Technology ConnectionsFeb 26, 2024

If you've been watching my videos for a while, you may have noticed this Silvertone radio in the set. It's an AM/FM set from 1952.

I restored it when I was in high school (I think) by replacing its capacitors but never got into the habit of using it since its FM reception was a bit spotty.

Well I finally hooked up a decent antenna to it and while it's still not able to tune in perfectly well, it's been a pleasure to use this again!

Show threadTechnology ConnectionsFeb 26, 2024

Note that the dial is separated between "Standard Broadcast" and "Frequency Modulation" - 1952 is quite early for FM radio and it was a new and weird thing. I've seen slightly-earlier sets which don't even use the same band!

Also interesting, like any tube radio it take about 10 seconds from power-up to produce any sound but on FM, it takes about 5 minutes for it to fully settle in. It's got a whine and lots of distortion at power-up which gradually improves.

Show threadScott Jenson
@TechConnectify That's so fun! Thinking about improving the FM reception: if the FM frequency dial is a potentiometer like more modern radios, swapping the old one out for a new one (which would be hidden from view) might give it finer control? Cheating a bit but could be a simple fix...
Feb 26, 2024 at 5:38pmWeb
Show threadTechnology ConnectionsFeb 26, 2024

@scottjenson Looking at the schematic it appears it's using a variable-capacitor just like AM.

There are some notes on FM alignment using a signal generator and scope, but truthfully I think the bigger issue is just that there are two stations very close to each other on the band and they're fighting. Other stations which come in stronger have less of an issue, so I'm guessing that the only *real* fix would be a proper antenna on the roof which... well, not going that far!