mag-
netic tape techniques. Thus, you can see that Mr. Hoefler was
indeed the right author for this book. He speaks with the authority
of broad experience gained throughout the United States and
Europe.
cp,r Editor
 THE
LOW
DOWN N NI -fl
EVERY MONTH IN

High Jidelitq
THE AUTHORITATIVE HOME MUSIC MAGAZINE

RECORD REVIEWS ARTICLES

AND STORIES
More than any other magazine ... over
2,000 a year! ... about people, places and activities
in the exciting world of music and
sound.
TESTED -IN -THE -HOME

Dependable equipment buying guide.

FAMOUS AUTHORS
DISCOGRAPHIES
Names like these appear in every issue:
Complete, critical coverage of all long - Jacques Barzun, Wm. Saroyan, Aaron
play recordings by an individual artist Copland, E. Power Biggs, and C. G.
or of an individual composer. Burke. John M. Conty is the Editor.

Fill in coupon below for a free copy of latest issue.

-1

HIGH FIDELITY, 4422 Publishing House, Great Barrington, Mass.

Please send me, ABSOLUTELY FREE, a copy of the latest issue of HIGH FIDELITY, and bill me for a
three year subscription to start with the following issue. This is at your money -saving price of only
$13.60. D
I prefer 2 years at $10.00 I prefer 1 year at $6.00 D
(24 issues) (12 issues)

NAME

ADDRESS

Add $1 per year for subscriptions outside the U.S. and Canada.
NO RISK GUARANTEE-If my free copy does not live up to expectations, I may cancel my subscription
and pay nothing.
L

5
 HI-FI IN REVIEW

RCA Victor
THE HI-FI business dates back to Thomas A. Edison and his invention of the phonograph in 1877.

The 10 -Year Hi-Fi Cycle

The passing of each decade has always brought forth new advances in this field.

rilHE very rapid growth of high fidelity France, an instrument which traced a wavy
during the past 10 years sometimes spiral line on a rotating cylinder coated
causes us to forget that the quest for audio with lampblack.
perfection has been going on for many It was not until exactly two decades later,
decades. It is interesting to note, in fact, however, that it became possible to repro-
that the passing of each decade has been duce sound as well. In 1877 Thomas Edi-
the signal for another big step forward in son developed a device for both recording
the art. and reproducing sound, and this was the
Although much has been known of the very beginning of the modern phonograph
physics of sound and music since the time record industry. At the same time Al-
of the ancient Greek civilization, the first exander Graham Bell was perfecting his
known attempt at recording sound waves telephone, an instrument for collecting,
was made just a century ago, in 1857. Leon transmitting and reproducing sound elec-
Scott invented his Phonautograph in trically over wires.

6
Attention Record Collectors!
Ask your record dealer for the 116 -page
Schwann LONG PLAYING RECORD CATALOG
A complete, accurate, well printed catalog of over
18,000 long playing records.
* the selection on the back of the record clearly identified.

* new releases of over 275 companies every month (starred).

* composer, title, performers.

* composers' dates of birth and death.

* size of record, record number, number of records in sets.

* classical records listed by composer.

* popular, musical shows, children's, listed by title or artist.

* operas, operettas, folk music, speech . . . all in ONE booklet.

* complete price list.

If you are a real music lover you shouldn't be without SCHWANN LONG PLAYING RECORD CATALOG.
Issued monthly, it lists and classifies all long play records of all companies. New releases as well as
discontinued numbers are clearly marked for your convenience in making your selections.
Whether your preference is classical or popular-you'll find it in SCHWANN. The Schwann Catalog is
available every month at more than 3400 record stores. Ask your regular record dealer for it. If he
doesn't have it, send us his complete name and address as well as your own and we will send you a
FREE copy of the Schwann Catalog.

1- 1
Newbury Street
SCHWANN LONG PLAYING CATALOG 137
Boston 16, Mass.

Gentlemen:
Please send me a FREE copy of the SCH WANN CATALOG. I understand I am under no obligation.

MY NAME DEALER'S NAME

STREET STREET

CITY STATE CITY ....... --- _ --STATE

 HI-FI IN REVIEW

Another 10 years passed, and then Emile

Berliner introduced the first flat disc rec-
ord, as opposed to Edison's cylinders. He
also at the same time demonstrated the first
practical method for duplication and mass
production of records.
The end of the next decade, between 1896
and 1898, saw two more steps forward.
Guglielmo Marconi invented radio, and
Eldridge Johnson perfected a practical
phonograph reproducer with a spring -
wound motor. This instrument was the
foundation for his Victor Talking Machine
HERE IS famous singer Nellie Melba recording for Company, which was soon to follow.
Victor in a primitive studio of the early 1900's. Exactly a half century after the Phonau-
tograph, in 1907, Dr. Lee DeForest earned
the title "Father of Radio" when he dem-
onstrated that sound could be transmitted
over radio waves. Thus was born the
radio broadcasting industry.
About 10 more years, and the world was
involved in the greatest war it had ever
known. A young major in the Army Sig-
nal Corps, Edwin H. Armstrong, while sta-
tioned in France invented a new type of
radio receiver known as the superhetero-
dyne. It exhibited greater sensitivity,
selectivity and fidelity than previous types,
and was so basically sound that it is still
used in all radio and TV sets.
In another decade, 1927, the first elec-
trical recordings were introduced to the
public, and were a vast improvement over
the acoustical type previously offered. That
THIS IS what a broadcast studio of the Roaring same year saw the beginning of the modern
Twenties looked like. Note box -shaped mikes. era of the sound -on -film motion picture.
This type of recording soon came to be rec-
ognized as the highest state of the art.
Exactly 10 years later, in 1937, Major
Armstrong again came to the fore with the
introduction of Frequency Modulation.
This development truly heralded modern
high fidelity, with standards which even
now are accepted as representing real hi-fi.
At the end of the next decade there ap-
peared three new developments, each a tre-
mendous advance in the art, and with them
hi-fi really began to grow in earnest. These
were tape recording, the long-playing rec-
ord, and the variable -reluctance phono-
graph pickup. Now for the first time it
became possible for everyone to have hi-fi
in the home with only a modest investment.
And now another decade closes, with
1957 the 100th anniversary of the Phon -
AND HERE is the modern type tape recorder which autograph. What wondrous new develop-
has meant so much to the advance of hi-fi field. ment may be before us this time?
PIONEER ACHIEVEMENTS
1925 - -
the first "corner" speaker system ...1927 the first multi -diaphragm system for
-
highs and lows ...1928 the first commercial electronic cartridge and tone -arm ...1935
-the first "radial -slot" speaker system, etc. ALL INVENTED BY MAXIMILIAN WEIL,
-
who holds over 260 patents and whose know-how created the new achievement described
below :

NEW CONCEPT
IN

TONE -ARM ENGINEERING

NOW - the "Blue Chip" Compass -Pivoted Tone -Arm in KIT form-
and at HALF price!
new superior performance -with am cartridge
,,.
AUDAX KT -12:
12" Tone -Arm KIT, $1455 NET...
Factory -assembled, $24.00 NET

AUDAX KT -16:
16" Tone-Arm KIT, $1755 NET. The time -tested "Blue Chip"
Factory -assembled, $30.00 NET Audax HF -16 ($30.00 Net) is
acknowledged by all as the finest and
Yen -do -R-yours.!! with no most efficient tone-arm. Now the new KT -16
feels ether then a null-Rle or -
Tone -Arm greatly superior to the HF -16 is -
small screwdriver. available to you in KIT form at HALF price. -
The new KT models are the crowning
achievement of a quarter -century of constant refinement
and re -engineering of the very first commercial electronic pickup
arm (Audax 1928) ... to the fewest possible parts. It is this very nth degree
engineered simplicity that makés the new KT Tone -Arms possible.°
Not only does this structural simplicity eliminate tone -arm distortion. But it is also
the very reason why you yourself can assemble these arms in about 20 minutes. And -
it is your built-in assurance that after assembly they will be, in EVERY respect, as fine as the
factory -assembled units ... and save you 50% !

UTMOST SIMPLICITY AMERICA'S LEADING CONSUMER

AUDAK COMPANY, AN.: Mr. L.
OF CONSTRUCTION! TESTING ORGANIZATION
500 Fifth A , New York 36
No springs te cause fatigue distortion, no "Send me FREE your 51.00, 22 -page, 1956
placed the leader predecessor HF-16 in the
spurious resit You assemble it in ref guide, "ELECTRONIC PHONO
about 20 minutes -
.

you save 50% - and

"Blue Chip" class. Now the new KT Tone-
Arms are greatly superior.
FACTS" -by pioneer Maximilian Weil.
you are CERTAIN it is as RIGHT and FINE
as the factory-assembled unit!
See them
Everything considered, no Name
at your dealer. (If shipped from New York tone arm equals the new Au- Address
CYy, add 250. Write for FREE reference guide dax KT-regardless of price!
- fill eut the coupon. City Zone State

fuse audua e1ecIiiofric appaaatas ¡ac 35 ryeaes

AUDAK COMPANY, 500 Fifth Avenue, New York 36, N. Y.

9
lo
 David Bogen Co., Inc.

Hi-Fi for Everyone

You don't have to be a Ph.D. to enjoy hi-fi. All
it requires is interest and some basic knowledge.

DON'T get me wrong, friend. I haven't any objection to mem-

bers of the intelligentsia joining the hi-fi movement. I
can't blame the high-class magazines for wanting to get some
mileage out of the hi-fi bandwagon. It's not my worry if some
of the hi-fi manufacturers want to limit their sales approach
to a snob appeal. But when all this begins to add up to a hi-fi
cult in the nature of a secret society, then I begin to get my
dander up.
Because you don't have to know any secret passwords in
order to become a hi-fi hobbyist, no more than you have to be
a mechanical engineer to get full value out of an automobile.
Most of the mumbo -jumbo about the hi-fi art you read now-
adays is just exactly that. As the bopsters say, "Who needs it?"
Hi-fi is fundamentally concerned with the accurate repro-
duction of all types of sound, whether they be called noise,
speech or music. Sound waves generated in air behave in some-
what the same manner as waves set up by dropping a stone

11
 into still water. The waves or ripples move tones of the same frequency will sound
outward from the point struck by the stone, markedly dissimilar. The distinguishing
moving in concentric circles of increasing differences in the sounds are due to the
diameters until they finally reach the shore. shape of the waves produced. Thus each
The number of waves breaking at a point instrument is generating not only its basic
on the shore in a given time-such as one pitch tone, known as the fundamental, but
second-determine the frequency of the also a series of secondary vibrations known
wave motion. The distance between the as overtones or harmonics. It is the spe-
waves, measured at common points, such cific combination of fundamental and
as the crests, is known as the wavelength. harmonics which gives an individual in-
The full outline of a wave, from crest to strument its tone quality or timbre.
trough and up to the next crest, is called The very first step in sound reproduc-
a cycle. As the waves radiate out they be- tion is the collecting of sound waves by
come smaller and we say that the ampli- means of a microphone. The "mike" has a
tude diminishes. sensitive diaphragm or ribbon which is
Determining Pitch set in motion by the wave disturbances in
the air. This motion in turn generates a
The frequency and wavelength of sound minute electrical voltage, whose waveform
waves in air determine their pitch. Thus, should be exactly like that of the original
the bass tones are low in frequency, long sound. This voltage must grow much
in wavelength, and low in pitch. And the larger in size, while at the same time re-
treble tones are high in frequency, short taining its identical shape, before it is use-
in wavelength, and high in pitch. When the ful for sound reproduction. The building
frequency is exactly doubled and the wave- up is the next step, accomplished by means
length halved, the sound is said to be raised of an amplifier.
in pitch by one octave. The simplest amplifier-and according to
The type of sound comprising only a many authorities still the best for audio use
single frequency is said to be a pure tone, -is the three -element (or triode) vacuum
but the sounds encountered in nature are tube. The three metal elements within the
ordinarily much more complex. A mu- evacuated glass or metal bulb are com-
sical chord, for example, contains a num- monly known as the cathode, control grid,
ber of tones of different frequencies. and plate.
More than that, we must consider that When the cathode is heated by means of
two different musical instruments playing an independent electric current, a large
number of electrons "bubble out" into the plied to the grid, less electrons will arrive
surrounding area. Since each electron is at the plate, as some of them will be at-
a tiny unit of negative electricity, it will tracted to the grid instead. If a negative
be repelled by other negative charges, but voltage is applied to the grid, once again
attracted by a positive charge. Then if a the plate will receive less electrons, since
fixed positive electric charge is placed on many of them will be repelled by the grid
the plate, there will immediately be set up and return to the cathode.
an electron flow from cathode to plate. This In usual practice a fixed negative voltage,
electron flow then actually constitutes an known as grid bias, is applied to the con-
electric current moving through a vacuum. trol grid, and the incoming signal is super-
imposed on this bias. Then the grid voltage
Diode Tube will become more or less negative with the
Without a grid present, such a vacuum variations in the incoming signal voltage.
tube is known as a diode, and is often found And the electron flow and the current in
in amplifier power supplies. Since current the plate circuit will vary in exact accord-
will flow from cathode to plate, but not from ance with the signal on the grid.
plate to cathode, when an alternating cur- The result of all this is that we have
rent is applied to the input of this tube, gained a tremendous electrical advantage,
there will appear at the output a pulsating with the voltage appearing in the output
direct current. This pulsating d -c then plate circuit being many times that fed into
may be filtered and smoothed to constant the grid circuit. Now with a microphone
d -c, and this in turn provides the operating generating the signal at the input circuit
voltages for the other tubes in the set. In- and a loudspeaker being driven by the out-
stead of this rectifier power supply, how- put circuit, we have a rudimentary audio
ever, we will assume for simplicity's sake amplifier. The microphone first converts
that our one -tube amplifier is battery - sound waves into minute electrical waves
operated. of the same shape. Then the triode tube
The grid is a metallic mesh inserted in the amplifies the minute voltages into those
path of the electron flow between cathode great enough to energize the loudspeaker.
and plate. With no voltage on the grid, The speaker then reconverts the voltages to
electron flow will continue almost as be- sound.
fore, with most of the electrons passing If we replace the loudspeaker in our ex-
through the openings and on toward the ample with a record cutting head and sty-
plate. But when a positive voltage is ap- lus, we have the basic elements of a disc

TRIODE PLATE
-UBE

o-
CATHODE
o-.
o
o
o-.

MICROPHONE
/
GRID LOUDSPEAMER

GRID FILAMENT PLATE

BIAS HEATER SUPPLY
VOLTAGE VOLTAGE VOLTAGE

1111E----111 11 F- 1111111111
"B"
"C" BATTER' "A" BATTERY BATTERY

TWO BEAUTIES (photo left) In a lovely setting made for hi-fi listening. Speaker by rim Lansing.
Diagram above shows Triode Amplifier, basic hi-fi type. Note effect of trid on flow of electrons.

13
 recorder. If we retain the speaker and the most intensive research and develop-
replace the microphone with a phonograph ment, and is today well-nigh perfect. The
pickup, we have the basic elements of a electro -mechanical elements which go to
record player. make up the balance of the hi-fi system are
If the loudspeaker is replaced by a radio not yet quite so advanced, but even they
transmitter, we now have a funda- are capable of contributing to the repro-
mental broadcasting station. Returning duction of sound which is very high
the speaker to the plate circuit and putting fidelity, indeed.
a radio tuner in the grid circuit, we have A final consideration which you will en-
assembled a receiving system. counter wherever hi-fi is discussed is the
When the loudspeaker is replaced by a matter of equalization or compensation. An
magnetic record head, the result is the equalizer is basically a tone control, which
basis of a tape recorder. Leaving the causes some sound frequencies to be either
speaker in place, but putting a magnetic more or less prominent than they were in
playback head in the input, we now have the original. Variable equalizers are quite
the basis of a tape reproducer system. commonly employed by recordists to pro-
Obviously, then, the audio amplifier is a vide certain desired sound characteristics,
versatile and indispensable element in just as tone controls are sometimes neces-
every link of the hi-fi chain. This being sary to provide a better acoustic balance in
true, the amplifier has been subjected to a hi-fi system which is set up in the home.

14
 BEAUTIFUL CABINETS house these fine hi-fi units. Photo across
page shows system created by designer Patricia Harvey for the
Gregory Furniture Company. Hi-fi equipment includes Fisher
Model 80-T AM -FM tuner. Photo below shows Lansing C39 unit, a
handsome mahogany enclosure which complements the other office
furniture in room. Many offices have installed hi-fi equipment.

In addition to these, however, we often have a tipped-up treble range, but also
encounter fixed equalizers which deliber- a rolled -off bass range, this latter equali-
ately and constantly alter the transmission zation being intended to prevent overcut-
characteristics of the system. In FM radio, ting between adjacent grooves on the disc.
for example, the higher frequencies are Now the hi-fi reproducer must be able to
purposely pre -emphasized in the transmit- post -equalize or compensate with a charac-
ter. Since a certain amount of hiss and teristic just exactly opposite that of the
other high -frequency noise is characteristic recording system. Until the record man-
of radio transmission, "tipping up" the ufacturers got together a couple of years
treble frequency range permits the sound ago and agreed on a standard, this was a
signal to override the noise. Then in the real headache. Present playback compen-
receiver or tuner there is a complementary sators are relatively simple devices, how-
de -emphasis circuit which restores the ever, and are ordinarily incorporated as an
original balance. integral part of the reproducing system.
Record Compensation More elaborate compensators are no longer
The tape recorder similarly has pre - necessary, except for those whose record
equalization built into its record circuit, collections include a lot of earlier material.
along with a similar post-equalizer in the And that is the how -it-works of hi-fi.
playback. Phonograph records not only Now let's get on with how -to-do -it.
15
 termciG Aille,
/17 044l 'rra rYalio reniroes
..... *4F THE VERY BEST
.
4"`'

-#194, Fideid,r4feene,

Starting Off Right

Thorough planning is vital to setting up a hi-fi system because you'll
probably build your system little by little rather than buy it all at once.

16
 DEMONSTRATION ROOMS, such as this one at Harvey Radio Company
in New York City, enables hi-fi fans to make accurate comparison auditions.

TABLE LOUDSPEAKER by Jensen demonstrates that hi-fi equipment need

no longer be treated like an ugly duckling, is now handsome furniture piece.

BEFORE you make any investment at and if you have a sound movie projector,
all in hi-fi equipment, I cannot em- that, too, has gotten along without a hi-fi
phasize too strongly the importance of very setup. So you'll probably begin with a sys-
thorough planning. In all likelihood you tem devoted exclusively to records or tape.
will build up your system as you go along, Since the repertoire of records is so much
rather than buying everything at once. greater than that available on tape, and
Consider first, then, the various program since recorded tapes are somewhat more
sources available for hi-fi reproduction, expensive, the most logical beginning for
and determine the relative importance of you will probably be a record -playing hi-fi
them to you. You have a choice of at least system.
six possible sources, including AM radio, You will then begin with three basic
FM radio, phonograph records, recorded units, consisting of a record reproducer,
tape., television audio, and sound movies. audio amplifier, and speaker system. The
In all likelihood you probably have some first reproducing element is the record
kind of radio and TV reproduction already, turntable or changer, and already you must
17
 make a choice. Personally I prefer the un- is to be this elaborate, perhaps you should
adorned turntable, for reasons which I have consider the possibility of a separate audio
detailed in Hi-Fi Manual and Low Cost control unit ahead of the amplifier.
Hi-Fi. There are good arguments for both The control unit will handle the switch-
sides of the question, however, and you ing, compensating, volume and tone adjust-
should consider them carefully before you ments for all six inputs, while the amplifier
decide. is "basic," being a fixed -gain device with-
Whichever type you get, it should oper- out any controls at all. Whichever method
ate at all three standard speeds, and possi- is used, or some other variant, it is very
bly you will want the newest speed of important to determine at the outset where
16% r.p.m. as well. (See chapter on high- your control center is going to be in the
way hi-fi.) It should accommodate all sizes circuit, and to avoid future additions which
of records up to at least 12 inches, should will make for duplication of controls. Such
rotate them at precisely the required duplication is not only wasteful, but it also
speeds, without slippage and without con- makes for operational problems and is a
tributing nòise or rumble: potential source of distortion.
Basic Hi-Fi Pickups The amplifier itself must be virtually
free of distortion, of course, although this
The pickup should have a choice of the is hardly a serious problem any more. The
two common styli sizes, 1.0 mil and 3.0 mil, power rating of the amplifier chosen will
and both of these should be preferably depend somewhat upon acoustical require-
made of diamond. There are two basic ments and also upon your personal de-
types of hi-fi pickups available today, one sires. The amount of amplifier power
operating on magnetic principles, the other necessary to fill the room with sound will
being the crystal or ceramic unit. There be greater, of course, the larger the size
are excellent pickups in both types, but of the room. Assuming a normal -sized
there are two factors which must be con- living room or den, without an undue
sidered as they pertain to the equipment amount of highly -absorptive surfaces on
following. the floors and walls, the amount of power
In general the output of the piezoelectric necessary will seldom be more than 25
(ceramic and crystal) , types is much watts, and as little as 10 will often prove
greater than that of the magnetics. This to be sufficient. If in doubt, you should
means that no preamplifier stage is needed. definitely err on the high side. It is not
Since all of the other sources have outputs possible to add on an additional power am-
great enough to obviate the preamp, it may plifier after the first to boost power at a
be possible to exclude this unit completely. later date, and trade-in deals in the hi-fi
A few years ago this would have been a market are hardly worth the trouble.
much more important consideration, when
preamplifiers were almost always separate Electronic Crossover
units. Today, however, the main power One way out of the dilemma, however,
amplifier usually includes the necessary would be the Electronic Crossover, offered
compensation and sufficient gain to handle in kit form by the Heath Company. This
input signals of any magnitude. This means is a system whereby the signals destined
that the separate preamplifier is obsoles- for the several loudspeaker elements are
cent anyway. divided before amplification and then am-
The waveforms of the voltages generated plified separately. Since it is only the ex-
by the two types of pickups when tracking treme bass frequencies which require tre-
a record are considerably different. It is mendous power, it is possible to extend
absolutely essential, therefore, that the your system frequency response and power
equipment which follows the pickup has capabilities simultaneously. There will be
the correct type of record compensation more about this in the chapter on kits.
for the pickup you intend using. If you don't use the electronic crossover,
The main amplifier is the unit which re- then the usual dividing network must be
ceives the feeble voltages from any of the placed between the amplifier output and
several signal sources and builds them up the speaker input. It has long been known
to the point where they can drive the to hi-fi fans that the most efficient method
loudspeaker efficiently. It is here that of sound reproduction is one having a mul-
the various controls will usually, though tiple speaker system. In this case there are
not always, be found. Since we are discuss- one or more speakers for each part of the
ing here the possibility of as many as six frequency range, the signal being divided
signal sources, this means that the amplifier among the speakers on the basis of fre-
must have six separate inputs. I don't know quency. The speakers are often radically
of any lti-fi power amplifier having such different from one another in design, each
provisions, and if your contemplated rig unit being intended specifically for its defi-
18
 how to connect cables for installation

FM -AM TUNER
PLUG INTO DETECTOR
OUTPUT OF TUNER
_

PLAYER WITH
PICKERING
HIGH FIDELITY PICKUP
LOUD SPEAKER
INSTALL SWITCH TO
SHORT-CIRCUIT PICKUP
CABLE- NECESSARY ONLY WHEN BOTH
MAG. INPUTS
MICRO INPUT USE
ARE USED.
CINCH M-95
PLUG ON
CABLE ENDS

ANNOUNCE OR PA
110 V. AC MICROPHONE IF
WALL DESIRED
RECEPTACLE

USE ONLY LO -CAPACITY,

SHIELDED, SINGLE CONDUCTOR
-
MICROPHONE CABLE SHORT-
EST POSSIBLE LENGTH.

PLUG IN RECORD PLAYERS, TUNER,

TV SET, ETC.
INSTALL SWITCH TO OPEN -
CIRCUIT PICKUP- NECESSARY
ONLY WHEN BOTH MAG. INPUTS
ARE USED.

CONNECT TO
VOLUME CONTROL
OR DETECTOR OUT-
FOR
PUT OF TV SET MAKING
RECORD-
ING

PLUG INTO
TV SET OR EXTERNAL
TUNER TAPE RECORD
RECORDER JACK

FLEXIBILITY is the keynote of an integrated hi-fi system. Heart of this Installation Is Bell amplifier.
19
 Hite assigned part of the audio spectrum. ready to house your various components.
Originally these multiple systems were Next, and still before acquiring any ac-
all two-way only, with a large low -fre- tual equipment, it is most important to
quency speaker known as a woofer, and a consider the question of component size
smaller high -frequency unit called a against available space. Failure to recog-
tweeter. The terminology is presently nize this seemingly obvious point has been
rather confused, however, with the addi- the cause of considerable grief to hi-fi con-
tion of "squawkers," "super -tweeters" and structors, but you can very easily avoid
such. Today three- and four-way systems it simply by proper forethought and plan-
are quite common, although the principles ning. Hi-fi components are now made in
are the same. every conceivable size, shape and style, and
Here is one case where the hi-fi fan gets it should not be difficult to find just the
a break, for the building up of a complete thing to suit your particular requirements.
speaker system in easy stages is quite sim- It is a good plan now to begin drawing
ple and logical. Most manufacturers now to scale a sketch of the mounting area or
provide for this, two excellent examples cabinet you intend using. Then lightly
being the Progressive Speaker Expansion sketch in the components, showing how
System of University, and the Heath Range each may be fitted into place and mounted.
Extending Speaker System. Information on sizes will be found in the
Loudspeaker Enclosure manufacturers' literature or distributor
A proper enclosure is an integral part of catalogs. Placement of the components is
good loudspeaker performance, and the
not too critical in the technical sense, al-
manufacturer's suggestions should be fol- though it is wise to hold the length of the
lowed for best results. And at this point I interconnecting wiring to a minimum. At
think that I should suggest that whatever the same time adequate ventilation must
manufacture of speaker you decide upon, be provided for longer life of tubes and
you stay with it for the entire reproducer parts, and the units should not be so close
system. There is always the possibility that together that there will be serious inter-
a type A high -frequency unit added to a action between them. There could possibly
type B woofer element will give absolutely be inductive effects between units, which
phenomenal results. But since each of might be conducive to hum or other noises
these units was designed specifically with in the output. Most hi-fi equipment today,
others in the same line, it is far wiser to however, is of excellent construction and
plan on getting a set of matched speakers. well shielded, so that interference effects
Then if performance is not up to par, and can be practically ignored unless there is a
you are sure that your installation is cor- specific caution in the instruction manual.
rect, you certainly have the right to take And right now, of course, is the time to
it up with the one manufacturer involved. plan for the expansion of the system into
its final form, by the addition of other pro-
Having now tentatively decided upon a gram sources, range -extending speaker
complete "starter set" of components for elements, and possibly remote controls or
a record reproducing system, it is time for more power.
a family conference on fitting the hi-fi sys- Which of the additional program sources
tem into the home decorating scheme. One you want, and in what sequence you will
question which must be decided is whether acquire them, is, of course, strictly a matter
the system is to be "built-in" or "built - of personal taste. One of them will almost
out." A very popular built-in arrangement certainly be radio, for there are quite a few
places all of the components in a closet ad- good shows on the air, which sound even
jacent to the listening room, with the better through a hi-fi system.
speakers and controls mounted through a
door or wall. This setup causes perhaps Radio Broadcasting
the least disruption to the normal house- Therè are two types of radio broadcasting
hold functioning and furniture placement. in common use, the older "standard" type
It is neat in appearance, and requires only being often referred to as AM, the newer
the simplest cabinet work. Another com- improved type being called FM. The initials
mon built-in scheme employs existing book stand for the terms Amplitude Modulation
shelves, which are often deep enough to and Frequency Modulation, and refer to
house the various components and a two different methods of superimposing the
speaker enclosure as well. audio -frequency signal upon the radio -
If you intend using a cabinet, the ques- frequency "carrier" wave.
tion of decor assumes much greater im- FM is vastly superior to AM as a method
portance. After you have decided on a of transmission, the frequency and dynamic
general design which will harmonize with ranges being much greater, and the inher-
your decorative scheme, you can build ent noise much less. But FM broadcasting
your own, construct from one of the many has the practical limitation that it often
available kits, or buy a finished cabinet lacks access to the same programs as are
20
produced for AM. And in many parts of the
country, of course, there are simply no
FM stations at all. Thus either an FM -only
or AM -only setup leaves something to be
desired for the hi-fi fan. I would therefore
recommend that, unless FM is totally inac-
cessible to you, that you plan to have both
in your complete hi-fi system. We'll talk
about this in the chapter on radio and TV.
Tape Recording
Tape recording is the newest, and in
some ways the most exciting development
of all to arrive on the hi-fi scene. In the
complete and ideal hi-fi system we have
under discussion, your tape recorder will
perform a variety of important functions.
In addition to live recording, you should
be able to record off the air broadcasts HANDSOME DESIGN combines with sound engi-
from FM, AM, and TV. You can also dub neering in cabinets and enclosure by Jeff Markell.
from phonograph records, or even re-
record from another tape recorder. In
short, anything which goes through your
hi-fi system should be capable of recording
on tape. Furthermore, in order to use
more than a single microphone for live re-
cording, it will be necessary to have a
mixer preceding the recorder. This is
simply a control panel which permits ad-
justing the volume of the several micro-
phone or other input channels, and then
combines them into a composite signal to
be fed into the recorder in the usual man-
ner.
In order to accomplish all this conven-
iently, without a lot of troublesome switch-
ing, readjustment, and a maze of wires
running in every direction, there will have
to be some careful design planning afore-
thought. For all but the live recording,
the recorder input should be so connected
that it receives whatever signal is passing
through the hi-fi system. It should be con-
nected across the output of the control am- MODERN TREND is again in evidence in Leff Mar-
plifier or main amplifier, or at some other kell equipment enclosure doubling as fine furniture.
point common to all of the incoming sig-
nals. This is a little complicated, but it
will increase the usefulness of the tape re- TURNTABLE without changer is choice of avid
corder tremendously, and is well worth audiophiles. Among best is Rek-O-Kut Rondine.
the effort in working it out. There will be
more on this subject in the chapter on tape.
I mention the idea of reproducing home
movie sound track through the hi-fi system
merely to suggest the possibilities. There
is actually very little material on 8- or
16 -mm film which can be called hi-fi, al-
though the new magnetic recording method
is much improved. Still it sounds better on
a hi-fi system, so if you are a home movie
fan with sound equipment and hi-fi as well,
you should give some thought to combining
the two.
Many of the problems of assembling a
good hi-fi system can be avoided simply
by buying it all in a package, as we will
demonstrate in the next section.
 Hi-Fi in a Package
Today's manufacturers make
it possible for you to buy
a complete hi-fi unit already
encased in handsome furniture.

FINE HIGH FIDELITY need no longer be confined to members of the screwdriver

and soldering iron set. Handsome furniture is part and parcel of these Altec units.

COMPACTNESS IS KEYNOTE in hi-fi package shown across page. This system

includes a phono-amplifier combination, tuner and two-way Jensen speaker.

2?
 THE concept of packaged hi-fi has undergone a rather marked
change in recent seasons. Originally, the package idea had to
do with the simultaneous purchase of a complete set of matched
components, selected by the manufacturer or distributor and usually
offered at a special price.
More recently the term has been used to refer to high fidelity
components which are available in matching cabinetry, thus pro-
viding the easiest form of installation for those who have neither the
time nor inclination to design their own component layout.
Package merchandise which is truly hi-fi therefore bridges the
gap between the raw hi-fi components and the mass-produced low -fi
home instrument. It permits anyone who wants good sound repro-
duction at home, but who doesn't want the work involved in a
custom component installation, to buy hi-fi which he can take home,
unpack, plug in the wall socket, and play.
These are certainly very important advantages to the hi-fi devotee
who is not mechanically inclined, but the system also has its dangers.
How can the non -technical person really be certain that what he is
getting is genuine hi-fi? How can he guard against buying just one
more junky radio -phono -TV combination? The answers to these
questions are not always easy to find, but there are certain basic
principles which will guide the package purchaser in his quest for
quality.
One possibility of confusion arises in the case of the manufacturer

J ej,J9, -41'

jen.'en %i 1.71:017,
2 WAT 01RR MUTT REPRORUCER

23
 PACKAGED PHONO system by Dictograph in-
cludes changer, amplifier and two-way speaker. who offers all three types of merchandise:
components, packages, and conventional
home instruments. It is essential then that
his package line be made up of components
from his hi-fi group, not from the home
ALTEÇ instruments. Just about the only way that
HI -Fl the purchaser can be certain of what he is
getting is to make direct visual check
whenever possible. Look inside the cabinets
RULES-OFTHUMB and make a part -by -part comparison be-
tween the several types. The chassis in the
average home instrument looks rather un-
Mvsrvf... like that of the usual hi-fi amplifier. Dif-
ferences in speakers, record players and
controls are also readily apparent.
Beyond this there are five Hi-Fi Rules -
of -Thumb, the strict observance of which
I. Separate speaker cabinet will almost certainly prevent you from
making any drastic errors. They describe
2.Three record crossover selections five features, all of which the system mue'
exhibit before it can be called truly hi-'
(1)_ Separate speaker cabinet. The loua
3. Separate bass and treble controls speaker must be housed in an enclose
entirely separate from the amplifier
4.Genuíne two-way speaker the record turntable. When all three are
one cabinet, as they always are in low
home instruments, the intense vibrata
5. At least two cubic foot from the speaker are transmitted throv
the cabinet, or the close -coupled air wit'
speaker enclosure it, directly to the delicate phono pic-
and the microphonic tubes of the ampli!
COMPACT AND ATTRACTIVE is the Dictograph CORNER SPEAKER used with Dictograph system
housed in mahogany or oak wood cabinet. improves bass response and sound dispersion.

The result is feedback and intermodulation. for the acoustics of the listening room, and
Most home instruments are even deliber- for your personal taste. To a lesser degree
ately designed to attenuate the powerful they are useful in compensating for de-
bass frequencies, so as to minimize this ficiencies in the equipment, records, or
problem. Obviously such an arrangement broadcast transmissions. If the controls are
can hardly be considered hi-fi. not independent of each other, and if they
(2) Three record crossover selections. don't provide both boost and rolloff, they
Although the domestic record industry has can't possibly do the job required of them.
now standardized fairly well on a single (4) Genuine two-way speaker. This is
recording characteristic, this agreement one which has been kicked around un-
has not been in effect for long, and any mercifully by the home instrument pro-
record library which is fairly extensive moters. So much has been said about mul-
will certainly include many discs having tiple speakers for hi-fi, that many of the
other characteristics. Of utmost import- build -it -down -to -a -price people are sim-
ance, of course, is the new standard curve, ply adding a couple more cheap 5 -inch
which on the control may be indicated as speakers to their rigs, and then blandly
RIAA, NARTB, ORTHO, or RCA. Second implying that they offer truly wide -range
in importance is an older characteristic hi-fi, or even in some cases that such an
which was used extensively in the late arrangement is tantamount to stereo! The
40's and early 1950's. This may appear simple act of adding more speakers of the
!a control position marked AES or LP. same kind to a system in the hopes of ex-
'ally, there should be compensation for tending the range is sheer nonsense. The
'r 78-r.p.m. records, the sort of curve reason for multiple hi-fi speakers is the
h is still used by some European corn- fact that no one speaker can reproduce all
es. This might be marked FOR, EUR ten octaves which are audible to the ear.
T. Even three such equalization charac- Two or more speakers are therefore used,
rtics as these involve some compro - but each one is specially designed to oper-
3s, and they are therefore the bare ate only in a designated range, and divid-
'mum for hi-fi requirements. ing networks are used to keep each out of
Separate bass and treble controls. the other's territory. Unless the package
are primarily for adjusting the sound speakers comprise a multirange system,
25
 with two or more different and specialized
radiators, they cannot at this state of the art
be regarded as truly high fidelity.
(5) At least two -cubic-foot speaker en-
closure. The size of the speaker is one
factor in determining its ability to repro-
duce bass tones. The two -cubic -foot figure
is correct for an 8 -inch speaker, while any-
thing smaller than eight inches will be
practically useless for low -frequency re-
production. In the case of the bass reflex
enclosure, which is by far the most com-
44 monly used type, it is not true that the
làrger the cabinet the better. The fact is
that there should be a rather close correla-
tion between speaker size and the inside
volume of the enclosure. For best results,
the sizes should be within 10% of the fol-
lowing:
MAESTRO SYSTEM by Radio Craftsmen features
a loudness control and nine equalizer settings. Speaker Diameter Enclosure Volume
8 inches 3,530 cu. in.
10 5,980
12 7,690
15 9,990
18 13,900

Anyone can apply these five Rules -of -

Thumb. You needn't be an expert. You will
note that I haven't even mentioned the
usual criteria of frequency response, dis-
tortion, power output or hum level. The
trouble is that these factors are often the
subjects of exaggerated advertising claims,

THREE-WAY speaker system encased in genuine

woods completes reproducer of Maestro unit.

PLUGGING IN phono cartridge, usually packed HEART OF Altec package line is Melodist, with
separately, readies the combination for service. changer, controls, amplifier, and optional speaker.

%r
simply because the average person has no speed control switch to a point midway be-
way of proving or disproving them. But if tween settings. That is, when turning off
the hi-fi package satisfies all of these five the power, cultivate the habit of simul-
rules, one can assume rather safely that it taneously snapping the speed -change
has been engineered to provide all of the switch into the notch midway between 33
other performance characteristics essential and 78, or between 78 and 45. You'll get
to true high fidelity reproduction. better performance longer if you do.
Probably the outstanding low-cost sys- The amplifier is a 7 -tube Williamson
tem in which this is true is the Dictograph type, very conservatively rated at 10 watts.
home music system. Since it does adhere to This same amplifier, incidentally, under the
our five rules -of -thumb, let's skip over to trade name of its own manufacturer, has
examine some of the other design features been widely acclaimed as a best buy in its
which contribute to making this system a own right.
best buy in the field. The speaker system is a 2 -element array,
with excellent performance between 40 and
Good Low-Cost Systems 15,000 c.p.s. With the soft suspension typi-
This is basically a phono system, but it cal of the European speakers it uses, the
includes built-in auxiliary inputs for tape, response is exceptionally smooth and mel-
TV and radio. The reproducer is the G.E. low.
variable -reluctance cartridge, a very fine Although this basic system has provision
all-around performer, equipped with two for expansion to all the other sound
jeweled styli, the microgroove point being sources, and for simultaneous operation of
a genuine diamond. This feature is unique two separate speaker systems, some audio-
among both packages and components in philes might still feel that expansion to
the low -price range. higher powers and larger speakers would
The changer is a Collaro 3 -speed inter- be inhibited. I personally wouldn't let such
mix, certainly among the better brands on considerations stand in my way, for the
the market. Although the manufacturers Dictograph is ideal as a second system.
do not mention it as a feature, I think it It is relatively light and portable, and I
important to note that it is possible with have found it perfect for providing dance
this changer to take the pressure off the music at parties and for outdoor use on my
idler wheel when the turntable is not oper- patio. It should also be excellent for stu-
ating, thus avoiding flat spots and wows. dents away from home, servicemen, and
To do this, simply turn the three-position doctors' or dentists' waiting rooms. Any -

OUTSTANDING FEATURES of Melodist amplifier are explained to author Don Hoefler by Marvin Kline of
Altec Lansing Corporation. This unit is for those who wish to install changer or player separately.

27
 CONTROL PREAMPLIFIER at left
has elaborate controls for adjust-
ment in package unit by Altec.

CLOSED DOOR over secondary

controls (above) improves looks,
simplifies operation for others.

where that space is limited and mobility ture pieces designed to meet various home -
necessary, the Dictograph system is just furnishing demands. All units in the pack-
the ticket. age line are available in the most popular
A little more expensive, and less adap- finishes, mahogany or blonde.
tive to portability, is the Maestro, recently The basis of the system is the Melodist
introduced by the reorganized Radio combination, consisting of a control pre-
Craftsmen group. Tl is is likewise basically amplifier, power amplifier and Collaro
a phono system, housed in two separate changer housed in a single cabinet. The
units of wood, finished in genuine mahog- compensator has a choice of four char-
any or limed oak. acteristics, and the amplifier is conserva-
The changer has four speeds, and is tively rated at 10 watts, from 20 to 22,000
equipped with a variable reluctance car- c.p.s. For those who have a separate
tridge with diamond stylus. Power output changer, or who desire a different cabinet
is 10 watts, with loudness control and nine design, the Melodist control and power
effective record equalization positions. The amplifiers are available alone in another
input is designed to permit the substitu- enclosure.
tion of a ceramic cartridge, and to accept If a more powerful amplifier is desired,
signals from tape, TV and tuner. it can be purchased from the component
Three-Way Speaker catalog, put out of sight in a closet, and the
440B control preamplifier and its cabinet
The speaker system is three-way, with installed in the listening room. Also avail-
an 8 -inch woofer, 8 -inch midrange, and 3 - able in matching cabinets are an FM -AM
inch tweeter. The enclosure is the bass tuner, as well as an AM -only tuner.
reflex type, finished to match the phono - There is a choice of several fine speakers
amplifier cabinet. in enclosures available for use with these
Probably the leading producer of an in- units. The smallest is known as the Melo-
tegrated package line of true high-fidelity dist, and is a two-way system having a 10 -
equipment is the Altec Lansing Corpora- inch woofer and horn -type tweeter, with
tion, pioneers in motion picture theatre a crossover frequency of 3,000 c.p.s. Where
sound and home high fidelity reproduction. budget or space requirements are impor-
Altec was perhaps the first to attack the tant factors, this little speaker is ideal.
problem of achieving hi-fi in various types Weighing only 30 pounds, and measuring
of furniture pieces, of restricted dimen- but 23"x11"x10", it works fine in a book-
sions and suitable decor, to meet the taste shelf installation. Range is guaranteed from
and space requirements of various house- 70 to 22,000 c.p.s.
holds. Higher up on the scale are the two iconic
They offer their regular catalog high speaker systems. One known as the 824A
fidelity components in a variety of furni- uses a 12 -inch woofer, and has a guaranteed
28
ICONIC SPEAKER at right is best
system recommended for use with
basic Melodist combination. It
has a frequency response which
is guaranteed as 35-22,000 c.p.s.

range from 50 to 22,000 c.p.s. The larger PRESIDENT SERIES by Fisher is the ultimate in hi-fi
iconic, called the 826A, has a 15 -inch packages. Size is 70 inches wide. 33 inches high.
woofer, and its range is guaranteed to be
35 to 22,000 c.p.s. All of these speaker sys-
tems reflect the Altec philosophy of a
maximum of two speakers, mounted in a
bass reflex enclosure. Their reasons for
this are argued very convincingly in the
chapter titled What About Loudspeakers?
Top -Ranking Package
... atme
mew

The ne plus ultra of high fidelity package

systems is the Fisher President, which sells
for just five dollars less than a cool two z
thousand. This is a 32 -tube instrument, 19

constructed on five separate chassis, with

separate FM and AM tuners for either
stereo or monaural operation, two separate
60 -watt power amplifiers, and a stereo
master aúdio control center. Five meters
are included for accuracy in tuning and PULL-OUT DRAWERS provide easy access to tape
stereo program balancing. phonograph, record changer and storage area.
There is a three -speed changer with
magnetic cartridge and two diamond styli,
and a stereo and monaural tape phono-
graph. Storage facilities for both records
and tapes are provided in the console.
Two completely separate three-way
speaker systems are included, which may
be operated split for stereo or simultane-
ously for monaural. In short, if this big job
hasn't got it, you just don't need it!
This, then, covers the packaged hi-fi pic-
ture, from less than $200 to just under
$2,000. The choice isn't nearly as wide as
in the component field, but there is now
good quality available for those who don't
want any fuss or bother.
Building From Kits
It's easy and lots of fun to construct your own hi-fi system. More
than that, there's a tremendous personal satisfaction involved.

KIT BUILDING can be a family affair when father and son pitch in together, as in
the photo at right. Electronic construction is not messy, so no workshop is needed.

PRINTED CIRCUITRY is a feature of Knight ampli- NEWEST KITS are those bearing well-known Bogen
fier, with straightforward design and construction. name. Model DB20 is now in do-it-yourself form.

ICAN imagine many reasons why one having done it all himself. I have built a
might want to construct his own hi-fi complete Heathkit hi-fi system and I can
system rather than buy a package or a tell you it is a truly gratifying experience.
group of components. A fellow might be Now perhaps you think it's a little out
a student or experimenter who wants to in- of place for an old pro, who has designed
crease his knowledge. Or he could be a and built several broadcast stations, to be
music lover who wants just as much hi-fi telling you of the delights in store for Mr.
as he can squeeze out of a limited budget. Joe Average when he builds his own. And
But I think the very best reason of all is you could be partly right. But while my
the tremendous satisfaction one feels after experience might enable me to do this sort
30
of thing blindfolded, it also certainly would manufacturers, is at the same time the
tend to take some of the sheen off my en- source of a few headaches at the plant. The
thusiasm. Despite this I can still say that problems come when a new kit is developed
building from kits is just downright good and is ready for production.
fun. In order to be absolutely certain that
There's something else "about that, too. their kits are perfectly simple to assemble
Anyone, by the time he has completed and that their instruction books are read-
building his second Heathkit, is an "old able and accurate, they "test -hop" a few of
pro" in his own right. This fact, while on them with non -technical personnel and
the one hand it is very gratifying to the friends. These human guinea pigs may be
31
 CAUTION!!
DO NOT DISCARD ANY PACKING
MATERIAL UNTIL ALL PARTS
ARE CHECKED AGAINST THE
PARTS LIST IN THE MANUAL

ALL PARTS of this Heathkit are

carefully laid out preparatory
q
-;;77- o
to inventory by the constructor.

ta... w

EACH PART is checked against parts list to find FIRST STEP in construction is mounting of hardware
components possibly misplaced during unpacking. on chassis. Note instructions mounted on wall.

32
office girls, clerks, shippers, accountants, in hi-fi components. And the kick you'll get
fact anyone who can't tell a nut from a bolt, out of tuning in your first radio signal or
a tube socket from a transformer. They are playing your first record, on a system built
then told to build the kit, following the in- with your own hands, is something you'll
struction book precisely, and to report any find in no other way. Then when you
difficulties encountered. The engineers proudly show off your new system to
digest all these reports and remove the friends and neighbors, the -fi will seem at
"bugs," so that when the kit is placed on least twice as high.
the market it is as simple and accurate as The only qualifications you need for as-
humanly possible to make it. Then they sembling a well -designed kit are the ability
go on to the next project. to read and follow instructions, the knack
of soldering an electrical joint, and the
Becoming an Expert ability to use a couple of simple hand tools.
And now is where the trouble begins. The Now the first qualification you obviously
Heath people have learned from long ex- have, or you wouldn't have spent good
perience that, once one of their amateur money on this book. The other two qualifi-
constructors has built two kits, he or she cations are utterly simple, and if you don't
is no longer useful as a criterion. He is have them now, just stay with me for a few
already too sophisticated in the ways of more paragraphs and they shall be yours.
electronics. He overlooks gaps in the in- We'll begin our tips on soldering tech-
structions. He improvises around the mis- nique with the obvious truism that first
takes. Since those gaps and mistakes are you'll need a soldering iron and some sol-
the things the manufacturer is looking for, der. I suggest that after you have these
so that they may be eliminated before the items ready for use you practice with a few
kit is offered to the public, such a person odd lengths of wire and a tube socket for
is no longer useful as a trouble -spotter. a half hour or so.
This, then, is the point of my argument. Before that, though, you'll have to de-
If any rank amateur selected at random cide what type of iron to get. It should
can become a real expert so quickly, then be electrically operated, of course, the best
certainly you would experience no diffi- types for radio work being the 50 -watt
culty in building any or all of your own "pencil" type, the standard 60- or 100 -watt

TRANSFORMERS and switches are installed next. COMPLETION of first stage finds transformers and
Instructions are checked off as each step completed. tube filament power circuits secured in place.

33
SOLDERING GUN is a safety plus for constructor SUB -ASSEMBLIES prior to installation become com-
with children. Tip is hot only as joint is made. mon as work progresses, avoiding any mistakes.

irons, or the high-speed soldering "gun." tip of the iron, wipe off the excess with
Your best bet as a start for all-around a rag rolled up into a ball, thus exposing
work will be the 60- or 100-watt size. a thin, shiny layer of tin covering the tip.
The type of solder used is extremely im- Now you are ready to proceed with solder-
portant. The only kind acceptable is that ing operation. In time the tinning will be-
marked Rosin Core Radio Solder. This come dull and flaked, and the tip may even
type is an alloy of tin and lead, usually in become pitted. When this happens, simply
the proportions 50-50 or 40-60. Running file the tip faces down flat and tin again as
lengthwise through this wire -like material before.
are one or more tubular holes, which are
filled with a compound of rosin. This is Soldering Preparation
known as flux, and acts as a cleaning agent You'll have no difficulty soldering as long
in the operation. Never under any circum- as the terminals on which you're working
stances use a substitute for radio soldering, are bright and clean, and the wire ends free
nor should you use any separate flux, not of wax, frayed insulation or other foreign
even the type claiming to be a "non-cor- substances. A bit of sandpaper or a knife
rosive" paste. Corrosion, short-circuits edge are useful in cleaning terminals when
and ultimate breakdown of the equipment necessary. Do not use emery cloth or
are sure to result if these precautions are paper, however, as the abrasive is elec-
not observed. trically conductive and may cause trouble
The first step in preparing a new iron for later.
use is known as "tinning." Begin by plug- Now crimp or otherwise secure the wire
ging the iron in and rubbing solder against (or wires) to the terminal, so that the joint
the tip every few moments. The iron won't will not have to rely upon the solder for
be hot enough to melt the metal at first, physical strength. Then the well -tinned
but continue the operation so that solder tip of a hot soldering iron is placed against
begins to flow the instant the heat is great the joint so that the terminal itself is suffi-
enough. The purpose of this is to have the ciently heated to cause melting of the sol-
tinning accomplished before the copper tip der. Solder is then placed against the
gets a chance to oxidize. With molten sol- joint and will immediately begin to flow.
der flowing freely over both faces of the Melt only enough solder to cover the junc-

34
FINAL CHECK of circuit is made before power is MISTAKE is found and safely corrected. Shielded
applied. Trouble is thus avoided at the outset. wire was touching another circuit and shorting.

IT WORKS! Little daughter is

almost as proud as father when
Heathkit amplifier first performs.

35
 ()

a system built entirely from kits

AMONG FIRST practical ap-

plications of old theoretical
principle is new Electronic
Crossover introduced in the
Heathkit line. This system
permits signal division at low
level, prior to power ampli-
fication, rather than in cross-
over network usually between
amplifier output and speaker
Input. Since most of the power
requirement is at extremely
low frequencies, the addition
of a small low-power amplifier
r-,
is sufficient for the treble
region. Advantages include r,
greater efficiency and flexi-
bility, as well as lowered
distortion, particularly in the
very difficult crossover region.

ELECTRONIC CROSSOVER (center above) features choice of seven different crossover frequencies, from
100 to 3,500 c.p.s., plus built-in high pass and low pass filters. Separate level controls are provided
for each of the two outputs. Small power amplifier (above right) is sufficient for high frequencies.

36
tion. It is neither necessary nor desirable one which is greatly undersize is difficult to
that the entire hole in the terminal be filled. work with and may damage the screw slots.
Excess solder flowing into the contacts of For most electronic kit construction you'll
tube sockets or switches may well ruin probably never require anything larger
them. It is wise to position the work so than a 4-inch model, although wood cabi-
that gravity will tend to keep the solder net kits may well call for something bigger.
where you want it. Screws are of three basic types. Wood
The quality of a solder joint can be screws are intended for fastening wood or
readily told by its appearance. If the solder some other material to wood. They cut
stands up in a blob on top of the connec- their own thread into the wood after an
tion, or has a crystalline or grainy texture undersize starter hole has been drilled. In
on its surface, it is a "cold" joint and must audio work this type of fastening is con-
be reworked. In a good solder joint the fined almost exclusively to cabinet work.
metal cools to a smooth, bright, well- In most kits, starter holes and countersink
rounded appearance, after having obvi- holes are already drilled. Thus the assem-
ously been well melted and flowed. To sum bly is simple and obvious.
up, soldering is really a quite simple The next most common type of screw is
process, and if you bear in mind one simple the machine screw. This is used for fasten-
rule every soldered joint you make will ing in or to metal. It does not cut a thread
be perfect. Just remember that the solder in the material into which it is screwed.
is always to be melted by the parts to be If the screw is to go into a heavy piece of
joined, never by the iron itself. metal, that material must first have a
thread cut with a tap in the sides of a drilled
Necessary Hand Tools hole. This type of construction is not very
The next common tool you'll require for common in audio work, however. Usually
your kit building is a screwdriver or two. the screw passes completely through holes
The ordinary flat-bladed screwdriver is in the material which are just large enough
usually designated in terms of its blade to allow clearance, and a washer and nut
length. Thus a 4 -inch screwdriver has a are turned on at the end. With a screw-
blade four inches long. It is fairly im- driver in the screw slot and a wrench on
portant that the size screwdriver you use the nut, one or both of them is turned
be one intended for the screws involved. clockwise until snug. The only precau-
Obviously an oversize tool is useless, but tions to observe are to be sure to use the

/
el!

FOUR WAY speaker system is result of adding Heathkit range extending speakers to basic hi-fi unit.
Ghost view of midrange unit (above center) shows cone speaker and horn in enclosure. Range extender
(above left) adds large woofer and super tweeter. Combination is mounted as shown above at right.
37
 screw size and washer type specified in the
kit instructions, and not to turn the screws
so tight as to strip the threads.
knock-down kit
Wrenches are of several types, including
end wrenches, socket wrenches and
"finger" wrenches. A very small adjust-
becomes veneered
able end wrench will usually suffice for
most kit construction. A set of socket furniture in
wrenches, of the type with a shaft and
screwdriver handle, is easier to use but
considerably more expensive. The little two evenings
finger wrenches look something like
thimbles with small openings protruding
at one end. They are particularly useful LOCK -MITER joints are secured by steel angles.
for getting into inaccessible areas. In a
pinch, however, you can probably forego
the wrenches entirely and get along with
just an ordinary pair of pliers.
But while the ordinary combination
pliers are a useful multi -purpose tool, you
should invest in a pair of long -nose pliers
as well. These are handy for working in
confined areas and for the finer detail in
shaping wires to fit.
Another equally indispensable tool is the
wire cutter, usually in the form of a pair
of diagonal cutting pliers. Most compo-
nents, particularly resistors, condensers
and audio transformers, are supplied with
long wire leads, often referred to as "pig-
tails." Since a standard rule in electronic
construction is to keep the leads as short
as possible, it is necessary after installing
a part in place to snip off the excess wire.
This is done quickly and simply with a
pair of diagonals, and no other tool will do
nearly as well.
Use of Pocket Knife
Finally we come to another tool of many
uses, the ordinary pocket knife. The most
important application in audio work is in
the preparation of wire ends for soldering.
If the wire is insulated, it may be necessary
to trim back the end of it for a quarter-
irich or so to expose the metal. Some wires
may have additionally a baked enamel
coating. In the case of components, many THIRD BAFFLE installed before remaining side.
of them are dipped in wax, including the
pigtails. All of this stuff must be cleaned FIRST BAFFLE of acoustic labyrinth installed.
off the part of the wire to be soldered, until
clean, bare metal is exposed. One of the
easiest ways of doing this is by scraping
with a knife. The other, as I've indicated,
is with a bit of sandpaper.
With these few simple tools and a good
kit, you need only take the time and care
to follow simple step-by-step instructions
until you have built yourself a complete
system of top-notch hi-fi components.
There is only one organization at present,
however, which offers anything approach -

38
THIRD BAFFLE now aligned and screwed tight. SECOND BAFFLE is the last one to b: installed.

VOICE COIL lead lugs attached .o bacl board BACK INSTALLED with some machi -e screws.

i
LOUDSPEAKER is next mounted on front panel SPEAKER PANEL forms glue -free gasket joint.

GRILLE CLOTH installation completes assembly. ACOUSTI MAGIC system is ready fo- veneering.

m
 \ l
PHONO PLUG7 LEAD

\wY.'-._.
SOLDER SHIELD SOLDERED
TO CAP
PUSHBACK ÌI.
WIRE
PHONO OR PIN PLUG is common hi-fi connector.

LONGNOSE PLIERS

FLAT HEX
PUSHBACK WIRE has soft insulation, can WASHER NUT
bare conductor without being removed.

HEX CONTROL
CONTROL MOUNTING uses two hex nuts, NUT
lets shaft length adjust to knob requirements. CHASSIS LOCKWASHER

ing a complete system, and this is the which enables even a youngster to assem-
Heath Company, which sells exclusively ble one with little or no supervision. Also
by direct mail. They offer everything from included is a short course of instruction in
preamplifier -equalizer through to a splen- audio theory, which will allow parents to
did four-way speaker system. At the impart the maximum educational values to
source end they have only a top-notch AM the younger constructor.
tuner and good FM tuner, although ru- All of the major loudspeaker manufac-
mors continue to circulate that they may turers now offer complete speaker and en-
round out the line with a record repro- closure systems in kit form, including
ducer and tape recorder system in kit form. University, Electro -Voice and Jensen. For
I have the entire Heath system in my own those who want a custom job without a lot
home, and I'm extremely happy with it. of construction bother, the University
I'll describe it to you in more detail, but first EN -CB is a logical answer. This is a folded
I think you may want to know some of the exponential horn, completely assembled
other sources of hi-fi kits. but without exterior finish. Since it does
Allied Radio, the big mail-order parts not depend upon floor or walls for its radia-
house in Chicago, has a couple of good tion, it can be placed in any location and
amplifier kits. So do Eico and Tech - positioned either vertically pr horizontally.
Master. Eico has a very complete line of It can be used as part of a built-in, a room
test equipment in kit form, incidentally, divider, or anywhere else it fits the decorat-
while Tech-Master is a leader in the TV ing scheme. Similarly, any type of trim
kit field. and finish may be selected to provide a
Newest Amplifier Kits truly custom piece of furniture.
One of my own kit systems is Heath,
A newcomer in the hi-fi kit field is a and I am exceedingly well pleased with it.
name well known to audiophiles. The I started off with the AM tuner, a real little
David Bogen Company has announced that honey which sells for less than 25 dollars.
two very popular amplifier models, the This tuner has exceptionally broad audio
DB110 and the DB2ODF, are now available response along with good selectivity and
in kit form. Both of these amplifiers have sensitivity. If you know anything about
repeatedly received excellent ratings from radio theory you know that it takes a high
various consumer testing organizations, order of engineering magic to come up with
and the releasing of these two outstanding that combination. Another feature of this
models as kits will prove a boon to many little job is an amazingly sharp rejection
a budget -conscious hi-fi fan. Bogen sug- filter, tuned to 10 kc to minimize squeals
gests that their kits are appropriate for gift due to adjacent channel interference.
giving, with a new method of instruction My next effort was the FM tuner, Model
40
 Allied Radio Corp.

WRONG WAY

11

BEST WAY
(MAKE END LEAD AS
SHORT AS POSSIBLE)

SHORT LEADS are rule in all electronic wiring. CRIMPED WIRE end permits strong soldered joint.

FM -3, and here I must admit I was rather teristics, a total of sixteen equalization
skeptical. Having worked with Major curves. The tone controls are separate for
Armstrong, I was thoroughly convinced bass and treble, and each offers either boost
that his limiter -discriminator system stood or rolloff. Finally there is a conventional
head and shoulders over the others. Not volume control and a special hum -bal-
so many years ago I observed many big - ancing control as well.
name manufacturers bilking the public Since this preamp gets its operating
with junky imitations of FM, and that kind voltages from the power amplifier, I de-
of thing isn't easy to forget. So when I saw cided to go ahead with that element as
that this Heathkit had a ratio detector, I well, rather than to try to work it out
was unenthusiastic to say the least. with the amplifier I had been using. Heath
has a rather wide choice of amplifier kits
FM Detection ranging from a little job of 7 watts up to
Of course, I knew that one school of a husky 25 -wafter. And although I've
thought says that there's nothing wrong been telling you all along that ten watts
with ratio detection which a good limiter are quite ample for most home applications,
won't cure, but this job doesn't even have I decided that here would be an econom-
a limiter! Still, I wanted to build a match- ical opportunity for me to experiment
ing all-Heath system, and besides I further with high power under controlled
couldn't ignore the fact that this kit was conditions. I therefore selected the big
priced at the same low figure as the AM one, the 25 -watt Williamson type, Model
tuner. So I built it. And I got the surprise W -5M.
of my life. No doubt about it, this little After living with this unit for some
baby is really hot. The original FM sys- months I can testify that it is excellent in
tem may be a little better, but practically design and performance. As for the power,
the difference is academic. it comes down to your own personal choice,
I needed more flexibility in my input and whether you want to lay out the extra
system, and with the WA- P2 preamplifier money for that last little bit of extra per-
I got it for less than a twenty -dollar bill. It formance. Even the cost consideration is
has five input positions, controlled by a relatively unimportant here, however, for
selector switch, with individual level con- even the 25-watter is priced at less than
trols on each. My record collection is ex- sixty dollars.
tremely varied, so I make good use of the The main advantage of additional power
two -section compensator control. One capability is the behavior of an amplifier
switch provides a choice of four different on heavy peak signals, as well as its ability
crossover frequencies, while the other pro- to deliver sufficient power to drive the bass
vides any of four different rolloff charac- woofer adequately. With less power -
41
 handling in the amplifier, there will but like every other audiophile I am al-
occasionally be a little distortion on in- ways looking for improvements. Luckily,
stantaneous (and infrequent) peaks. Most Heath has something with which I've
persons can't hear this, however, and it wanted to experiment for a long time, and
happens seldom enough to be a rather I decided now to give it a try. It's an idea
minor problem anyhow. As for the bass which has been under theoretical discus-
end, if you have a big booming woofer, it sion for some time, and finally seems to be
will perform more efficiently and cleanly getting into successful practice.
if there is plenty of reserve in the amplifier Heath calls their version the Electronic
driving it. Crossover, which is quite descriptive. Tne
I didn't have such a speaker system to gist of the idea is the splitting of the audio
begin with, but I intended to get it in due spectrum by frequency at low level, ahead
time to finish out my installation. The of the power amplifier, with separate am-
first building block consisted of the SS -1 plification following for each band. Thus
unit, which is a two-way system in a there is no conventional crossover net-
ducted -port bass reflex enclosure. The work between amplifier and speaker; in-
speakers are special-design Jensens, built stead the electronic crossover does the
to Heath specifications especially for this dividing following the preamplifier stage,
unit. The low-frequency element is an 8 - and there are then two power amplifiers
inch cone speaker, while the high -fre- after that, one for each band of frequencies.
quency unit is a compression driver with Each amplifier then drives directly its own
exponential horn. associated speaker.
Extending Speaker Range In my case, with a 4-way speaker sys-
tem, ideally I would be dividing the signal
This system works very smoothly over into four bands following the preamp,
the middle range, but as you can guess from with four power amplifiers driving four
the 8 -inch speaker size, the low end is a speakers. The Heath Electronic Crossover
little anemic. Heath claims a range of 50 is not that elaborate, however, and is capa-
to 12,000 c.p.s. for this system, which seems ble only of a 2 -way split. So I adjusted
justified, and while I didn't miss so much at it for a 700-c.p.s. crossover, as the manufac-
the top end, I did feel the lack of that bot- turer recommended, with the bass signal
tom octave. below that frequency fed into my 25 -watt
So at the earliest possible moment I amplifier. Coming out of the power am-
added the SS -1B, which Heath calls its plifier the signal goes directly into the 15 -
Range Extending Speaker System. The inch woofer, without using the old dividing
description is apt, for the purpose of this network that had been there previously.
unit is to cover only the extremes of the
audio spectrum where the SS -1 is inade- Another Power Amplifier
quate. This is also a bass reflex enclosure, Now I needed another power amplifier
much larger than the first 2 -way unit, but for the remainder of the spectrum above
similar enough in appearance to provide a 700 cycles, and to my surprise Heath rec-
matched combination. ommended their little 7-watt job, the A -7D,
Now I had a 4 -way system, with a 15 - as adequate. So building that was the next
inch woofer covering from 35 to 600 c.p.s., step, and when completed it was installed
a lower mid-range unit operating between at the output of the high-frequency section
600 and 1,600, an upper mid -range unit of the electronic crossover. At the amplifier
working between 1,600 and 4,000, and output is still the conventional crossover
finally a super tweeter handling from 4,000 network for dividing up the signal among
up to 16,000 c.p.s. As you can see, the the remaining three speakers.
range extenders also took over part of the Frequency division takes place therefore
job of the first unit, with the SS -1 now at two points in the system. Coming out
called upon to deliver only in the area from of the preamp we go into the electronic
600 to 4,000 c.p.s. According to Heath's crossover and divide at 700 cycles, the low
published curves, the low end starts to roll frequency component going into the 25 -
off around 50 c.p.s. and is down 5 db at 35 watt amplifier and the upper band going
cycles, which is the bottom of their into the 7 -watt unit. The big job drives
claimed response. To my mind this is the woofer directly, while the small one
ultra-conservative. Although I've made no feeds the same old network. This cross-
specific measurements, I do know that the over functions as before, with the excep-
bass response is clean and solid, and to my tion of the bass, with splitting into seg-
ear quite good even on the lowest tones. ments of 700-1,600, 1,600-4,000 and 4,000-
Well, now my system seemed complete, 16,000 cycles.

42
 Now aside from the novelty of this thing
you may well be wondering just what's
the good of it. Well, for one thing I've
eliminated a 1 -decibel insertion loss in the
crossover network feeding my woofer. This
may sound like peanuts until you consider
that it was causing my 25 -watt amplifier
to act like 20 watts, simply because those
other five watts were being dissipated in
the network. Thus you see a loss of 1 db
means a power decrease of 20%.
Furthermore, reproduction in the vi-
cinity of the crossover is cleaner and more
decisive. This is due to the fact that the
characteristics and the frequency of the SOLDERING HEAT is applied directly to work,
crossover are readily adjustable to indi- which in turn melts solder for stronger, neater joint.
vidual speaker performance.
Finally, intermodulation distortion,
which was already very low in this particu-
lar amplifier, is now practically nil. This
phenomenon is the effect of high -power
low -frequency signals reacting upon the
higher frequencies. In my system, this
component is completely isolated and is
unable to cause trouble.
Rewards for the Constructor
Perhaps now you can understand my
very great enthusiasm for my own hi-fi
system, built over a period of time entirely
from Heathkits. Not only was the building
a lot of fun, but the outstanding results are
more than ample reward for the effort.
And not to be ignored is the great cost sav-
ing when you do it yourself. I now have
a system which will rank up with the best
of them, but which originally cost only
around $300, and I wouldn't part with it for COLD SOLDER joint (left) has obviously poor ap-
three times the price. Now if Heath will pearance as compared with correct joint (right).
just let loose with phono and tape kits.. .
And there you have the third and last
way of assembling your own hi-fi system. CABINART ENCLOSURES are now available in kits
The simplest, of course, is through the with choice of pre -finished hand rubbed surfaces.
package plan. Next is the familiar system
of component installation, where you do
the customizing through your own finish-
ing and furnishing. Finally we have the
kit method just discussed.
Your choice will be the decision of just
how much of yourself you want to put into
it. The more you give in time and effort,
the less you will give in money, and the
more your system will seem to be a part
of you. Each method has its adherents, and
there are pro and con arguments for each.
I have tried them all, and I'd be the very
last to say that any of them is ideal for
every person. I have given you the facts
as best I know them. Now you must com-
plete the equation by adding in the personal
factors, and only then can you have the
best solution for you alone.

43
v,. .
e ,
- 9

N'",
4 '
¡

«a
e,
>le
3 -
is...4>p
b %
.

,
-

. ; -
:
e;
2.4eN, 21.
4'
-
s ;

1.; e f-. ".0`2/ref_ .f"...f&re. ; al... fiek'dtdr.b .13 *".

44
Adding Radio and TV
Until hi-fi tuners can be added, existing home instruments
are readily adaptable to smoother high-fidelity performance.

RADIO and television are usually secondary additions to the hi-fi

system, as nearly everyone begins his setup with record repro-
duction. Assuming, then, that you now have a goodradio hi-fi record
system, and that you also own some sort of ordinary and TV
take as much advantage as possible of your
set, you probably want to
hi-fi reproducer using it in conjunction with these home instruments.
To determine just how much we can do to combine these several
functions usefully, let's consider the course followed by sound signals
in a receiving system. Whether the set be AM, FM, TV, or any com-
bination of these, the general discussion which follows will apply. We
will ignore completely the video portion of TV, however, as it in no
way concerns our hi-fi setup.
We can say then that audio signals which have been superimposed
on a carrier wave in a transmitter will then go through five separate
operations in reception. The parts of the receiver we can denotethe in
a general way as the antenna system, the front end, the detector,
audio amplifier, and the loudspeaker.
The antenna simply intercepts the signals and feeds them into
the front end, where the desired one is selected or tuned and amplified.
The detector then removes the audio from the radio carrier wave, which
is discarded. The detector output is thus an electrical voltage varying
at audio frequencies. This audio voltage is built up to considerable

INTERNAI SPEAKER
Of TV SET

HI-FI CONVERSION for any television or radio set is feature of Jensen Duette.
shown at left. With modern furniture design, this system makes handsome adjunct
to an existing home instrument. With addition of phono and power amplifier, a
well-rounded hi-fi system emerges from this very beautiful unit. Interconnection
shown in the diagram above permits selection of hi-fi or set's own speaker.

45
 power in the amplifier, and finally fed into
the loudspeaker system where it is recon-
verted to sound.
In the ordinary home instrument, how-
ever, the audio amplifier is small and weak,
the loudspeaker is a cheap little thing, and
the part of the cabinet housing the speaker
is designed for appearance, not for sound
performance. Now, since these three com-
ponents are duplicated in our hi-fi system,
we will obtain better results if we use them
in place of those originally furnished. Even
though the forepart of the receiver may be
less than perfect in design-and in home
instruments this is usually the case-we
will improve reproduction considerably by
working on these output components.
Better Speaker Enclosure
JACK CONNECTION at output permits normal set Improvement can be effected even by
operation except when hi -S speaker is plugged in. using the present system complete, but put-
ting the speaker in a good separate en-
closure. You can either buy or build an
enclosure for whatever size speaker was
JACK INSTALLATION between output transformer supplied with the instrument. Later on in
and speaker requires cutting wire, soldering leads. this book I'll tell you about several sources
for free drawings and specifications for
speaker enclosures.
LOUDSPEAKER The actual installation is then simple. But
AUDIO OUTPUT
TRANSFORMER remember, whenever working on this proj-
ti ect or any other involving parts removal
or replacement in electronic equipment,
remove all power by pulling the plug out
of the receptacle. Simply turning off the
THESE switch in front is not sufficient. You can be
THESE WIRES
WIRES certain all voltages are out of the set com-
GO ONLY TO
DISAPPEAR LOUDSPEAKER pletely only if the plug is pulled.
INTO CHASSIS.
When removing the speaker from its
present small cabinet, just be careful not
to poke a hole through the paper cone with
CUT EITHER WIRE the screwdriver. Remember also that parts
of the speaker are strongly magnetic. Be-
fore completing the installation, make sure
that no screws, nuts, washers or metal
fragments are clinging to any of these parts.
In some cases in small sets, the speaker is
mounted to the set chassis rather than the
cabinet. Removal is still simple and obvi-
ous, but the new mounting should be by
means of screws through the appropriate
holes in the frame at the mouth of the
speaker. If the wires are not long enough
SINGLE CLOSED for the new installation, cut each of them,
CIRCUIT/ JACK. splice in an additional piece of the required
length, making sure that the new joints
are well insulated.
Going a step further, let's assume that
you already have a hi-fi speaker and en-
closure, but want the existing amplifier in
the set to drive them. Then you must con-
NEW CONNECTIONS nect from the amplifier output transformer
to your speaker input. Since the old speaker
probably has a voice coil impedance in the
neighborhood of 3-4 ohms and the new one
is about 6-8 ohms, no very serious mis-
matching will result from such an arrange-
ment. Although the audio amplifier is
neither very powerful nor very hi-fi, a good
new speaker will reproduce everything the
amplifier can deliver.
The first problem now is the location of
the output transformer. To do that, begin
looking right at the old speaker itself. You
will see a pair of fine flexible wires attached
to the speaker near the apex of the cone.
Now trace this pair away from the speaker
and toward the set to find the transformer.
In many cases you won't have far to look,
for the transformer is often mounted di-
rectly on the speaker frame. Otherwise it
will be mounted on the chassis.
Now we want to remove the connection RADIO OR TV detector output is readily connected
between the secondary winding of the to hi-fi amplifier through standard phono plug.
transformer and the voice coil of the
speaker. This pair has usually one black
wire and one green. Everything else must
remain as is. You will see other wires run- TO HI-FI
ning from a tube socket into the trans- 4 AUDIO INPUT
former. You might also see other wires
going into the big magnet structure behind INSTALL WIRE
SWITCH

the speaker frame. These may be color JUMPER

coded black -red and yellow -red. None of
this wiring should be disturbed.
Extension Speaker
TO CHASSIS OR
The pair between transformer and voice LOW TERMINAL OF
coil must be opened up, either by discon- VOLUME CONTROL
necting a pair of screw terminals, opening
a pronged connector, breaking a couple of
TO WIRE FORMERLY
splices, or by physically cutting the wire. ON HIGH TERMINAL
TO HIGH TERMINAL
In any case the part going to the voice coil OF VOLUME CONTROL OF VOWME CONTROL
is disregarded, while a new long pair of
wires is connected between the transformer
output terminals and the input of the new KNIFE SWITCH at right
hi-fi speaker. For greater flexibility, and is basis of connection
with just a little more trouble, you can in- shown above. Detector
stall a jack -and -plug arrangement, which output of radio or TV
is picked up at volume
will permit the old speaker to operate when control, switch sends
the plug is not inserted, but which causes to set or hi-fi system.
the signal to swing over to the hi-fi speaker
whenever it is plugged in.
If you have a complete hi-fi system in-
cluding amplifier, however, then your best
bet is to use as much of that rig and as little
of the home instrument as possible. You
can't use the equalizer-preamp section, nor
would you want to, but you should use the
main power amplifier. In this case you want
VOLUME CONTROL
to pick up the audio signal from the radio above is typical of those
or TV set immediately following detection. in radio, TV, hi-fi gear.
The easiest way of locating this point is When altering connec-
to go to the volume control. Since this con- tions for addition of
trol is nearly always inserted between de- hi-fi, only two outer
tector and first audio amplifier, that is the terminals are changed.

47
 CUT The New High Fidelity Handbook
by Irving Greene & James Radcliffe
A (
THIS DRAWING shows method of con-
necting a phoáo plug to a shielded wire:
(A) Remove outer insulation from shielded
wire exposing 2 inches of braid (shield).
B (B) Push back the shield braid to loosen
the weave. Use an awl or other sharp
INNER pointed tool to spread the weave and
INSULATED AWL form an opening through which the
WIRE inner wire can be very easily drawn.
(C) Use the awl, bend the inner wire and,
C 1
inserting the awl tip under the bend,
draw this wire out of the braid. Take care

D L
CUT
-,
INSULATED WIRE

f3RAI0
WIRE
STRANDS,
G

CINCH TYPE
*M-93 OR EQUIV.
not to injure insulation of the inner wire.
(D) Strip about 11/4 inches of the insula-
tion from the inner wire and twist the
shield braid to form a second conductor.
(E) Tin both conductors with solder and
insert the center wire into the plug.
(F) Solder the braid to the skill of the
plug and cut off surplus. Solder carefully.
(G) Holding the wire and plug upright
TIP insert a piece of solder 1/16 inch in
SKIRT diameter into the center of the plug tine.
Apply the iron tip and let the solder flow
slowly into the tine. Carefully remove
iron tip as soon as solder has run into
the tine. Let cool slowly, do not jerk or
CUT BRAID- SOLDER TO SKIRT move plug or else a cold joint will result.

best point to pick up the signal. You will set. Carefully tin the braid of your phono
note three terminals on the rear of this cable and solder it to this same terminal.
control, and of these three we are interested Then ignoring the center terminal, un-
only in the two outside ones. The center one solder and remove the wire from the third
is left alone. terminal. Twist this wire to the center con-
If your volume control also handles the ductor of your phono cable, solder the joint,
on -off switching function, you will find a and wrap it with tape. The total length of
second pair of terminals just in front of the the cable should not exceed ten feet, to
other three. Leave these alone also. And if avoid high -frequency losses, and at the
you haven't already pulled that power plug, other end it is connected to the hi-fi power
do so now, for otherwise those terminals amplifie-.
will be charged with 110 volts. Your amplifier probably has receptacles
In order to make your interconnection for pin plugs, in which case a plug must be
you will need some ordinary phono cable, connected to the cable end. The amplifier
which is single -conductor shielded wire. connection must be at a point in the circuit
Running through the center of this cable following the preamp, so in the case of a
is a single solid wire or a number of fine simple power amplifier you'll just plug the
wire strands, together forming one electri- cable into the input. If a preamp is included
cal conductor. Surrounding the center con- in the power amplifier chassis, then plug
ductor is insulated tubing, usually of the cable into one of the high-level posi-
rubber, cloth or plastic. The third layer tions, such as one marked RADIO, TUNER,
surrounding is a stranded wire braid, or TV. If you want a more flexible setup,
known as the shield. Sometimes there is wherein the radio or TV can play either
another layer of insulation outside of this. through its own speaker or through the
Now you must prepare the ends of the hi-fi system, then a simple jack or switch-
cable for the electrical connection. The ing circuit may be installed.
method is exactly the same as that for the Ultimately, of course, you will be round-
pin plug, except that no plug is used at this ing out your system with truly hi-fi tuners.
end. You will note that one of the three But until you're ready for this, the simple
terminals on the volume control is con- installations described here will afford you
nected directly to the metal chassis of the many hours of more pleasant listening.
48
The 7 Old -Fashioned Villains of Tape Recording

... and How' irish 64AND

FERRO -SHEEN Foiled Them All

Once upon a time, 7 Old-Fashioned Villains like this

with Tape Recorders. The 1st Villain was Oxenscheid the Oxide Shedder. ( `
i\
were wreaking endless woe on Decent People

p He scraped
\% >)s
away at the crumbly oxide coating of old-fashioned tape and gummed up tape recorders with the shedding

particles. The 2nd Villain was Wearhead the Head Wearer. He filed down the magnetic heads

with the abrasive coating of old-fashioned tape. The 3rd Villain was Frickenshaw the Frequency Discriminator.
i!} un
"''''."'"'""'..,!111111111i1

a
I
iw

il iii L iéit,T
He dragged down the high-frequency response of old-fashioned tape through inadequate

contact between the "grainy" coating and the head. The 4th Villain was Noysenhiss the Noise Generator.

He generated tape hiss and modulation noise as a result of the random vibrations and

irregular flux variations caused by the uneven magnetic coating of old-fashioned tape. The 5th and 6th Villains

were Dropofsky the Drop -Out Artist and Pringlethorpe the Print -Through Bug. They

put nodules and agglomerates into the oxide emulsion of old-fashioned coated tape, causing "drop -outs" whenever

these trouble spots lost contact with the record or playback head, and inducing "print -through" on the recorded

tape when the extra flux at the trouble spots cut through adjacent layers on the reel. The 7th Villain was Brattleby

the Embrittler.
// RGIG He dried out the plasticizers in old-fashioned coated tape and embrittled

irreplaceable recordings. Then: OCTOBER,1954! That's when a very un -old-fashioned little man by the name of

F. R. O'Sheen announced that he had developed the revolutionary new irish FERRO -SHEEN process of

tape manufacture and presto. I 1_:.,..ice .@:kl:lul

.---- I ^
,X/°!(
-
<_
_
;jf- the 7 Old -Fashioned

Villains were sent a -scurrying with cries of "Confound it-Foiled again! Yes, F. R. O'Sheen had made the new

magnetic oxide lamination of irish FERRO -SHEEN tape so smooth -surfaced and non-abrasive, so firmly anchored

and homogeneously bonded to the base, so free from nodules and agglomerates, that the

7 Villains were evicted-for good! Moral: Don't let Old-Fashioned Villains do you out

of your hi-fi rights! i Just say "No, thanks" to ordinary coated tape and
r
ask for F. R.O'Sheen irish FERRO -SHEEN, that is! ORRadio Industries, Inc., Opelika, Alabama.
 anyone
can do it!
Now in kit form for the first time!
BUILD THE No trouble identifying what goes DB20 SPECIFICATIONS
BEST! Of 3 dozen where. Even the wires are pre-cut to
the proper length. Detailed STEP- CONTROLS
hi-fi amplifiers ex-
amined, a famous BOOK tells you and shows you exactly Separate 5 -position
what to do every step of the way, loudness contour selec-
consumer testing organization tor; 4 input positions;
found the BOGEN nä20 to be the fin- and gives basic theory in non -tech-
nical language so that you under- 7 record equalization
est! Take a look at the specifications positions; continuously
at the right and you'll see why. It's stand why your amplifier works variable damping factor
the ideal 20 -watt amplifier for any so much better than any other. control; separate con-
home installation. Never before has tinuously variable bass
BOGEN offered any kit. Now you can NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED. and treble controls; vol-
do it yourself and save up to one
ume control.
No knowledge of electronics or hi-fi
third of the regular price! required. Anyone who can turn a SPECIFICATIONS
screwdriver can build this DB20. A 0.3' distortion at 20
STEPpak* MAKES IT EASY. great do-it-yourself project. A gift watts; peak 30 watts;
All parts needed for each step are that will always be remembered. response, 20-20,000 cps
packaged together in a separate en- Complete BOGEN guarantee. See your
± 0.7 db.
velope. No guesswork. No mistakes. BOGEN dealer now.
See Your Dealer
For Price
FOR THE SMALLER SYSTEM

BOGEN DB110 12 -watt Amplifier Kit. As- SEE YOUR BOGEN

semble this BOGEN DB110 at home. Only 0.65% DEALER
distortion at rated 12 watts; response, ± 0.5 db
from 15-30,000 cps. 4 controls: volume, separate
- Or write to us today
for his name & address.
continuously variable treble and bass controls, See Your Dealer David Bogen Co., Inc.,
one control provides four input selector posi- For Price P.O. Box 500, Paramus,
tions plus .3 record equalizer positions. New Jersey.

"COPYRIGHT
component or kit ...buy
HIGH V elt FIDELITY
because it sounds better
The 7 Old -Fashioned Villains of Tape Recording
Foiled Them All

Once upon a time, 7 Old -Fashioned Villains like this

with Tape Recorders. The 1st Villain was Oxenscheid the Oxide Shedder. -
were wreaking endless woe on Decent People

'
away at the crumbly oxide coating of old-fashioned tape and gummed up tape recorders with the shedding
He scraped

'
particles. The 2nd Villain was Wearhead the Head Wearer. He filed down the magnetic heads

with the abrasive coating of old-fashioned tape. The 3rd Villain was Frickenshaw the Frequency Discriminator.

He dragged down the high -frequency response of old-fashioned tape through inadequate

He generated tape hiss and modulation noise

Ni i
contact between the "grainy" coating and the head. The 4th Villain was Noysenhiss the Noise Generator.

+
ccc`i as a result of the random vibrations and

irregular flux variations caused by the uneven magnetic coating of old-fashioned tape. The 5th and 6th Villains

were Dropofsky the Drop -Out Artist and Pringlethorpe the Print -Through Bug. They

put nodules and agglomerates into the oxide emulsion of old-fashioned coated tape, causing "drop -outs" whenever

these trouble spots lost contact with the record or playback head, anti inducing "print -through" on the recorded

tape when the extra flux at the trouble spots cut through adjacent layers on the reel. The 7th Villain was Brattleby

the Embrittler. RA G I He dried out the plasticizers in old-fashioned coated tape and embrittled

irreplaceable recordings. Then: OCTOBER,1954! That's when a very un -old-fashioned little man by the name of

F. R. O'Sheen announced that he had developed the revolutionary new 1tish FERRO -SHEEN process of

tape manufacture and presto! the 7 Old-Fashioned

I "

Villains were sent a -scurrying with cries of "Confound it-Foiled again!" Yes, F. R. O'Sheen had made the new

magnetic oxide lamination of iIish FERRO -SHEEN tape so smooth -surfaced and non-abrasive, so firmly anchored

and homogeneously bonded to the base, so free from nodules and agglomerates, that the

7 Villains were evicted-for good! Moral: Don't let Old-Fashioned Villains do you out

of your hi-fi rights! Just say "No, thanks" to ordinary coated tape and

ask for F. R. O'Sheen / A iriSh FERRO -SHEEN, that is! ORRadio Industries, Inc., Opelika, Alabama.
 anyone
can do it!
Now in kit form for the first time!
BUILD THE No trouble identifying what goes 0820 SPECIFICATIONS
BEST! Of 3 dozen where. Even the wires are pre-cut to
the proper length. Detailed STEP - CONTROLS
hi-fi amplifiers ex-
amined, a famous BOOK tells you and shows you exactly Separate 5 -position
what to do every step of the way, loudness contour selec-
consumer testing organization tor; 4 input positions;
found the BOGEN DB20 to be the fin- and gives basic theory in non -tech-
nical language so that you under- 7 record equalization
est! Take a look at the specifications positions; continuously
at the right and you'll see why. It's stand why your amplifier works variable damping factor
so much better than any other. control; separate con-
the ideal 20 -watt amplifier for any
home installation. Never before has tinuously variable bass
BOGEN offered any kit. Now you can NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED. and treble controls; vol-
ume control.
do it yourself and save up to one No knowledge of electronics or hi-fi
third of the regular price! required. Anyone who can turn a SPECIFICATIONS
screwdriver can build this DB20. A 0.3% distortion at 20
STEPpak* MAKES IT EASY. great do-it-yourself project. A gift watts; peak 30 watts;
All parts needed for each step are that will always be remembered. response, 20-20,000 cps
packaged together in a separate en- Complete BOGEN guarantee. See your
± 0.7 db.
velope. No guesswork. No mistakes. BOGEN dealer now.
See Your Dealer
For Price
FOR THE SMALLER SYSTEM

BOGEN DB110 12 -watt Amplifier Kit. As- SEE YOUR BOGEN

semble this BOGEN DB110 at home. Only 0.65% DEALER
distortion at rated 12 watts; response, ± 0.5 db
from 15-30,000 cps. 4 controls: volume, separate
- Or write to us today
for his name & address.
continuously variable treble and bass controls, See Your Dealer David Bogen Co., Inc.,
one control provides four input selector posi- For Price P.O. Box 500, Paramus,
tions plus 3 record equalizer positions. New Jersey.

'COPYRIGHT
component or kit ...buy
HIGH V ill FIDELITY
because it sounds better
AMPEX MC DEL 600 (and
601) is per able tape re-
corder which can be car-
ried in case (photo above)
or installed in home hi-fi
unit (photo right). This tape
recorder weighs only 28
pounds. has excellent fre-
quency response at 71/2 ips.

Adding a Tape Recorder

Home hi-fi tape recorders are rapidly approaching
the excellence of professional hi-fi tape machines.

THE tape recorder industry, which historically is at least 20 years

behind the rest of the audio art, has been moving rapidly to
close this gap. For several years I've been cautioning hi-fi fans to
go slow on tape, unless cost was no object, but the day is not far off
when this advice can be forgotten entirely.
The crux of the argument was simply that it was next to im-
possible to obtain tape equipment in the amateur class which would
measure up in performance .to the rest of the hi-fi rig. Putting it
somewhat differently, the only difference between amateur and
professional audio gear today-other than tape-is in ruggedness.
Professional equipment is built to take a pounding hour after hour,
day after day, while home hi-fi equipment is comparatively light
49
TAPESONIC model has push-button operation, fast FERROGRAPH portable tape recorder was de-
forward and rewind mechanism, three motors and signed primarily for professional use, is British
three speeds: 15, 71, and 3% inches per second. made, available to American market for first time.

r:ri
t'7r i.
(WU
_

41w--
AZ1
die V.; \42..._°8118t,
o-

duty. But in performance the two are immediately becomes a permanent mag-
identical. net. This basic principle of electromag-
Until very recently, the same comparison netism is employed in the making of a tape
could not be drawn with tape recording. recording.
This is not surprising when we consider In a recorder, however, the audio cur-
that tape was unknown on these shores rents are constantly varying, as opposed to
until after the war, and that many of the the direct current from the battery in our
problems it presented were unique and had experiment. Thus if we were to continu-
to be solved from scratch. Even after they ously magnetize the same section of tape,
were solved from an engineering stand- each succeeding change in the current
point there still remained the problem of would rearrange the magnetic pattern and
bringing the cost within the range of the obliterate what had gone before.
average consumer pocketbook. The tape would have been magnetized,
Home Tape Recorders
but no permanent record would remain.
Thus we must have another very important
In an amazingly short time there were element to comprise a complete tape re-
home tape recorders on the market which corder. Something is necessary to keep the
did an adequate job on speech, but which tape constantly in motion, with a fresh sec-
left much to be desired when used for tion of blank stock always in position to
music. It still cannot be said in all honesty receive the magnetic impulse of the latest
that tape recorders are available which will change in the audio current. And it is this
match other hi-fi equipment dollar for dol- something which has been the greatest de-
lar in performance and value. But the terrent to the development of home hi-fi
trend is unmistakably in that direction, and tape recorders.
there are now a number of good home tape The device which pulls the tape through
recorders on the market. Prices still aren't the machine is called the tape transport
in the bargain category, but it's no longer mechanism, and its method of operation is
necessary to shell out several thousand for known as capstan drive. The capstan is
a pro model, either. a flat -sided metal or rubber cylinder
So this may be the time for you to con- mounted on the end of a motor shaft. A
sider adding tape equipment to your pres- second pressure roller holds the tape
ent hi-fi installation. If so, you'll find that against the capstan, whose rotation pulls
the actual interconnection is extremely the tape through with a sort of squeegee
simple. But first you should know some- effect. The path of tape travel then is off
thing about how it works, and what to look the supply reel, past an erase magnet, past
for when buying. the record -reproduce head (s), through the
A common trick of boy experimenters capstan drive, and onto the takeup reel.
consists of wrapping a coil of insulated wire The need for perfectly constant speed in
around an iron nail and connecting the ends this transport mechanism is just about
of the wire to the terminals of an electric twice as critical as it is for a record turn-
battery. When this is done the nail almost table. For while the speed variation in a
50
DEJUR offers this typical stripped -down model PRESTO model was designed for the area between
for custom installations. Permanent mounting is the expensive professional model and the small
therefore possible in furniture of one's choice home recorder. It has three motors, three heads.

DYNACORD model was designed for professional

commercial record is negligible, any wow work, has three motor drive, three head construc-
or flutter introduced in the making of a tion, dynamic braking and push-button operation.
tape recording will be doubled when the
tape is reproduced on the same machine.
It is no exaggeration to say that the
percentage of speed variation can be re-
garded as the true "figure of merit" for
a tape recorder. Specifically, the following
figures are the ones to bear in mind. Nearly
anyone can detect wow and flutter of 0.5%,
but this is the figure you will find in man-
ufacturers' claims for most amateur tape
recorders. This isn't hi-fi, no matter what
they say about frequency response and dis-
tortion, so forget it.
Professional Tape Recorders
Professional equipment, on the other
hand, usually exhibits variations on the
order of 0.1% or less. In between these
two figures lie the characteristics of the
semi -pro models. They usually exhibit
variations on the order of 0.2 to 0.25%. In
this category you will fmd such models as BERLANT model consists of two parts, the recorder
the Ampex 600, Magnecord, Pentron Dyna- drive mechanism and one or more recorder ampli-
cord, Tapesonic, Revere T-11, Viking, and fiers. It has three speeds, fast forward, rewinding.
Recordio Prest-Omatic. Prices on equip-
ment with these specifications vary from
about $200 to $500, depending upon the
components and operational features.
Among the many advantages of tape re-
cording is the ability of a tape to be played
repeatedly without loss in quality. But
when a given recording is no longer needed,
the same tape may be used for recording
again whenever desired. When the tape is
to be reused, the old sound is removed from
it just a fraction of a second before the new
sound is recorded. This process of remov-
ing the existing sound is known as erasing,
or more properly, obliterating.
51
 how magnetic tape is made
LABORATORY technician prepares for an experi- HUGE BATCHES of the magnetic coating lacquer
mental formulation in the laboratory grinding mill. are mixed in large 500 -gallon mills like this one.

THE TAPE coating operation is extremely critical. PRODUCING quarter -inch tapes from the large
It is performed on precision machines like these. coated rolls is a responsibility of slitter operator.

COMPLETE, thorough audio analysis is made on FINAL visual inspection of the tape is made by
each production of the tape made by the factory. skilled operators using fluorescent lighting boxes.
 The process is somewhat analogous to
MASSproduction of the magnetic coating finger -writing in the sand, which is the
laccuer for tape is accomplished by huge reason engineers prefer the later term. If
grinding mills which are capable of deliver- you should write your name in the sand
with your finger, you don't actually make
ing 500 gallons of coating. A slow and con-
any permanent change in the sand itself.
tinuous grinding results in a uniform dispersion All you do is to rearrange some of the
of the irol oxide particles in the lacquer -type grains. And when you "erase" the writing
base. Special wetting agents and highly by smoothing the sand over, you really
effective lubricants are incorporated during
only obliterate it. Once again the grains
of sand are rearranged, with no distin-
the grinding process.
guishable pattern.
The precision coating of the magnetic Erasing or obliterating on a magnetic
lacquer on the plastic film is the most delicate tape is somewhat similar. The microscopi-
step in the manufacture of magnetic tape.
cally tiny magnets which had previously
been arranged in a definite pattern during
The coatirg machinery required for this opera- recording are completely scrambled up so
tion is mar ufactured to watchmaker tolerances. that no distinguishable pattern remains.
This company's tape is coated to a tolerance The tape is then said to be blank and once
of a half of 1/10,000 of an inch since a again ready for recording.
variation in thickness of even less than that
While we have been comparing grains of
sand to the billions of tiny magnets on a
may vary the amplitude of the audio output piece of tape, it should be understood that
as much es a full decibel. this magnetization occurs at molecular di-
The next step in the operation is the pro-
mensions, and there is no change at all
visible to the naked eye. It is therefore
duction o' tapes from coated rolls. This is impossible to tell, simply by looking at a
done by the slitter operator who cu -s the 12 - tape, whether or not it has any sound on
inch coated rolls into 1/4 -inch tapes and winds it. The only way to be certain of what is
it on I 2C0 -foot reels, the standard 7 -inch
recorded on a piece of tape, if anything, is
reel of the industry.
to play it.
After the tape is wound on the reels, it is Tape Precautions
subjected to a thorough audio analysis. Pro- Whenever you are in doubt as to the con-
fessional recording and test equipment is used dition of a tape, the safe thing to do is to
for this cperation. The tape is tested for
audition it first. More than once an irre-
placeable recording has been inadvertently
frequency response, amplitude variation, destroyed by erasing and re-recording on a
signal output, and noise level. tape which was supposedly available for
The fina step in the manufacturing process use. You can avoid this problem by label-
ing clearly all recordings as you make
before shipment to distributors is the careful
them, and by keeping your permanent tape
visual inspection of the tape. This is made library well separated from your usable
under fluo-escent lighting with the operator stock. Just remember that all tape looks
checking for inconsistencies in the winding alike, and make it a habit to listen before
and slittinc of the tape and for fractures and you reuse a tape for recording.
All tape recorders contain an erase head,
molding imperfections in the reel.
an electromagnet, or in the cheaper ma-
chines, a permanent magnet. The tape
passes over this erase magnet before it
reaches the recording head. Neither of
these heads is activated, however, until the
recorder control switch or button is placed
into the "record" position.
Permanent magnet erase is not recom-
mended for hi-fi applications, and it is ad-
visable to check this element carefully
before making a purchase. A rather large
amount of power is necessary to energize
the erase magnet for complete and quiet
erasing. Some of the lower -priced ma-
chines just can't quite make the grade.
53
ORRadio Industries. Inc.
how to splice tape The erase function can be tested fairly
well by ear if you have a recorded tape

r
which is not to be saved. With the tape
on the machine, start it in operation in the
"record" position, but with the volume
control turned all the way down. After a
few minutes running time, rewind the tape
a and play it back, this time with the volume
\ / ~ control turned up rather high. If the erased
sound is still quite loud on the tape, or if
the noise level is unduly high, you'd better
scratch the machine off the list.
With erasing completed, a tape next
passes over an adjacent record head. Here
it is subjected to a strong magnetic field
CUT tape at 60 degree angle with over- which varies with the audio signal fed into
lap so that ends line up, splice is unheard. the record amplifier. The tape is thereby
magnetized with this sound pattern and is
immediately ready for playback.
Tape Reproduction
In the better machines there is a re-
produce head adjacent to the record head,
which permits listening to the recorded
tape only a fraction of a second after re-
cording. The lower -priced equipment,
however, uses only one electromagnet as a
combination record -reproduce head. With
this arrangement it is necessary to wait
until recording is finished before playing
ALIGN tape so that the uncoated side is up. back.
This side appears shiny on plastic tape. Tape recorders have a built-in pre-
emphasis-deemphasis characteristic for
better signal-to-noise ratio, somewhat
similar to the compensations employed for
disc recording or FM broadcasting. Since
the playback compensation is the comple-
ment of that in the record amplifier, the
two cancel each other and the resulting
reproduction is fiat.

f
Until fairly recently the question of tape
compensation was as much a mixup as used
to prevail in phonograph records. Lately,
however, just as the phono manufacturers
got together, so now have the tape people.
COVER aligned ends with splicing tape. A standard characteristic has been adopted
Make sure tape is even, secured tightly. and is being incorporated in the new
models. No longer will we have the weird
results which we used to obtain when re-
cording on a machine of one make, and then
playing back on another type.
Tape costs were cut in half with the in-
troduction of the ingenious system known
as dual -track recording. In this method
only a little less than half the width of tape
. is used for recording at a given time. Thus
it is possible to record along the entire
CAA1` length of tape twice, once on each half. But
this economy is not gained without certain
disadvantages.
TRIM excess tape, cutting into backing Since only half of the tape width is used
slightly (dotted lines) to eliminate sticking. for recording at any given time, the innate
Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing Co.
54
noise in the magnetic coating becomes rela-
tively more significant. The ratio of signal
to noise, therefore, can never be as good
how to insert
as on an equivalent full -track system. An-
other problem is the dropout, a momentary
reduction in volume or loss of high fre-
strip of leader
quencies. This may be due to defects in the
tape coating, or because of warp or weave
of the tape as it passes the playback head.
Whatever the cause, the result is much
more noticeable on a half-track system.
Finally, it is impossible to edit this type
of tape without spoiling the adjacent track.
Whenever parts of the tape are removed by
cutting and splicing, both tracks are af-
fected equally. If the opposite track is
blank or has expendable material re-
corded on it, then, of course, the tape may
be edited just as readily as the full -track
type.
A modification of the dual -track system
is now being employed widely for binaural
or stereophonic recording. This employs
two recorded signals, reproduced simulta-
neously through two separate systems.
When the recordings are. properly made
and reproduced, the sound has a presence
and dimension which has been achieved in
no other way. We'll cover this in more de-
tail in the chapter on stereophonic sound.
There are presently five different Ameri-
can manufacturers of magnetic tape, and
each of them offers so many different types LEADER splicing is same as for magnetic
that the amateur may well find himself type. Marker bars are for precise timing.
thoroughly confused. All tape, regardless
of manufacturer or type, consists of a non-
magnetic plastic base having a magnetic
coating of some form of iron oxide. These
are the two variables which go to make up
the many different types of tape on the
market.
Types of Plastic Tape
The first difference to consider is the
composition of the base. Originally all of
the plastic tape was made of a compound
known as cellulose acetate. More recently
there has been introduced a polyester film,
usually sold under the DuPont trade name
"Mylar." The advantages claimed for the
polyester type are greater stability with
respect to temperature and humidity, and
much greater strength and resistance to
shock.
The greater strength may often prove to
be a disadvantage, however, for tape of this
type will stretch considerably before
breaking, while the acetate type is much
more likely to snap under strain. A broken
tape can be repaired readily with a simple between two magnetic sec-
LEADER insertion
splice, but a stretched tape is virtually tions provides the desired interval of silence.
hopeless. The other disadvantage of poly - Scotch Brand Tape
55
SOUND
(Swá tS)
MICROPHONE
(E`WAVfSA`)
RECORDAMPLIFIER (WMOl CA/
-
WAVES)

HEAD
V
RECORDING ( 6""")
,,

--'MAGNETIC TAPE

SOUND TO TAPE

ester to the budget -wise hi-fi fan is its is in the coating. The magnetic material
greater original cost. in the coating is iron oxide, held together
The second important variable in the and adhered to the tape by a suitable
tape base is its thickness. The original binder. Although black oxide was used
acetate tape was 0.0015 inch thick, this di- for a time in earlier tapes, the red type is
mension being commonly referred to as now used almost exclusively. More re-
11 mils. With the advent of polyester cently there appeared a green oxide under
film, however, along with more sensitive the Scotch trade name of "High Output."
coating formulations, the "Scotch" tape This is not to be confused with the colored
people introduced their type 190, which has Audiotape, which is offered with a base
a 1.0 mil base and somewhat thinner coat- dyed blue or green for both cueing and
ing, resulting in a 50% increase in playing coding.
time. More specifically, it is possible to get In HO tape the color is actually in the
half again as much tape on the same size oxide itself. Researchers have known for
reel. some time that certain elements, when
Most of the manufacturers now offer added to iron oxide, will alter its magnetic
similar types, Irish Tape being labeled properties. The addition of zinc, for ex-
"Long Playing," while the Audiotape ver- ample, will yield a tape which is consider-
sion is dubbed "Longer_ Recording." ably less sensitive. The people at Minne-
Double Play Tapes sota Mining and Manufacturing, however,
have discovered an additive which makes
Not content with this development, the the oxide more sensitive. Just what that
Irish Tape people carried it a step further additive might be is a closely guarded se-
and introduced their "Double-Play" tape cret, which competitors have apparently
on a 0.5 mil Mylar base. As its name im- not discovered. The result is a tape which
plies, this tape permits double the playing affords over 8 decibels increase in output
time, with 2400 feet of tape on the 7 -inch level for the same record level, for which
reel which formerly held 1200 feet. It is 3M claims better signal-to-noise ratio, less
also available in the 1200 -foot length on a distortion and greater dynamic range.
5 -inch reel. It isn't likely that tape will The question of tape life is a matter for
get much thinner, as we are now very close some conjecture. It is true that tapes have
to the minimum limit for mechanical been played well over ten thousand times
strength, as well as the problem of "print - in laboratory tests, which is certainly more
through," where adjacent layers of re- than can be said for any phonograph rec-
corded tape magnetize one another. There ord. But at this stage any claim that tapes
are also many more manufacturing diffi- will last forever is at best a considerable
culties when working to such close exaggeration. The fact is that no one yet
tolerances. As a consequence, other man- has devised a reliable accelerated aging.
ufacturers have shied away from this item, test, and so there is just no way of knowing
although Audiotape has now taken the what will happen to a tape with the passage
plunge with the introduction of its "Super - of a few more decades.
Thin" line. Although we don't know how long tape
The other basic difference in tape types will last, we do know some precautions
56
 ( TAPE TO SOUND

REPRODUCED (2,Zs) LOUD SPEAKER.

'EtECTRC ,WAEs) PLAYBACK (F
AMPLIFIER
Urn`") PLAYBACK
HEAD
("r`"óT o)
MAGNETIC TAPE
SOUND

which will prolong its life. When storing THESE DRAWINGS, above and on the opposite
tapes the hi-fi fan would be well advised page. show the similarities and differences in
tape recording and reproduction. Note single
to observe these practices. There is a amplifier used to perform both functions, with an
tendency for recorded tape to print through electromagnet at input or output as required.
while in storage, an effect which is aggra-
vated by excessive signal level or high
temperatures.
Tapes should therefore be recorded at a
low enough level that peak distortion is
less than 2%, and the temperature of the
storage place should be preferably between
60 and 70 degrees F., with a relative hu-
midity of 40 to 60%. They should also be
kept well away from any magnetic fields,
such as those from motors, power lines or
magnets.
Minimizing Print -Through
Both print -through and stretching can be THIS SHOWS in exaggerated form how bar mag-
further minimized if the tape is wound nets are laid down on tape as it passes the head.
rather loosely on the reel. The edges of The wave length of the sound can be measured
the wound tape should form a fairly flat as shown on the diagram. Also note the arrange-
surface, as a few layers protruding will al- ment of the magnetic poles of the signal pattern.
most certainly become bent over and
mashed.
An excellent storage container for the
tape is the aluminum can sold for home SINGLE TRACK
movie film. This provides some magnetic
shielding, it has space for a drying agent,
and -its edges may be sealed with water- IlIIlIIIOhIlIIIIIIIIItIIIIIlIlIIIHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
proof tape.
Blotting paper is a very good drying
agent to place in the cans, provided it is
thoroughly dry itself. It can be dried by DUAL TRACK
placing it in an oven under a low heat with BEG 111111111111111111111111111111111111» END
the door open. After cooling, the paper is
cut to fit the can, with a piece going on each O N3 11111111111111111111111111111111111 1039
side of the tape reel. When the tapes are
stored for long periods of time, they should THIS SHOWS recording methods. In single track
be rewound occasionally to loosen up any recording, the entire tape surface is magnetized
stickiness between layers. These proce- by the signal from the record head. In dual track,
dures were developed by professionals, but one half is magnetized in one direction, then the
are applicable for audiophile use. other hall is recorded in the opposite direction.

57
Expanding and Improving
Your Hi-Fi System
Here are some worth -while suggestions about the kinds and makes of equipment
you can buy in order to make your hi-fi system really complete and first-class.

58
 KORINA WELDWOOD Music Unit (photo left) contains entire hi-fi system,
makes beautiful piece of furniture. Note long shelf above unit to hold records.

CABINART UNIT (photo above) is a build -it-yourself hi-fi unit in ten parts-
nine cabinets and a base. Cabinets may be purchased singly, fit to space.

ONE of the beauties of the component the older crystal types almost overnight
method of hi-fi installation is the ease had become passé. But more recently there
with which one can plan, finance and in- have been some rather startling develop-
stall his system. As your ideas become ments in this field, and the newer type of
more defined and as your finances permit, crystal cartridge known as the ceramic now
you can add accessories and improvements appears likely to turn the tide in the oppo-
to your basic system, always increasing site direction.
your enjoyment of your hobby in a logical Ceramic cartridges have the advantages
step-by-step fashion. of being insensitive to hum induction, and
A setter phono -pickup will improve any freedom from magnetic attraction between
system, even the old-fashioned, mass-pro- pickup and turntable. Their output is con-
duced home instrument. Ever since the siderably higher than that of the magnetic
introduction of the variable -reluctance cartridge, and they very readily can be
pickup, which was truly a landmark in the equalized to standard record compensation
progress of hi-fi, the magnetic type units characteristics.
have held sway in most hi-fi systems, and For those who are now using magnetic
59
 1111
h N,
1001/
K
tt

UNDERSIDE view of the Fisher All -Transistor Pre- HERE IS the same Fisher preamp in its case. Unit
amplifier -Equalizer shows construction of unit. is the first all -transistor product
in hi-fi field.

PENTRON microphone mixer allows for mixing FLEXIBILITY is the keynote of Scott Equalizer -
microphones, or mike with radio or phonograph. Preamplifier, including noise suppression at will.

pickups and contemplating a conversion to a tip radius just half that ordinarily re-
the ceramic type, a good possibility is the garded as optimum for microgroove re-
Shure Music Lovers cartridge. This unit cordings. The manufacturer claims better
comes provided with an electrical network, high -frequency response by virtue of bet-
which permits direct connection to an am- ter tracking over sharply curving high -
plifier designed for magnetic pickups. It frequency groove displacements.
is therefore possible to improve a system A corollary advantage may appear when
with this unit without complicated changes playing badly -worn records. If the groove
in circuitry, and while retaining one's pres- damage was caused by a 1 -mil or larger
ent compensator. stylus, the new half -mil tip will ride below
Other leading manufacturers of high this, on a part of the groove walls never
fidelity ceramic cartridges include Sono - before touched by the stylus. This prin-
tone, Electro -Voice and Astatic. Replace- ciple has been employed for years by pro-
ment with these cartridges is simplicity fessional recordists, who also know that it
itself, requiring in most cases nothing more is not a perfect cure-all. It should be re-
than a small screwdriver. membered that all microgroove recording,
processing and quality testing is predicated
Magnetic Cartridges on the use of a 1 -mil playback stylus. What
Perhaps in answer to the recent ceramic happens near the bottom of the groove is
upsurge, there has been continuing prog- not so important to record manufacturers.
ress in magnetic development as well. One Imperfections might exist which under or-
of the more outstanding new cartridges is dinary circumstances would be inconse-
the Pickering Flux-valve, which has un- quential, but with a smaller stylus might
usually high compliance and low tracking become glaringly apparent.
force. A new wrinkle being recommended Perhaps your need is for a better tone
for this cartridge is the half-mil stylus, with arm. There are now literally dozens on

60
the market, but one of the oldest and most quirement that most designers have had to
trusted designs, the Astatic Model 400, is admit defeat. Now, however, the de-
still going strong. One of the newest and velopers of the Orthosonic claim to have
most revolutionary, on the other hand, is licked the problem, and the preliminary
the Orthosonic V/4. This is the commercial evidence would indicate that the claims are
realization of an idea which is as old as well founded. If so, they have absolutely
recording itself. nothing to worry about. If it lives up to its
promise, the Orthosonic arm will make
New Tone Arm pivoted tone arms as dead as the dodo bird.
Engineers have been attempting unsuc- Perhaps your next move will be the ac-
cessfully for many years to perfect an arm quisition of something new to spin your
which will move the reproducing stylus in discs. Rek-O-Kut and Presto offer the
a straight line across the record, this being finest in turntable products, but if it's a
the path followed by the original cutting changer you have in mind you'll have to
stylus. When the playback does not oc- look elsewhere. My own aversion to
cur along this path there is said to be changers is well known, and although I
tracking error. Various approaches have readily admit their convenience, I have yet
been tried in attempting to minimize this, to see one which compares in quality with
such as very long tone arms, curved arms, the two makes of turntables just mentioned.
offset cartridges and jointed parallelogram But I must admit, on the other hand, that
arms. But none of them has ever done the changers are constantly being improved
job perfectly. and when I find one which meets my
The design problems here are obvious. standards I'll be the first to toss the old
In addition to a straight-line movement, it one -play job into mothballs.
is essential that this movement be virtually That day hasn't arrived yet, but I can
frictionless. And it was with this latter re - see it's coming closer when I examine the

MASTER AUDIO CONTROL by Fisher closely re- PREAMPLIFIER -EQUALIZER has simple controls
sembles broadcast mixing consolle for home use. for record reproduction in small, handsome case.

HI -LO FILTER system, also by Fisher, affords MIXER -FADER permits combination of two signals
wide choice of noise elimination characteristics. with separate faders for each plus master volume.

61
REMOTE CONTROL of tape recorder with foot ACOUSTIC LENS tweeter, sold by Lafayette, has
switch by Pentron lets recordist get into the act. uniform dispersion of higher sound frequencies.

BI -AXIALTWEETER assembly by Lorenz features ELECTROSTATIC TWEETER provides better high

twin bracket for mounting on existing woofer. frequency response at a very reasonable cost.

Miracord XA-100, an imported job. This It draws its power from a tiny self-con-
baby has a fancy set of push-button con- tained battery, with a consumption so low
trols and it really is gentle in its handling that the operating life of the battery is
of records. Even a scratch filter can be nearly as great as its shelf life.
switched in if you like such gadgets. Now This thing is no gimmick, and not all of
if they can just get the wow, flutter, and its advantages are economies in manufac-
rumble down a tiny bit more.. . turing. Noise and hum level are below
those even theoretically possible for a rec-
Preamplifier-Equalizer tifier -supplied vacuum -tube amplifier. The
If you should need a good preamplifier unique design, furthermore, permits an
for your magnetic cartridge, and the pio- output cable length of even up to 200 feet.
neer spirit surges within your breast, you Thus the phonograph or microphone can
can now have the very first piece of hi-fi be separated from the main amplifier by
gear whose principles will unquestionably considerable distance without ill effect.
be in universal use a few years from now. You'll be hearing a lot more about tran-
I refer to the Fisher TR -1 preamplifier- sistors in hi-fi, so keep your eye on this
equalizer, the first hi-fi equipment to use one.
transistors and printed wiring throughout. For the more conventional minded,
62
CONE -TYPE TWEETER by Lafayette is another DIVIDING NETWORK, Lafayette AR -28, has sim-
low-cost approach to high frequency improvement. ple screw -terminal installation, balance control.

FLUXVALVE CARTRIDGE by Pickering has three CERAMIC CARTRIDGES such as Sonotone 3T have
styli sizes: conventional 1 and 3 mils, new half -mil. higher output, lower hum and simple compensation.

Fisher offers its Series 50 audio accessories, rather steeply at a rate of 20 db per octave.
each interesting and useful. The 50 -PR -C The mixer -fader, Model 50-M, permits
audio control is actually a preamplifier - the combining two signal sources, such as
equalizer, with a wide range of com- two turntables, a turntable and micro-
pensation characteristics. Four crossover phone, or any other pair in a single output.
frequencies are available, as well as four Individual level adjustment of each signal
high-frequency rolloff curves. is provided. Mixers are particularly useful
for recording or for home movie presenta-
Noise Filter tions. They are used extensively in re-
The 50-F filter system is especially rec- cording, radio, TV, and motion pictures, but
ommended for those who have extensive small portable models for amateur use are
libraries of old and noisy records. It is exceedingly scarce.
also useful for noisy radio broadcasts, such A somewhat more elaborate mixer,
as those heard from overseas. In addition which does a sweet job, is the Pentron
to a flat response, the filter will cut off be- Model MM -4. This has six channels in all,
low 30, 70 or 120 cycles, at a rate of 10 db four for microphones and two for phono,
per octave. It also provides high frequency tape reproducer or tuner. Only the mike
cut-offs above 3, 6, 10, or 20 kc, tapering channels have faders, as the other sources
63
 ORTHOSONIC V/4 tone arm moves cartridge
in a straight line, reduces tracking error to zero.

SCOTCH BRAND write -on labels ease identifica-

tion of tapes. Date, reel number, subject are listed.

will have their own volume controls. This

unit can be used to good advantage directly
through the sound system, or into a tape
recorder or magnetic motion -picture re-
corder.
Closely related to the mixer, but more
elaborate and more flexible is the audio
control center, such as the Fisher 80-C or
the Scott 121-C. The basic purpose of such
a unit is the combination of all the avail-
able signal sources, which may include
1

1
/ MUSIC LOVERS cartridge by Shure has "needle
/ shift." eliminates turnover of needle or cartridge.
//
64
TRANSCRIPTION ARM Model 400 by Asiatic is IMPORTED CHANGER by Miracord has push-but-
long-time favorite of hi-fi fans, still good performer. ton controls, optional scratch filter, quiet operation.

AUDIO DEVICES identification labels have adhe- ORRADIO has these reel tabs to identify reels. Tabs
sive backs, are pressed in place, can be peeled off. fit beneath edges of any 7 -inch plastic or metal reel.

record players, tape players, tuners, TV not necessary to the basic hi-fi system, but
sets, microphones and others. Here is pro- they are indispensable to the advanced
vided correct termination for the various amateur and sound experimenter who
devices, with necessary switching and con- really knows what to do with them.
trol apparatus. With a setup such as this In your initial hi-fi system you will prob-
it is possible to feed into the main amplifier ably have a loudspeaker which is adequate
and speaker, and a recorder as well, any over most of the audible range, but perhaps
signal or combination of signals desired. somewhat deficient at the extremities.
At this point also the various levels are These shortcomings can be corrected by
controlled, usually with a choice of either augmenting your present system with a
loudness or volume control. Record equal- good tweeter, and finally a better bass
ization is also provided, as well as tone speaker. It is advisable, but not absolutely
controls and, sometimes, filters. The Scott essential, that you stay with the manufac-
also includes the well-known dynamic turer of your mid -range speaker, so that
noise suppressor. Units of this type are the additional components will be matched
65
 STOR-A-TAPE containers provide safe identification and storage of precious tape recordings. This Con-
certape product holds tape intact on center post, stands on edge to save space, as shown above.

to it. Since balancing controls between the The shape, stiffness and mounting sus-
elements are now so common, however, you pensions of most European speakers are
may get just the result you want by mixing quite different from those in the United
it up a little. States, tending to give a softer, rounder
Since tweeters are far less expensive, tone. This is another reason for advising
your first step in expansion will probably caution when combining speakers of sev-
be in the direction of more highs. If you eral origins. The sound of the imported
are short on cash and looking for bargains, speakers is quite pleasant, however, and if
the mail order houses should be one of your this is your preference you might well con-
first considerations. Lafayette, for ex- sider using one such as the Lorenz LP312
ample, has a little tweeter, Model HK -3, as a woofer.
which is good to 16,000 cycles for around Another approach to this problem, if you
$6. Another model, 11W-7, has an acoustic are a constructor, is the range extending
lens and is good to well above audibility. system of Heathkit, which was described
This one sells for around fifteen dollars. In in detail in an earlier chapter. Certainly
both cases a crossover network is addi- one of the most common-sense approaches
tional, and the Lafayette AR -28, at around for the novice who may be completely in
$9, will do the job nicely. the dark is the Progressive Speaker Ex-
Imported Equipment pansion plan created by University. This
is a logical, clear-cut solution from a man-
The Lorenz line, which is imported, in- ufacturer whose product excellence is well
cludes several items of interest. The known. In the chapter on Free Items and
electrostatic tweeter, SKL 100, provides a Special Bargains we'll describe how you
very inexpensive means of extending the can get all the necessary data free of charge.
upper range, and has been quite popular I've said many times that careful plan-
among audiophiles. The LP65 horn -type ning in advance is essential, and nowhere
tweeter has an interesting plastic cone de- is this more true than in the question of
sign, and brackets are available for mount- how and where to install the equipment.
ing one or two coaxially within an existing The answers have been wrapped up very
12 -inch speaker. neatly by Cabinart in their ST series. Ten
66
COLORED AUDIOTAPE shows dearly various hues when several colors are spliced on single reel.
This system permits easy identification and cueing of desired selections or takes in few moments.

modular units are available, in either as- mits remote switching on and off of a tape
sembled or kit form. Since they may be recorder, extremely useful when the re-
purchased separately, the cabinet work cordist is also the performer.
may grow as the system grows, but with all As you become more advanced as a tape
shapes and dimensions known in advance. editor, you will soon tire of the scissors
A number of accessories worthy of men- and want some type of tape splicer. A
tion are available to the tape recordist. One really top-notch splicer is yet to be de-
of the most obvious problems is a means veloped, in my opinion, but meanwhile you
of identification for the tapes themselves. can find available a variety of types at
Although all manufacturers allow sufficient prices ranging from around five dollars up
space on the tape boxes for written iden- to around a hundred. Since there's so
tification, this becomes meaningless if the much room for improvement in this field,
reel and the box become separated. The I'd suggest you get the cheapest thing you
most positive identification of all is a can find which will do a satisfactory job
spoken announcement recorded on the tape for you.
itself. The next best answer is written I hope you'll regard these suggestions as
titles on paper leader spliced to the tape. thought-starters and ideas for future plan-
The next best is the adhesive label stuck ning. Not nearly all of the possibilities
on the reel. Both Audio and Scotch offer have been explored in these few pages, nor
these. Irish offers an identifying tab is everything mentioned here ideally suited
which may be slipped under the reel edges. to every situation. It all gets back to my
In the fmal chapter we'll tell how to get favorite theme song entitled planning. If
a supply of these free. you buy your accessories and improve-
ments on impulse, you're almost certain to
Other Supplies end up with a rat's nest of wiring, dupli-
Audiotape also supplies corrugated boxes cated functions, incompatible components,
for mailing tape, and colored reels for and wasted money. I can give my personal
classifying your tapes by artist, musical recommendation to all of the products
type, or other chosen categories. Pentron mentioned here, but please don't go out
makes a foot pedal attachment, which per- tomorrow and buy out the store.
67
 INSTALLATION in wall of recreation
room has speaker mounted behind
3ound-transparent picture. System be
-

ow h installed in gracious living

room of Chicago's Gold Coast, over-
ookinn Lake Michigan. Both instal-
ations were done by Allied Radio.

'e
t
Your Complete System
Selection of hi-fi components from wide variety available often confuses
the audio novice. Here are five suggested systems in five price ranges.

THE beginner in hi-fi, after absorbing reams of literature on

the technical principles of the art, along with equal amounts
of seemingly conflicting advertising copy, still is confronted
with a fundamental problem. To get started on the right foot,
just what should he buy? Many of the letters I receive from
interested readers indicate that most of the books and maga-
zines fall short of the mark, for they fail to give specific sug-
gestions about component purchases.
Perhaps the other writers have steered clear of this area,
realizing that hi-fi is such a personal sort of hobby, and re-
membering the old axiom about not being able to please all
of the people all of the time. Nevertheless, because I. have been
repeatedly asked to do so by readers, I have conducted my own
personal shopping tour, as if I were in the market for five dif-
ferent hi-fi systems in five different price ranges.
What follows, then, is simply my own personal opinion of
what's good on the market today. Undoubtedly there will be
many who will disagree with me. Some readers will feel that
my selections don't quite suit their needs. Many manufacturers
will berate me for having overlooked them. I should make it
abundantly clear, therefore, that my failing to mention a given
product here does not automatically relegate it to the junk
class. There are many good products on the hi-fi market today,
and although I know of nearly all of them, I could never find
space to discuss them all. With these reservations and qualifica-
tions, and with a deep breath, I tell you what I would do if I had
need of five systems, along with the necessary coin of the realm.
GROUP ONE-UNDER $160
Knight "Uni -Fi" Tuner Amplifier (AM-FM with 10 -watt am-
plifier)
Webcor 1631-27 Automatic Record Changer
Electro -Voice SP -12B 12" Radax Speaker
This group, which I think is an exceptional buy, is available
from Allied Radio Corporation, Chicago, Illinois, for $159.95.
This includes the basic components listed, as well as a G.E.
RPX-050 cartridge with sapphire styli.
As a start, the speaker system may be placed in any sort of
simple box baffle or available cabinet. As soon as finances per-
mit, however, the first add-on should be the enclosure designed
for the speaker. The Aristocrat, which permits expansion of
the speaker system at a later date, may be acquired in any of
three ways:
(1) Build it yourself from plans available from Electro -Voice,
Buchanan, Michigan, or Allied Radio in Chicago. Ask for plans
for model KD -6, priced at $1.00.
(2) Assemble the Aristocrat from a kit, for $35.28.
(3) Buy the Aristocrat ready built, at $64.68 in mahogany,
slightly more for blonde finish.
The next step would be the replacement of the 1 -mil micro-
groove sapphire stylus with one of diamond. The diamond point
for the G.E. cartridge is known as RJP-01D, and is $16.17.

69
 CHANGER by Garrard, Model RC -121, is recom- MASTER CONTROL AMPLIFIER by Fisher features
mended as most economical by manufacturer. the Tonescope, graphic picture of control settings.

At this stage, the additional expenditure sapphire tip and replace it with a diamond.
of time and money should be confined to Installation will depend upon your decor
the installation. The furnishing and deco- and individual requirements. Much of the
rating angles should be considered in de- fun of the hi-fi hobby lies in that fact that
termining the permanent mountings for the you can do just about as much or as little
tuner -amplifier and changer. of the electronic construction and cabinet
Finally the high -frequency response may crafting as you wish. In the components
be improved by using the tweeter cutout selected here, no electronic work is re-
in the enclosure and adding the Electro- quired except for simple interconnection
Voice T -35B Super Tweeter, AT -37 Level between the units. As for the woodcrafting,
Control, and X-36 Crossover Network, the here the sky is the limit-or on the other
total cost for all three being $32.24. hand you can simply throw all of the stuff
out of sight in a closet. In either case, be
GROUP TWO-UNDER $300 sure to allow for future expansion with
tuners, and possibly tape.
Fisher CA -40 Master Control Am- Finally, finish up with the addition of a
plifier (25 Watts) $139.50 Fisher FM -40 FM tuner at $99.50, or a
Garrard RC -121 Automatic Record Bogen R660 FM -AM tuner for $119.50.
Changer 41.65
G.E. RPX-050A Cartridge, Sapphire GROUP THREE UNDER $450
Styli 8.20
Electro -Voice 108 Speaker System 102.32 Bogen R710 FM -AM Tuner $126.50
Bogen DO -70 Amplifier (70 Watts) : 129.50
$291.67 Bogen B50 -16X Record Player, G.E
Cartridge) 48.65
To meet initial budget requirements, this Bogen PB5 Record Player Base 4.80
system provides high -quality record repro- University Senior Speaker Com-
duction, using superior components while ponents 109.00
retaining moderate cost. Tuners and a tape
system can be added at a later date as $418.45
finances permit. The stripped -down com-
ponents may be employed in a bookshelf This selection represents a moderately
or tabletop installation temporarily, or may priced hi-fi system for records and FM-AM
be installed in an existing piece of furni- radio, plus provision for the addition of
ture. tape at a later date. Each of the electronic
The first step in adding on to make an components has its own metal enclosure,
acoustically correct system will be the ac- and a base is provided for the record player,
quisition of a suitable enclosure. This so that the system as is may be used in an
speaker arrangement is the same as the existing-furniture or bookshelf installa-
completed one in Group One, with super tion. If the system is to be customized at
tweeter, and the Aristocrat enclosure is the outset, the enclosures and base may be
recommended. It may be added in any of omitted.
the three ways described in the Group One I have selected in this instance a record
listing. The next step is also the same as player rather than a changer, thus getting
in Group One, namely, to get rid of the greater quality in the elements of impor -
70
TUNER R660 by Bogen has high sensitivity and BOGEN B50 -16/X player has continuously vari-
selectivity, dual FM noise suppression limiters. able speed selector for precise pitch adjustment.

tance instead of in a complex changing deliver the finest when used with the horn
mechanism. If a changer in the same price enclosure designed for it. Although the
range is an absolute must, however, then Classic system is available ready -built,
I'd recommend the Garrard RC88 at $53.41. with all components in a finished horn en-
In either case, one of the first steps should closure, this doesn't leave much room for
be the addition of an RPJ-01D diamond at self-expression in individual decor. I would
$16.17. therefore recommend the basic unfinished
As with the speaker enclosure in the horn.
lower groupings, this system also may be The horn enclosure may be built at home
acquired by a choice of methods: from plans available free of charge from
(1) Build it yourself from plans available University Loudspeakers, White Plains,
free of charge from University Loud- New York. Write Mr. Larry Epstein at that
speakers, White Plains, New York. Write address, requesting Forms 78A9 and 78A10.
Mr. Larry Epstein at that address, asking For those with less time, or who lack the
for Technigram No. 13. facilities for such an extensive construc-
(2) Assemble the University Kwi-Kit, tion job, the completely assembled but
Model KEN -12, priced at $39.75. rough -finished horn, known as the Univer-
(3) Buy the EN -12 enclosure ready built, sity EN -CB, may be used as a basic shell
at $75.00 in mahogany, slightly more for for building into a wall or room divider. It
blonde finish. is priced at $120.
If a unit of furniture is desired, the
GROUP FOUR-UNDER $750 EN -CB may be surfaced with Formica or
Micarta, even in one's own living room. A
Fisher 80-R FM -AM Tuner $169.50 picture story showing just how simple the
McIntosh C-8 Compensator Control 88.50 process can be, will be found in the chapter
McIntosh MC -60 Amplifier (60 titled What About Loudspeakers?
Watts) 198.50
Miracord XA-100 Automatic Record GROUP FIVE-ABOUT $800
Changer 66.15
Miratwin MST-2D Cartridge, Dia- Fisher 80T FM -AM Tuner with Au-
mond LP Stylus 44.10 dio Controls $199.50
University Classic Speaker Com- Fisher 90A Amplifier (90 Watts) 229.50
ponents 173.00 Rek-O-Kut B12H Turntable 119.95
Rek-O-Kut A-120 Tone Arm 26.95
$739.75 Pickering Fluxvalve Cartridge, Dia-
mond LP Stylus 49.50
This system is very nearly tops in high Jensen Imperial Speaker Compo-
fidelity, with nothing to add except a nents 184.50
speaker enclosure and tape recorder. The
components are designed for a custom - $809.50
furniture installation or a built-in wall
unit. This is my "dream" system, representing
Although the speaker system will per- in my opinion the very last word in hi-fi
form excellently in the infinite baffle usu- today, regardless of price. Here is profes-
ally employed in wall built-ins, it will sional quality every step of the way, and
71
 CHANGER by Miracord (above) features
"Magic Wand" drop mechanism, without
pusher arms or stabilizers. Miratwin car-
tridge (left) is two pickups in one unit.

sufficient audio power to set up any de- York. This is a basic shell which can be
sired arrangement of extension speakers used for wall built-ins and room dividers,
throughout the house. priced at $89.
Once again a few additional words are (3) For a piece of furniture, get a finish-
necessary concerning the loudspeaker sys- ing kit for $54, also from Cabinart. This
tem. The Jensen Imperial system, in my contains pre-cut and pre -finished surface
judgment the best that has ever been made, sections of mahogany or korina, as well as
is available from the factory in a finished all accessories such as grille cloth and
enclosure. But to purchase it this way hardware.
would increase the basic price of the entire And there you have the story of how I
system by 50%, or up to around $1200. Fur- would budget my money for component
thermore, the same comments apply here systems in several typical price ranges.
as in the case of the Group Five speaker Please remember that I am only telling how
system. But with the do-it-yourself ap- I would spend my money, not necessarily
proach it is possible to save several hun- how you should spend yours. It may well
dred dollars. Here's how: be that somewhere here you may have
(1) Build it yourself from plans in Jen- found just the information you were look-
sen Manual 1060, available for 50 cents from ing for, and on the other hand none of these
most hi-fi dealers or from Jensen Manu- may suit your requirements for any num-
facturing Company, Chicago 38, Illinois. ber of reasons. At any rate, I hope you've
(2) Assemble the Imperial from a kit gained some useful ideas. Now pardon me
available from Cabinart, Brooklyn, New while I get ready to dodge the brickbats.

72
't

JENSEN Imperial speak

ers provide the sound in
unit above. Three-way
system components are
shown left. Crossover
frequencies are 600 and
4,000 c.p.s. With grille
removed (below left)
speaker placement is
very clearly indicated.

"s"rieemeer,..re.
 44

' i ,

c CG
Kai

BOOKSHELF INSTALLATION above makes striking

use of knotty pine to enhance Bogen components.

MODERN DESIGN is everywhere evident in unique

Allied Radio bookshelf installation shown at left.

WALL -HUNG CASE below provides Bogen sys

tern with acoustic and decorative advantages.

411481111111111111M11
own two gam »NI
dom am mom MO
In 1M MOO
777; 1.
IM.11.11

:I t
4;

MI
DECORATIVE USE of matching woods provides
handsome housing for Bogen system shown above.

SLIDING DOOR conceals home entertainment cen-

ter at right when not in use. Hi-fi by Fisher Radio.

HI-FIand dining provide happy combination in

Bogen installation below. Note overhead speaker.
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE is easy when a tube checker is close as
the corner drugstore. This one is in jomar Chemists, Flushing, N. Y.

"SELF SERVIC
I#>.V/150IVItì
CONNECTORS often include phone plug, pin plug. Jones plug and
Amphenol screw -on. In hand Is pin -to-phone plug adapter.

Maintenance and
Trouble Shooting
Most of the troubles you'll encounter in your
hi-fi system are the kind you can fix yourself.

WHEN I first came out of engineering school I was

the original eager beaver, ready to take over the
electronic world. Whenever confronted with a mal-
functioning piece of electronic equipment, I would sit
down, armed with all my new-found knowledge and
reasoning, come up with dozens of the most complex,
abstruse causes for the difficulty. Then I'd examine
the set, eliminate these possibilities one by one, and
finally discover to my intense sorrow that the cause of
the trouble was a blown fuse, burned -out tube, frayed
power cable-or just a switch turned off.
I had to learn that lesson the hard way, but the
statistics are still the same today. At least 80% of the
trouble you'll encounter in your hi-fi system are of
this simple everyday garden variety, and there's no
reason at all why you can't be your own serviceman on
these cases. And even these problems will be fewer
and farther between if you'll observe a few simple pre-
cautions.
Much of your hi-fi gear generates considerable heat,
and you'll hold your equipment troubles to a minimum
if you permit that heat to escape. This means adequate
ventilation is an absolute necessity. Don't install equip-
ment in an enclosed box where air can't circulate freely.
77
 TUBE TESTER by Eico performs variety of checks.
Eico instruments available as kits or assembled.

VACUUM TUBE VOLTMETER reads accurately on

complex waveforms encountered in audio work.

Punch vent holes in the sides and bottom Be particularly careful on the underside
where they won't mar the external appear- that no wiring is disturbed, which might
ance. If that's not enough, remove the back. cause shorts or open circuits. Finally,
If you're afraid of injury to curious little work on any missed spots with a soft dry
hands, tack pieces of screening over the rag. When finished, inspect all tubes and
vent openings. Even set up a small fan if other plug-in devices to be sure they are
necessary, but keep the equipment cool. firmly seated in their sockets.
You'll prolong its life, cut down servicing Tape recorders require additional and
and reduce costs. frequent cleaning. Despite every precau-
Many of the components also have asso- tion, small fragments of oxide and binder
ciated electrostatic and magnetic fields, and will continually wear off the tape and cling
these attract dust and dirt particles. This to the heads, rollers and guides. The hous-
then means that frequent periodic clean- ing should be removed from over the heads
ings are an absolute must. If you haven't and the entire top deck then carefully
been in this habit, look right now into the vacuum cleaned. The scale worn off the
back of your equipment. If you don't have tape coating is more stubborn, however,
a hi-fi system yet, look into the back of and must be loosened with a little solvent
your radio or TV set. If it's more than a and rubbed off. A small cotton swab, such
few months old I can guarantee you one of as a Q-tip, dipped in a little carbon tetra-
the dirtiest messes you ever saw. chloride will do nicely. Use only as much
Cleaning Tools pressure as necessary, and as little solvent
as possible. Wipe off any excess solvent
Probably the best device for the pre- when finished, and allow a few minutes
liminary cleaning is the lowly vacuum for the surfaces to dry thoroughly before
cleaner. The small round dusting brush playing tapes. Performing this routine
and the crevice cleaning attachment are frequently will reduce wear and tear on
particularly useful! Use the vacuum both tape and machine, and will prevent
function, of course. Merely blowing the impaired frequency response due to be-
dust out into the air will permit it to be clouded heads.
attracted right back to the set in a matter Cleanliness is vitally important in the
of hours. And to be absolutely safe, be care and use of phonograph records, espe-
certain that all power cords to the hi-fi cially the microgroove types. To appreci-
equipment are pulled out from the wall ate fully just what a little dust and dirt
plugs. can do to your precious records, just con -
78
AUDIO GENERATOR is indispensable for response
and distortion measurements on hi-fi equipment.

OSCILLOSCOPE is useful not only for visual check

of audio waveforms, but also for trouble shootina.

sider the real agony you sometimes go hesive tape wrapped over the end. The
through when you get the tiniest speck in cleaner itself must be reasonably free of
your eye. The mere fact that an object dirt, with the filter installed, or it may just
is almost too small to be seen does not mean blow more dirt onto the record.
that it cannot be rough, jagged and brutal. But I realize that all this is a lot of
If you still doubt me, next time you have bother, and you may think I've wasted my
a painful mote removed from your eye, ex- time and yours even mentioning it. So
amine it under a microscope. What you'll we'll go on to the next best method, which
see will send chills up and down your spine. involves wiping the disc with a slightly
Then consider what happens when such damp cloth or plastic foam sponge. Most
a microcosmic monster becomes trapped authorities recommend placing the record
between stylus and record, with tons of on a spinning turntable for this job, but I
pressure forcing it against the soft plastic don't agree. You really can't apply enough
groove walls. The record gets chewed up pressure this way without putting an un-
unmercifully and irreparably, and the due strain on the motor and power train
stylus, too, takes a beating and in time is in the table. I prefer holding the record
worn flat. Obviously, when laying out up flat, with one edge against the chest and
to six bucks a copy for discs, it's foolhardy the opposite edge with one hand held ver-
not to keep them exceptionally clean. tically. Then with the other hand apply
the sponge, rubbing gently but firmly in a
Cleaning Records circular motion. Since this usually re-
The very best method I know for clean- leases the static charge built up on the
ing records, and the one invariably used disc, any visible specks remaining can be
in professional installations, is compressed blown off by mouth..
air. Unfortunately, not many of us have Of course, the records should be stored
a tank of the stuff lying around the house, vertically in their jackets when not in use,
but most of us do have a small air com- well away from direct sunlight or interior
pressor which will work fairly well. When heat sources. The groove area should
a vacuum cleaner hose is connected to the never be touched with the hands, and the
exhaust or blower end, and the crevice tool records should never remain in stacks,
attached to the other end, a fairly decent especially not after a bunch has finished
pressure can be built up. You can increase playing and lies on a changer turntable.
the pressure even more by closing off part And speaking of changers, these are such
of the crevice tool opening with some ad- complex devices that there is little one can
79
 CLEANER for carbon -type variable controls is a REMOVE KNOB, tilt set slightly backward, let fluid
special solvent. Apply it with an eye dropper. run down the shaft. Work in by rotating shaft.

do with them in the home other than fre- is still not right it will be necessary to make
quent cleaning and occasional oiling and further adjustment until a compromise
greasing of moving parts. The stylus and point is found where all three landings are
pickup assembly should always be kept acceptable.
scrupulously clean, of course, for cleaning Occasionally it is necessary to adjust the
the record means nothing if the pickup tone arm height. This becomes necessary
assembly drops a lot of dirt on it as soon if the arm fails to clear either its rest, or
as the arm comes down. An excellent tool the top of a full record stack on the turn-
for this cleaning is a small mascara brush. table, or the bottom of a record on the
There are, however, several changer ad- drop shelf above. Correction is made by
justments which are often needed and the height adjustment screw, usually a
which can be performed by you. There is threaded stud protruding downward from
nothing quite so annoying as a changer the bottom of the arm, an inch or two in
which is maladjusted for the stylus landing from the pivot. This is usually accom-
point. Either the thing starts playing a few plished from the underside by means of a
bars into the music or it lands outside the small wrench, although in some types it
record area and must be placed in the lead- may be done through a hole in the arm,
in groove by hand. Both these problems using a screwdriver.
can be easily corrected.
When you raise the tone arm up to a Tone Arm Height
vertical position and examine it at the pivot To prepare for the adjustment, place a
end, you will note some sort of screw ad- full stack of the maximum number of rec-
justment which determines the position of ords recommended by the changer manu-
the arm mounting on the axle. Now put facturer onto the turntable. Then cycle the
a 7- or 10 -inch record on the table and changer automatically by actuating the
cycle the changer by actuating the "Reject" Reject switch. Adjust the height screw
switch. Then, when the arm has begun its until the arm raises straight up about Y4
descent and is about a half -inch from the inch above the top of the stack.
top of the record, turn off the power and Another important changer adjustment
stop the rotation. is in the matter of stylus pressure. If the
Raise the tone arm again manually and spring counterbalance gets tired or is out
begin adjusting the set -down screw. Then of adjustment, your records are bearing the
drop the arm back down gently to deter- brunt of it. Furthermore, changers are
mine the results of your adjustment. Con- usually adjusted at the factory for pres-
tinue adjusting until the set -down point sures in the neighborhood of 8 to 12 grams,
is midway between the outer edge of the rather than the 5 to 8 grams recommended
record and the first sound groove. Finally for microgroove recordings. I would
turn on the power again and cycle the therefore advise every changer owner to
changer. Check the landing points on 7-, get a good stylus pressure gauge, and ad-
10- and 12 -inch records. Since the distance just that spring for the lightest possible
between these three points is fixed by the force consistent with satisfactory changer.
changer design, no separate adjustment of operation.
each is possible. Thus if any one of them Electronic troubles can be exceedingly
80
SHIELDS in preliminarystages must be twisted
and removed before tubes can be taken out.

complex, but as I've already observed they

are usually very simple. Let's begin with
the cases of complete inoperation. First
determine if you have a source of power.
Perhaps there is a fuse or breaker blown
in your house power line. Maybe the plug
isn't in the wall. Perhaps the cord is cut
or broken. If you are certain power is get-
ting into the chassis of the system, the next
element to suspect is a fuse in the equip-
ment.
You should know in advance the location
and rating of every fuse in your system.
In hi-fi systems they are usually of the
little glass cartridge type, and a simple
visual check will normally show if the link
is discontinuous and must be replaced. The
fuse holder is most often of the panel -
mounted variety, with either a knurled-
knob or screw-top cap for removal. Sys-
tem power should be removed when check-
ing fuses, preferably by pulling the AC
cord.
If the fuse is burned out, it should be
replaced by one of identical value, and
power again turned on. If the set lights up,
you can assume that the trouble was a
momentary overload and not serious. But
tube construction
if fuses continue to blow, then trouble must
lie elsewhere. CUTAWAY DRAWING by RCA shows internal con-
struction details of typical "miniature" glass tube
Many causes of blown fuses can be de- used in television receivers. Sketch is 21/2 times
tected with a visual inspection. Frayed actual size, and component parts are as follows:
power cords, misplaced or dangling wires,
and even some internal shorts, will be ob- 1 Glass Envelope 10 Getter
vious by the black marks on them from 2 Internal Shield 11 SpacerShieldHeader
arcing or sparking. Any such faulty com- 3 Plate 12 Insulating Spacer
ponent will simply have to be replaced or 4 Grid No. 3 13 Spacer Shield
repaired. (Suppressor) 14 Inter -Pin Shield
Another possible cause of inoperation is 5 Grid No. 2 (Screen) Glass Button -Stem
15
6 Grid No. 1
the failure to get power from an intercon- (Control Grid) Shield
nection. Many pieces of equipment now 7 Cathode 16 Lead Wire
include auxiliary power outlets, into which 8 Heater 17 Base Pin
other apparatus may be plugged. In some 9 Exhaust Tip 18 Glass -to -Metal Shield

81
 FOUR -PIN FIVE -PIN FIVE-PIN TOP -OF-CHASSIS TYPE

OCTAL UNIVERSAL MOUNTING OCTAL (NOTE KEYWAY) LOCTAL

TYPE

cases these receptacles are "hot" only when reputable manufacturer makes it. Prices
the supplying equipment is turned on. Thus and quality in vacuum tubes vary but
if your tuner gets its power from a recep- slightly.
tacle on your tape recorder, it is possible But while a burned -out filament indi-
that the tuner won't operate unless the re- cates tube failure, a lighted filament does
corder is turned on. An arrangement of not necessarily mean the tube is all right.
this sort may be very handy, since one Tubes can also be open, shorted, gassy, or
main piece of equipment can act as the just weak. The simplest and most ac-
master switch for all of the others, thus ob- curate means of detecting a bad tube is to
viating the need for turning on a number replace it with a good spare and note the
of switches and adjusting controls when- results. If the trouble clears, throw the
ever starting the system. But if it causes old tube away. If it doesn't, return the old
inconvenience, then you should draw your tube to its socket and go on to the next one.
power directly from a house receptacle. Lacking a set of spares, you'll have to test
The next likely source of trouble would the old ones on a tube checker, which
be a tube. If you are unable to see any means removing all of them from the set
light in a glass tube, or if a metal type and finding a friend or local dealer who
doesn't feel even slightly warm, chances has such an instrument. This is still not
are the filament is burned out and the tube quite as accurate as a substitution test
must be replaced. It is exceedingly im- under your own operating conditions, how-
portant that the identical type be used for ever, and I'd therefore advise that you keep
replacement, but the manufacture is not a spare kit of tubes on hand.
very critical. A type 6SN7-GT for ex- Whichever method of tube checking you
ample, is a 6SN7-GT, regardless of which employ, however, you must be quite care -
82
 SHOWN ON this panel is an
SIX -PIN SEVEN -PIN assortment of standard tube
sockets. All are labeled for
identification. All except the
five-pin and octal universal
are shown from the bottom.

SEVEN -PIN MINIATURE NINE -PIN NOVAL

DELICATE PINS of miniature tubes may sometimes TUBE TYPES found in hi-fi work include glass
be fixed with 7 -prong, 9-prong put straightener, octal, metal octal, miniatures in and out of socket.

83
 seven ways to
remove needles

1 -Release sprng-

pull needle out.

41:2
STYLUS PRESSURE is best measured by a balance.
l
such as the one shown above made by Ruda:.

ej 2- Loosen screw,remove needle. ful in their removal and replacement. You

will turn the power off, of course, but you
still must be wary of burns if the set has
been operating for a while, and at the same
time avoid dropping and damaging the
tube.
4 -fn Removal and replacement of octal and
loctal type tubes is fairly simple, as they
3- Loosen screw,remove needle. locate themselves through a keyway in the
base which fits a notch in their socket. Since
all such sockets are identical, however,
many different tubes will fit them, and one
must be certain which type goes in what
socket. If the types are not clearly marked
on the chassis, or if you don't have a tube -
location diagram, then I earnestly suggest
that you make one. No matter how good
4 -Loosen screw,remove needle. you think your memory to be, you can get
yourself into a hopeless jumble, with the
set refusing to operate and possibly some
tubes ruined.
Handling Miniature Tubes
The difficulties are compounded in the
case of miniature tubes. They are ex-
5 -Pull needle down. tremely fragile and subject to damage.
Furthermore they have no guides, such as
the keyway and notch arrangement. When
removing a miniature tube from its socket,
pull it straight up and out. If it resists you
may have to rock it slightly, but hold this
rocking to a minimum, as the small wire
prongs bend all too readily.
Replacing one of these little nothings
into its socket is the real fun, though. Since
6-P11 Needle forward. there is no keyway, you must use the pin
spacing as your only guide. Don't try to
force the tube, and don't try to feel your
way by rotating the tube against the socket.
Either practice is almost certain to win you
some bent or broken pins.
The job will be easier, though, if you
have plenty of light and use a small mir-
7 -Remove
ror. A dental mirror is perfect; lacking
cartridge, loosen nut,
8-1 C -washer, pull needle out.
 PANEL MOUNTING of fuses is typical
in hi-fi equipment. Removal is accom-
plished by unscrewing the holder.
RECORD STORAGE with discs correctly vertical
is feature of this rack by Leslie Creations.

this you can use a small pocket mirror.

Angle the mirror so that you see both the
tube pins and the socket holes, and you
can't miss.
All of the tests I've described so far can
be performed without your getting into the
set with power on. These are the safest,
and if you have any doubts about your abil-
ities I suggest you leave anything further
to a professional serviceman. Whenever
working on equipment with power on, no
matter how experienced you are, it is al-
ways wise to keep one hand behind your
TYPICAL FUSE found in hi-fi systems.
back. Better yet, keep it in your pocket. If metallic element is broken in
There's nothing "sissy" about this; it's just middle, bad fuse must be replaced.
good common sense. As long as only one
hand is in the equipment at a time, the
worst that can happen is an electric shock
through that hand. But if you provide a
path for current to pass from hand to hand
through the body, this could be serious. So
play it safe.
If you follow instructions precisely on
this test, however, there is almost no chance
of your getting into trouble at all. It is
known as the shock test, although no pun
is intended. It is based on the idea that STYLUS PPESSUAE
tubes which malfunction intermittently can ADJUSTMENT
be deliberately caused to misbehave when
subjected to mechanical shock. Similarly,
conditions of tubes which are going sour
can often be aggravated by this method. In TONE PAM
either case the offender is readily singled NEWT ADJUSTMENT
out and replaced.
With power turned on and the back off
the set, tap the tubes one by one, rather STYLUS SET -DOWN
ADJUSTMENT
sharply with the rubber end of a pencil.
Then observe the effect on the output. If
the sound becomes noisy or distorted,
squeals or goes dead, the tapped tube is at
fault and should be replaced. Similarly, if TONE ARM ADJUSTMENTS on this
the tube itself sparks, or exhibits a blue V -Mchanger are simple and typical.
vapor, or its elements become red hot, it Other makes are generally similar.
must go.
 THIS DRAWING takes to task the hi-fi fan who pur-
chases far more equipment than he could ever use.

,,ots
H
PAser"'

How Hi The
Hokum?
.45: £3.,
Let's take an intelligent look
at the barbs hurled at hi-fi
enthusiasts by their critics.

c. HI-FDOG

I CAN
guy,
take a joke as well as the next
think, but this time I'm mad!
I
the fact, and let's put the arguments of our
self-styled critics back into their true per-
I don't know how you feel about it, friend, spective.
but it seems to me that too many jokers Every autumn, as surely as the leaves
have been getting too many yocks at the do fall, we will read once again the hilari-
expense of us audiophiles. Nobody pokes ous story of the confusion and cacaphony
fun at stamp collectors. Nobody ridicules at the several audio shows and hi-fi exhibi-
camera bugs. But every barbed wit in the tions. Now I ask you, was there ever a
business seems to regard the hi-fi hobby sizable public gathering which was not
as fair game. even a little bit noisy and disorganized?
So all right, we do have our foibles, just Why should a hi-fi show be any different?
like anyone else. But we're surely not the It does serve its purpose, and rather well,
bunch of screwballs that certain funny - I think. It permits audiophiles to see the
men would have you think. So right here new products as soon as they are put on
and now, let's get the fiction separated from sale, and to hear their performance in corn -
86
parison with their competitors. So perhaps gist of the argument was that hi-fi equip-
this is not as good as an A -B test under ment was capable of reproducing more than
laboratory conditions. But if there is a any record or radio program was capable of
better way to learn as much about as many giving.
different systems in so short a time, I'm At the time that statement was made, it
sure that the hi-fi industry would be most was not a very great exaggeration. After
happy to know of it. the many years of truly horrible home in-
struments, now suddenly hi-fi equipment
Too Much Equipment? was available which really was better than
Hi-fi fans have also often been criticized the records and radio shows it was used
for overbuying, for getting more than to reproduce. But this seeming incon-
they could ever possibly use. As one well- gruity actually had a very beneficial effect.
known critic put it a few years ago, "Put- For the first time many home listeners
ting today's hi-fi equipment in the home realized how dismal were many of the
is like using a Cadillac to haul coal." The offerings of the broadcasters and recorders.
87
A number of small record companies ing glassware at fifty paces. Simply, they
sprang up almost overnight to meet the just play the things too loud!
quality demands of discriminating audio- We can't deny that some dyed-in-the-
philes. As the old established companies wool addicts mistake their hi-fi systems for
saw their markets evaporating, they finally public-address systems, and try to sere-
had to huff and puff pretty hard to catch up. nade their entire neighborhoods. This
As a result, all records today are truly admittedly may be extremely annoying to
much better than ever before. Even the the guy next door or in the apartment
sagging radio business had to recognize the downstairs, especially if he's trying to grab
demands of this movement and provide some shuteye, but there is some method to
better program fare. These benefits are our audiophile's madness.
now available to all the public, and they This has to do with the response of the
are largely due to the incessant demands human ear, or more broadly, the entire
of the small but extremely vocal group of physio-psychological experience of music
hardy hi-fi pioneers. listening. It's a well-known fact, for ex-
Too Much Power? ample, that the ability of the ear to discern
extremely high and low frequencies falls
The critics go on to say that hi-fi bugs off rapidly as the intensity is reduced. One
install equipment which is impossible to approach to compensating for this in the
utilize fully in the home, with powerhouse hi-fi system is the amplifier loudness con-
amplifiers, gigantic speaker systems, and trol, which favors the highs and lows in-
frequency ranges far beyond the limits of creasingly as the volume is decreased.
human hearing This is a subject which is But the fact remains that the only way
discussed in some detail in another Faw- to approximate the psychological impres-
cett Book, Lou, Cost Hi-Fi, and from this sion of listening to a symphony orchestra is
we see that there is some basis for the ar- to have the hi-fi system radiating acoustic
gument. powers on the order of those generated by
There undoubtedly are some hi-fi instal- the orchestra itself. Otherwise the effect
lations which will never be called upon to is about the same as looking at a postcard -
perform up to their full potential. There size reproduction of a great painting.
are also a lot of fishtail sedans sold" every Whether it is practical or even desirable to
year to people who are buying prestige, have the sound of a full symphony orches-
while as a practical matter they might be tra in one's living room is not for me to say.
much better off with a motor scooter. But But for true high fidelity a full frequency
does anyone have the temerity to say that range is not enough. The sound intensities
all Caddy owners are nuts? must also approximate those of the original.
Another favorite bleat of the hi-fi de- Hi-fi addicts are often berated for wax-
tractors is that audiophiles aren't happy ing ecstatic over the passionate breathing
unless their loudspeakers are waking of the violin virtuoso, the rosin noise of
babies, blowing out matches, and shatter- bow on string, the rustle of music pages
88
being turned. All true, I suppose, but been joined by people in all walks of life,
strictly for those for whom the novelty of including many other professionals, such
a brand-new hi-fi set has not yet worn off. as physicians, dentists, lawyers and educa-
This admittedly hasn't very much to do tors. It isn't likely that all of these people
with listening to music, but I don't think need the help of a psychoanalyst.
that the newcomer to hi-fi can be criticized It happens that I have had considerable
too severely for his interest and curiosity training and experience in both music and
about sounds he has never before heard. engineering, and I do know this much: One
In fact it probably gives him the feeling of doesn't have to be an engineer to operate
being closer to the great artists than he and maintain a hi-fi system, nor a musician
ever was even in the best seat in Carnegie to appreciate and enjoy music.
Hall. But the early interest of the musicians
in the hi-fi movement was a very good
Too Many Experts? thing. They often got the engineers to
The recording engineers, in their micro- throw off their textbook shackles and pro-
phone placement, strive for a pickup which ceed to do the theoretically impossible.
will provide the listener with the truest And the engineers were able to present
perspective. They must therefore consider knowledge about sound, acoustics and the
the combined effects of the distance be- physics of music which even most musi-
tween performer and microphone, and be- cians didn't know. Complementing each
tween loudspeaker and listener. He must other, they were able to make tremendous
also consider not only the studio acoustics, strides in the advancement of the high
but the conditions in the listening room as fidelity field.
well. The final adjustments, however, are Not .to be forgotten, either, are the ex .
made by the hi-fi listener himself. And he perimenters whose training may have been
soon learns to set the controls for the most in quite different fields. Like all experi-
realistic music listening. When he ma- menters and inventors, they have hit a lot
tures to this point, his hi-fi system becomes of foul balls. But they have also come up
the fine instrument it was designed to be, with some of the most significant hi-fi de-
and its trick and gimmick aspects fade into velopments, and many of the highly re-
limbo. spected products of today originally came
It has also been said that all members of out of someone's home workshop.
the hi-fi cult are either engineers who are And so high fidelity is a most wholesome
frustrated musicians, or musicians who are and worthwhile hobby. If you are a part
frustrated engineers. In either case they of it, or are contemplating joining us, you
are way over their heads in areas where are in good company. There certainly is
they are almost totally ignorant. nothing to be ashamed of, the brickbats
In a very general way this description of a few cynics notwithstanding. After all,
was somewhat apt when applied to the they can't lick us; sooner or later they'll
early hi-fi pioneers. Since then they have be joining us, too.

89
9(1
 Stereophonic
Sound
This newest form of audio reproduction makes
use of two or more separate audio channels.

r 1HE illusion of depth and perspective in sound

1 reproduction is a challenge which has in-
trigued audio engineers nearly as long as 3 -dimen-
sional pictures have engrossed photographers.
And just as stereo photography has developed
using two pictures, one for each eye, so stereo
sound uses two or more separate audio channels.
"Stereophonic sound" is really a redundant
term, for the word stereophonic alone comes from
two Greek words meaning solid sound. This term
is just about perfect in describing the sensation
of hearing the newest form of audio reproduction.
To understand the full meaning of stereo sound,
and the reasons behind the enthusiasm hi-fi en-
thusiasts have for it, we'll have to give some con-
sideration to the human hearing process. First
of all, remember that your two ears are only a
part of your sense of hearing, and that your brain
also plays an active part in the process.
Although the ears collect all of the sound in
the air surrounding them, the brain is actually
able, within limits, to select only those sounds it
wishes to hear. Thus you can actually carry on
a conversation on a noisy street corner, or in a

IN -LINE

STAGGERED

SYMMETRY of Bell stereo installation (left) poses few

decorating problems. Two types of head alignment (above)
require careful selectivity in buying recorded tapes.
 CELESTE MODEL by VM is monaural tape recorder, stereo
reproducer when second amplifier and speaker is added.

crowded room can pick out the voice of one of styli, diaphragms and horns for a stereo
person even when everyone seems to be effect. In 1925, when radio broadcasting
talking at once. was still in its infancy, WPAJ in New
The physical reason for this is simply Haven, Connecticut, was operating two
that you have two ears, or what is known transmitters simultaneously in a binaural
as a binaural sense of hearing. Sounds system.
reaching your two ears are minutely differ- The Bell Telephone Laboratories were
ent in loudness and time, and you can also hard at work on the problem in the
therefore identify quite accurately the lo- 1930's, and demonstrated their perfected
cation from which a given sound emanates. system at the New York World's Fair.
The ordinary recording or broadcasting Around the same time the National Broad-
system, however, has no such discretion. casting Company performed similar
The microphone picks up and transmits experiments with a pickup technique em-
everything within its range indiscrimi- ploying a dummy human head with a mi-
nately. Even if several microphones are crophone placed in each ear. The mikes fed
employed, all of their signals are combined completely separate sound channels up to
in a mixer and fed to a single channel. The the ultimate listener, who had a split pair
result then is effectively one -eared, or of headphones, one for each channel. This
monaural. system has the very striking effect of actu-
Early Stereo Systems
ally seeming to place the listener at the
location of the dummy microphone head.
Numerous and varied attempts have been The two -mike technique with the
made toward developing a truly binaural dummy head is truly a binaural system, and
sound reproducing system, and some of most authorities now agree that this is the
them have been quite successful from an only one properly described as true bin-
engineering point of view. But it has only aural. Although the true binaural system
been in the past few years, since hi-fi has provides tremendously exciting results, it
caught the public fancy, that binaural and does absolutely require the use of head-
stereo systems have gained impetus. phones, which most people regard as a nui-
As early as the turn of the century, when sance.
all recorded sound was of the acoustical For this reason, all of the notable recent
variety, the Polyphone used a dual system development work toward realism in sound
92
ADDING STEREO to existing system is simple with STEREO TAPE player by Pentron has two pream-
two preamps and one power amplifier by Bogen. plifiers. plays either in -line or staggered tapes.

_ «11.
- 411.

/ 4

I
has been aimed at the use of two or more sound didn't seem so illogical. Meanwhile,
loudspeakers. All of these systems are now too, magnetic recording had been perfected,
lumped under the general term stereo- and the Cinerama system therefore used
phonic sound, while the older term binau- magnetic sound film, with seven channels.
ral sound is reserved strictly for the In a Cinerama presentation there are five
dummy head -and -earphone system. loudspeakers behind the wide concave
Immediately prior to the entry of the screen, along with two more "surround"
United States in World War II, there were speakers further out along the sides of the
announced two quite dissimilar 3 -channel theater.
systems of sound film recording. One of The motion picture industry didn't feel
them was Fantasound, used in the Walt that such an elaborate system was feasible
Disney Picture, "Fantasia." As its name im- for routine work, and so with the leader-
plies, this system was intended more for ship of 20th Century -Fox and the Cinema-
tricky and sensational effects than for real- scope system, stereo sound and movies on
ism. a single film became a reality. This is also
a 3 -channel system, similar in theory to the
Stereophonic Sound -Film Bell method of 1941, but now using mag-
Concurrently the Bell Telephone Labo- netic track. Just about all of the film area
ratories were demonstrating The Stereo- which is not occupied by picture or
phonic Sound -Film System, in which the sprocket holes is coated with magnetic
sound also was photographically recorded oxide for recording.
on three separate tracks of a single strip The introduction of Cinerama and Cine-
of motion picture film, and reproduced on mascope has certainly heightened tremen-
three loudspeakers. This was not employed dously the public interest in stereo sound
for motion pictures, as it had the same and its possible application in the home.
economic disadvantage as Fantasound, Sensing this potential demand, many re-
namely, that a whole separate length of film searchers in the audio field have been busily
was required in addition to the picture film. attacking the problem of adapting stereo to
In the postwar Cinerama system, how- the hi-fi system. Stereo on disc and tape is
ever, this disadvantage was not quite so now readily available, and in some areas
apparent, as three separate films were used there are regularly scheduled stereo broad-
for the picture anyway, and a fourth for the casts as well.
93
 BELL HIGH FIDELITY
BINAURAL AMPLIFIER
MODEL 30

II7 V AC PWR CORD

EXTERNAL
AMPLIFIER OR
NINIIIIIIINIIIIIIININNIIIRIIR
NNI
C MONITOR
AM JACKS-,
USE M-95 PLUGS
TUNER

IIIÌ
-- I
ON CABLE ENDS

FM USE ONLY LAW CAPACITY,

r'
TUNER SHIELDED, SINGLE CON-
DUCTON,MICROPHONE
CABLES - SHORTEST
i,'!IIII1111A1111111III11111 IA POSSIBLE LENGTH
I 111111

FOR MAKING RECORDI BINAURAL

PLUGINTS EXTERNAL PICKUP
RECORD JACKS

PLUG INTO OETECTOROUTPUTS

OF AM AND FM TUNERS

TYPICAL BINAURAL INSTALLATION

BELL MODELS 2210 SHOWING INTERCONNECTING CABLES

THREE TYPES of stereo reproduction are provided in this complete Bell system, including tape, AM-FM
simulcasts, and Cook binaural discs. Note that this system is little more complex than monaural.

In New York City, for example, station without any interference from the second
WQXR broadcasts at specified times live signal. This system holds great promise
music by a stereo method, using their AM for the future, and with the many stereo
transmitter for one channel, and the FM reproducers now in use, it should be highly
transmitter for the other. In Washington, successful.
D. C., two separate FM stations have There have been several attempts since
worked co-operatively in experimental the Polyphone at developing a stereo disc
presentations of stereo broadcasts. system. The Bell Labs experimented ex-
The AM -FM method has the usual AM tensively with a complex groove, in which
limitations, however, including limited one signal was recorded laterally in the
frequency range, susceptibility to static conventional manner, while a second ap-
noise, and adjacent -channel interference. peared in the vertical or "hill -and -dale"
In both the AM -FM and FM -FM systems modulation of the same groove. There has
there is also the economic factor involved also been proposed a system in which both
in the operation of two completely separate sides of the disc are recorded and then
systems. It would obviously be very de- played simultaneously, using two pickups,
sirable to be able somehow to put both and one groove spiralling counterlock-
signals of a two -channel system on a single wise, of course, while the other rotates in
radio carrier. the clockwise direction.
Stereo On FM
The only stereo disc system which has
been employed commercially, however, is
During the late war there was a system that due to Emory Cook. In his method the
widely used in military communications outer half of the recorded surface com-
known as multiplexing. This permitted the prises one track, while the second track
sending of a number of messages simul- begins in the middle of the playing surface
taneously on a single radio channel. An and continues to the label edge. Then
adaptation of this idea has since been dem- two pickups on a single arm, spaced side -
onstrated in stereo sound broadcasting on by -side by the exact distance between the
a single FM station. This system is entirely starting grooves of the two bands, are used
compatible, in that the listener with a single to feed each of the two reproduce channels.
FM set may hear the program monaurally By far the most popular means of ob -
94
TABLETOP SYSTEM by Ampex features stereo tape reproduction as well as playback of both half-track
and full -track monaural recorded tapes. A two -speed half-track tape recorder is included in system.

taining stereo reproduction in the home, can be used only on tapes made that way.
however, is through magnetic tape. Very A few tape machines are adjustable to
soon following the advent of modern mag- either type. But unless you have one of
netic recording there was introduced the these, or until standards are adopted, you
dual -track system, which was already de- must be careful that your tapes and re-
scribed in the chapter on adding tape to producers are of the same type.
your system. If this idea was good for two It should also be obvious that a multi-
separate sequential recordings on a single plicity of speakers alone does not neces-
tape, it was reasoned, why not use the two sarily constitute a stereo system. You can
tracks simultaneously for stereo sound? have stereo only when the recorded or
Stereo tapes are now exceedingly com- broadcast material is specifically stereo, and
mon and readily available. When RCA Vic- when you have two completely separate re-
tor crashed the field with new stereo re- producing channels. This does not mean
cordings of big -name artists, it was obvious that your present system is obsolete, how-
that a new industry was being born. There ever, but only that additional equipment is
are now literally dozens of companies in necessary for stereo reproduction.
the recorded tape field, and most of them The additions are not as extensive as you
offer stereo. might think, either. If you have both an AM
and an FM tuner, you have the beginning
Tape Head Alignment of an AM -FM stereo receiving system. A
It appears that every new industry is simple adapter is available for adding the
plagued by lack of standards, however, and second pickup for the Cook stereo disc
this one is no exception. The inconsistency system. Modification kits are available for
is in the matter of reproduce head align- some makes of. tape recorders, converting
ment. In some tape reproducers, the two them from single- or dual -track to stereo.
playback head gaps are directly over one All that you really need, then, is an addi-
another and said to be in -line. In other tional power amplifier and loudspeaker.
cases the heads are somewhat separate and But once you have heard stereo sound
said to be staggered. Obviously in-line properly reproduced, you won't rest until
tapes must be played back on similar you have augmented your old 2-d stuff
equipment, while staggered reproducers with modern stereo sound!
95
Hi-Fi on the Highway
New improvements in the field of high fidelity now
make it possible to enjoy good music in your car.

PHONO CENTER SINGLE POLE

MODIFYING AUTO CABLE CONDUCTOR DOUBLE THROW
RADIO TO PLAY SWITCH

TAPE OR RECORDS PHONO

SHIELD
RADIO

VOLUME
CONTROL
(REAR)

GROUND TO FROM GROUND TO FROM

CONNECTION AUDIO DETECTOR CONNECTION AUDIO DETECTOR
TO CHASSIS IN PUT OUTPUT TO CHASSIS IN PUT OUTPUT

SIMPLE CHANGE of radio volume control (above) permits adding other sound sources.
Highway Hi-Fi system (right) is latest development for audiophiles on the move.

WHEN the call of the open road beckons never was an auto radio equivalent of the
today's audiophile to the wide open $9.95 table model.
spaces, one of the comforts of civilization The basic auto radio, then, is usually
he can take right along with him is the a very fine instrument, and there is much
enjoyment of high fidelity music. But in that the hi-fi fan can do with it to afford
a sense, hi-fi has been with us on the high- himself nearly as much musical enjoy-
way even longer than in the home. ment as he has at home.
I remember well some twenty years ago, One thing he can do is take a record
back in the neolithic era of hi-fi, a friend of player along and literally be his own disc
mine rescued a Sonomatic auto radio from jockey. The simplest approach to this is
a wrecked Buick and converted it to AC the Highway Hi-Fi system, developed by
for use in his home. He said that it was CBS and first introduced with_ the 1956
better than any audio amplifier he could line of Chrysler cars. This system plays
buy at the time. And I had to admit it through the speaker of the car radio and
sounded pretty doggone good. uses the audio system of the receiver.
Auto radios have always had to exhibit The turntable is located in a shock -proof
greater sensitivity, selectivity, and noise case, mounted just below the center of the
rejection than home sets, and consequently instrument panel. The tone arm houses
have had much better quality built in. a ceramic pickup with sapphire stylus. Be-
Furthermore, they never became em- neath the turntable is a storage shelf with
broiled in the price cutting rat race. There room for a half -dozen records.
96
 The records themselves are 7 inches in Kostelanetz, and readings from Don Juan
diameter, double faced, and rotate at 16% in Hell.
r.p.m. This slow speed, plus extremely fine The Highway Hi-Fi experiment has evi-
grooving, permits a playing time of up to dently proved quite successful, for trade
45 minutes of music or a full hour of speech rumors in Detroit and New York indicate
on each side. that other automobile manufacturers and
other record companies are quietly prepar-
Special Highway Records ing to enter this field themselves. All of
With such extensive playing time, it be- them, however, are years behind some
comes a little more obvious why storage audio enthusiasts, who have installed the
space for only six records is adequate. The little RCA 45-r.p.m. players in their auto
six discs included with the player at the glove compartments.
time of installation contain all of the fol- It seems a little incredible that the play-
lowing: Tschaikovsky's Sixth Symphony, ing of a record in a car would be unaffected
Borodin's Polovtsian Dances, Ippalitov- by the car angle, highway speed, or severe
Ivanov's Procession of the Sardar, the cornering. But the Chrysler Corporation
original cast album of Pajama Game, Walt reports that it is extremely difficult to jar
Disney's Davey Crockett, Gene Autry the arm off the record or even to make the
and Champion, Romantic Moods by Percy stylus jump a groove. Owners of 45-r.p.m.
Faith, Quiet Jazz by Paul Weston, Music of auto installations report similar results
Cole Porter and Victor Herbert by Andre after shock mounting, and furthermore
97
 Vibrator converters, such as the Tray -
Electric, are available in a variety of sizes,
and the only question in selecting one is
to be sure that the capacity is somewhat
greater than the requirements of the de-
vice. Suppose, for example, that you own
a DeJur TK 820 tape recorder, which has a
power requirement of 100 watts. The con-
verter then should be rated for at least
100 watts continuous service and 120 watts
intermittent operation. The connection is
sheer simplicity. The cord from the con-
verter is plugged into the cigarette lighter
receptacle on the car, and the tape re-
corder or record player is plugged into the
receptacle on the converter.
When more power is required, a motor -
generator is used, this type being known
variously as a genemotor, dynamotor,
rotary converter or M -G set. This is simply
a combination of a DC electric motor, oper-
ating at 6 or 12 volts, plus an AC electric
generator which delivers 110 volts at 60
cycles. These are commonly used in pro-
fessional mobile service, such as police,
aviation and marine communications, but
UPON ARRIVAL, simplest connection is by means they are also used by radio amateurs and
of alligator clips to deck speaker, as shown. hi-fi fans who want an abundance of power
in their cars. They are normally mounted
in the trunk or under the hood, and the
input connection is directly across the bat-
they boast of longer playing times and bet- tery rather than through the cigarette
ter quality of reproduction. lighter receptacle.
There are two basic problems encoun-
tered when attempting to use home equip- Connecting to Radio
ment, such as a 45-r.p.m. player or tape With one of these power sources in your
recorder, in conjunction with an auto radio. car you can operate almost any piece of
One is the source of power, and the other hi-fi equipment. If the unit you are using,
concerns the connection to the audio input such as a tape recorder, has its own ampli-
of the radio. fier and speaker, chances are it also has a
The power problem concerns changing low-level high -impedance output jack for
the 6 or 12 volts DC supplied by the car connection to an external amplifier. If it
battery to 110 volts AC, the common supply does not, reference to the Radio-TV chap-
available in homes. If we can get 110 v. ter will show you how to pick up such a
AC in the car, then the operation of our signal off the volume control. The only
equipment is just as simple as plugging question remaining now is how to get it into
into the wall socket at home. The device the audio system of your car radio.
which accomplishes this is known as an Since auto radios don't normally have
inverter or converter, of which there are receptacles for external signal sources, it
two general types. will probably be necessary to remove the
Types of Converters
electronic portion from the car. A simple
connection with a selector switch at the in-
The commoner type of converter is put of the volume control is all that is
known as a vibrator, and there is very necessary. Better yet, a shorting type
likely one of these in your present car jack, such as that shown in the Radio-TV
radio. This has a set of vibrating contacts, chapter for adding a hi-fi speaker may be
something like an ordinary doorbell, which used.
interrupt the DC from the battery and thus Something else we can now have in our
cause a rough AC wave to be induced in a cars is FM reception, by means of the
transformer connected to it. The better Hastings FM broadcast tuner for cars. De-
types will also include some form of noise signed for underdash mounting, the tuner
filtering. alone works in conjunction with the audio
98
of the regular AM car radio, or a separate
8 -watt amplifier and power supply may be
added. As compared to the best AM car
reception, it is claimed that with the Hast-
ings tuner there are no dropouts when
bridges or underpasses are encountered,
nor noises when running parallel to high
tension lines. Instead, the FM signal holds
steady and unchanging over long distances,
even long after AM stations in the same
area fade out and disappear.
If you want something which can be
used both on the road and outside the car
after you arrive, then a good portable is
the thing for you. The recent American
trend in portables has been toward small
transistorized models, which are low in
.

power and equally low in fidelity. There is

a German Telefunken model, however,
which offers both FM and AM of good
quality in a portable, and which works well
both inside a car and out.
One of the most versatile units to come
along is the Bell Mobile Amplifier, which
operates on either regular house current or
6-12 volts DC. When used for mobile
operation, it has its own shock -mounted WEATHERPROOF speaker by Jensen will with-
vibrator power supply, for connection di- stand the elements while delivering the best hi-fi.
rectly across the car battery.
Mobile Amplifiers
This amplifier has an output of 25 watts, rear deck extension speaker, is simply to
and is available separately or with single - connect a pair of leads across the voice coil
or three -speed record player mounted on of this unit.
top of its case. The record player has a All fine and dandy, you say, but what
ceramic cartridge, and there is a separate about the weather? What happens if my
input for other signal sources such as sec- expensive hi-fi speaker stands out in the
ond phono, tape, tuner or microphone. At hot sun all day, or in the salt air, or gets
the output there is a variety of loudspeaker drenched in a sudden downpour? The
impedance connections. If you want a answer is absolutely nothing, provided you
single unit which will operate just about have a weatherproof speaker.
anywhere, this one merits serious consid- Weatherproof Speakers
eration.
Now we have seen that we can have in The Jensen HF -100, as an example, is a
our cars just about all of the hi-fi comforts true hi-fi radiator, with smooth response
of home, including recorded tape, phono- from 60 to 15,000 c.p.s. It is a two-way sys-
graph records at four different speeds, and tem, employing a patented bass reflex with-
either FM or AM radio. But what about in a horn. The tweeter horn has a 90°
after we get where we're going? The auto bend in it, thus placing the driver at the
speaker mounted in the instrument panel top of the unit and providing self -draining.
isn't going to be of much use unless we It is virtually !impossible for rain, Sleet or
stick pretty close to the car. We can lick snow to reach the driver.
that, too, if we bring along a portable ex- The special moisture -proofed woofer is
tension speaker which can be connected to likewise protected from direct access to
the car radio output. weather. A plastic inner section rein-
One version of the Jensen Duette, for ex- forced with glass fiber, mounted in a spun
ample, comes in a leatherette bound carry- aluminum outer horn provide mechanical
ing case with handle, just the thing for the protection. The finish is a weather -resist-
picnic or camp ground, beach or patio. The ing baked enamel. There are many other
best method of connection to the car radio outdoor speakers, of course, although not
is that shown in the Radio-TV chapter. A nearly all of them are high fidelity, so you
less complicated alternative, if you have a must exercise care in making your choice.

99
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THE most confusing problems facing MR. KARL KRAMER, Manager of Tech-
hi-fi fans, both neophytes and old- nical Services, Jensen Manufacturing
timers alike, have to do with loudspeakers. Company, Chicago, Illinois. He holds the
My everyday conversations and the ma- degree of Master of Science in Electrical
jority of my mail from readers indicate Engineering from Ohio State University,
overwhelmingly that this is the area of where he studied with the famous Pro-
greatest uncertainty and confusion. In fessor Everitt. He is a Senior Member of
hopes of clearing the air somewhat, I have the Institute of Radio Engineers, and a
gone directly to the leaders of the industry member of the American Institute of
with a group of tough questions, and have Physics and Acoustical Society of America.
asked opinions of their top technical ex- MR. ABRAHAM COHEN, Engineering
perts. The answers are those of conserva- Manager, University Loudspeakers, Inc.,
tive engineers, not hyperthyroid promo- White Plains, New York. A graduate of
tion men. While they are obviously not Northeastern University, majoring in Elec-
always in complete agreement, their state- trical Engineering, Mr. Cohen was also
ments should do much to clarify the issues. concertmaster of the Boston School Sym-
Participants in this discussion are: phony Orchestra and first violinist of the
100
 What About
Loudspeakers
Top experts discuss one of the
most confusing areas in hi-fi.

WIDE VARIETY of loudspeaker types on the market

today is extremely perplexing to the uninitiated.

Boston Civic Symphony Orchestra. He is kansas. Best known to audiophiles for his
author of an outstanding book on this sub- famous "Klipschorn", Col. Klipsch typifies
ject, Hi-Fi Loudspeakers and Enclosures. the rugged individualism and pioneering
MR. ALEXIS BADMAIEFF, Chief Engi- spirit which have contributed so much to
neer, Transducers, Altec Lansing Corpora- this industry. A man of strong convictions,
tion, Beverly Hills, California. Educated at he has a venerable record of achievement
the Warsaw Polytechnic Institute in Po- to support his opinions.
land, Mr. Badmaieff is the holder of 26
patents in the fields of electronics, me- MR. HOEFLER: Much has been said
chanics, acoustics and optics. Well known about the number of elements in a loud-
for his many technical papers and articles, speaker system. One school holds that
he is a Fellow of the Audio Engineering the theoretical ideal would be a single
Society and an active member of the radiating element which operates with
Society of Motion Picture and Television equal efficiency over the ten or more oc-
Engineers. taves audible range. At the other extreme
COL. PAUL KLIPSCH, Owner -Man- are those who feel that a large number of
ager, Klipsch and Associates, Hope, Ar - specialized speakers, each operating over
101
 MESH

GRILLE CLOTH

University Loudspeakers, Inc.

a restricted range, is the better approach. frequencies required of it. It would be

What is your opinion about the number of fantastically difficult to overcome the laws
speaker elements and their configuration? of Mother Nature in devising one instru-
ment to do the work of all these. It is
MR. BADMAIEFF: A single radiating dubious if a "theoretical ideal" could be
element is the theoretical ideal for sound postulated for such a single instrument,
reproduction. However, at the present time even if we limit ourselves only to matters
there is no single loudspeaker capable of of efficiency, for we know well that even
efficiently reproducing the entire range of when instruments play tones of the same
the human ear. In multiple element sys- pitch, they still differ in timbre.
tems there are the problems of crossover In line with these thoughts, the theo-
and acoustic phasing. Since these problems retically ideal speaker system might be
are inherent and their duplicity greatly in- one with a single speaker for each instru-
creases the difficulties, crossover should be ment of the orchestra, this speaker being
kept to a minimum. This is the reason why called upon to reproduce only those tones
nearly all professional sound systems are originally created by that instrument. This
limited to two sections, one for low fre- ideal, of course, is a far call into the future,
quency propagation and one for high fre- the peak of stereophonic reproduction, per-
quencies. haps. In our present modest approach to
this perfection, a typical multi -speaker
MR. COHEN: This question may best be system having a large woofer for the deep
resolved by analogy between the loud- bass notes, a broad mid -range unit for the
speaker system and a modern orchestra. overall body of the orchestra, and a treble
Here we fmd not merely one single instru- tweeter to top off with the natural bril-
ment producing all the tones of the audible liance of the original performance, is a
spectrum, but a "choir" of instruments, first approach to "orchestrating" the re-
each designed to produce that hand of producing system.
102
 suit in distortion many times the funda-
mental output. It is also a fact that when
IN KEEPING with the clean, modern li2es of the
two or more frequencies are mixed in a
completed University EN -CB enclosure, the front single piston radiator, the lower frequency
frame and grille is constructed of simple design. amplitude will modulate the upper one,
The frame is made of four sections of 2 -inch birch which causes the oft -referred -to inter -
hardwood cut to size and mitered. The frame is modulation distortion. The result of rec-
mounted to enclosure from front by means of screws ognition of these facts is that the best
through a cleat. Since cleat is recessed 2nd screw loudspeaker systems now employ at least
holes countersunk, the mounting screws are not two loudspeaker elements. The design
visible from front of the enclosure. The font frame problems entail minimizing the frequency
and grille assembly is easily constructed in four
simple steps: (1) Using 214x3º -inch birch hard- anomolies and interferences between a pair
wood, cut four strips to length. Cut a 45 miter on of speakers radiating the same frequency
each end of the strips and join with spline fasten- near a crossover point. At present, only
ers and glue. Finish in the color of th? Formica multiple speakers have been capable of
or Micarta used to surface the enclosure. (2) Make duplicating the sound to a high degree of
the cleat from four strips of 34X34 inch poplar or accuracy.
bass hardwood. It is not necessary to miter the
edges of these sections. Position the pieces on the MR. KRAMER: This question is strictly
back of the frame 34 inch from the outside edge,
and secure cleat to frame with 'one -inch No. 8 flat- academic, since no single radiating element
head wood screws and glue. (3) Cut the grille cloth has ever been designed which operates
to size and stretch over the cleat. Fasten with with equal efficiency over the entire range.
staples or tacks. To ensure a proper fit into the front Even if such a device were available, there
opening, do not overlap the cloth around the sides is no good reason to believe it would be
of the cleat. (4) Using a piece of protective mesh, superior to multiple -channel systems
fasten to assembly with "U" nails or staples. which are now commercially available.
Photos which follow show process of finishing.
The design requirements at opposite ends
of the pass band are in direct conflict, and
therefore the narrower this band the less
the compromise that must be made. In
general the more channels the better, but
the three-way system has about reached
the point of diminishing returns. Excellent
systems of this type are commercially
available in several forms; unitary assem-
It is true that multi -speaker systems, be- blies of multiple units and those with
cause of the dividing networks, may intro- separated units give essentially identical
duce some phase distortion. But the effects performance. Also, the use of more than
of such distortion are very debatable, and one loudspeaker system will result in far
in some quarters held to be nonexistent. greater realism of reproduction than the
On the other hand, intermodulation dis- most "perfect" single speaker system for
tortion is a very real and disturbing factor most types of music reproduction. Re-
to be dealt with. Because of the' band member that the orchestra is spread over a
separation in multi -speaker systems, such very large area and the sound does not
intermodulation is reduced to a minimum emanate from just a single point.
and the individual loudspeakers may be
designed to perform most efficiently within MR. HOEFLER: Other than assuring
their bands, resulting also in improved the proper impedance connection between
power performance from the amplifier. the output transformer of an amplifier and
the input circuit of a speaker system, what
COL. KLIPSCH: It is a matter of fact, other precautions may the home hi-fi
not opinion, that a single direct radiator listener observe to be certain of optimum
of small size will give a more nearly flat damping and minimum transient distor-
response over a wider range than some tion?
larger and more complicated systems. But
likewise it is a fact that a small direct - COL. KLIPSCH: The subject of opti-
radiator speaker, say six inches in di- mum damping is one which could fill a
ameter, would have to perform an excur- book. In my opinion the safest procedure
sion of several inches to produce a barely beyond proper impedance matching is to
audible fundamental output at a few feet use an amplifier with an internal imped-
distance at some low frequency like 60 ance between the limits of about ,r-s and 1
cycles, which, even if possible, would re - the nominal impedance, without any ap-
103
î

plication of variable damping. This is fier damping. To eliminate it the loud-

expressed as an opinion rather than a uni- speaker must be free of spurious modes
versal fact, as there are exceptions. of vibration which cause response varia-
tions, or these modes must be damped
MR. BADMAIEFF: In order to assure within the loudspeaker itself. Even tran-
the full realization of quality from a good sient distortion near the low frequency
loudspeaker, it is necessary that the resonance points is not nearly as serious
speaker be housed in an enclosure designed as many believe. Obviously the enclosure
specifically for its characteristics, and that is an important factor; good loudspeakers
it be connected to an amplifier having not with suitable coordinated enclosures are
only the proper output impedance but also not sensitive to amplifier damping charac-
the proper source impedance. The best way teristics. The adjustment of damping con-
to assure this is to follow the manufac- trols on the amplifier can easily be made
turer's recommendations for enclosures to yield the best listening quality.
and to use an amplifier matched to the
manufacturer's loudspeakers. For the MR. COHEN: The question of optimum
greatest quality use an amplifier and damping is perhaps the least understood
speaker system of the same manufacture. aspect of loudspeaker performance by the
average hobbyist. As far as the home high
MR. KRAMER: Transient distortion in fidelity listener is concerned, he can do
the upper frequency ranges is a far more very little other than accept performance
important consideration than that which of his complete system as installed for him,
occurs in the low frequency range. Such or as purchased complete, and hope that
distortion is in no way related to the ampli- the designers of the various equipments
104
 CLASSIC SPEAKER system is easily installed in enclosure and surfaces finished. All
components, parts and necessary tools are shown at left. Author Don Hoefler is just
unpacking the midrange horn. First step (above) is attaching decorative metal legs
with wood screws. At right, special cement is applied to cabinet with serrated tool.
After plastic veneer is also cemented, it is applied to both sides and to the top.

have come up with the proper damp- composed of a host of waveforms-a funda-
ing for the entire system. There is very mental and a series of mathematically re-
little the end user can do to alter the lated harmonics. When some of these
damping characteristics of the speaker harmonics become lost, the steep wave -
system, but where he has damping con- front of the original signal deteriorates.
trols available on his amplifier, he might One may therefore expect optimum results
make some simple listening comparisons from a system wherein the amplifier has
of a recording whose characteristics flat frequency response from the lowest
he knows well, adjusting the damping usable frequency, such as 30 c.p.s., up to
control to the point where he hears a perhaps 50,000 c.p.s., and where the
cleaner strike of the piano, the sharpest speaker system is flat up to 15,000 c.p.s. at
pluck of the guitar and the tight drum blow least. Then one may be reasonably sure
of the tympani rather than a muddy barrel that all the harmonic content of the original
tone. Yet in making these adjustments, the impulse tone will be reproduced in the
experimenter may find no difference at all, final output, with as sharp a wavefront as
due to the fact that the speaker system originally created by the instrument itself,
itself is already so critically damped that thus in essence providing proper transient
further damping still tends to do nothing response.
but reduce the acoustic output rather than
to improve the transient response. MR. HOEFLER: The number of en-
Too often overlooked is the effect of closures now on the market, each with its
frequency response upon the transient re- own claims of excellence in design and
sponse. It should be remembered that a performance, has many prospective hi-fi
sudden impulse of signal is essentially hobbyists thoroughly confused. Is there
105
EXCESS FINISH of Formica or
Micarta is trimmed away with
plane or fine-tooth saw, then
touched up with sandpaper. In
these simple ,steps surfaces are
finished and installation begins.

WOOFER AND TWEETER already

in, the crossover network and
screw terminal strip are installed
with wood screws. Unit must be
set back sufficiently to leave room
for clearance of midrange horn.

MIDRANGE HORN is mounted

last, fitting over bolts which are
factory-installed in enclosure.
Final procedure inside cabinet
involves installing connecting
cables between each of three
speakers and crossover terminals.
any one type which you feel is outstand- cates the closed back box as providing the
ing? Are there any basic principles which best enclosure from the standpoint of
you can suggest to guide the prospective lowest distortion. The enhanced bass of
purchaser? various ported boxes seems to be in the
form of peaks which are in the wrong
MR. KRAMER: There are literally hun- places. Note the distinction here between
dreds of loudspeaker enclosure designs, a "box" or "enclosure" and a "horn." The
many originating out of dubious theories former is a means of isolating the front
and crude experimentation. No enclosure from the back of a cone radiator. A horn,
can improve a poor loudspeaker! Loud- on the other hand, provides a transformer
speaker enclosures logically fall into two action, like the gear box on a car (or, if
categories, namely, horns having large you can't remember that far back, think of
actual or effective mouth size, and the it functionally as a torque converter). With
numerous smaller enclosures which are it, the diaphragm excursion and con-
variants of the basic bass reflex design. It sequently the distortion may be reduced
is important to note that unless the mouth, for a given output power.
and therefore the overall size, is quite
large, horn type enclosures do not act as MR. COHEN: Perhaps the most im-
such but rather fall in the second category. portant principle to guide the prospective
Perhaps it is an oversimplification to class purchaser of an enclosure is that it cannot
all others as variants of the bass reflex but be considered as separate and apart from
their performance characteristics make the speaker which it is to house. The type
this a valid conclusion. Note, for example, of enclosure will be dictated by the com-
that the infinite baffle enclosure is simply ponents chosen, and may be of the direct -
a bass reflex with the port blocked; in radiator type or of the horn -loaded variety.
many cases the port is duct loaded and In this respect then there is no ideal en-
often additional cavities are coupled to the closure, other than in matters of com-
basic enclosure. The Jensen Manufacturing patibility with its component speakers.
Company recognizes the enclosure problem These two broad categories thus have their
as one of the important ones facing the con- own specific adaptabilities to chosen com-
sumer, and they have issued a technical ponents.
manual showing structural details for The more versatile enclosure, one that
loudspeaker enclosures in various sizes for lends itself to many types of systems, from
typical loudspeaker systems. It is important the single extended range type to complex
to recognize that the loudspeaker system multi -speaker layouts, as well as being
and the enclosure must be carefully corre- the easiest for the home constructor to
lated for best results; there is no one en- assemble, is the general bass reflex type,
closure design suitable for all types and of which there are many variations. The
sizes of speakers. true compression -driven horn enclosure,
on the other hand, offers distinct advan-
MR. BADMAIEFF: It is desirable for an tages of cleaner and more efficiently repro-
enclosure to provide a certain amount of duced low frequencies. To achieve these
bass reinforcement for the loudspeaker. In advantages one must immediately adopt
doing this, however, dips in the frequency the multi-speaker philosophy, for the
response of the speaker due to cabinet bends and twists of the folded horn en-
phasing are often created, and in the most tirely mitigate against the transmission
extreme cases the enclosure severely limits through it of any but the lower end of the
the radiation of the loudspeaker above 500 acoustic spectrum. It is imperative that
c.p.s. The only type of enclosure where with the bass woofer there be used the
this is not true is the bass reflex. It does not necessary complement of mid -range repro-
provide as great a bass reinforcement as ducer and treble tweeter.
other types, such as the folded horn, but Basically, the loudspeaker and enclosure
neither does it introduce the deficiencies work as a team, and the enclosure must be
in frequency response associated with as rigidly built as the loudspeaker. The
them. For this reason, a bass reflex en- purpose of the enclosure is to hold the
closure provides the most truthful repro- loudspeaker so that it may vibrate the air
duction. external to it. Should the enclosure itself
vibrate, this is acoustic energy wasted. To
COL. KLIPSCH: Being a designer of circumvent such loss, the enclosure should
horns, I feel justified in a strong prejudice be built from heavy inflexible panels, well
for them in preference to enclosures. Ex- screwed and glued in the best manner of
perience with enclosures since 1938 indi- fine furniture. It will then provide the

107
 a

proper boundry for the vibrating air it may be said with assurance that, for
masses, without itself being vibrated. utter simplicity of installation and opera-
tion, with outstanding performance and
MR. HOEFLER: The dynamic speaker reliability, the present day dynamic
has been in common use for so long that speaker is hard to beat. Intensive research
we sometimes forget that development continues in our laboratories on projects
in this area has included many other to improve the quality of performance of
types such as balanced armature, induc- the dynamic speaker, to raise its level of
tor driver, iron diaphragm, electrostatic efficiency, and to refine production tech-
and crystal units. Now the electrostatic -niques toward the end that the consumer
speaker is enjoying a resurgence and may obtain the most of his high fidelity
there is much discussion about the ionic dollar. What trade secrets may exist in
speaker. Do you feel that there is any somebody's ivory tower we may know only
speaker type, either now in production when they come down from that tower.
or in someone's ivory tower, which will
supplant the dynamic system? MR. KRAMER: There is no loudspeaker
type in production or in the research and
COL. KLIPSCH: What form of driving development laboratories which we feel
mechanism for the loudspeaker diaphragm offers a serious or immediate threat to the
will emerge as best would require a crystal moving coil loudspeaker in common use
ball. Currently there are several new today. Of course, there is no reason to
products advertised as "new in principle." believe that some new type might not be
They sound different, all right, including devised in the future which may alter this
a strong difference from the original sound. situation.
One speaker of low excursion capability
exhibits such high distortion at very low MR. HOEFLER: There has been so much
levels as to attribute the "brilliance" to dramatic improvement in amplifier de-
this cause. For now, these devices are for sign in recent years that the loudspeaker
sound effects rather than sound reproduc- system is now frequently criticized as
tion. One electrostatic tweeter showed being the weakest link in the hi-fi chain.
over 400 per cent distortion at 5,000 c.p.s. Do you feel that such criticism is justified?
at an output corresponding to that of a Do you feel, as a practical matter, there
dynamic unit with an input of a small frac- is much room for improvement in loud-
tion of a watt. speakers? Just what are the toughest de-
sign problems faced by the loudspeaker
MR. BADMAIEFF: At the present state engineer?
of the transducer art the moving coil or
dynamic speaker is still superior in effi- MR. COHEN: Despite the high order of
ciency, freedom from distortion and performance of today's speakers, it must
smoothness of frequency response. The be said that the acoustic system, com-
electrostatic speaker suffers from intern- prised of the speaker and enclosure, is the
ally generated hissing, extreme directivity, soft spot that needs shoring up. Much work
and an efficiency so low as to require an remains to be done, both by the engineer
unreasonably high-powered amplifier. In and the acoustic psychologist, to resolve the
addition, electrostatic speakers are se- matter of loudspeaker performance on an
verely limited in the amount of sound objective basis that will be consistent with
power which they can generate regardless psycho -acoustic results and objective
of the amplifier power available. measurements. Presently it is not un-
common for the ear to pick one loudspeaker
MR. COHEN: The electrostatic speaker over another despite measured character-
and the ionic loudspeaker have their istics to the contrary. Meanwhile the de-
origins in the "singing condenser" and the sign engineer does his utmost to obtain
"singing arc" of yesteryear. These phe- the optimum measured performance on an
nomena, which were actually defects in economical basis, with maximum life ex-
component parts of those days, whetted pectancy and stability of the speaker for
someone's imagination and the defects the user.
were turned into attributes of a limited In a general sense, the toughest design
scope at that time. The apparent newness problem faced by the loudspeaker engineer
of the electrostatic speaker has attracted is in matters of how little of one necessary
to its ranks those people who must have performance characteristic he will be
the newest and most glamorous things in forced to sacrifice to obtain an alternate
life, and for them it serves a purpose. But desired result: How much loss of efficiency
108
 CUTAWAY VIEW of enclosure
shows three speaker elements
mounted in place. Note that
woofer is completely enclosed
and acts as driver of folded
horn formed by the internal
configuration of the cabinet.
When enclosure is to be used
in vertical position, tweeter
and midrange are remounted.

PLAN VIEWS of enclosure

show internal cabinet construc-
tion. Dotted lines in top view
are sound path in folded horn.

UNIVERSITY MODEL UNIVERSITY MODEL -UNIVERSITY MODEL

COBREFLE" HF -206

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 may we tolerate in a particular design for ance superior to many other components in
the sake of improved linearity, and how the better high fidelity systems. Perhaps
may this loss be overcome? How much re- the one factor which destroys the realism
duction in high frequency response shall of music reproduction more than any other
we accept from a single extended range is the presence of background noise;
speaker when we want simultaneously to certainly this is not in any way a fault of
achieve good, stable diaphragm piston the loudspeaker system. All large, reput-
action for low frequencies, and how can we able loudspeaker manufacturers, however,
minimize this loss with new pulp ma- carry on active development and research
terials? How shall we continually improve programs, and we certainly expect refine-
the power capacity of the speaker to keep ment of present designs as a result.
in step with increasing amplifier ratings,
without deteriorating its acoustic perform- MR. HOEFLER: Are there any other
ance? How can we best design a uniformly comments you would care to make about
compatible line of specialized loudspeaker loudspeakers: design, manufacturing,
components to make selection simple, merchandising, application?
straightforward, and easily understood by
the layman? These are typical everyday MR. BADMAIEFF: Many people today
concerns of the engineer, and each one in have been building speaker systems con-
turn gives rise to dozens of others. The ex- sisting of components of a variety of man-
citement and exhilaration in this field lie ufacturers. The possibility of such a system
in pinning down, one after another, the performing well is very small, since the
solutions to these problems. low frequency unit, network, and high
frequency unit must be engineered to pro-
MR. BADMAIEFF: It is true that ampli- vide the compatibility required for a
fiers can be designed which are for all smooth frequency response.
practical intents perfect. Loudspeakers,
however, must transform electrical energy MR. KRAMER: The proper choice of
to mechanical movement, and mechanical loudspeaker equipment is an important
movement into sound. This triple transition problem facing the consumer. He must be-
of energy is difficult to control, and al- ware of the product which by some magic
though loudspeakers have today reached solves all problems. Basic acoustical prob-
the point where a trained ear is required lems are not solved by trick methods but
to differentiate between their reproduction rather by good, clean, sound engineering
and the original sound, they are by no design. The consumer would do well to
means perfect. There is room for improve- spend his efforts in evaluating loudspeakers
ment, and it will continue to be made as the rather than to demand certain design
art advances. details which may actually defeat the pur-
pose. A good loudspeaker imparts no
COL. KLIPSCH: The dramatic improve- characteristic of its own to the reproduc-
ment in amplifiers is largely in the minds tion, and any coloration of this kind can
of the advertising managers. There is, be detected by listening carefully to several
currently, a plethora of mediocre ampli- types of reproduced music. Since there are
fiers on the market, and the good ones no accepted standards at the present time,
capable of 30% of their rated output at the usual specifications and response
10 c.p.s. can be counted on the fingers curves are valueless.
of a couple of cow's hoofs. Even so, the
electromechanical transducers (speakers, MR. COHEN: Loudspeakers do not serve
pickups, microphones) remain subject to their intended purpose unless they func-
more forms of distortion than even some of tion properly in their surroundings. Al-
the "just fair" amplifiers. The tough prob- though we do not all have living rooms
lem in a speaker remains that of producing that are miniature concert halls, there is
an undistorted pressure in an imponder- much we can do to the ordinary listening
able medium like air, with a piston made room to improve its acoustic performance.
of a material with a specific gravity over In general, a very bare room will be re-
1,000 times that of air. verberant, with a rolling and echoing of
sound that produces confusion and indis-
MR. KRAMER: In most high fidelity tinctness. On the other hand, a very over-
systems, significant improvement in the stuffed room will be dry, with a feeling of
performance can be realized by using dullness and impaired brilliance in the
-

better loudspeaker systems. Modern reproduction. Somewhere in between these

speaker systems, where cost and size are extremes is an optimum condition that will
not limiting factors, can provide perform- impart to the reproduced sound the right
110
amount of reverberation to make it live some illumination of the quackery which
and lifelike. Placement of the enclosure in pervades every new art.
the room is also important, in determining Even some of the reputable manufac-
system performance. Corner locations not turers have been beguiled or trapped into
only help to reinforce the low frequencies, exaggerations of both performance and
but angularly span most of the listening claims. Some very fine speakers are de-
room and consequently produce improved liberately designed with peaks (usually
high frequency coverage. about 50 and 8,000 c.p.s.) to exaggerate the
"high fidelity" effects; some less than fine
COL. KLIPSCH: There are some systems make up the loss in advertising
speakers, boxes, and speaker box combina- specifications. The little single 12 -inch
tions for which their makers advertise the speaker with "response to 20 cycles" may
most fantastic claims, such as 16 c.p.s. and be demonstrably responsive to this fre-
lower response from radiators of only one quency in laboratory test, but the fact re-
foot diameter. It could be granted that any mains that at tolerable excursions (from
small speaker could radiate any wave- distortion standpoint) the power response
length, but the fundamental radiated by a of a 12 -inch speaker is only 0.0005 watt at
10 -inch piston at a distance of ten feet in 30 c.p.s. This would give a 60 decibel in-
free space at 30 c.p.s. is demonstrably be- tensity at about nine feet, which is some
low the threshold of audibility. The "re- 4 db below the 64 -decibel threshold of
ports of independent laboratories" on such hearing. Considering the 80 to 110 db levels
devices, as quoted, could stand a lot of encountered in recording, it is readily seen
revision in the interest of practical accu- how far short of any useful response the
racy. Many of these speakers are good small radiator must necessarily fall.
within the size and price bracket, but the There you have the considered opinions
advertising claims are so exaggerated as of four of the top technical men in the
to be ludicrous to the experienced worker, loudspeaker field. While their views are
but still capable of sucking in that part of sometimes conflicting, they are every one
the public which is too inexperienced to based on sound engineering logic. And it
know the limitations of fundamental is interesting to note that in several cases
physics, or which actually likes to be they have unanimously exploded certain
fooled. The high fidelity art could stand widely held loudspeaker myths.

CONSTRUCTION COMPLETED, the author and his children enjoy their new Classic loudspeaker system.
Photos by Joseph Wayne
 w
III.
. 11.4111
.,.

The Best Hi-Fi Records

Compiled by Lyle Kenyon Engel

The nation's top disc jockeys select their favorite records and
albums, and suggest these as a basis for a really fine hi-fi collection.

rilHE American disc jockey is entrusted with a tremendous job. He re-

ceives thousands of record releases every month from hundreds of
record companies throughout the nation, and he must sift through these
releases to select records of particular interest to his public.
Anyone can select records that appeal to him, but the disc jockey has
a particular problem: In order to keep his rating with the people in his area
he must maintain constant checks on his programming material to see that
he is giving the people what they want.
The average top disc jockey receives over 2,000 single records every
month. Since each record will average about three minutes, just to listen
to these for the first time will take 100 hours alone. This does not take
into consideration the albums he receives and the fact that everything has
to be rated for use and then filed.
The disc jockey is also very important to the American economy. His
selection of records will be played to millions of people and stimulate them
into purchasing some $250,000,000 worth of recordings per year.
We have asked a cross section of top disc jockeys to select their favorite
hi-fi record selections in both singles and albums. Here are their choices
to help you in building up your home library.

112
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BILL BALLANCE of KNX, Los Angeles, is typical of the hundreds of disc jockeys who play an important
part in the music of America. On the following pages you'll find the favorite hi-fi records of disc jockeys.
 CAL MILNER AND LARRY BROWN, WPEN,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:
Somebody's Gotta Lose (Hi-Fi)

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That's Right (Mills Brothers) (Hi-Fi)

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Canadian Sunset (Hugo Winterhalter) Victor
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
Harry James In Hi-Fi. Capitol
Songs I Wished I'd Sung (Bing Crosby) Decca

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Songs For Swingin' Lovers (Frank Sinatra) Capitol

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BOB CHAMBERS, WKXY, Sarasota, Florida
FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:
Mack The Knife (Louis Armstrong) Columbia
Mr. Wonderful (Sarah Vaughan) Mercury
Moonglow and Theme from Picnic (Morris
Stoloff) Decca

FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:

Music For Sleepwalkers Only
(Murray McEachem) Key
Blue Rose (Rosemary Clooney, Duke
»MI Ellington) Key
Songs For Swingin' Lovers (Frank Sinatra) Capitol

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MOM ART ROBERTS, WXLW, Indianapolis, Indiana

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Simonetta (Werner Muller) Decca
This Love of Mine (Tommy Dorsey) Decca
Love of Genevieve (Nelson Riddle) Capitol
'tlrattttttttrttt!f
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Recipes For Romance (Spencer-Hagen) "X"
Arthur Murray's Dance And Dream Time. Capitol
Mood For Twelve (Paul Weston) Columbia

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CARL "TINY" THOMALE, WHAS,
Louisville, Kentucky

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FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:
Moonglow and Theme from Picnic (Morris
Stoloff) Decca
Somebody Up There Likes Me (Perry Como) Victor
If You Don't Want My Love (Jaye P. Morgan) Victor

tit!a! tv
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
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NIB Sweet and Hot (Ella Fitzgerald) Decca
Manhattan Time (Art Van Damme) Columbia
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JOE MITCHELL, KPOJ, Portland, Oregon

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Haunted Guitar (The Three Suns) Victor
To Love Again (Marc Fredericks) Dot
Summit Ridge Drive (Jimmy Palmer) Mercury

FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:

Concert by the Sea (Erroll Garner) Columbia
Escapade in Sound (Al Nevins) Victor
Dave McKenna Solo Piano. ABC -Paramount

GENE WHITAKER, WNCA,

Siler City, North Carolina

FAVORITE HI -Fl RECORDS:

Kiss Me Again (Mantovani) London
Dream Along With Me (Perry Come) Victor
Now You Has Jazz (Armstrong, Crosby) Capitol

FAVORITE HI -Fl ALBUMS:

The Popular Gershwin. Victor
The Great Benny Goodman. Columbia
High Society (Movie Cast) Capitol

JERRY MARSHALL, WNEW, New York, N. Y.

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Cue Sera Sera (Doris Day) Columbia
Allegheny Moon (Patti Page) Mercury
Somebody Up There Likes Me (Perry Como) Victor
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
Songs For Swingin' Lovers (Frank Sinatra) Capitol
Cole Porter Songbook. Verve
Your Musical Holiday in New York (Werner Muller)
Decca

JERRY (Sr JIMMA STRONG, WMAL,

Washington, D. C.

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Street of Dreams (Vic Damone) Columbia
Moonglow and Theme from Picnic (Morris
Stoloff) Decca
You Don't Know Me (Jerry Vale) Columbia

FAVORITE HI -Fl ALBUMS:

Ella Fitzgerald Sings Cole Porter. Verve
Hefti Hot'n Hearty (Neal Hefti) Epic
Solo Mood (Paul Weston) Columbia
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FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:
Allegheny Moon (Patti Page) Mercury
If You Can Dream (Four Aces) Decca
A Fine Romance. Columbia

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FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
Oklahoma (Original Cast) Capitol
Ella Fitzgerald Sings Cole Porter. Verve
Swingin' On Campus (Ray Anthony) Capitol

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GIL HENRY, KING, Hollywood, California

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Doddletown Fifers (Sauter -Finnegan) Victor
Skinned Deep (Woody Herman) Capitol
Man With The Golden Arm (Billy May) Capitol

FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:

Les Brown at Hollywood Palladium. Coral
Escapade (Art Nevens) Victor
Pines of Rome-Fountains of Rome
(Arturo Toscanini) Victor

IMI 1111111.11131.71111M NOEL BALL, WSIX, Nashville, Tennessee

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FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

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True Love (Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly) Capitol

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Melody of Love (Billy Vaughn) Dot
Canadian Sunset (Hugo Winterhalter) Victor
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
The Golden Instrumentals (Billy Vaughn) Dot
Music For Lovers Only (Jackie Gleason) Capitol
Love Is A Many Splendored Thing
(Richard Hayman) Mercury

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LARRY GENTILE, WXYZ, Detroit. Michigan

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FAVORITE HI -Fl RECORDS:
Dream Rhapsody (Les Baxter) Capitol
Blue Mirage (Frank Chacksfield) London
Arrivederci Roma (Three Suns) Victor
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:

11MIZINIIIIIM - The Golden Instrument (Billy Vaughn) Dot

My Fair Lady (Broadway Cast) Columbia
Songs For Swingin' Lovers (Frank Sinatra) Capitol

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HARRY DOWNIE, WICC, Bridgeport, Connecticut

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

All My Love (Werner Muller) Decca
Moonglow and Theme from Picnic (Morris
Stoloff) Decca
Marimba Charleston (David Carroll) Mercury
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
Ted Heath, Volume 4. London
Harry James In Hi-Fi. Columbia
Benny Goodman In Hi-Fi. Columbia

JIM AYLWARD, WHIL, Boston, Massachusetts

FAVORITE HI -Fl RECORDS:
Havana (Les Baxter) Capitol
Italian Theme (Cyril Stapleton) London
Cry Me A River (Julie London) Liberty

FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:

Me And My Shadow (Ted Lewis) RKO-Unique
King And I (Movie Cast) Capitol
The Most Happy Fella (Original Cast) Columbia

HARRY NIGOCIA, WJBW, New Orleans, Louisiana

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Monte Carlo Melody (Werner Muller) Decca
Lolá s Theme (Steve Allen) Coral
Bistro (Werner Muller) Decca

FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:

Dee Most (Lenny Dee) Decca
Songs I Wish I Had Sung (Bing Crosby) Decca
Your Musical Holiday in New York. Decca

CHUCK THOMPSON, WALA, Mobile, Alabama

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Hell's Bells (David Carroll) Mercury
Ziguener (Billy Regis) Victor
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Perdido (Three Suns) Victor
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
Harry James In Hi-Fi. Capitol
Jazz (Dave Brubeck Quartet) Columbia
Music For Sleepwalkers Only (Murray
McEachern) Key
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JOE MARTIN, WOW, Omaha, Nebraska

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

To Love Again (Carmen Cavallaro) Decca
Canadian Sunset (Hugo Winterhalter) Victor
Lazy Gondolier (Mantovani) London

!
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
Moonglow and Theme from Picnic (Morris
Stoloff) Decca
'MI Songs of Love (Robert Shaw Chorus) Victor
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DONN TIBBETTS, WGIR,
:
Manchester, New Hampshire
.11.11 FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:
Canadian Sunset (Hugo Winterhalter) Victor
Theme from Proud Ones (Nelson Riddle) Capitol
When the White Lilacs Bloom Again
(LeRoy Holmes) MGM

FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:

ftititif My Fair Lady (Percy Faith) Columbia
Gaite Parisian (Boston Pops) Victor
Passport to Romance (Percy Faith) Columbia

11111
PAUL BRENNER, WAAT, Newark, New Jersey

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Flaherty's Beguine (Hugo Winterhalter) Victor
Autumn Leaves (Roger Williams) Kapp
Malaguena (Ted Heath) London
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
/MaZIMMI1
413.113. 4111111
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La Danza! (Hollywood Bowl Symphony) Capitol
Lonely Spell (Bob Manning) Capitol

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JON FARMER, WAGA, Atlanta, Georgia

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

How Little We Know (Frank Sinatra) Capitol

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Portuguese Washerwoman (Joe Fingers
Carr) Capitol
Moonglow and Theme from Picnic (Morris
Stoloff) Decca

FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:

MEW'.
Eddy Duchin Story (Original Cast) Decca
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Benny Goodman Story (Original Cast) Decca
1111111^+ King and I (Movie Cast) Capitol
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JACK DENTON, WISN, Milwaukee. Wisconsin

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Hi-Fi Drums (Herman, Rich) Capitol
Tinnin' In (Georgie Auld) Mercury
Love Is Just Around The Corner (Georgie Auld)
Mercury
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
Harry James In Hi-Fi. Capitol
Music For Sleepwalkers Only (Murray
McEachern) Key
Rain Or Shine (Dick Haymes) Capitol

RAY PERKINS, KIMN, Denver, Colorado

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Malaguena (Boston Pops) Victor
Old Man River (Bing Crosby) Decca
Sicilian Tarantella (Henri Rene) Columbia
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
Beethoven's Ninth Symphony (Arturo
Toscanini) Victor
Roman Carnival Overture (Arturo Toscanini) Victor
La Danse (Hollywood Bowl Symphony) Capitol

ART HELLYER, WCFL. Chicago, Illinois

FAVORITE HI -Fl RECORDS:

Cry Me A River (Julie London) Liberty
He (McGuire Sisters) Coral
That Old Feeling (Frankie Laine, Buck Clayton)

J'.
Columbia
FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:
Folk Songs of the Frontier (Roger Wagner
.`
NäMMIidownawimmowisn>_

Chorale) Capitol
Julie Is Her Name (Julie London) Liberty
The Great Benny Goodman. Columbia

LOU EMM, WHIO, Dayton. Ohio

FAVORITE HI-FI RECORDS:

Canadian Sunset (Hugo Winterhalter) Victor
Quiet Village. Hi-Fi Record
Tone Poems of Color (Frank Sinatra) Capitol

FAVORITE HI-FI ALBUMS:

My Fair Lady (Broadway Cast) Columbia
King and I (Movie Cast) Capitol
Cinerama Holiday (Jack Shaindlin) Mercury
 Free Items
and
Special Bargains
Here are various consulting services, detailed building plans,
magazines, manuals and references now available to hi-fi fans.

.. .. n.,
this la
high fidelity

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NCE again my publishers and I have Typical Installation Diagrams

scouted the entire hi-fi field looking A beautiful book, showing drawings of
for useful items, services, and helpful pub- typical hi-fi installations, necessary com-
lications, which are made available to our ponents and their interconnection. Included
readers free of charge or at nominal cost. are a number of color photos of tape re-
All manufacturers offer catalogs, price lists, corders and amplifiers in typical surround-
and the usual sales literature, but many go ings. Ask for Catalog No. 101. Write to Bell
further and provide interested parties with Sound Systems, Inc., 555 Marion Road, Co-
something which they can really use. All lumbus 7, Ohio.
of the items mentioned here are truly
worthwhile, but nevertheless absolutely Audioeraft Magazine
free, unless a small service charge is spe- This is the new how -to-do -it magazine
cifically noted. We believe that the list of home sound reproduction. Regularly
which follows is the most complete ever features articles on electronic construction,
published, and hope that our readers will sound servicing, woodcrafting, and system
find its use both helpful and profitable. design. This magazine sells everywhere for
120
FOR REPAIRING RADIO AND TV Superior's New Streamlined Model TC -55
Superior's New Model 670-A

SIMPER METER TUBE --._`

TESTER
QUICKLY AND EFFICIENTLY TESTS RADIO
AND TV TUBES INCLUDING: SEVEN PIN
A COMBINATION
MINIATURES; EIGHT PIN SUBMINARS,
ar> OCTALS AND LOCTALS; NINE PIN NOVALS
VOLT -OHM MILLIAMMETER
YOU CAN'T INSERT A TUBE
PLUS CAPACITY REACTANCE IN THE WRONG SOCKET.
It is impossible to insert the
tube in the wrong socket when
INDUCTANCE AND DECIBEL using the new Model TC -55.
Seporote sockets ore used, one
MEASUREMENTS for each type of tube base. If
the tube fits in the socket it can
be tested.
ADDED FEATURE: "FREE-POINT" ELEMENT
SWITCHING SYSTEM.
Built in ISOLATION TRANS- The Model TC -55 incorporates a
FORMER reduces possibility of newly designed element selector
burning out meter through mis- switch system which reduces the
use. possibility of obsolescence to an
absolute minimum. Any pin may be used as a filament pin and
the voltage applied between that pin and any other pin, or even
SPECIFICATIONS: the "top -cap."
D.C. VOLTS: 0 to 7.5/15/75/150/750/1,500/7,500 Volts CHECKS FOR SNORTS AND LEAKAGES BETWEEN ALL ELEMENTS.
A.C. VOLTS: 0 to 15/30/150/300/1,500/3,000 Volts The Model TC -55 provides a super sensitive method of checking
OUTPUT VOLTS: 0 to 15/30/150/300/1,500/3,000 Volts for shorts and leakages up to 5 Megohms between any and oil of
the terminals.
D.C. CURRENT: 0 to 1.5/15/150 Ma. 0 to 1.5/15 Amperes
RESISTANCE: 0 to 1,000/100,000 Ohms 0 to 10 Megohms ELEMENTAL SWITCHES ARE NUMBERED IN STRICT ACCORD-
ANCE WITH R.M.A. SPECIFICATION.
CAPACITY: .001 to 1 Mfd. 1 to 50 Mfd. (Good -Bad scale for
One of the most important improvements, we believe, is the fact
checking quality of electrolytic condensers.) that the 4 position fast -action snap switches are all numbered
REACTANCE: 50 to 2,500 Ohms 2,500 Ohms to 2.5 Megohms in exact accordance with the standard R.M.A. numbering system.
INDUCTANCE: .15 to 7 Henries 7 to 7,000 Henries Thus, if the element terminating in pin No. 7 of a tube is under
DECIBELS: -6 to -l-18 -f-14 to +38 -} 34 to +58 test, button No. 7 is used for that test.
The Model TC -SS comes completewith operating instruc-
TheiModel el comes house in a rugged crackle- A0
T tions and charts. Use it on thebench-use it for field
finished steel cahinet complete with test leads and
operating instructions.
calls. A streamlined carrying case, included at no
extra charge, accommodates the tester and book el
instructions. 2695
FOR REPAIRING ALL ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES
MOTORS AND AUTOMOBILES
Superior's New Model 70 UTILITY TESTER

As an electrical trouble shooter As an Automotive Tester

the Model -70: the Model 70 will test:
Measures A.C. and D.C. Voltages, A.C. and D.C. Both 6 Volt and 12 Volt Storage Bat-
Current, Resistances, leakage, etc. teries Generators Starters Dis-
Will measure current consumption while the appli- tributors Ignition Coils Regulators
ance under test is in operation.
Incorporates a sensitive direct -reading resistance Relays Circuit Breakers Cigarette
range which will measure all resistances commonly Lighters Stop Lights Condensers
used in electrical appliances, motors, etc. Directional Signal Systems All Lomas
Leakage detecting circuit will indicate continuity Heating Systems
from zero ohms to 5 megohms (5,000,000 ohms). and Bulbs Fuses
Will test Toasters, Irons, Broilers, Heating Horns Also will locate poor grounds,
Pads, Clocks, Fans, Vacuum Cleaners, Refrig- breaks in wiring, poor connections, etc.
erators, Lamps, Fluorescents, Fans, Switches,
Thermostats, etc.
Handsome round -cornered molded bakelite case, 3c/e"s51/4"sT/". Complete with ell test
Seeds. Also included is a 44 page beak giving detailed instructions for testing all elec-
trical appliances, automotive equipment, Ma. Only 1585
SHIPPED ON APPROVAL
NO MONEY WITH ORDER-NO C.O.D.
Try any of the above in- rMOSS ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTING CO., INC.
strumenta for 10 days be- I Dept. D-254, 3849 Tenth Ave., New York 34, N. Y. Name
fore you buy. If complete- Please send me the units checked, I agree to pay
ly satisfied then send down down payment within 10 days and to pay the Addreaa
payment and pay balanen monthly balance as shown. It is understood there
will be no finance or interest charges added. It is
ss indicated on coupon. further understood that should I fail to make City Zone.. State
No Interest or Finance payments when due, the full unpaid balance shall
Charges Added! If not become immediately due and payable. All prices net, F.O.B.. N.Y.C.
completely satisfied return Modal 70 ...Total $i 6.85 Model 670-A. Total $28.40 Model TC-55.Totat $26.95
$3.85 within 10 days. Sal- $7.40 within 10 days. AM- $6.95 within 10 days. Bel -
unit to us, no explanation anca $4.00 monthly for 3 ante $3.50 monthly for 8 ante $5.00 monthly for 4
necessary. months. months. months.
L

121
 SPECIAL BARGAINS
but our readers may obtain a copy free
35c,
by writing Audiocraft, 4402 Publishing
House, Great Barrington, Massachusetts.
ORDER NOW!
FINEST
QUALITY!
ELECTRONIC
DIAMOND $¡O PHONO FACTS

NEEDLES j 14.0318/12.01 VIOL

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bring your replaceable needle, reference guide by the famous audio pio-
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Specify either 33 or 78 rpm. pickups, styli, tone arms, turntables, com-
If desired, new shaft sup- pensation, and record care. Regularly sells
plied, $2.75 additional. for $1.00, but now available free from
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The Classic Speaker System
In the loudspeaker chapter of this book
you have seen a picture story on the finish-
ing of a University Classic Speaker System.
More detail on the construction of this unit
is given in an Audiocraft reprint. Ask for
Making the University Classic from Mr.
Larry Epstein, University Loudspeakers,
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DIAMOND Schematic Diagrams
You can receive free a schematic dia-
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sical specifications of any Heathkit. First
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diagrams you want by model number. Both
31 WEST 47 STREET of these items are available from Mr. C. M.
N. Y. 36, N. Y. Edwards, Heath Company, Benton Harbor,
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Hi-Fi Bibliography
A listing of the best books on hi-fi by
title, author, publisher, and price. Also in -
I L?
 The How -To -Do -It Hi-Fi Monthly Magazine

aud lac raft ....

such as:

The Grounded Ear, by Joseph Marshall

What's new and significant in sound reproduction
Tips for the Woodcrafter, by George Bawe
Sound Servicing, by Irving M. Fried
Tape News and Views, by J. Gordon Holt
Basic Electronics, by Roy F. Allison
Sound Fanciers' Guide, by R. D. Darrell
Audio Aids -New Ideas for the Hi-Fi Hobbyist
Audionews- New Products in the Audio Field
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Pre-tested build -it -yourself designs.
"How They Did It" picture stories.
Articles by outstanding authors.
Reviews of sonically unusual recordings.

audiocraft, 5322 Publishing House, Great Barrington, Mass.

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123
 build your own
FORESTER SPECIAL BARGAINS
3 -way
Low Distortion eluded are a number of article reprints and
interesting drawings on the use and care
SPEAKER of styli. Request your packet from Mr. E. J.
SYSTEM Marcus, The Tetrad Company, Inc., 62 St.
Mary Street, Yonkers 2, N. Y.
for as little as
$129.00 Phono-Tape Replacement Manual
. . . with IM distortion below that of systems costing more
Complete data on the modernization and
than 5350.00. Intermodulation distortion or "blurring" of the
replacement of any phono cartridge or
most -listened -to middle and high frequencies is prevented by magnetic recording head. Also complete
complete electrical and acoustical isolation of each speaker. technical data on phono cartridges, record-
This results in less than 0.5% ing heads, and styli. Ask for Manual RM -56
IM distortion to provide excep- from Department 270, Shure Brothers, Inc.,
tionally clean middle tones and 222 Hartrey Avenue, Evanston, Illinois.
clear highs with no harshness.
The Forester system contains 3 Consulting Service
low distortion speakers. (A) a
12" woofer, 30-300 cps, with a
Answers to all questions concerning the
I lb. magnet; (B) and 8" mid- choice of loudspeakers, either for a com-
range unit, 300-5000 cps with a plete system or to supplement existing
14.6 oz. magnet and (C) a 5" speakers; loudspeaker enclosures and
tweeter, 5000-18,000 cps with a their design for use with any speakers in
2.15 oz. magnet and light- existence or contemplated; problems con-
weight, spiderless cone. These cerning the application of hi-fi loudspeak-
three speakers are controlled ers. Write Mr. Karl Kramer, Jensen Manu-
by a 6 -element, 300:5000 cps, 12 Front View
db/octave crossover network. The entire cabinet measures 32"
facturing Co., 6601 South Laramie Ave.,
high, 25" wide, 141/2" deep. Chicago 38. Illinois.
COMPLETE SYSTEMS
SF1 Spkrs., network, cabinet drawings S 79.50
SF1/SFK Spkrs., network, cabinet kit $129.00
SF1/SFP Spkrs., network and assembled 3"
unfinished plywood cabinet $154.00
SF1C Spkrs., network, in finished bleached
mahogany cabinet (illustrated) $189.00

MODERNIZATION SYSTEMS
For use with your p t 12" speaker, instead of the
Sherwood Woofer.

SF2 Same as SFI, less 12" woofer S 49.50

SF2/SFK Same as SFI/SFK, less 12" woofer S 99.00
SF2/SFP Same as SFI/SFP, less 12" woofer $124.00

CROSSOVER NETWORKS (16 ohms)

For your own speaker system.

SFX35 300/5000 cps, 12 db/octave 5 19.50

sx2 200 cps, 12 db/octave S 26.00
SX55 500/5000 cps, 12 db/octave S 18.50
SX6 600 cps, 12 db/octave 16.90
SX8
SX36
800 cps, 12 db/octave
3500 cps, 12 db/octave
j
5
15.50
6.50
5

See the Forester Speaker System at your hi-fi dealer or Long -Playing Record
write for free descriptive catalogue. Construction manual
also available at 50c. This is a 10 -inch double-face LP, con-
Other Sherwood products Include: Low Distortion Am- taining excerpts from many Capitol FDS
plifiers from $99.50 and FM -AM Tuners from $139.50 recordings, by artists such as The Pitts-
burgh Symphony, Hollywood String Quar-
5hgriefil> tet, Billy May, and Les Baxter. Information
on how to get it is available from Mr. Ted
TRONIC lRoRnTOR1ri, INC.
Leonard, Dictograph Products, Inc., Ja-
Dept. 11-F 2882 W. Cullom Ave. Chicago 18, Illinois maica 35, N. Y.
124
 VERDICT FOR ESL
Almost twenty leading phono pickups have been tested by the
authoritative Audio League. Its official verdict:*
"The ESL Professional and Concert Series cartridges are
by far the finest phonograph reproducing instruments.
"These were unquestionably the smoothest, cleanest sounding
cartridges tested.
"For sheer naturalness and undistorted ease, ESL has no peer."
Is your pickup obsolete? Switch to thesensational new ESL
electrodynamic cartridge. Free brochure upon request.

F O R LISTENING AT ITS BEST

Electro -Sonic Laboratories, Inc.

35-54 Thirty-sixth Street Long Island City 6, N. Y.

Soloist Series from $14.95 Concert Series $35.95 Professional Series arm and cartridge $106.50

Authorized quotation No. 29. Please consuó Vol.,, Nos. 6-7. to. t t: (March -April 8 Nov. tçss, and April ;016) of The Audio League

Report, P. 0. Box 2s z, Mt. Vernon, N. Y., for the complete technkal and subjective repon.

125
 get MORE SPECIAL BARGAINS
for your HI-FI
MONEY
with ß,I1
AMPLIFIERS
and TAPE
RECORDERS

Complete Ll' Record List

The Schwann LP Record Catalog is a
complete listing of all records currently
available, without the necessity of supple-
ments or cross-indexing. All prices are
listed, as well as the size, number of records
in album, and title of reverse side. If your
local record dealer doesn't have your free
This new copy, send his name along with your own
is typical of remarkable to Mr. W. Schwann, Publisher, 137 New-
Bell value ...
and look at bury Street, Boston 16, Massachusetts.
all these features!
Understanding Hi-Fi
* MORE OUTPUT * HIGHER FIDELITY
A thoroughly instructive and entertain-
* BUILT-IN PRE -AMP * HUM CONTROL
* 20 TO 20,000 CYCLES * SEPARATE ing book of hi-fi fundamentals, brought
TONE CONTROLS up-to-date in a third revised edition. For
This new Pacemaker is only one of the your copy of this 56 -page book, send 25c
many fine amplifiers and tape recorders manu- to Mr. Larry LeKashman, David Bogen Co.,
factured by Bell Sound Systems, all offered at Inc., P. 0. Box 500, Paramus, N. J.
moderate prices.
You can plan your High Fidelity invest-
ment for much greater value by finding out
more about what Bell offers to you.
Write for free, illustrated literature and
discover for yourself how to get more for your
money by buying Bell.
''Priced slightly higher Denver and West.

Yes! Tell me more about Bell High Fidelity

Equipment, and the name of my nearest dealer.

Name

Address
Recorded Tape Identification
7one_State
The problem of identifying reels of re-
City
corded tape is solved by the Irish Reel
Tab. Now made in two sizes, they fit snugly
BELL SOUND SYSTEMS, Inc. beneath the edges of any 5- or 7 -inch reel,
A Subsidiary of Thompson Products, Inc.
regardless of how much tape is on it. Made
555 MARION ROAD COLUMBUS 7, OHIO
of sturdy stock, they have plenty of room

126
 "BUILD -IT -YOURSELF" AND ENJOY

IN KIT FORM

OHeathkit FM TUNER KIT

Features brand new circuit and physical design. Matches WA-P2 Pre-
amplifier. Modem tube line-up provides better than 10 uv. sensitivity
for 20 db of quieting. Built-in power supply.
Incorporates automatic gain control-highly stabilized oscillator-illumi-
nated tuning dial -pre -aligned IF and ratio transformers and front end
tuning unit. Uses 6BQ7A Gascode RF stage, 6U8 oscillator-mixer, two
6CB6 IF amplifiers, 6AL5 ratio detector, 6C4 audio amplifier, and 6X4
rectifier. Shpg. Wt. 7 Lbs. MODEL FM -3A $26.95+

©Heathkit 25 -Watt HIGH FIDELITY AMPLIFIER KIT

Features a new design Peerless output transformer and KT66 output
tubes. Frequency response within ±1 db from 5 cps to 160 Kc at 1 watt.
Harmonic distortion only 1% at 25 watts, 20-20,000 cps. IM distortion
only 1% at 20 watts. 4, 8, or 16 ohms output. Hum and noise, 99 db
below rated output. Uses 2-12AU7's, 2-KT66's and 5R4GY. Attractive
physical appearance harmonizes with WA -P2 Preamplifier. Kit com-
binations:
W -5M AMPLIFIER KIT: Con- W-5 COMBINATION AMPLI-

ssShpg.
sists of main amplifier and power FIER KIT: Consists of W -5M am -
supply, all on one chassis.
Shpg. Wt. 31 Lbs.
Expre only. 559.75
plifter kit plus Heathkit Model WA-
P2 Preamplifier kit.
e
wt. 38 lbs.
Express only. $81.50'
©Heathkit HIGH FIDELITY PREAMPLIFIER KIT
Designed specifically for use with the Williamson Type Amplifiers, the
WA-P2 features 6 separate switch -selected input channels, each with its
own input control-full record equalization with turnover and rolloff
controls -separate bass and treble tone controls -and many other desir- eau
able features. Frequency response is within ±1 db from 25 to 30,000 cps
Beautiful satin -gold finish. Power requirements from the Heathkit
Williamson Type Amplifier. Shpg. Wt. 7 Lbs.
$21.75'
e 6).:)t7t1 (;)
MODEL WA -P1

HIGH FIDELITY Price includes 10% federal excise fax.

OHeathkit
SPEAKER SYSTEM KIT
This speaker system employs two Jensen speakers to cover the frequency
range from 50 to 12,000 cps. Response is within ±5 db through this
range. Built-in crossover functions at 1600 cps. System rated at 25 watts,
with nominal impedance of 16 ohms. Enclosure is a ducted -port bass
reflex type. The attractive "picture frame" mold-

SS
MODEL SS -1
ing blends with any decorating scheme. You Shps. Wt. 30 Lbs.
merely assemble the cabinet, wire the speakers
and crossover network, and treat the furniture -
grade plywood in the finish of your choice.
©Heathkit HIGH FIDELITY
SPEAKER SYSTEM KIT
This Range Extending Speaker System employs a 15" woofer and a
super tweeter to cover the frequencies between 35 and 600 cps, and
between 4000 and 16,000 cps. When used with the Model SS -I, it extends
the frequency range at both ends of the spectrum for a total coverage
of ±5 db from 35 to 16,000 cps. Provides unbelievably rich sound over
the audio range.
Exposed panels are furniture grade plywood, suitable for light or dark
finish of your choice. All parts are pre-cut and ready for assembly. The
kit includes necessary crossover circuits and balance control. Crossover
frequencies are 600, 1600. and 4,000. Power rat-
ing is 35 watts for speech and music. Nominal MODEL SS -18
impedance is 16 ohms. Shpt'. Wt. 80 Lbs.
The SS -1B. alone, measures 29" high by 23"
wide by IV/" deep. $999S

HEATH COMPANY Nee CATALOG

A Subsidiary of Daystrom Inc.
Describes more than 65 top-quality
BENTON HARBOR 7, electronic kits. Write for
your free copy today!
MICHIGAN
127
 1956
o
SPECIAL BARGAINS
RCO
FREE saves you 5O% on your
CATALOG on both sides for writing or typing. For a
free supply, write stating which size you
want to Mr. Nat Welch, ORRadio, Inc.,
TEST INSTRUMENT & HI-FI COSTS! T-120 Marvyn Road, Opelika, Alabama.
50 EICO KITS d INSTRUMENTS to choose tram' Free Home Trial
All Pentron tape recorders are available
VACUUM TUBE
S" PUSH-PULL on a 10 -day free home trial plan. See your
VOLTMETER
OSCILLOSCOPE local hi-fi dealer or write The Pentron
#425
#221 Corporation, 777 South Tripp Ave., Chicago
KIT $25.95 24, Illinois.
KIT $44.95
Wired $39.95
Wired $79.95 Look or Listen?
A provocative article suggesting that the
For Laboratory Precision at Lowest Cost- way to judge a loudspeaker is by listening
buy EICO! rather than by checking frequency range
TUBE TESTER #625 or response curve statistics. Included is a
1000 Ohms/Volt I suggested system for rating speakers, a
MULTIMETER
field where standards are badly needed.
Ask for Shall We Look or Listen from Mr.
#536 Karl Kramer, Jensen Manufacturing Co.,
KIT $12.90 6601 South Laramie Ave., Chicago 38, Illi-
Wired $14.90
I. KIT 534.95 Wired $49.95
nois.
You build FICO KITS in evening, 1 but-
they last a lifetime!
I AVE 17V BATTERY ELIMINATOR
NEWT E CHARGER #1050
REDI-TESTER #540
KIT $12.95

,H1 WIRED $15.95

o KIT $29.95 Wired 33895

EICO-performance-proved by TV manufac-
turers, electronic schools and over 100,000
servicemen! OVER 72 MILLION in use today!
NEW! HI-FI PREAMPLIFIER
NEW! 20 -Watt Ultra -Linear
#HF -41
HIGH FIDELITY AMPLIFIER
#HF20

KIT $24.95 Wired $37.95 I

With Power Supply:
KIT $29.95 Wired $44.95 i
Installation Plans
KIT $49.95 Wired $79.95
Complete construction details for a De-
MAIL COUPON NOW. Prices 5% higher on mountable Music Wall, consisting of simple
West Coast. Electronic Instrument Co., Inc.,
84 Withers St., Brooklyn II, N. Y.
interchangeable plywood cabinets, which
56
house all audio, radio and TV equipment,
and the record library as well. If not avail-
Send FREE 1956 Catalog and name of
able free from your local lumber dealer,
neighborhood EICO distributor. LC56
send 10c for Plan No. 8 to Douglas Fir Ply-
wood Association, Tacoma, Washington.
Name
Audio Record Subscription
Address
A fine periodical having articles of timely
City Zone ... State interest on all phases of sound recording.
Occupation
Included is the annual Tape Recorder Di-
rectory, which contains performance data,
128
 If you're looking for a top quality high fidelity system that will give you years of
enjoyment, that is fine furniture, can be proudly displayed on a table or bookshelf, and
is kind to your budget, here it is. The Maestro Hi-Fi system will surpass the most critical
New Craftsmen Maestro examination of the audiophile. Here are the components:

CRAFTSMEN AMPLIFIER-PREAMP WITH EQUALIZATION, LOUDNESS, AND FULL -RANGE

Complete H1 -FI System TONE CONTROL, 10 WATTS OUTPUT. FOUR -SPEED RECORD CHANGER WITH 4 -POLE

MJTOR. G.E. VARIABLE RELUCTANCE CARTRIDGE. 1 MIL DIAMONO STYLUS,

Priced under $200 3 MIL SAPPHIRE STYLUS.

Al the above components housed in two beautiful cabinets available in mahogany or

ccmb grained oak. One cabinet contains the famous Craftsmen CS -16 complete speaker
system. It is well known that no single speaker can adequately reproduce every
sound from one end of the audio range to the other. The CS -16 contains three speakers.
There is an 8 inch woofer, an 8 inch mid -range speaker, a 3 inch tweeter. to ensure

the ultimate in sound reproduction.

From a specifications standpoint the Craftsmen Maestro is the outstanding buy in

hi :;11 fidelity. But you must see and hear it to discover why audio experts throughout the
country have hailed the Maestro as a milestone in the development of high fidelity
Visit your Craftsmen dealer today or write for new illustrated Craftsmen catalog.

RAUib craftsmen diet of PRECISION RADIATION INSTRUMENTS. INC

4223 IC WEST JEFFERSON BOULEVARD. LOS ANGELES 16 CALIFORNIA

12q
 SPECIAL BARGAINS
features and prices on all available mag-
netic recorders. A free subscription to The
Audio Record is available from Audio De-
vices, Inc., 444 Madison Avenue, New York
22, N. Y.

How to Choose Components

Tells how to select speaker diameter,
discusses unitary versus separate speaker
Hi-Fi Plan Book mountings, RETMA sensitivity ratings,
Answers the important questions about crossover networks, impedance ratings,
how much to spend, suggested components, damping factor, and response curves. Ask
installation for best appearance, and for Bulletin No. 118 from Electro -Voice,
where to buy a true hi-fi system. Ask for Inc., Buchanan, Michigan.
the BIC High Fidelity Plan Book from
British Industries Corporation, Port Wash- Tape Recording Magazine
ington, N. Y. The only publication devoted exclusively

CORNER HORN
LOUDSPEAKER
14121=1
DEDICATED to thosediscriminat- SYSTEM S MODERATELY sized-moderately
ing listeners who demand RE - priced, the SHORTHORN system
production of original music, approaches the KLIPSCHORN
the KLIPSCHORN system offers system in fidelity of music
the ultimate in fidelity. REproduction.

KLIPSCHORN and
SHORTHORN loud-
speaker systems
are manufactured
only by their de-
signer, Paul W.
Klipsch. Write for
our latest literature.

KLIPSCH
AND
ASSOCIATES
HOPE,
ARKANSAS

130
 Mnificent
clear-et-W-7,3p
The world's finest
hi-fi tape recorder
The ultimate in high-fidelity tape recorders for
home and professional use. The dual -speed,
dual -track FERROGRAPH is the answer to the
demand of discriminating audiophiles seeking
professional tape recording results at a modest
price. Meets the critical demands of B.B.C.
S Frequency Response 40-15,000 cps ± 2 db at
15 ips; wow and flutter less than 0.2%. Accom-
modates 81/ " reel, with 60-second rewind time.
Speeds 3% and 7% or 7% and 15 ips. 3 heavy
duty motors: shaded pole for advance and re-
TRI -CHANNEL HI-FI System wind, hysteresis for tape drive.
anew dimension in high fidelity sound
"Full-bodied bass
mid-range
. crisp
.

shimmering
diets +e.1111 Model 66H
treble .. " Virtually flat re- RP> (custom installation)
71/2 and 15 ips
sponse from below 25 to above
25,000 cps. Distortion below $42 5O°
recordable measurement. You
must hear it to believe it!
Specially ,designed base am-
plifier matched to 2 12" audi-
torium woofers; the mid-
range amplifier being matched
to its own 12" speaker and
the electrostatic tweeter fed Model 3A/N
by its own amplifier. The at-
Three-way speaker tractive enclosure encompasses (portable with
the latest advances in matched built-in speaker)
system enclosure system design. 3% and 7% ips
Tri-Channel Sound $37950
Matched System
$795°0 Tape Decks
3% and 7h§ ips
"A", 2 heads. $ 193
"B", 3 heads. $225
"C", (stereophonic)
$250
Amplifier section Tone Colour Unit

If You're a Connoisseur...
you'll want a
TURNTABLE UHF REPRODUCER
Compare the Connoisseur You can play a recording
with any turntable and from end to end and still not
you'll marvel at its per- hear ALL the music unless
formance. Non-magnetic, your hi-fi equipment includes
12" table: ± 2% variation a KELLY Ribbon "Tweeter".
provides for all 3 speeds: The KELLY Ribbon tweeter
43119110. Turntable hysteresis motor.
TURNTABLE: Rumble-bet-
makes the perfect complement
to any quality woofer to bring
$110 )" ter than 50 db down; Wow out all the subtle harmonics
"Dynabalanced" tone arm
with Mark II super-light-
weight pickup w/diamond 13%x15%".
-
-less than 0.15% of rated
speed; Dimensions
$6995
of live music. Duralumin foil
diaphragm with matching 15 -
ohm transformer. Frequency
stylus $49.50. . w/sap- Response 3000-20,000 cps.
Crossover network without audible resonance or
phire stylus $34.50. PICKUP: Frequency Re-
Mark II pickup w/diamond sponse -20-20,000 cps ± 2 (5000 cps) back-radiation. Horn -loading
Model DN/t -1000 cps cut off. Dim: 81/2"
stylus $33.00 ... w/sap- db at 33% rpm: Effective
Mass-4 mg: Impedance
phire stylus... $17.50. -400 ohms at 1000 cps.
$22.95 x 51/2" x 41/2"

Write today for complete literature and independent, unbiased performance test reports
or inquire at leading hi-fi music centers.

ERCONA CORP. 551 Fifth Ave., Dept. LC, New York 17, N. Y.
In Canada, write Astral Electric Company Limited, 44 Danforth Road, Toronto 13.

131
 SPECIAL BARGAINS
Now you can have
to magnetic recording. Features how -to-
do -it articles, how -to -build -it, plus the
latest in new products and doings in the
world of tape. Also has a regular review
BETTER MUSIC section of music on tape. For a free copy of
the very excellent Tape Recording, write
Mr. Mark Mooney, Tape Recording, Se-
WITH YOUR PRESENT verna Park 10, Maryland.

PHONOGRAPH ''';;,,,;','.r.
by installing the
,,:U;,\ ''''
euuuiminiüiüü"'
tt _.o _.iÌIIIÏr._ . iü._

/Weft Leidee4 REK-O-RUT

.110

Ceramic Cartridge
1111011.53(01.,

You can dramatically improve the tone

quality of your present phonograph with the
SHURE WC -10 "Twin-Lever" cartridge.
With this remarkable new Ceramic Cartridge Stroboscope Disc
you can enjoy the luxury of fine music Your sound reproduction will not be
reproduction at low cost. truly hi-fi unless your turntable is on speed
and the music on pitch. You can readily
The WC-10 has a peakfree frequency response determine whether your table is operating
from 40 to 13,000 cps. It replaces most 3 -speed, correctly by use of this free indicator. Ac-
plastic cased cartridges, crystal or ceramic, curate for all three standard speeds, under
turnover or single needle ...
and is quickly
installed on any tone arm with standard t/2"
either 50 or 60 cycle illumination. Write
mounting centers.
Department 30, Rek-O-Kut Company,
38-01 Queens Blvd., Long Island City 1,
The unique "Twin -Lever" design, with each N. Y.
needle on its own shaft, provides improved,
individually correct compliance for each record Phono Modernization Manual
speed. Covers both the theoretical and practical
Needle replacement can be accomplished in aspects of ceramic cartridge operation.
seconds-without tools-with the cartridge in Tells how they work, where they can be
the pickup arm. used, hints on using, input circuits, and
WC -10 with two sapphire needles-LIST PRICE $9.50
mechanical aspects. Well illustrated with
WC -10D with diamond needle for LP and sapphire
line drawings, characteristic curves, and
needle for 78RPM-LIST PRICE $94.00 schematics. Send 10c for Phonograph Mod-
Available from your local SHURE distributor
ernization Manual to Electronic Applica-
tions Division, Sonotone Corporation,
SHURE BROTHERS, INC., SALES DIVISION Elmsford, N. Y.
270 HARTREN AVENUE. EVANSTON, ILLINOIS
Please send me detailed information on the SHURE "Twin -Lever" Tape Playing Time Chart
Cartridge.
Complete and up-to-date, this gives
NAME playing time for all speeds, all reel sizes,
and all types of tape, including newer Long
ADDRESS
Play and Double Play types. Write Mr. Nat
CITY STATE Welch, ORRadio Industries, Inc., Shamrock
s, TLP J Circle, Opelika, Alabama.
132
BUILD YOUR OWN FINE Jenen HI-FI SPEAKER SYSTEM
COMPLETE KITS NOW AVAILABLE-EVERYTHING YOU NEED
NO SAWING ... NO DRILLING ... NO WOOD FINISHING ... NO SOLDERING
Cabinart K-105 with P-205
Pwfinished Driest Kit added

CabinartK -10S
Boric Cabinet Kit

Jensen KL32 Loudspeaker Kit +

YOU SAVE UP TO $252.50X-

YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE A TECHNICIAN

YOU DON'T NEED A WORKSHOP

YOU DON'T HAVE TO RE A FURNITURE FINISHER

*Compared with fartory-built Jensen Imperial reprodacer

The proud owner of the Jensen 3 -way hi -6 speaker system illustrated Jensen Speaker units are matched components, carefully pretested,
assembled the handsome low boy cabinet in a kw hours in his living with the smooth, balanced, wide -range performance for which
room with no tools except a screwdriver, pliers and a stapler. No Jensen factory -made reproducers are famous. Cabinart Cabinet Kits
cutting, sawing, or soldering. And the wood finishing? He just were designed by Jensen to give the best possible acoustic perform-
wiped off the finger prints, for the beautiful genuine selected hard- ance with Jensen Loudspeaker Kits; each is carefully coordinated
wood was factory pre-finished and rubbed by professional finishers. with the recommended Jensen Loudspeaker Kit for correct loading
Best of all, be saved nearly $100 compared with cost of the equiva- of the low frequency channel ("woofer"). Wood pieces are accu-
lent factory-built speaker system. rately cut and drilled, with all cut-outs provided. Hardware, cleats
You can have the fun and satisfaction of building your own Jensen and glue are included with complete instructions for easy assembly.
peaker system with size and performance ranging all the way from If you like, you can start with the Basic Cabinet Kit of your choice,
the diminutive, economical Duette up to the big incomparable add the Prefinished Dress Kit later.
Imperial at savings which will stretch your hi-fi equipment budget. Here's your way to finest hi-fi speaker performance at least cost!
Jensen and Cabinart with their specialized skills have collaborated Ask your dealer, or write now.
to make this easy and trouble -free. Everything you need is furnished.

-
/warm Coleman Cribbed Kits
Equivalent Speaker KN Basic
System "Woofer" Jensen Cabinet Dress
Type Size Reproducer Model Price Type Ka Ake Kitt Price
-201 $54.00

--
3 -Way 15' Imperial KT-31 $184.50 Corner' Horn K-101 $89.00
3 -Way 15' Triplex KT -32 169.50 Co...,' Boss-OhroHes K-103 48.00 P-203 39.00
3 -Way 13' Triplex KT-32 169.50 Low Roy Ross-Uhraflex K-105 48.00 P-205 39.00
2-Wayf 1S' KT-21 99.50 Corner'Ra,s-Ultroflex K-103 48.00 P-203 39.00
2-Woyf 15' KT-21 9930 Law Roy Boss -Ultrafox K-105 48.00 P-205 39.00
2-Woy1 12' Concerto KT-22 73.00 Corner' Rax-UNrofle K-107 39.00 P-207 36.00
2-Wayf 12' Concerto KT-22 73.00 Low soy Bass-Ultrafle. K-109 39.00 P-209 36.00
2-Wayf 8 Contemporary KDU-10 24.75 Corner' Rau-Uhruflex K-111 23.00 P-211 25.00
2 -Way 8' Deena Treasure Cree KDU-10 24.75 Duette K-113 18.00 P-213 21.00
Gives e.celleot resets ogobat ,idewa8. Roses-Ultrafle. 6 a Jansen aodemork.
f Cabinet pro ides for expansion to 3 -way system at any lime with Jensen KTX-1 Range Extender Supertweeter Kit, price $4375.
I Avoiloble in Mahogany or Korb,º Ronde.

Per inlermalien about Jensen Speaker Kilt write: For inlermolian about Cabinart Cabines KHz write:

enäen
JMANUFACTURING COMPANY
Division of The Muter Company
6601 SOUTH LARAMIE, CHICAGO 38, ILLINOIS A Division of G 8 H Wood Products Co., Inc.
In Canada: Copper Wire Product, Co., Ltd. 99 North 11th StMet, Rraokiyn I1, N. Y.

133
 RICA'S QUEST and
SPECIAL BARGAINS
AMERICA'S
MOST AUTHORITATIVE
REVIEW MAGAZINE
RECORD

The REVIEW
of RECORDED MUSIC
A monthly publication-devote to un
biased appraisals of all current classical
and popular record releases. Famous Designers Plans
Plans for a simply -built hi-fi storage
9iSte eorr airtis.
&ache wall, as featured in Life magazine. De-
signed by George Nelson, who also did the
THE MONTH'S BEST Herman Miller Furniture line. Included is
a handsome color photo of the finished
REVIEWING THE CLASSICS project. Ask for Bulletin SA -184, price 25c,
from United States Plywood Corp., New
York 36, N. Y.
HI-FI AND MUSIC
A monthly article by Review of Recorded Music
ED. TATNALL CANBY This is a monthly publication devoted
one of America's leading Hi-Fi authorities solely to unbiased appraisals of all cur-
rent classical and popular records. In addi-
LISTENING WITH BOTH EARS tion, each issue contains feature articles
by writers well-known to audiophiles. The
monthly column by
a
publishers offer a special six months trial
ED. GRUNFELD subscription for $1.00. Write Review of Re-
of WQXR "Music Magazine" Fame corded Music, 119 West 57th Street, New
York 19, N. Y.
CONNOISSEUR'S CORNER Technical Advice
The Technical Service Department of
TOPS IN POPS University Loudspeakers is ready at all
times to answer consumer inquiries on
All to be found every month in loudspeakers, enclosures and systems. Hi-fi
the 32 page Review of Recorded Music enthusiasts and technicians are invited to
avail themselves of this service without
To be fully informed of all that is new in obligation. Write to Mr. Larry Epstein,
the world of Recorded Music, fill out the University Loudspeakers, Inc., 80 South
coupon below. Kensico Avenue, White Plains, N. Y.
Review of Recorded Music, 119 W. 57 St., New York 19 Turntable or Changer?
Please enter my subscription to the Review of Each side of this argument has its pro-
Recorded Music for a six month's trial period,
for which I enclose ;1.00. ponents, and you should carefully consider
D year $2.00 D 2 years $3.50
both before making an investment. For a
3 years $5.00
1
forthright discussion of this question, ask
NAME for a copy of Shall I Buy a Turntable or a
ADDRESS Record Changer?, from Department 30,
CITY STATE Rek-O-Kut Company, 38-01 Queens Blvd.,
Long Island City 1, N. Y.

134
 Now - with Walco Record Care Accessories you can -
'
fe give your records complete protection! Use STATI-
CLEAN, Anti -Static Record Spray, and DISCLOTH,
{or Cornple
Anti -Static Record Cloth, to free your records of dust-
i attracting static. Use the DISCLEEN Clip -on Record
--for Brush to keep dust out of grooves as records play.
CARE
/
Reord
I \ \
Get better sound, longer record wear with the BAL-
ANCED SOUND KIT. And store your records safely
in DISCOVERS, Plastic Protective Sleeves.

WALCO WALCO WALCO WALCO WALCO

STATI -CLEAN DISCLEEN DISCOVERS DISCLOTH Balanced Sound Kit

Anti -Static Clip -on Plastic Protective Anti-Static Turntable Level and
Record Spray Record Brush Record Sleeves Record Cloth Tone-Arm Pressure Gauge

\ for
r
'
wenin9
/ Replacement Needles
Eä030
Q2Te I for All Phonographs
K°
RE DIAMONDS SAPPHIRES*
TESTED BY EXPERTS TRUSTED BY MILLIONS
Leading phonograph manufacturers say: " ... change needles
frequently for best sound, least record wear!" But don't take
chances with ordinary replacement needles. Be safe insist
on Walco, the needle used in more hi-fi sets than all other
-
brands. At your record dealers!

YOUR WALCO NEEDLE GUARANTEE

Every Walco Diamond and Sapphire Needle is un-
conditionally guaranteed by Walco, Trade Name of
ELECTROVOX CO., INC., world's largest manu-
facturer of Jewel Tipped needles.
At Record Dealers - everywhere!
*Synthesized

Trade Name of ELECTROVOX CO., INC.

60-L Franklin St., East Orange, N. J.

135
 hailed by SPECIAL BARGAINS
budget-conscious
audiophiles!
lt's!
SPEAKER
SYSTEMS

O III I II !Hie'

de'/
(ha/
MIOM-EIOKEITT
oo.o...routint, 0"10.111

Jensen

o. Technical Monographs
o,
w The Technical Service Department of the
Jensen Manufacturing Company have pub-
lished an excellent series of technical bul-
letins. Of particular interest to hi-fi fans
are Loudspeaker Frequency Response
Measurements, Frequency Range and
Power Considerations in Music Reproduc-
tion, and Horn Type Loudspeakers. These
are priced at 25c each. The newest publica-
Now! Custom install your own recorder. tion, priced at 50c, is You Can Build Your
Low cost. Ready co plug into any ampli- Own Hi-Fi Speaker Systems. Write for
fier and speaker. these to Mr. Karl Kramer, Jensen Manu-
facturing Company, 6601 South Laramie
Ave.. Chicago 38, Illinois.
Better Listening Magazine
This is a fine little monthly with a num-
ber pf how -it -works, how -to -do -it and
record review pieces in each issue. Free
subscriptions are available through many
hi-fi dealers. If yours doesn't have it, send
his name as well as your own to St. Regis
Publications, Inc., 7 West 44th Street, New
York 36, N. Y.
Tape mechanism has UniMagic 1 -lever Hi-Fi Consultation
control for record -playback, fast forward
and rewind with instant braking. 2 speeds Free technical advice concerning any
-7112 and 33/". Separate record -playback problems of individual hi-fi systems is
and erase heads.
offered to our readers by Electro -Voice. If
Matching tape preamplifier -40.12,000 your system has you stumped, write Tech-
cps ± 3db, signal -noise ratio 50db. Push- nical Service Department, Electro -Voice,
pull oscillator. Professional controls. VU Inc., Buchanan, Michigan.
meter. Brushed copper and jet black fin-
ish. Carries Pentron warranty.
The Diffaxial Speaker
Reprint of a technical paper by A. B.
S. Tripp Ave.,
PENTRGN 765
Chicago 34, III.
Cohen, describing a new concept in multi -
element speakers mounted in a unitary ar-
rn (anada: :-1 Na, Radio Lid.. Toroo/o ray. The author argues that the Diffaxial
136
 ORGANIZING THE CONTROLS
....the key to high fidelity

Every control on a well designed, hon- correct for the characteristics of your loud-
estly considered high fidelity instrument has speaker and for the acoustic characteristics
a specific useful function, related to each of of the room. Choose settings which, in your
the other controls. total system, create the proper sense of aural
balance. Now reduce the loudness setting to
The Prelude, Harman-Kardon's new 10 a level, lower than the normal listening level
watt printed circuit amplifier illustrates this in your room. Note that the full bodied, life-
point well. With the function selector, choose like quality you experienced at high listening
the type of program material you plan to level has disappeared. This is typical of
listen to (tuner, phono, tape or T.V.). Select human hearing since it loses sensitivity to
the correct record equalization settings for very low and very high -pitched tones as the
the particular record to be played, using the sound level is reduced. With all other con-
separate low frequency turnover and high trols unchanged, switch quickly through the
frequency roll -o$ controls. To minimize turn- four positions of the loudness contour control
table rumble operate the rumble filter slide until you find the one which most nearly
switch. With the loudness contour selector duplicates the full bodied sound you enjoyed
in the uncompensated position, turn the loud- at high level.
ness control to a reasonably high level. This
permits you to make the remaining adjust-
ments while listening at your own maximum Turn the loudness control up to the level
at which you wish to listen. The controls are
efficiency.
now properly organized and your system
Adjust the bass and treble tone controls to should perform at its very best!
Prelude, Model PC -200
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Printed circuit throughout. Output level: (complete with cage)
Peak Power: watts. Frequency Response ± db
10 watts at 3% IM. 15
20-20,000 cps. Rumble Filter. Tape and Record Equalization.
1
$5550°
Write for free technical data sheets on the Prelude and matching AM -FM tuner. .,lightly
higher

harman kardon in the

west

INCORPORAT[a
520 Main St. Westbury, L. 1., N. V.

1:ï
 1 LL

NOSY/THE ARM THAT SETS SPECIAL BARGAINS

A NEW SOUND -STANDARD IN HI-FI
is an integrated version in one assembly of
Ortho-sonic v/4 the design principles of multi -speaker sys-
TRACKS COURSE OF ORIGINAL RECORDING STYLUS tems. Rather heavy going for the amateur
reader, but still worth looking into. Write
Mr. Larry Epstein, University Loudspeak-
ers, Inc., 80 South Kensico Avenue, White
Plains, N. Y.
Compensator Settings
Tells what reproducer settings to use for
any make of record, any speed. For a free
copy of Recommended Compensator Set-
tings for Record Equalization, write Broci-
ner Electronics Laboratory, 344 East 32nd
Street, New York 16, N. Y.
Temples of Tone
NO TRACKING ERROR NO SCRATCHING
An excellent booklet about fine music
and its reproduction. Describes the sub-
NO FUMBLING jective aspects of music and sound, distor-
ORTHO-SONIC DOES NOT MINIMIZE . . . IT ELIMINATES
tion, hi-fi components, hi-fi demonstrations.
TRACKING ERROR Write to Electro -Voice, Inc., Buchanan,
In Ortho-Sonic V/4 you get the only multiple precision ball Michigan.
bearing arm which guides the stylus radially (from edge to
center in a straight line). This action duplicates the exact
path of the original cutting stylus. Distortion due to High Fidelity Magazine
tracking error is completely eliminated.
The magazine for music listeners, re-
NO OTHER TONE ARM GIVES YOU THESE FEATURES garded everywhere as an authority in the
Scratchless Starting-Faultless Stopping. A slight tilt of the field. Each issue contains numerous record
arm lowers your stylus on the record. A gentle contact is
assured each time . regardless on what spot you want reviews, reports on equipment tests, and a
to start your record. You don't touch the cartridge when discography of some individual composer's
you stop-just tilt the arm. No scratching is possible.
Another exclusive feature of ORTHO-SONIC is the accurate works on record. Regularly 60c, a copy is
cueing it affords by the permanent indexing scale, magnified available free by writing High Fidelity,
at the point of reference. You can start any designated
passage of your record without fumbling! This feature alone
4401 Publishing House, Great Barrington,
makes the ORTHO-SONIC a MUST for professionals and hi-fi Massachusetts.
enthusiasts.

SCIENTIFIC TESTS BY LEADING LABORATORIES FIND Needle Shadowgraphing

ORTHO-SONIC V/4 "FIRST RATE"
"Less than 2% I.M. distortion at all Tracking forces from
You can be sure of the condition of your
1 gram up ......No resonances could be found between 35 stylus by having it checked periodically by
and 1,000 cps Installation and leveling of the V/4 are shadowgraph, which provides a projected
unusually easy to accomplish
...
...General listening Quality
image of the tip 500 times actual size. A
of the arm is first rate Cueing is remarkably precise .. .

When the stylus is lowered it generally falls in the same prompt and honest appraisal of the poten-
groove it was playing ... Needle talk was negligible. No
acoustic resonances could be heard tial life of your stylus will be given you
. It delivers its
.

optimum performance at tracking forces as low as 3 if you send it to Transcriber Company, 98

grams . .
County Street, P. O. Drawer 478, Attleboro,
MODEL #100 for all records
up fo and Massachusetts.
including 12" $35.95
MODEL #200 (For all records Including
transcription size) $44.50 Recorded High Fidelity
AT BETTER DEALERS EVERYWHERE One of the best source books for record
information is this book by Dr. Kurt List.
If your dealer cannot supply your The fund of information about recording,
needs, send your order direct to .
both artistic and technical, which he pre-
sents in this book will make it a welcome
and valuable addition to your library. Re-
ORTHO-SONIC INSTRUMENTS, Inc. vised and enlarged to 54 pages, it is now
available at 25c from Westminster Re-
66K Mechanic Street, New Rochelle, N. Y. cording Sales Corporation, 275 Seventh
Avenue, New York 1, N. Y.

138
 FIRST IN HI-FI
Milton Sleeper, pioneer pub-
lisher in the hi-fi field, invites
you to join the thousands of tape,
record, and FM enthusiasts who
say,"HI-FI MUSIC is first."
In addition to complete coverage of equipment for tape, records,
and FM, HI-FI MUSIC contains more tape and record reviews in
each issue than any other magazine, prepared by a board of 20 top-
ranking music critics. And only in HI-FI MUSIC is each review
accompanied by a rating of the composition, performance, and
audio quality, an invaluable aid and time-saver for collectors.

You may enter your subscription

under this no -risk guarantee: if you,
too, do not say, "HI-FI MUSIC is
first," your money will be refunded
in full. Order your subscription
now, and see for yourself.
THIRD YEAR OF MILTON B. SLEEPER, Publisher, HI -Fl MUSIC MAGAZINE
209 East 37th Street, New York 16, N. Y.
SERVICE TO In payment of a subscription under your No -Risk Guarantee, Ienclose
TAPE, RECORD, $6.00 for 3 years (18 issues) S3.00 for 1year (6 issues)
NAME
AND FM RADIO
ADDRESS
ENTHUSIASTS
139
 Top Quality! Glossary
of
FISHERtl
HIGH FIDELITY COMPONENTS
Hi-Fi Terms
You should know these definitions
to really understand high fidelity.

Model CA -40
THE FISHER Master Control-Amplifier
Complete in every respect. Model CA -40
combines the most advanced audio control
AF - Abbreviation for audio frequency.
with a powerful 25 -watt amplifier on one com- AES - Audio Engineering Society. (AES has recom-
pact chassis. Less than 1% distortion at 25 mended a recording characteristic used by some
watts! Handles 50 watts peak. Exclusive FISH- record manufacturers.)
ER TONESCOPE-a graphic indicator of control
settings. Direct tape -head playback and micro-
phone preamplifier. Six equalization settings.
AM - Abbreviation for amplitude modulation; the type
of transmission utilized by the standard broadcast
Frequency response within 0.5 db, 10 to 90,000
cycles! Hum and noise better than 90 db below stations.
full output. Cathode -follower tape recorder out-
put. 4, 8 and I6 -ohm outputs. Ten tubes.
-
Amplification Magnification (see gain).
CONTROLS: Volume/Loudness-Balance (4 -
Position), Selector/Equalization, AC On -Off,
-
Amplifier An electronic circuit which increases the
amplitude of an electric voltage or power.
Bass, Treble, Rumble Filter, Noise Filter.
SIZE: 12 Ç' wide x 104" deep x 5" high.
WEIGHT: 24 pounds.
AFC -Abbreviation for automatic frequency control;
$139.50 an electronic circuit used in FM tuners to correct
inaccuracy in tuning a station.
Arm (phonograph) -A movable bracket which holds
the pickup in proper position over the record
(also Tone Arm).
-
Attenuation Reduction of an electric voltage or cur-
rent; the opposite of amplification.
Audio-The range of frequencies from approximately
30 to 15,000 c.p.s. Also an adjective used in refer-
ence to the electronic and acoustical equipment
Model FM -40 concerned with the reproduction of sound.
THE FISHER Custom FM Tuner Audiophile -A person who is interested in improving
A beautifully designed FM Tuner-with oll musical reproduction for his own personal listen-
that the FISHER name Implies-and only ing, by use of the latest audio equipment and
$99.50! The Model FM -40 represents one of our
greatest values in twenty years. It is a superb techniques.
combination of engineering excellence and daz-
zling performance at moderate cost. Stable -
Background Noise The total system noise, regardless
circuitry and simplified controls make this re- of whether or not a signal is present.
markable tuner easy to use. Meter for micro - Baffle -A barrier or partition designed to separate
accurate center -of -channel tuning. Sensitivity --
3 microvolts for 20 db of quieting. Uniform
the sound waves generated by the front and back
response +1 db, 20 to 20,000 cycles. Accom- of a loudspeaker cone.
modates 72 or 300 -ohm antenna systems. Three
outputs: Detector/Multiplex, plus cathode -fol- Bass Reflex -
An enclosed type of speaker enclosure
lower main output. Attractive brown -and -gold, or baffle with a small window opening to provide
brushed -brass front panel. 8 tubes. SIZE: 1234" for improved bass response.
wide x 7;4" deep x 4" high. WEIGHT: 15
pounds. $99.50 Beam Power -A
design of vacuum tube characterized
Blonde or Mahogany Cabinet $17.95 by abundant power and unusually high amplif ica-
Prices Slightly Higher In The Far Weet tion used as the output tube in power amplifiers.
Write Today For Complete Specifications -
Cartridge Another name for the phonograph "pick-
FISHER RADIO CORP. up"; the device which converts the mechanical
21-47 44th Dr., L. I. C. 1, N. Y. energy stored in the record grooves into electrical
r energy.
Chassis - The metal box, framework or'other support
to which the components of a tuner or amplifier
or other device are attached. The term is also used
to designate the entire equipment (less cabinet) SAVE MONEY ON
when assembled.
-
Compensator An electronic circuit for altering the EVERYTHING IN HI-FI
frequency response of the amplifier system to
achieve a specified result. In general this reférs
to such things as record equalization or loudness
correction.
Constant Amplitude - The disc recording characteristic
wherein the groove displacement is directly pro-
portional to the signal amplitude.
-
ALLIED'S
Constant Velocity The disc recording characteristic
wherein the groove displacement is inversely pro- 356 -PAGE
portional to the signal frequency.
Crossover Network -A filtering circuit used on multi-
1957
ple speaker systems which separates the high
frequencies from the low frequencies and chan-
CATALOG
nels them respectively to the tweeter and woofer
speaker units. UI'1 lil
Crystal - Used in reference to a phonograph cartridge,
;Iptll!1i
it is a small slob of piezo electric material used
to convert mechanical motion to on electrical
voltage.
De -Emphasis -A form of equalization complementary FEATURING THE WORLD'S '
to pre -emphasis.
LARGEST STOCKS OF
Decibel - NI -FI COMPONENTS
(1) A logarithmic measure of the acoustical level
of sound intensity. 0 db is the threshold of human AND SYSTEMS
hearing while 130 db is the threshold of pain,
i.e. the intensity level at which physical pain
is felt.
(2) A logarithmic unit of measure used to express
the voltage or power gain of an amplifier. With
Save on Everything in Hi-Fi
a minus sign it is also used to express the loss in Here's your complete money -saving
attenuating circuits. guide to Hi-Fi. Shows you how to select
Because the ear measures differences in a custom Hi-Fi music system for your
sound level logarithmically rather than arithmetic- home at no more than the cost of an
ally (if sound A is twice as loud as sound B, it will ordinary phonograph. If you prefer to
appear to the ear to be only slightly louder), and assemble your own system, tells you
because decibel numbers can be used to represent
what to look for and how to save money
on each unit. Offers you the world's
large figures in a convenient manner (60 db largest selection of complete Hi-Fi sys-
equals a power ratio of 1,000,000 to 1), the decibel tems as well as individual amplifiers,
system is universally used by electronic engineers. tuners, changers, speakers, enclosures
Distortion - The modification of the input signal by the and accessories from which to make
discrimination against some frequencies, or by your money -saving choice. Want to
the introduction of additional frequencies not build-your-own?-see the famous Hi-Fi
present in the original. KNIGHT -KITS. For everything in Hi-Fi
Equalizer -A synonym for "compensator."
-for everything in Electronics, get the
FREE 1957 ALLIED Catalog. Write for
-
Feedback The combining of a portion of the output your copy today!
signal with the input signal.
America's Hi-Fi Center Our 36th Year
(a) Degenerative (Inverse or Negative) Feedback Send
is the type which reduces the distortion caused for FREE
by vacuum tubes and improves the frequency
response characteristic. ALLIED RADI Catalog

(b) Regenerative (Acoustic) Feedback is the type

which causes distortion or sustained "howling" ALLIED RADIO CORP., Dept. AA -6
-as between the loudspeaker and cartridge. 100 N. Western Ave., Chicago 80, Illinois

Flutter-The frequency deviation resulting from irreg- O Send FREE 1957 ALLIED 356 -Page Catalog
ular motion during recording, duplication or
reproduction. Name
FM - Abbreviation for frequency modulation; the type
Address
of radio transmission which can provide truly high
fidelity with practically no static or background City Zone State
noise.
5113 td tl 11B1 .11

141
 Gain - An increase in electrical energy supplied by on Micro - One one -millionth (prefix).
amplifier which produces an increase in volume.
Head - The erasing, recording or reproducing ele-
Milli- One one -thousandth (prefix).
N.A.R.T.B. or N.A.B. - National Association of Rodio
ment of a tape recorder.
& Television Broadcasters. A recording charac-
Hum - The extraneous portion of the output signal teristic suggested by N.A.R.T.B. is used by some
deriving from unwanted introduction of the power record manufacturers.
line frequency and its harmonics into the circuit.
-
Impedance The opposition to an electrical current,
-
Noise Suppressor An electronic circuit which reduces
high frequency hiss or noise. It is utilized prim-
usually measured in ohms. arily with old records.
-
Input The terminals or connections to which wires Ohm -
The fundamental unit of measure of electrical
carrying the electrical. current are attached. Also resistance and impedance.
refers to the electrical energy which is being fed
into an amplifier, etc.
-
Output The terminals or connections to which the
load is connected. Also refers to the electrical
-
Lateral Recording The common form of disc record- energy being supplied from the device.
ing in which the groove modulation is perpendicu-
lar to the motion of the disc and parallel to its
Peak -A point in the frequency range where a com-
ponent delivers excessive energy, i.e., departs
surface. from a "flat" characteristic. Also used to denote
Load -The component or device which is being sup- the maximum instantaneous output of a device.
plied with electrical energy from a source such
as an amplifier.
-
Pickup The device which converts the vibrations of
the stylus or needle to an electrical current which
LCS - Abbreviation for loudness contour selector. A can be amplified. (Cartridge)
circuit for altering the frequency response of an
amplifier so that with various levels of loudness
PM - Permanent magnet. Used as an adjective to dif-
ferentiate from previous designs of speakers which
the characteristics of the amplifier will more
required an electrical current for magnetization.
closely match the requirements of the human ear.
Loudspeaker -
The electro-acoustical device which con-
Pre -Emphasis -
The introduction of additional ampli-
fication over a limited range of frequencies. FM
verts electrical current to mechanical motion,
stations introduce pre-emphasis in the treble
which in turn creates sound waves.
range to override atmospheric noise.
-
Matching The technique of selecting and connecting
Pressing -A
disc recording produced in a record -
equipment so that each unit works at its peak molding press from a master or stamper.
performance capabilities.
-
Quieting Denotes (in rating tuners) the degree to

The all new PROFESSIONAL Junior by Components

is compact and precisely engineered with these
outstanding features:
Belt -Driven 12" Weighted Turntable of
non-magnetic polished aluminum
Rumble 60 db down, flutter and wow
less than 0.25%
Non-slip Cork Pad
Ploys all 4 speeds with accessory
No noisy rubber idlers
Finished plywood mounting base
13%í'x 131"x3" $10
*Accessory for Extra Speed $2.50 each

The PROFESSIONAL Junior

is a worthy companion
to Component's
distinguished
PROFESSIONAL,
a complete
turntable unit,
ready to play, with
25 pound belt -driven
turntable.
"QUIET, PLEASE" - Microgroove rumble test
cords 89c at your dealer, or $1.00 postpaid
from Components.

DD11 MM
nSOLSc'Jc'J^LJL
¡(42][2 / 99
Components
by
Corporation
COMPONENTS DENVILLE, NEW JERSEY

142
 which noise in the receiver is reduced below the BUILD 16 RADIO
signal. CIRCUITS AT HOME
RF- Abbreviation for radio frequency. This refers to
With the New Deluxe only 1095
that range beyond the limit of hearing which is
suitable for transmission through the air by means PROGRESSIVE RADIO "EDU-KIT" Rit' off
of broadcasting. A PRACTICAL HOME RADIO COURSE
Response -A contraction of "frequency response" Now Includes
SOLDERING IRON AND
which is the reaction of an amplifying system to TESTER, HIGH FIDELITY,
a range of signal frequencies. See also "peak." SIGNAL TRACER, CODE
-
Reverberation The persistance of sound in a room
OSCILLATOR, PRINTED
CIRCUITRY
due to repeated reflections from walls, ceiling,
FREE TOOLS
floor, furniture and occupants.
No Knowledge of Radio Needed
Roll -Off -A term used in connection with recording No Other Parts, Tools Needed
to describe a reduction in the intensity of the Excellent Background for TV
high bands of frequencies to provide a specified Hi -Fl, Radio & TV Servicing Manuals
FREE on Request. (See Coupon Below).
deviation in the frequency response. It is used
when playing phonograph records which hove WHAT THE "EDU-KIT" OFFERS YOU
The "Edu-Kit" offers you an outstanding PRACTICAL HOME
been recorded with pre -emphasis, and also in RADIO COURSE at x rock -bottom price. You will learn radio
FM receivers.
theory, construction and servicing. You will learn how to build
radios, using regular schematics; how to solder and wire in a
professional
Rumble -A low frequency vibration mechanically You will learn
how to service and trouble -shoot radios.
Ito work with punched metal chassis as well
as the new Printed Circuit chassis. You will learn the principles
transmitted to the turntable and appearing in the of RF and AF amplifiers and oscillators, detectors. rectifiera, test
equipment. You will learn and practice code, using the Progres-
reproduction as noise. sive Code Oscillator. You will build 16 Receiver, Transmitter
Code Oscillator, Signal Tracer and Signal Injector circuits, and
Signal - The designation given to those impulses gen- learn how to operate them. You will receive an excellent back-
ground for TV. In brief, you will receive a basic education in
Electronics and Radio worth many times the small price you pay,
erated by a pickup, a microphone, or received only $19.95 complete.
from a broadcasting station via the antenna. These PROGRESSIVE THE KIT FOR
signals are the electrical energy corresponding to TEACHING METHOD EVERYONE
the music or speech. The Progressive Radio "E,lo. You do not need the slight-
Signal -Noise Ratio - Kit" is the foremost educa-
tional radio kit In the world,
and is universally accepted as
est background in radio or
science. The "Edu-Kit" la need
b young and old, schools and
(1) The basis for rating sensitivity in on FM tuner. the standard in the field of club., by Armed Forces Per-
electronics training. The "Edit - sonnel and Veterans Adm. for
The ratio between the signal and background Kit" ases the modern educa- training and rehabilitation. The
tional principle of "Learn by "Edu-Kit" is used in 79 coun-
noise, expressed in decibels, at a stated input Doing." You begin by build- tries throughout the world.
ing a simple radio. Gradually, Designed for universaluse,
signal. manner, and the on
in a
at yourprores rate, con- tageaf oKmt105 to 12 lté
(2) The ratio in an audio system between the struct more advanced umulti-
tube radio circuits, learn more
AC and DC. For use in coun-
tries higher line
rated output power and the noise and hum advanced theory and tech- esmploying210 250 Volt
content -
usually expressed in decibels.
niques, and do work like a
professional radio technician.
AC/DC model is available.

Speaker -Ashort form for "loudspeaker." THE "EDU-KIT' IS COMPLETE

You will receive all parts and inatructiona necessary to build
Stroboscope Disc -A
device for measuring the speed 16 different radio and electron es circuits, eacheguaranteed to
operate. Our kits contain all tubes, tube sockets, variable, elec-
of a rotating object such as a phonograph turn- trolytic and paper dielectric condensers. resistors, tie strips.
coils, hardware, tubing, punched metal chassis. Instruction Man-
table. u le, etc. In addition, you receive Printed Circuit materials. in-
cluding Printed Circuit chassie. special tube sockets, hardware
-
Stylus The correct name for "needle." A rounded and instructions. You also receiveuseful set of tools, a pro-
fessional electric soldering and a self-powered, dynamic
Radio and Electronics Tester. The 'Edu-Kit" also includes Code
point of specified radius which is inserted into instructions and the Progressive Code Oscillator. You will also
a pickup and rides a record groove. receive lessons for servicing with the Progressive Signl 'D'acer
and the Progressive Signal Injector, a High Fidelity Guide and
-
Stylus Pressure The downward force exerted on the
]Quiz Book. All parts, components. etc., of the 'Edu-Kit"
00 unconditionally guaranteed brand
testedand matched. Everything
carefully selected,
is yours to keep. The comlete
disc by the reproducing stylus, expressed in grams price ths practical home radio and electronics courseis
only $19.95.
or ounces.
TROUBLE -SHOOTING LESSONS
-
Selectivity The ability of a tuner to select and sep- You will learn to trouble - J. Stasaitis. of 25 Poplar
Pl.. Waterbury. Conn.,writes:
arate between two broadcasting stations which hoot and service adios using
the pressional Signal Tracer, "I llave repaired several made
seta
are close together on the dial. the unique Signal Injector,
and the dynamic Radio and
for n,
. friends, ev
money. The 'Edu-Kit' paid
Sensitivity -A measure of a tuner's ability to receive Electronics Tester. Our Consul-
tation Service will help you
with any technical problems.
for Itself. I w ready to spend
$240 for a Course, but I found
your ad and sent for your hit. '
weak signals.
FREE EXTRAS
Triode -A type of tube used in amplifiers. It is char-
Radio and Electronics Tester Electric Soldering
acterized by very low distortion. Iron Set
of Tools Tester Instruction Book Hi-Fi
Turnover -A specified point in the lower frequencies Book Radio
TV Book
Book FCC
Quiz Book
Amateur License Training
Membership in Radio-TV
where the recording signal is decreased in ampli-
tude. In order to obtain proper fidelity on play-
back, equalization or increase of the lower fre-
-
Club: Consultation Service Printed Circuitry
UNCONDITIONAL MONEY -BACK GUARANTEE --
KIT
ORDER FROM AD-RECEIVE FREE BONUS RESISTOR
quencies is introduced in the amplifier. WORTH $5
Tweeter -A loudspeaker intended to reproduce the D Send "Edu-Kit" Postpaid. I enclose lull payment of 519.95.
D Send "Edu-Kit" C.O.D. I will pay 519.93 plus posteaqq
very high frequencies. Send me FREE additional information describing !'EduKit."
Include FREE valuable Hi-Fi. Radio & TV Servicing Manuals.
Turntable -A rotating disc upon which a phonograph (Outside U.S.A.No C.O.D.'s. "Edu-Kit" for 105-125 V. AC/DC
$20.95; 210-250 V. AC/DC 523.45.1
record is placed.
Name
Woofer -A loudspeaker designed to reproduce the
Address
lower range of frequencies.
Wow -A low frequency flutter,
PROGRESSIVE "EDU-KITS" INC.
497 Union Ave., Room 502J, Brooklyn 11, N. Y. l

143
 Maat is a
DIFFAXIAL?
IT IS THE LAST WORD IN WIDE -RANGE SPEAKERS
The Diffaxial is the solution to a problem that has Gold Dot magnet resulting in maximum conversion
plagued audio engineering for many years-how to and superior transient response.
produce middles and highs, and how to disperse them 3. 3 -way Diffaxials use only bona fide compression
evenly in a wide angle-alt in a single speaker. drivers for smoothest response to beyond audibility.
This was accomplished so simply yet so ingeniously Magnet assemblies are hermetically sealed and preci-
by means of the Diffusicone-a development so unique sion built.
that it is patented. 4, Tweeter driver is coupled to the exclusive and pat-
The Diffaxial, incorporating the Diffusicone, is a line ented "reciprocating flare" horn, which positively
of high quality extended -range speakers that is ca- provides maximum wide-angle dispersion of highs.
pable of the most magnificent, natural production of 5. Genuine thrtl-the-axis design. Tweeter driver unit
sound.... It opens the gateway to a whole new world is fitted to the "reciprocating flare" horn through the
of listening enjoyment. center of the woofer magnet assembly. This permits
Here are the features which make the University Dif- uncompromising design of tweeter horn flare assur-
faxial outstanding: ing highest efficiency, lowest distortion and uniform
wide-angle treble reproduction.
1. Genuine "Diffusicone" principle with true me- Listen to the University Diffaxial and hear for your-
chanical crossover at 1,000 cps. Radial projection and self why it has become the most desirable extended -
aperture diffraction give uniform wide-angle disper- range speaker in the Hi-Fi field.
sion of highs at listening points progressively off Send for FREE folder giving the complete technical
speaker axis. story of the Diffaxial.
2. All models contain super sensitive all -Alnico 5 UNIVERSITY LOUDSPEAKERS, Inc., White Plains, N. Y.

University 2 and 3 -way Diffaxials . largest variety of extended range speakers available today.
MODEL 315
A IS" 3 -way Super- MODEL UXC-123 DIFFUSICONE-12
Diffaxial speaker.
Employs the deluxe
/ A 12" 3 -way Diltax-
ial speaker. Employe A 12" 2 -way DIRax-
multi -sectional "DR- ial speaker. Employs
the standard uni -sec- deluxe multi -sectional
Diatom," element and Uonal "Diffusicone"
61 lbs. of Alnico 5
magnet. Response to
e'
` 1
element. Response en-
compasses full muss-
"Diffusicone"iconeone"element
and extra heavy 24 oz.

ll -¡
all-Alnlcc 5 magnet.
y
-

beyond audibility. Ex- ' cal reproduction range.

ceptional power ca- Unusual 30 watt° pow-
Handles 25 watts,' er handling capacity.
Parity of 50 watts.' 8-16 ohms. - 8-16 ohms.
8-16 ohms. -
$59.50 User net. $33.00 User net.
$132.00 User net.
MODEL 6303 MODEL 308 MODEL UXC-122
A 15" 3 -way Diffax- An 8" 3 -way DiRax-
id speaker. Employs A 12" 2 -way DIRax-
ial speaker. Employa ial speaker. Standard
the deluxe multi -sec- the deluxe multi -sec- uni -sectional "D/Ru-
tional "DhRuslcone" tional "Difuaicone"
element and extra heavy alcune" element. Su-
2 Iba. of Alnico 5
element and la the per-sensitive Alnico 5
only small integrated magnet of shallow de-
Gold Dot magnet. Re- 3 -way speaker on the sign for application
sponse to beyond au- market. Performance
dibility. 30 watt pow- flexibility. 25 watt
la unbelievable for Its capacity, takes those
er handling capacity. size. Handles 25watte,'
8-16 ohms. heavy transients with
8-16 ohms.. ease. 8-16 ohms.
$80.10 User net. 837.50 User net. $29.75 User net.

MODEL 312 DIFFUSICONE-15

A 12" 3 -way Super-
DIFFUSICONE-8
Diffaxial speaker. A 15" 2 -way DiRax- An 8" 2 -way DiRax-
Employa the deluxe tal speaker. Employs lal speaker. Employs
multi -sectional "Dif- the deluxe multi -sec- deluxe multi -sectional
fusicone" element and tional "Diffusicone" "DMus krone" element.
extra heavy woofer element and heavy 24 Exceptional sensitivity
Alnico 5 Gold Dot
a. all-Alnieo 5 Mag- and 25 watt' power ca-
magnet- Handles 25 net. 30 watt' power pacity makes this an
watts', 8-16 ohms. handling capacity. 8- outstanding performer
16 ohms. for its size. 8-16 ohms.
$64.50 User net. $45.00 User net.
'Integrated Program $23.50 User net
University also offers a complete lisse of woofers, tweeters, networks and enclosures.

LISTEN
UNIVERSITY LOUDSPEAKERS, INC., 80 SOUTH KENSICO AVENUE, WHITE PLAINS, N

144
 OF THESE HIGH-FIDELITY

12" COLUMBIA RECORDS

If you join the Columbia tP Record Club now-
and agree to accept as few as 4 selections
during the coming 12 months.
1 of Call
Ports ZAIYK Si
THE y 4
Philadelphia Orchestra, EUCENEOLPHIA
ORCHESTRA,
Ormandy, conductor. 6 NAVEL
tot ORMANDY,
9 Saturday Night Mood
works-Bolero, Espana, U VALS( CLAIR

-
cI 5;(N_ C AI NOL LUNE

Escales, Pavane, etc. PAVANE

as1T ESCALES
Dance music played by
BAIS 12 bands Jimmy Dor-
2 The Voice
of CALL PONTS
Or CALL

sey, Sammy Kaye, etc.

Frank Sinatra sings 12 10 Beethoven:
numbers that first Symphony No. 5
brought him fame . Mozart:
like Fools Rush In, I Symphony No. 40
Don't Know Why, Lover,
Laura, Paradise, etc. Philadelphia Orchestra,
Ormandy, conductor.
3 King of Swing: Vol. 1 5 Mendelssohn: 7 Jazz: Red Hot 8. Cool
Violin Concerto Dave Brubeck Quartet 11 Music of Jerome Kern
Benny Goodman and Tchaikovsky:
his Original Orchestra, in Sometimes I'm Happy, Andre Kostelanetz and
Trio, Quartet. Ridin' Violin Concerto Lover, Little Girl Blue, his Orch. play 20 Kern
High, Peckin'-9 more. Francescatti, violin: Indiana -3 more. favorites-The Song Is
New York Philharmonic, You, You Are Love, etc.
4 My Fair Lady Mitropoulos, conductor. 8 Levant Plays Gershwin
Percy Faith and his
Orchestra play selec- 6 I Love Paris
Gershwin's three great-
est orchestral works - 12 Ambassador Satch
European Concert Re-
show -
tions from this hit
I Could Have
Danced All Night, etc.
Michel Legrand and his
Orch. play La Vie En
Rose, Paris-12 more.
Concerto in F; Rhap-
sody in Blue; An Amer-
ican in Paris.
cordings by Louis Arm-
strong and All -Stars. 10
numbers in all.

V ES! You may have, FREE, ANY 3 of these best-selling 12" MAIL THIS COUPON NOW!
Columbia © records. We make this offer to introduce you r 1
COLUMBIA Q RECORD CLUB, Dept.453
to the money -saving program of the Columbia (ti Record Club 165 West 46th St., New York 36, N. Y.
... a program that selects for you each month the greatest
Please send me as my FREE gift the 3 records
works in every field of music-performed by the world's finest indicated here: (Select the 3 records you want
artists and brilliantly reproduced on Columbia Q records. from the list on this. page. and circle the cor-
responding numbers here).
HOW THE CLUB OPERATES
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
To enjoy the benefits of this program-mail the coupon,in-
dicating which of the four Club divisions best suits your and enroll me in the following division of the Club.
(check one box only)
musical taste: Classical; Jazz; Listening and Dancing; Jan
Classical Listening and Dancing
Broadway, Movies, Television and Musical Comedies.
Broadway, Movies, Television and Musical Comedies
Each month you will receive free the Club Magazine which
describes the current selections in all four divisions. You Each month you will send me the Columbia
Record Club Magazine which describes the
may accept or reject the monthly selection for your division records offered in all four Club divisions. I have
, or take records from the other divisions-thereby assur- the privilege of accepting the monthly selection
in the division checked above, or any other
Ing you of the widest possible choice of recorded entertain. selection described, or none at all. My only
ment. Or you may tell us to send you NO record in any month. obligation is to accept a minimum of four records
Your only obligation is to accept as few as 4 selections from In the next 12 months at the regular list price
plus a small mailing charge. After accepting 4
the almost 100 to be offered during the next 12 months, records, I will receive a free Bonus record for
and you may cancel membership any time thereafter. The every two additional records I purchase. If not
records you want are mailed and billed to you for the low delighted with membership, I may cancel within
10 days by returning all records.
price of only $3.98, plus a small mailing charge.
FREE BONUS RECORDS GIVEN REGULARLY Name
The 3 records sent to you now represent an "advance" of (Please Print)
the Club's bonus system-given to you at once. After fulfilling Address
your membership obligation by purchasing 4 records, you City Zone State
will receive an additional free Bonus record of your choice CANADA: Prlees slightly hiy',,r. -\,(Arose 11-13 Soho St ,

for every two additional Club selections you. accept. Bonus To rout 21t
records are superb 12" Columbia Q records-like those If you wish to have this membership credited
to an established Columbia Records dealer,
shown here. authorized to accept subscriptions, please fill
Indicate on the coupon which 3 records you want free, and in the following information:
the division you prefer ... then mail it at once. You must be Dealer's Name
delighted with membership or you may cancel without obliga. 23
Dealer's Address
Lion by returning the free records within 10 days. s. J
COLUMBIA LP RECORD CLUB ® "Columbia", LP , (-2 Marcos Reg.
185 West 46th St., New York 36, N. Y.
 Learn Radio -Television
Servicing or Communications

by Practicing at Home
N.R.I. SENDS kits with which
in Spare Time
^cou pots -

rice building circuits common o Radl,

and TV sets. You LEARN -BSc DOIN(
to locate Radio-TV troubles. As part ,t:
N.R.I. Servicing Course, you built Vacuum
Tube Voltmeter and AC -DC reee ver. Use
VTVM to conduct experimt'n-,
eurn extra money fixing
sets in sr)are lime

Growing Field Offers You

Fast
Good Pay, Success, Bright Future
Bigger than ever and still Added Income Soon-$10
growing fast. That's why
Radio-TV has special ap- $15 a Week in Spare Time
peal to ambitions men nut S '.r enrolling. many Mil students dart
satisfied with their joli and Sl ) a week in :spare time toeing
earnings. More than 4,0111) i, for their trauning and entity
RADIO-TV BROADCASTING (see above) Otte.,
'maniant tsedtions as Operator., anaTeehnitian.. iä Radio and TV stations. this way. Some make enough to
Radio -TV setups. Nftl Iruin-
RADIO-TV S tNG Technicians twee helm, More than ]$II IIIIIIII111

i
!. SMITH
-gets
1

needed in every community, Their services are ho me and auto Radius, i, quick realms. Bas. to
reapeoted. theft kill appreciated. [oued., 311
uI. Illustrated less .. balm out
million TV sets. Color TV iota a. And you LE.\ItN-IIV-
promises added opportunities. For trained DO. curing Willi gas of equittluent
men, there are good jobs, bright futures whir, Ill life" things run study.
in Radio-TV Servicing or Broadcasting.
Training T'f.f'S opportunity Is the Writ rom- Find Out What NRI Offers
t.inntjute for success. So plan note to get into
Radio-TV. Niel ran supply training quickly, Nit! has I rained thousand{, for s,(ol
without expense of going away In school. Keen careers in Italdiu-TV. Muds Iasi or,eis,
tau Ik.- Ilhdnnw win via, grinni ng. liarl
your juh while tr-'oing. You learn at home In coil poll Il,m. i';IAIt ÌI dill
your spore time. NRI is the tiLt)FIOT and euirtupe. At1I'.\I, LESSON 1,1t11.:. .\In, it
a

1.:\ROE:ST hume sully Itadiu-Tt' S111,01. Its Inagral:ai,: 'hill thwas open d¡li,x.
methods have proved successful for mure than rgUipin rut 5(.1. I vita mr CI)a mir..r. les
40 years. Iasy deride` National Radio Institute, Dept.
61.188, Washington 9. D. C.
N.R.I. TRAINED THESE MEN FOR SUCCESS
"I repairing Ra-
was -Doing spare time re -
dios by luth lesson, Fairs on Radio and
Now have good TV
job." Sf. R. LINDE-
TV. Going into reu I
glair servicing sown.'
National Radio Institute
MI"TIi, Fort Wayne, CLYDE II C C I N S. I Dept. 6MB8, Washington 9, D. C.
1

Ind. Waltham, Maas. I Mail

.Aß1, me Sample Lesson and 64 -Page Catalog
"I ÌFREE. (No salesman will call. Please write plainly.)
Radio
Now
had a successful
repair shop.
I'm Engineer for u
^There are a numl r
of SRI s r a du a:
here. 1 ,ank S
,
Name_
I Age_
Sgees
\VIIPE." W W. for thl. .IA, ` . Qtiliany
WOItK'MA N, IIigh
1

WAON I. eing:...,
...1N.
Point. N. C. C.
-
Address_ l

City
VETERANS Approved Under G. L Bills
Zone_ State_
Approved Member NatIpzol Home Study Council