Stromberg-Carlson 440-M

Stromberg-Carlson developed a reputation for high quality radios. This console, c. 1939, has 10 tubes, including a tuning eye. It sits in our family room and is frequently used.

Tuning eyes, which became popular on high-end radios in the late 1930s, are somewhat of a gimmick, but still nice to have. The eye opens and closes based on the AVC voltage, which is an indication of the strength of the signal.

Another interesting design feature is motorized tuning. When a pre-set station pushbutton is pressed, a motor rotates the tuner to the selected station. It works fine. This model also had a remote control, but is missing from this set.

The large speaker is enclosed in a cardboard baffle, called by Stromberg-Carlson an “acoustic labyrinth.” This provides enhanced bass resonance.

When I acquired this set and disassembled it for recapping, I discovered the tag shown in the photos. Who the heck was Duncan Phyfe?

In addition to the standard AM broadcast band, this radio has two shortwave bands. The chassis employs two 6V6 audio output tubes in a push-pull configuration, so there is plenty of volume. Like many pre-war pushbutton radios, the ON-OFF switch is on one of the pushbuttons. Likewise, there is a “manual” pushbutton which enables the manual tuning knob.

The station pushbuttons have call letter tabs for selected Chicago radio stations, some long defunct. I always leave such original tabs in place as an indication of the set’s history.

© 2005 Doug Criner