Category: <span>german radios – en</span>

Telefunken Opus 55 TS german radios - en

Telefunken Opus 55 TS – en

TELEFUNKEN OPUS 55 TS

Telefunken Opus 55 TS

Designed and created in 1954, the OPUS 55 TS was the flagship model of the entire Telefunken production for the years 1954-55.
Since 1949, Telefunken decided to distinguish by the name “OPUS” the radio models at the top of their production. In fact, the first Opus model is the 1949 OPUS 49. This denomination remains until 1978, when the last Opus model, the 7050 HI-FI, is produced. In the following years the different models will be distinguished by alphanumeric abbreviations, such as TR550 and such.

The restoration of this device was very challenging, as the chassis had been cannibalized. As a matter of fact, potentiometers, tube sockets, many components, wires were missing and the HF coils had been torn. In short, the device was in terrible conditions. But a machine like this deserved a much more glorious end and the final result proved us right.
The amplifier stage has been literally rebuilt, the very fine wires of the high frequency coils have been reconnected through a very meticulous work.
The phases of this challenging restoration are documented with photographs, which can be seen at the end of the page in the dedicated section.

The declared output power was 15W but judging by the scheme and the voltages it must deliver about 10.
The good amount of power delivered and the high efficiency of the 6 loudspeakers allow the Opus 55 to successfully sonorize large rooms.
The double medium frequency stage, the complex feedback network, the push-pull output stage make it a classy and elegant radio. The configuration of this device will remain pretty much unchanged also in the following models, until the transition to the production of stereophonic models.
The devices of the Opus series are still among the most wanted by collectors for their extremely high quality standard.


The songs in the playlist highlight the incredible virtuosity of the performers. All these tracks were chosen specifically to put the device to the test. Below is a brief description.

- The first song proposed is a flamenco. Inspired by Playa la Barrosa in Cadiz, Spain, it was composed and interpreted by Paco de Lucia. The talent of the Spanish Maestro makes flamenco enjoyable even for those approaching this peculiar musical genre for the first time.
- With the second track we fly to Paris to meet the Russian-Israeli trumpet player, Sergei Nakariakov. Known as “the Paganini of the trumpet”, Nakariakov's work is fascinating because it continuously experiments with transcriptions of songs composed for other instruments, such as the song proposed here, “Moto perpetuo”, written for violin by Paganini himself.
- The third song, known as “Vento d'inverno”, ranked as op.25 no.11 is a technical study written by F. Chopin in 1836. This study was specifically written with the purpose of developing technique and endurance. It deserves to be seen played live, as it is truly disconcerting. However, Chopin did not mean to impress his listeners with the demonstration of his skills, but he believed his fingers to be “handmaidens of his soul” and with his soul he wanted to be heard, not with ears (H. Heine).
- The fourth track is a 1987 song taken from the album “Surfing with the alien” by guitarist Joe Satriani. An album that was recorded on the cheap, with a very limited budget, the three guitars used by Satriani were modified by him and electronic instruments were used to simulate many drum effects. However, the album was extremely successful thanks to Satriani's skills and creativity. The proposed song is a remastered edition of 2014.
- The last track, “Drum solo”, is a live recording of a performance by Daniel John Erlandsson (Malmö, 1976). Erlandsson is a Swedish drummer, who became successful with the metal band Arch Enemy. It is characterized by a very precise ritmica suono that mixes classic metal passages with the death-metal typical of his band. The song is undoubtedly exciting even for the non-lovers of the Metal genre.

Telefunken Opus 55 TS

Telefunken Opus 55 TS

 

BLUETOOTH

Built-in Bluetooth receiver

DETAILS >

MULTI PLATFORM CONNNECTION

Each radio is equipped with a special cable that connects with any digital source.

DETAILS >

TUBESOUND ENHANCEMENT

- Built-in Bluetooth receiver - This unit can be equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly from the device. That makes it possible to use the amplifier from any digital device, IPAD, Smartphone, or sophisticated multimedia station. You can listen to your wireless Web Stations or favorite music around the room. On request, we can also mount a Wireless Receiver.

- Multi Platform connections - Along with the device, we can also provides you an impedance adapter cable to connect any digital source, such as iphone, smartphone, computer, CD player, etc. This purpose-built cable adapts different impedances of modern digital equipment. Also the two stereo channels are collected into a single flow without increasing the load input unit.

Kaiser Wilhelm II
Telefunken U73b Compressor
Telefunken U73b Compressor
Telefunken V76 in studio

THE STORY

1903 To prevent the English Marconi Company from having a monopoly on wireless transmissions,,Kaiser Wilhelm II orders the company AEG and Siemens to set up a joint venture to develop wireless telegraphy in Germany. It was established under the name of Gesellschaft für drahtlose Telegrafen mbH.

1923 The company name is changed to Firmierung in Telefunken, Gesellschaft für drahtlose Telegrafen mbH. Abbreviated as Telefunken, where Tele means Telegraph and Funken means "Lightning" in the sense of being fast and immediate.

1930 Production gradually moves from military and Government equipment to the production of consumer appliances. During this period, Telefunken enters the market of radio-television, recorders and etching of records.

1930 As radio transmissions are now needed not only to transmit telegraph messages, but also true music and speech broadcasts, it becomes necessary to introduce the concept of sound compression, to avoid continual volume level changes of the radio. Telefunken designs and produces the U3, the first compressor for transmitting stations in the world,. TheU73b, as seen in the picture, represents the evolution of previous models—it allows you to change the compression level, the release times and the attack times.

1941 All Telefunken’s actions are transferred to AEG, which effectively becomes the sole owner of the trademark Telefunken, its factories and patents.

1948 Germany is not invited to the Copenhagen Conference, where the division of Medium and Short Wave radio frequencies of Central Europe is decided. The war has just ended, and officially Germany isn't considered as a technologically important nation. Because of this, Germany decides to develop FM broadcasts even if the quality of the transmissions is considerably higher than those in the AM. At this time, Telefunken develops the V72 microphone/amplification system and its evolutions, intended to be used in all German broadcasters and most European ones too, as well as at the most important recording studios, such as EMI, Decca, Telefunken, etc.

1955 The company becomes Telefunken GmbH.

1967 Telefunken is joined with AEG and the company becomes ‘’AEG-Telefunken’’.

1970 Poor management causes the company to lose market shares. AEG begins to outsource entire business segments and make constant rearrangements.

1985 Daimler-Benz AG buys what remains of AEG-Telefunken.

1996 The name Telefunken is cleared and all activities related to audio products stop.

Today The company name has been renewed in Telefunken Holding AG. Telefunken and its use worldwide are responsible for the name. In United States Telefunken USA buys the rights to build and market worldwide original microphones and some audio equipment under the brand Telefunken Elektroakustik.
The original company that helped spread the music throughout the world doesn’t exist anymore.

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production: 1954/55

Superheterodina IF 460/10700 8 Circuiti AM 11 Circuiti FM

Wavebands:
Medium Waves (OM), Long Waves (OL)
Short waves (OC), FM (UKW) 

VOLTAGE (AC) 110; 125; 160; 220 Volts

6 Loudspeakers
2 Main Mid-Woofer
2 Front electrostatic Tweeters
2 Cone Tweeters on sides

Dimensions (LHD):  640 x 420 x 280 mm / 25.2 x 16.5 x 11 inch

Net weight: 15,7 Kg

9 Tubes: ECC85, ECH81, 2 x EF89, EM80, EABC80, EC92, 2 x EL84

Rotating ferrite antenna for AM bands

LOUDSPEAKERS

This device is equipped with a set of 6 loudspeakers.
Only the Saba Freiburg 14, the Nordmende Tannhauser 59 and some later models of the Opus series are equipped with the same number of loudspeakers. All other German radios, even top-quality ones, have 5 loudspeakers at most.
In the front we find two wideband loudspeakers and two electrostatic tweeters. These loudspeakers are very directional so they are fixed to a prism structure that directs them so that the resulting spread angle is as wide as possible.
Two 10 cm cone tweeter are placed on the sides, cut with a 6 dB/oct filter so that along with the treble they also reproduce medium-high frequencies. The whole audible spectrum is then spread evenly in all directions, granting the listener a complete freedom of movement.

The frontal loudspeakers visible in these photos are not Telefunken originals. All the other loudspeakers are original.

TONE CONTROL WITH LEVEL INDICATION

As with each top german radio from this time period, the Opus 55 TS has separate bass and treble control.

ANTENNA ORIENTATION

Inside the Cabinet there is a dipole to receive FM bands and Shortwaves. A ferrite rotating antenna is for long and medium waves reception. The ferrite antenna can be rotated from the outside to collect the maximum possible signal while receiving two AM bands.

In the picture you can see the entire mechanism of the antenna’s rotation. Using the internal antennas, the sensitivity is very good. Of course, under some conditions, using an external antenna further increases the receiver’s sensitivity.

SEPARATED TUNING CONTROL BETWEEN AM AND FM

The tuning system is interesting and different than other devices made in Germany. The device is equipped with separate tuning mechanisms for AM and FM bands. There are two tuning knobs, separate but coaxial, with cable and pulley systems separated depending on the band. This type of tuning has a very strong mechanics.
Regarding maintenance, cleaning and lubricating once every 10 to 15 years is sufficient.

Telefunken Opus 55 TS

TUNING INDICATOR

The magic eye has of course been replaced.

MAIN CONTROLS

Telefunken Opus 55 TS

To the right is the volume controls (with built-in loudness)
On the same axis the larger knob controls the position of the Ferrite Antenna. A small window indicates its position.
Then we find the Magic Eye, which indicates the perfect tuning position for each station.
Just below there’s the Bass control knob. On the staff the notes change color depending on the position of the knob.
At the top we can find the dial glass.

Below, in order,
AUS - OFF
PLATTE - Turntable
MAGNETTON: Tape Recorder
LANG - LW (long wave),
BANDREITE - Bandwidth control in AM
MITTEL - MW (medium wave)
KURZ - KW (shortwave)
UKW - FM
Finally there are AM/FM coaxial Tuning knobs.
Below, you can see the high-tone control knob with its indicator.

REAR SIDE

Output for external speakers.
Socket for recorder (tonbandgerat).
Turntable input (Tonabnehmer)
AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket.

RESTORING WORKS

THE USUAL AMAZING LAST IMAGE
Telefunken Opus 55 TS
Imperial J406W Stereo german radios - en

Imperial J406W Stereo – en

IMPERIAL J406W STEREO

IMPERIAL J406W STEREO

Like all the Imperials, the Imperial J406W Stereo is also very beautiful.
Imperial J406W StereoThe cabinet has an unusual shape, slightly wider at the top. This peculiar stylistic choice gives the device a majesty that is not common to most of other radios.
The golden vertical streaks, of different length and thickness, placed in the rounded front corners, remind of the grooves of the columns, increasing the impressiveness of the cabinet.
The particular manufacturing of the lateral canvases, where the weft intertwines with the warp in order to highlight some vertical lines, contributes to further hurl the silhouette of the cabinet.
The peculiar coloring of the wood, tending to red, and the shading adopted in the dyeing of the lower layer give further movement to the cabinet.
The final glossy painting completes the manufacturing.
The result of such stylistic choices and accurate workings is a slender, important and very elegant cabinet, easy to match with different types of furniture.

The sound is what I would call the “Family Sound” of the Imperial, clean trebles thanks to the electrostatic tweeter and very fast bass, without resonances, as they are reproduced by two elliptical speakers rather than just a very large one.
This device is particularly suitable for the reproduction of vocal music and electronic instruments.

Also on this model the name “stereo” is inappropriate. The device is monophonic. The use of two loudspeakers placed in an angled position does not make it stereophonic, the purpose is to allow a more uniform sound distribution in all directions.

Examining the circuit, an interesting peculiarity can be noticed, the polarization of the EL84 control grid is made by a negative voltage obtained from the power supply. The interesting thing is that a trimmer was inserted in the bias circuit, which allows to fix with precision the operating point in order to minimize the buzzing.
Of course, a feedback network is provided to linearize the frequency response.
The loudness circuit is obtained by tapping the preamplifier section from two taps on the volume potentiometer.

Also interesting is the equalizer controlled by the large central knob visible between the speaker panel and the display.
The use of the equalizer is explained later in the page.
The electronic section was clearly designed with the same care used for the cabinet.


The choice of the tracks of such a Teutonic brand was almost a judgement call. All the songs chosen in the playlist are dedicated to the music of German authors.

We are at the beginning of the 1200s. Art in Europe opens up to a noticeable internationalist impulse. The Minnesingers (love singers) in Germany, like the Trouvères in France, sing the beauty of love, nature and material happiness. Epic legends resemble each other, copy themselves, are adapted to one's own language. The exploits of the Christian Cavalry, composed of nobles from different nations, encourage this osmosis. It is in Germany, in this favourable climate, that the Ring of the Nibelungs appears. The Wartburg Castle was at the center of the German lyric and the reference to Wagner in his Tannhauser is clear here.
The first song is by Oswald von Wolkenstein, a late but highly refined Minnesinger. At this time the Nobility, with its values, is giving power to the bourgeoisie. The folk song is mixed with the Gregorian. The track in the playlist (A good noble man) is a good example of this.
From this series of artistic and cultural upheavals, the movement of the Cantor Masters was born.

With the second song we take a 600-years leap forward, we go visit the German opera with Carl Maria von Weber's Freischütz. This score made him the father of German musical Romanticism. The psychological research and the evocative drive are very strong in Weber's works, especially in this one. In the  Freischüt we find prints of Beethoven and Mozart and this work will also serve as a stimulus for the French operatic school. Weber's numerous Lieds will also deserve a listening, in the near future.

With the third track we come to 1912. The listening here is more difficult at first, I am talking about Arnold Schomberg's Pierrot Lunaire, for speaking voice and instruments. Born in Vienna in 1874, Schomberg breaks with the sound of his predecessors, and that of his contemporaries like Strauss, experimenting abstract melodies without tonal supports, dissonances, to arrive to dodecaphony (compositions with 12 notes). The feature of music classified as “Expressionist” is the detachment from nature, tending towards more abstract productions, without material references. The connection with Expressionism and Cubism in painting appears clear. The difference between the Polytonality of some of Stravinski's works and the Atonality of those of Schomberg is also big.
The Pierrot Lunaire is based on a selection of tracks by the Belgian poet Albert Giraud.

With bold irreverence with the fourth song we get excited, without asking ourselves too many questions, with the beautiful Helene Fischer, who plays a great success of hers, Atemlos durch die Nacht (Breathless Through the Night). Helene Fischer is a singer, dancer and showoman, very popular in Germany. Her music is popular with young and old people, in the most modern cities as well as in the most conservative towns. Eclectic and reckless, yet extremely pragmatic personality, Helene is also involved in an association against child prostitution (roterkeil).

We close the playlist in peace with a beautiful track by Marcus Loeber, a German composer and pianist with a great experience and a generous artistic sensibility. From a strictly experiential point of view, together with Hildegard von Bingen's compositions, Marcus' piano songs are among the pieces that most realign me, when needed.
Below is his biography, entirely taken from his website.

BLUETOOTH

Bluetooth receiver embed

READ MORE >

MULTI PLATFORM CONNECTION

Each radio is equipped with a cable for connection to any digital device.

READ MORE >

TUBESOUND IMPROVEMENT

- Bluetooth receiver embed - The unit is equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly by the receiver power supply. This makes it possible to control the amplifier from any external digital device as an IPAD, a Smartphone, or a sophisticated multimedia station. So you can hear your preferred web station or your lossesless file without cables on the room. Wireless Receiver can be equipped upon requests.
- Multi Platform Connection - A customized adaptation cable to connect any digital device as Iphone, Smartphone, Laptop, CD Player etc. will be provided with this radio. This special cable suits the different impedances between the modern equipment and the receiver. Furthermore the two stereo channels flow into one without increasing the load to the input unit.

Imperial I350W Stereo

HISTORY

In 1923, long before the official launch of broadcasting in Germany, a little crew of specialists began AG in Staßfurt the development and production of radio devices.
At that time, workforce barely reached 20 people, but soon after the introduction of broadcasting in Germany, the number of employees grew to 400.
In 1927, more than 25.000 radios and a lot of components had been produced.
In 1928 it was the first German company to launch the superheterodyne receiver into the market.
The production of IMPERIAL receivers, which become known by the name “"Staßfurter Imperial", is started.
The products of this company quickly gain excellent reputation and sales increase to such an extent that the number of employees rises up to 600 in 1932.
In 1938 a more modern factory is built, of about 7000 square meters besides administration buildings and laboratories.
In 1939 the production increases and the number of employees rises up to 850.
During the war, the production of civil radio is interrupted, to make room to that of communication devices for Wehrmacht.
Another warehouse of 6000 square meters is built and the number of employees increases to 1700.
After the end of the War the company is expropriated but, thanks to the staff's strong persistence, the production is restarted.
In 1947, another company is created in Osterode / Harz under the name Continental Rundfunk GmbH.
In 1955 the number of employees rises up from 100 to over 500.
In 1958 the company is taken over by Gerhard Kubetschek, owner of KUBA, to whom the know how of the Continental Rundfunk are transferred.
The story of Kuba... is another story.

 

Imperial I350W Stereo

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production: 1956/57

Superheterodyne IF 468/10700
7 AM Circuits
19 FM Circuits

Wavebands:
Medium Waves(MW),  Long Waves (LW)
Short waves (KW), FM (UKW)

Loudspeakers;

2 mid-woofer
1 electrostatic tweeter

Dimensions (LHD): 640 x 400 x 274 mm / 25.2 x 15.7 x 10.8 inch
Net weight: 15 kg / 33 lb 0.6 oz
6 Tubes: ECC85 ECH81 EF85 EABC80 EM80 EL84

Turnable ferrite Antenna for AM bands.

Imperial J406W Stereo

TONE CONTROL WITH LEVEL INDICATION

The tones control system is very efficient. Above the large tone control knobs there is a band that lights up gradually indicating the emphasis on the band on which it acts.

 

AERIALS

Inside the cabinet there is a dipole for FM reception and a ferrite rotating aerial for AM reception.
Ferrite aerial can be rotated from the outside to achieve a perfect tuning of the device in the AM.
In this picture see the rotation mechanism and the position indicator of the aerial.
The reception sensitivity with internal aerials is very good. This unit was in fact produced in a period when there were not many radio stations and those available fairly apart from each others.
Using an external aerial sensitivity is further increased.

Imperial J406W Stereo
Imperial J406W Stereo

TUNING INDICATOR

The magic eye has of course been replaced.

EQUALIZER

The equalizer works by modifying the frequency response of the feedback network. It is controlled by the large horizontal knob visible in the photo. It has three positions but the variation is seamless so all intermediate positions are possible.
The positions are:
Jazz - treble enhancement
Orchester - Linear position
Solo - Mid tones enhancement

LOUDSPEAKERS

Two beautiful Isophon elliptical loudspeakers are located on the front, in a reclining position towards the sides.
On the sides there is an opening.
In this way the sound is perfectly audible both frontally and laterally.
Put to the test, this solution is better than the classical lateral positioning of the tweeters, as in this way the whole audible band is reproduced laterally, not only high frequences.

The loudspeakers are supported frontally by an efficient electrostatic loudspeaker.

The result is a very clean sound, especially in the listening of liquid music through bluetooth.

CONTROL PANEL

Imperial J406W Stereo

In the center of the loudspeaker panel the magic eye which indicates the perfect tuning of each station.

Below, in the center, we find the equalization buttons with three choices available: Solo, Orchester, Jazz.

On the display we find, from the left, the large volume knob, with loudness.

Below is the bass knob with its indicator.

The AM scale for Short, Medium and Long waves.
The FM scale.

Then in the order the keys:
- OFF
- turntable
- Long Wave
- Ferrite Antenna for MW and LW
- Medium Wave
- Short Wave
- FM
The treble knob with its indicator.
Coaxially to the latter, we find the Ferrite Antenna rotation knob.

Imperial J406W Stereo

REAR SIDE

Output for external speakers.

Socket for recorder (tonbandgerat).

Turntable input (Tonabnehmer)

AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket.

RESTORING WORKS

THE USUAL AMAZING LAST IMAGE
Imperial J406W Stereo
Siemens Meistersuper 843W meistersuper 843w - en

Siemens Meistersuper 843W – en

Siemens Meistersuper 843W

Siemens Meistersuper 843w

Siemens Meistersuper 843W

The Siemens Meistersuper 843W was produced between 1954 and 1955 and had a good sales success, even though the lion's share was taken by the models of the Schatulle series.
The most interesting feature of this device is the unusual combination of the two large elliptical loudspeakers (26x18 cm) and the class A output stage.
The two large loudspeakers, equipped with a 10.000 Gauss magnet, can easily withstand the power developed by the final EL84. From the musical point of view, the quality of these speakers correspond to a very extended and rich  bass frequency response. At the same time, the linearity of the class A amplifier provides soft and bright mid and high tones.

The cabinet is very refined.
The large size needed to include the two big loudspeakers are mitigated by some stylistic solutions that were later adopted on many models.
The side walls are, in fact, raised compared to the front side. The corners are rounded with different radii of curvature between the lower and upper sides. The streaks of the coating, moreover, are placed orthogonally to those of the front. Besides, the streaks of the edges are very pronounced. Finally, two thin golden lines interrupt the front edges in width.
All these expedients slim down the large cabinet, making it very pleasing to the eye as for its overall balance.
Moreover, the coatings were chosen and combined with ancient mastery, making the most of the contrast created by the streaks.
In this restoration we have tried to bring this cabinet back to its lively original character, without softening it nor hiding anything.

 

The tuning stability allows to find again a perfectly centred station, even if the radio has not been switched on in a few days.
The mechanics are “simple” and sturdy. The electronic parts are quite complex, but they have been completely restored, so no fear.

BLUETOOTH

Bluetooth receiver embed

READ MORE >

MULTI PLATFORM CONNECTION

Each radio is equipped with a cable for connection to any digital device.

READ MORE >

TUBESOUND IMPROVEMENT

- Bluetooth receiver embed - The unit is equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly by the receiver power supply. This makes it possible to control the amplifier from any external digital device as an IPAD, a Smartphone, or a sophisticated multimedia station. So you can hear your preferred web station or your lossesless file without cables on the room. Wireless Receiver can be equipped upon requests.
- Multi Platform Connection - A customized adaptation cable to connect any digital device as Iphone, Smartphone, Laptop, CD Player etc. will be provided with this radio. This special cable suits the different impedances between the modern equipment and the receiver. Furthermore the two stereo channels flow into one without increasing the load to the input unit.

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production: 1954/1955

Superheterodyne IF: 468/10700
6 AM Circuits
9 FM Circuits

Wavebands:
Medium Waves(OM), Long Waves(OL), Short waves(OC), FM(UKW)

Power supply: (AC)
110; 125; 160; 220 Volt

Loudspeakers
2 x wideband 10" x 7"

Dimensions (LHD): 620 x 420 x 290 mm / 24.4 x 16.5 x 11.4 inch
Net weight: 13 kg / 28 lb 10.1 oz
Tubes 7: EF80 EC92 ECH81 EF89 EM80 EABC80 EL84

Siemens Meistersuper 843w

TONE CONTROL WITH LEVEL INDICATION

The tones control system is very efficient. Above the large tone control knobs there is a band that lights up gradually indicating the emphasis on the band on which it acts.

AERIALS

Inside the cabinet there is a dipole for FM reception and a ferrite rotating aerial for AM reception.
Ferrite aerial can be rotated from the outside to achieve a perfect tuning of the device in the AM.
In this picture see the rotation mechanism and the position indicator of the aerial.
The reception sensitivity with internal aerials is very good. This unit was in fact produced in a period when there were not many radio stations and those available fairly apart from each others.
Using an external aerial sensitivity is further increased.

Siemens Meistersuper 843w
Siemens Meistersuper 843w

SEPARATE CONTROL TUNING BETWEEN AM AND FM

The unit is equipped with mechanisms that control separately the AM band tuning and the FM band.
The tuning knobs are coaxial.
The largest crown controls the AM bands (short, medium and long waves).
The frontal knob, smaller, controls the FM band.

TUNING INDICATOR

The magic eye has of course been replaced.

Siemens Meistersuper 843w

LOUDSPEAKERS

There are two loudspeakers, actually very large. In the long side they measure 26 cm and 18 cm in the short side.
Apart from being large, they are equipped with an alnico magnet that guarantees a 10.000 Gauss magnetic flux density.
The resulting efficiency is noticeable, so very little power is enough to produce a very high sound pressure.
Moreover, the profile of the cone is slightly trumpet-shaped, so that the high frequencies are effectively reproduced in the central part of the cone and the rest of the profile contributes to adapt the acoustic impedance between the membrane and the surrounding air.
The result is a very extensive reproduction, both at low and high frequencies.

It is no coincidence that this is one of the few devices with a single-ended amplifier that easily support the bass of the Area's track Luglio, Agosto, Settembre (Nero).

CONTROL PANEL

Siemens Meistersuper 843w

To the left is the volume control (with loudness built-in). Coaxially there is the ferrite aerial control.
Under the dialglass we find the treble control equipped with indicator on the main dialglass.
On the right we find the magic eye indicating the perfect tuning of each station and the Short, Long, Medium, FM scales and further the tuning knob.
Below there are the bass control

Between the two tone controls is the keyboard with the following functions:
AUS - OFF
Phono - Turntable/Bluetooth
KURZ - Onde Corte

LANG - Long Wave
MITTEL - Medium Wave
O-M - Preselected Medium Wave
UKW - FM

The recording takes place by tuning two screws on the bottom.

Siemens Meistersuper 843w

REAR SIDE

Output for external speakers.

Socket for recorder (tonbandgerat).

Turntable input (Tonabnehmer)

AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket.

RESTORATION STEPS

THE USUAL AMAZING LAST IMAGE
Siemens Meistersuper 843w
Grundig 5080 5080 - en

Grundig 5080 – en

Grundig Konzertgerät 5080 Hi-Fi Zauberklang

Grundig 5080

 

 

Grundig 5080

Grundig 5080 Hi-Fi Zauberklang

The Grundig 5080 Hi-Fi Zauberklang is one of the most powerful devices produced by this brand.
Grundig used to produce different classes of equipment. Those of the 1xxx series are the cheapest, those of the 2xxx and 3xxx series are middle class, those of the 4xxx and 5xxx series are high class.
Of course, the 5080 Hi-Fi Zauberklang belongs to the best series, and it shows.

It is the most gifted of the Grundigs. Only the 4055 can compare, as for the power stage and the loudspeakers set, but without having the 5 bands equalizer, but having two FM dials.
All about the 5080 is designed for the best performance. The power stage with two EL84s in push-pull.
The 5 bands equalizer, even in this case no radio device has ever had more. (highlighted in yellow in the diagram).

Loudness circuit (highlighted in green in the diagram) on the feedback circuit (highlighted in red in the diagram), for an effective emphasis and contemporary distortion reduction.
An extra preamplifier stage to make the most of the actual capabilities of the push-pull to receive double the input signal.
A Medium Frequency stage more for a perfect tuning even in the most difficult situations.
The radio section is clearly at the highest level for the time, but listening to liquid or vinyl music is impressive.

Everyone remembers the famous Bose 901 box with 9 mini-woofers of 10 cm. With that many speakers they stimulated the imagination of us all when they were launched on the market.
Well, the Bose 901 had a radiant surface of 700 cm2. The sum of the surface of all the speakers together covered an area of 700 cm2.
The speakers of this Grundig cover an area of about 1100 cm2 ... excluding the two tweeters from the calculation!!!
The radiant surface is not everything, of course, but this extreme simplification can already give an idea of the performance this machine is capable of.

Grundig 5080 Hi-Fi Zauberklang

BLUETOOTH

Embed Bluetooth Receiver upon requests

READ MORE >

MULTI PLATFORM CONNECTION

Each radio can be equipped with a cable for connection to any digital device.

READ MORE >

TUBESOUND IMPROVEMENTS

- Bluetooth receiver embedded - The unit can be equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly by the receiver power supply. This makes it possible to control the amplifier from any external digital device as an IPAD, a Smartphone, or a sophisticated multimedia station. So you can hear your preferred web station or your lossesless file without cables on the room. Wireless Receiver can be equipped upon requests.

- Multi Platform Connection - A customized adaptation cable to connect any digital device as Iphone, Smartphone, Laptop, CD Player etc. can be provided with this radio. This special cable suits the different impedances between the modern equipment and the receiver. Furthermore the two stereo channels flow into one without increasing the load to the input unit.

HISTORY

1930 - At 22 years old Max Grundig begin a radio repair business.
1939 - The II world War start. Grundig works primarily for the Wehrmacht and repair of telecommunication equipment.
1945 - Immediately after the war, the demand for repair work was very great. Max Grundig built the first two Grundig appliances: the Tubatest tube tester and the Novatest testing device.
1947 - Start the sale of a kit radio, the Heinzelmann. The unit is the basis of success, sold more than 15,000 pieces.
1950 - Very high frequency (VHF) is introduced to Germany and places new demands on the industry. Grundig launches the 380 W on the market.
1952 - The first television channel starts up in Germany. After intensive research, Grundig launches the FS 080 onto the market. In the same year the first portable tape recorder Reporter 500 L is created.
1956 - After a lot of radio produced with progrssively high performances was produced the Concert Radio 5080 equipped with an equaliser, which has five controls and a visual display.
1965 - A new factory is established in Braga, Portugal. The Satellit 205 is one of many appliances in the Satellit series. This product marks the beginning of Grundig production of high-quality global receivers.
1970 - The Audiorama 7000 Hi-fi was produced, it has twelve dynamic speaker systems in one speaker.
1976 - The Reel Tape Recorder TS 1000 is equipped for semi-professional use.
1980 - The slim-line Hi-fi Tuner ST 6000 and the Monolith Hi-fi Dynamic Flat Top Antenna, which has 22 speaker systems, are two particularly popular appliances in the new hi-fi range.
1984 - After severe drop in sales Philips increased its stake in Grundig 31.6 percent and takes over the corporate management.
1997 - Philips pulls out of its involvement with Grundig.
2003 - The company files for bankruptcy.
2008 - Turkey's Koç Holding took full ownership of Grundig Multimedia B.V., the parent company of Grundig Intermedia GmbH in Nuremberg.

Courtesy of: Grundig

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production: 1956/57

Superheterodyne IF 468/10700
9 AM circuits
15 FM circuits

Wavebands: Long Waves, Medium Waves, Short Waves , FM

Loudspeakers:
1 elliptic wideband
2 electrostatic Tweeter
2 cone Mid/Tweeter

Dimensions (LHD): 700 x 430 x 290 mm / 27.6 x 16.9 x 11.4 inch
Net weight: 17.4 kg / 38 lb 5.2 oz

10 Tubes:
ECC85 ECH81 EF89 EF80 EM34 or EM35 EAA91 ECC81 EBC41 EL84 EL84

Grundig 5080

EQUALIZER WITH LEVEL INDICATION

The tones control system is a jewel. The device is equipped with a 5-band equalizer.
A red thread mark the position of the potentiometers and draws the chosen equalization curve.
Each knob is nicely associated with the musical instruments on which it acts.

Bass - Kettledrum, Tuba
Middle-Bass - Bassoon, Horn
Mid- Clarinet, Saxophone
Mid-High - Cornet, Violin
High - Trumpet, Flute

The visual effect is pleasant and easy to understand.

AERIALS

Inside the cabinet there is a dipole for FM reception and a ferrite rotating aerial for AM reception.
Ferrite aerial can be rotated from the outside to achieve a perfect tuning of the device in the AM.
In this picture see the rotation mechanism and the position indicator of the aerial.
The reception sensitivity with internal aerials is very good. This unit was in fact produced in a period when there were not many radio stations and those available fairly apart from each others.
Using an external aerial sensitivity is further increased.

Grundig 5080

Grundig 5080

SEPARATE CONTROL TUNING BETWEEN AM AND FM

The unit is equipped with mechanisms for keeping separate the AM and FM bands.
The tuning knob is single but a selector switch commutes into cable systems (all in steel) and pulleys separated depending on the band.
The movement is transferred to both mechanisms with a system of pulleys and separated gears.

On sides the tuning system

Grundig 5080

TUNING INDICATOR

The tuning indicator has of course been replaced.

Grundig 5080

LOUDSPEAKERS

As indicated in the initial description, there are five speakers. They are placed on the three sides of the device.

The main cone is a huge elliptical broad-band measuring 31 x 19 cm. It is made of sturdy alloy and has an Alnico magnet.
The dimensions of the magnet are considerable and also the weight of the speaker reveals its sturdiness.
In fact, it has to support the energy given by two EL84s.
The curve of the cone is of the exponential type, as befits a  very high quality broad-band.

The two electrostatic tweeters in front cover the highest audible frequency range.
On both sides there are two 25 x 17 cm broad-bands of Grundig production, also very efficient.

The final result is clearly a powerful sound, with very deep and fast bass.
The mid is also very clear and the voices are credible and highlighted, never mixed up.
The treble are bright but sweet, not strident.

An important musicality to be a radio.

CONTROL PANEL

Grundig 5080

The first knob on the left is the volume with physiological control
On the same axis the knob to rotate Ferrite antenna for OM and OL.
The position of the ferrite antenna can be seen in it own indicator, which lights up when the ferrite antenna is on.
AM dial for Short, Mid and Long waves.
FM dialglass.
Below from the left we find the following keys in order:
AUS - Off
TB - Tape recorder
TA - Turntable
FA - Ferrite antenna

Then we find the five equalizer knobs.
LW - Long waves
MW - Medium waves
KW - Short waves
UKW - FM
On the top we see the magic eye that indicates the perfect tuning.
Last the tuning control knob.

Grundig 5080

REAR SIDE

Output for external speakers.
Socket for recorder (tonbandgerat).
Turntable input (Tonabnehmer)
AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket.
Remote control socket.

RESTORATION WORKS

THE USUAL AMAZING LAST IMAGE
Grundig 5080
Graetz Melodia 14F german radios - en

Graetz Melodia 14F – en

GRAETZ MELODIA 14F

GRAETZ MELODIA 14F

Graetz Melodia 14F

The Graetz Melodia 14F immediately distinguishes itself  from the other devices produced in the mid-60s by the prestigious brand of Berlin for the very modern look, which used to make large use of metals and plastics.
This interesting design experiment is found, apart from the Melodia 14F, only on the Stereo Unit 250 model.
Comparing, in the pictures on the right, the Melodia 1118 model – the production of which was only finished the year before – and the Melodia 14F, it is impossible not to be impressed by the incredible stylistic evolution of the two devices.

Graetz products have always been characterized by a meticulous and refined design, but in the 1960s there was a real acceleration, which anticipated one of the greatest creative movements of the 1970s, known as the "Space Age".
From the famous "Ball Chair" of the great Finnish designer Eero Aarnio to the Eclisse Lamp of the Italian Vico Magistretti.
The Space Age experiments with new materials and this allows to explore new shapes, previously difficult to build.
In those years, many companies realized some unsurpassed technological “objects”, in great demand nowadays.
Among the producers of technological equipment I mention only – apart from the Graetz with the Melodia 14F Stereo Unit 250, of course – the Grundig with the series of spherical HI-FI speakers AudioRama and the Italian Brionvega with its Algol TV and the Radio Cubo.

In '64, Charles Mingus left the contrabass to record the album “Mingus Plays Piano”, “The Velvet Underground” and “The Who” made their debut, in Italy the group “The Giants” was formed and I conclude the review stealing their battle cry - “Put flowers in your cannons ..."

The Amplifier Section consists of an EL84 in A class for each channel, driven by a section of the doppio triodo ECC83.
The Volume potentiometer is equipped with loudness terminal (Yellow). As known, in fact, when listening to very low volume the basse and the acute notes are not perceived with the same sound intensity as the medie notes, which seem to be clearly predominant.

The Balance (Blue) is inserted between the two channels at the output of the preamplifier.

The Feedback network (Red) was designed to reduce distortion and equalize the risposta in frequenza of the device. In fact, the device is equipped with independent loudspeakers for each channel. Although these loudspeakers are broadband and of excellent quality, they cannot faithfully reproduce the entire audible band. Their frequency response, in fact, decays at the extremes, in particular the low one. The feedback network compensates for the efficiency drop of the loudspeakers at the two ends of the frequency. The result is a surprisingly linear response on a very extensive frequency band. You do not expect a sound like that from such small loudspeakers, and this is how it was obtained.

The Radio Section is very refined, too.
The most interesting feature is the high selectivity of this device, due to the double IF amplifier. In fact, the two EF89 and the numerous MF transformers are visible in the photos.
In FM was even implemented an additional transformer tuned into the converter, in order to make the reception of these frequencies even more stable and insensitive to disturbances.

 

 

 

Graetz Melodia 14F

 

 

Graetz Melodia 14F

 

 

BLUETOOTH

Bluetooth receiver embed

READ MORE >

MULTI PLATFORM CONNECTION

Each radio is equipped with a cable for connection to any digital device.

READ MORE >

TUBESOUND IMPROVEMENT

- Bluetooth receiver embed - The unit is equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly by the receiver power supply. This makes it possible to control the amplifier from any external digital device as an IPAD, a Smartphone, or a sophisticated multimedia station. So you can hear your preferred web station or your lossesless file without cables on the room. Wireless Receiver can be equipped upon requests.

- Multi Platform Connection - A customized adaptation cable to connect any digital device as Iphone, Smartphone, Laptop, CD Player etc. will be provided with this radio. This special cable suits the different impedances between the modern equipment and the receiver. Furthermore the two stereo channels flow into one without increasing the load to the input unit.

Graetz Sinfonia 522

 

graetz factory

 

HISTORY

The Ehrich & Graetz metalworks was a factory established in 1866 in Berlin by Albert Graetz (1831–1901) and the tradesman Emil Ehrich (died 1887) under the name "Lampen-Fabrik Ehrich & Graetz OHG" (E&G).
By 1897 the firm was controlled by Albert's sons, Max Graetz, and Adolf Graetz. The company grew rapidly, and in 1899 factory complexes were built in Berlin, in the United States, France, the UK, and Bombay.
Around 1910-1916 Max Graetz developed the famous Petromax Lantern. Around 1925 the factory also produced radios, and other electrical appliances under the name Graetzor.

In the Second World War, just as in the First World War, the company was part of the war industry. With the use of forced laborers from France, Russia and the Netherlands the company made huge gains in production.
At the end of April 1945 the factory was claimed by the Russian army.

In 1949 the firm became part of the "peoples" program, "VEB-VolksEigenerBetrieb" and since 1950 "VEB Fernmeldewerk, Berlin Treptow (RFFT)." VolksEigenerBetrieb, means that the factory was owned by the people for the people (Communism)

In 1948 Erich, and Fritz Graetz founded a new company in Altena, Germany known by the name The Graetz Firm, which was successor to the lost family company in Berlin. The new company produced mainly radios and televisions.
In 1961 the company was then sold to Standard Elektrik Lorenz (SEL) AG, but since 1987 has been to the present owned by the Finnish company Nokia.

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production: 1966/68
Superheterodyne IF 460/10700
6 AM Circuits
10 FM Circuits

Wavebands:
Medium Waves(OM),  Long Waves (OL)
Short waves (OC), FM (UKW)

Loudspeakers:
2 Elliptical Fullrange

Dimensions (LHD): 750 x 225 x 190 mm / 29.5 x 8.9 x 7.5 inch
Net weight: 10 kg / 22 lb 0.4 oz

7 Tubes: ECC85, ECH81, EBF89, ECC83, EMM803, 2xEL84


Graetz Melodia 14F
Graetz Melodia 14F

LOUDSPEAKERS

The loudspeakers are two Lorenz LP 1318/19/105 AF with alnico magnet. They are very efficient. So, the 4 watts of each of the two channels is transformed into a noticeable acoustic pressure.
For a “normal” volume listening, not annoying, the knob is positioned at 11 o'clock.
The sound power is therefore more than enough to sonorize also medium-sized environments.

In this way the dynamic response is very prompt, and the lows are slowed down but very present.
This feature allows to take full advantage of the AUX input with lossesless digital files or CDs providing a brilliant and dynamic reproduction.

Graetz Melodia 14F

EQUALIZER AND TONE CONTROLS

In line with the latest trends (of the time) there is a single equalization button, the Sprache key/button (Voice) which attenuates the low and high frequencies, making the transmissions where the speaking prevails more intelligible.

On the sides we find the two tone control knobs.

SEPARATE CONTROL TUNING BETWEEN AM AND FM

The unit is equipped with mechanisms that keep AM and FM bands separate very simple to use.
The tuning knob is single, but a selector switch commutes between cable systems (all steel made) and pulleys dedicated to each band.
The movement is transferred to both mechanisms with a system of pulleys and separated gears.

Graetz Melodia 14F

TUNING INDICATOR

The magic eye has a double function.
The left section (Pink) indicates that the received station is broadcasting in stereo.
The right section (Green) indicates the perfect tuning of the received station.

CONTROL PANEL

Graetz Melodia 14 F

Left from the top:
- The Magic Eye that indicates the perfect tuning of each station and the Stereo broadcast
- The volume control (with built-in loudness)
- Axially this balancing.
- The bass control knob

In the center:
The AM display for long, medium, short waves and the FM display.

Right from the top:
The tuning knob, whose movement is very pleasant being supported by a large flywheel
-The treble control knob.

The keyboard:

AUS - Switch off
STEREO - Stereo
TA - Turntables
TB (TA + LW) - Tape Recorder
LW - Long Waves
MW - Medium Waves
SW - Short Waves
UK - FM
SPREACHE - Voice

Graetz Melodia 14F

REAR SIDE

Output for external speakers, with the possibility of excluding the internal loudspeaker depending on how the DIN plug is inserted.
Socket for recorder (tonbandgerat).
Turntable input (Tonabnehmer)
AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket

RESTORATION STEPS

THE USUAL AMAZING LAST IMAGE
Graetz Melodia 14F
Saba Studio I Automatic german radios - en

Saba Studio I Automatic – en

SABA STUDIO I AUTOMATIC

SABA STUDIO I AUTOMATIC

Saba Studio I is the latest Saba receiver built entirely with tubes, apart from the multiplexer. The next devices will have tube tuner section but solid state amplifier stage. A few years later the devices will be completely solid state.
This receiver constitutes an element of break in Saba's production. It sanctions the transition from a design that had remained unaltered from 1953 to a modern, essential and functional idea of industrial design.
The classic canons in the front panels of the German receivers are abandoned, like the windows with the tone controls indication, the tone knobs placed on the keyboard, the knobs symmetrically arranged on the sides of the dial glass etc.
The commands are grouped in the right side of the front panel. They are essential and simple to understand and use. They are also simple to build, which leads to a reduction in the risk of failure.
All the following devices will adopt this rationalization of the front, whose design philosophy will remain valid until the introduction of touch-control displays.

A second break with the past is the engineering oriented to the compaction of the elements.

Everything on this machine has been designed to reduce its size. This is a result that is difficult to obtain on a top range device.
Unfortunately, the restoration of this device was particularly complex due to the need to dismantle many components and entire schede in order to access the circuit sections in question.

The final stage uses excellent ECC808 double triode  as preamplifiers and ECLL800 double pentode and triode  as final tubes.
Also the radio section uses all multiple tubes, in order to contain the overall dimensions.

The Automatic Frequency Control is very efficient, in fact the frequency stability of this device is well known.
The sound is sweet and well defined, especially thanks to the large output transformators that do not saturate even at high levels of listening.
But the most important advantage is the use of separate loudspeaker boxes. First the cabinet is much more compact, and this makes it easier to place it in the room, second because it is possible to pair the device with the most suitable loudspeakers and place them in the most appropriate way for ideal listening.

These possibilities that the receivers offer, including the Saba Studio I, are very important. If well used they can radically change the sound of a system.
I quote the indication I gave in the description of Saba Freiburg Studio A, as I consider it very important.

Do not place the electronics between the two loudspeakers.

In the pictures the receiver is in the middle of the two loudspeakers, are exclusively for photographic needs.
In a real configuration it must be placed on one side.
Listening to music is a total experience and captivates other senses beyond hearing. Try to listen to a track in the dark and then listen to the same track in the light in your home. Also, listen to the same track used as a soundtrack watching a film. Lastly, try to listen to the same track once more watching the video of the concert.
In all these cases, and in many other situations, the brain will detect and develop sound in different ways. It will create different feelings even though we are listening to the same track.
Placing the electronics in the middle of the loudspeakers distorts our perception of the sound.

Saba Studio I Automatic
BLUETOOTH

Bluetooth receiver embed

READ MORE >

MULTI PLATFORM CONNECTION

Each radio is equipped with a cable for connection to any digital device.

READ MORE >

TUBESOUND IMPROVEMENT

- Bluetooth receiver embed - The unit is equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly by the receiver power supply. This makes it possible to control the amplifier from any external digital device as an IPAD, a Smartphone, or a sophisticated multimedia station. So you can hear your preferred web station or your lossesless file without cables on the room. Wireless Receiver can be equipped upon requests.

Multi Platform Connection – A customized adaptation cable to connect any digital device as Iphone, Smartphone, Laptop, CD Player etc. will be provided with this radio. This special cable suits the different impedances between the modern equipment and the receiver. Furthermore the two stereo channels flow into one without increasing the load to the input unit.

Saba Factory - Villingen - 1960

Saba Factory - Villingen - 1960

HISTORY

SABA is the acronym for Schawarzwälder-Apparate-Bau-Anstalt meaning engineering institute of Technological appliances of the Black Forest.

The company was founded back in 1835 by Joseph Benedikt with the initial name of Jockele-Uhren, but only in 1923 the production of radio devices began and the company went under the name of SABA.
Toward the end of the 20s SABA became famous with the well-known S35 and in the following years it became the second German producer after Telefunken. During the war SABA produced military equipment and in 1945 the company was completely destroyed by a bombing.
In 1947 the production of radio devices began again and SABA distinguished itself immediately for ist avant-garde and high- quality production.

hey also began to produce TVs (the first PAL color TV is a SABA), house appliances and medical equipment. Many Italians used to work there. The Alnico Greencone loudspeakers became popular for their linearity, power handling, constant impendence that would be employed in each Hi-Fi devices of that time.

The radio devices with motorized tuning became popular as well and SABA became the representative German brand meaning quality, reliability and detailed precision. In the 1970s the decline began. According to specialized magazines of that time not having a Japanese device at that time meant not having Hi-Fi. In the 80s Thompson took over SABA. In the 90s the other way around, having a Japanese device of the 70s meant not having Hi-Fi. They found out that they functioned with a 96% counterreaction and that a device with 0.001 db from 1 to 100 KHz extension did not necessarily sound good.

We do not trust our ears and we do trust what other people say not necessarily with a good purpose.
2007: due to insolvency SABA disappeared from the TLC (Chinese) and Thompson (French) joint venture, and SABA ceased to exist.

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production: 1964-65

Operating voltages: 115; 127; 220; 240 Volt.

8 AM Circuits
11 FM Circuits

Wavebands: Medium Waves (OM), Long Waves (OL), Short waves (OC), FM (UKW)

Output power: 2 x 11W
Stereo-Decoder: Saba E1

Dimensions (LHD): 390 x 180 x 315 mm / 15.4 x 7.1 x 12.4 inch
Net weight:14 kg / 30 lb 13.4 oz
9 Tubes:: ECC85 ECH81 EF89 EBF89 EMM803 2xECC808 2xECLL800

Saba Studio I Automatic

Saba Studio I Automatic

BANDBREITE SCHALTBAR

The correction system of the frequency response is made of one button, SPRACHE/VOICE.
They allow the emphasis of high and low tones while listening to music and of medium tones while listening to spoken programs.

SEPARATE CONTROL TUNING BETWEEN AM AND FM

The device is equipped with separated tuning mechanisms for AM and FM bands and for each of the FM bands.
There is only one tuning knob but the selector changes on a cable and pulley system that are separated according to the band.

Saba Studio I Automatic
Saba Studio I Automatic

TUNING AND STEREO INDICATOR

The tuning indicator is an EMM803. A tube that is rarely used and rather expensive. It is, in fact, a tuning indicator with a double display.
A section of the EMM803 is used to indicate the correct tuning of the stations.
The other section, the smaller one, is used to indicate that you are listening to a stereo station broadcasting.

MONO/STEREO SWITCH

Most of the radios and receivers do not have a stereo decoder, so listen in stereo is only possible when the phono input is selected.
Saba Studio I Automatic, instead, is equipped with the Saba E1 stereo decoder, so actual stereo listening is also possible in FM.

When pushed, the stereo button allows the listening and reception of FM stations in stereo.
If you are listening to an FM station that is broadcasting in stereo, this button inserts the stereo decoder, and the left and right channels work separately.
If the button is not pushed (mono) the input of the two channels is shorted, then the left and right channels process the same signal.

Saba Studio I Automatic

LOUDSPEAKERS

This unit is equipped with its original speakers and original packaging.
Here a list with the characteristics declared by the manufacturer:

SABA HI-FI Lautsprecherbox I

2 way Infinite Baffle Speaker
1 Tweeter 8x15 cm
1 Mid-Woofer 18x24 cm
Frequency response: da 65Hz a 16 kHz
Average Power: 15W
Max Power: 20W
Impedance 5 Ohm
Internal Box Volume 12 l
Measurements: 36 x 22 x 20,5 cm/14.2 x 8.7 x 8.1 inch

CONTROL PANEL

Saba Studio I Automatic

The keys have an indication of their function in German (line above) and in English (line below).
They have respectively the following functions:

FA - Ferrite Antenna insertion for Medium and Long Waves
KW - Shortwave
MW - Medium Waves
LW - Long Waves
UKW - FM
EIN-AUS - On / Off
Phono - Turntable / Aux Input
Stereo - Stereo / Mono switch
Autom.Aus - AFC insertion in FM (Automatic Frequency Control)
Sprache - Music / Voice switch

On the right side all the controls are placed

The first knob at the top (Hohen / Treble) is the treble one
Below we find the big tuning knob (Abstimmung / Tuning)
At the side you can see the volume knob (Lautstarke / Volume)
Coaxial with the volume knob you can see the left and right channel balance lever (Balance)
Below we find the low tone control knob (Tiefen / Bass)

SIDE VIEW

Output for external speakers (Zusatzlautsprecher)
Output for additional external speakers (Zweitlautsprecher)
In/Out Tape Recorder (Tonbandgerat)
Turntable In (Tonabnehmer)
AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket

RESTORING WORKS

THE USUAL LAST IMAGE

Saba Studio I Automatic
Graetz Fantasia 922 162w - en

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus – Stereosuper – en

GRAETZ FANTASIA 922 LUXUS – STEREOSUPER

GRAETZ FANTASIA 922 LUXUS - STEREOSUPER

Graetz is one of the most prestigious German radio manufacturers. The Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus - Stereosuper was the flagship model in 1960.
Graetz devices have always been appreciated for their refined and elegant finish, as much as for the innovative acoustic solutions and their respective patents.
In designing the line of their flagship model, Graetz designers chose a classical and statuary kind of elegance.
The cabinet is in dark wood and the paint is very shiny. The sides with their variable width make the profile look slimmer. The base looks wide and solid, without making cabinet look heavy.
The strongly embossed texture of the canvas covering the speakers, the golden lines highlighted on the dark display and the light knobs make the visual impression even more pleasant and lively.
The stylistic attention, as in Graetz's tradition, is very accurate.

The Amplifier Section is the best that could be imagined at the time.
The Volume potentiometer has two sockets for loudness (red). As known, in fact, when listening at a very low volume the bass frequencies and the treble are not perceived with the same sound intensity as the mid, which appear to be predominant.
The loudness modifies the response of the preamplifier stage specularly to the Fletcher-Munson curves. This allows to maintain the correct perception of the sound, even at low volume levels.

The Tone Control was designed using the complex Baxandall circuit (green). The advantage of such circuit is its high precision, while the disadvantages are its cost and construction complexity. Much simpler and cheaper circuits were normally used. But not in this device.

The Balance (pink) is inserted into the feedback circuit. It works by changing the percentage of signal that is downgraded/relegated to each of the two channels. This signal is in inverted phase compared to the main signal. In this way, by acting on the balance, the level of one channel is lowered in comparison with the other and, at the same time, the distortion is reduced.
By turning the knob at the ends, this type of balance does not cause a reset of the volume of the channels as in the modern balance control, but it is to be considered a “fine” adjustment of the level between the two channels.

The Phase Inverter (blue) is of the Catodina type. As an advantage, it is very well-balanced. This circuit is still used in hi-fi amplifiers.

The Push-Pull section (blue) uses two separate tubes (EL95) for each channel. The EL95 are pentodi expressly designed for audio use.
In the receivers, even high-class, provided with Push-Pull output power, bulbs were normally used, which enclosed multiple valves (ELL80, ECLL800). In this way, space and components were saved. But if one of the pentods inside thei complex tube decays differently, the reproduction is altered, with an exponential increase in the crossover distortion. These multiple tubes, once common, are rare and expensive today, so the replacement can be economically significant. The use of separate pentods, as in the Graetz Fantasia 922, eliminates this problem, and it is possible to select pairs of EL95 with the same characteristics.
Only the Graetz Fantasia 922 and 1022 and the Telefunken Opus 2430/2550 use 4 x EL95 in the stadio finale.

The Tuner Section is also very well taken care of.
The most interesting feature is the high selectivity of this device, due to the twin IF stage. The two EF89 pentods and the numerous IF transformers, in fact, are visible in the photos.
In FM an additional transformer has been implemented, accordato all'interno del convertitore in order to make more stable and  insensibile ai disturbi the reception of such frequencies.

Finally, the L0udspeakers set.
The Graetz 922 Luxus features 6 loudspeakers. Four are placed frontally and two on the sides.
The four front loudspeakers are two tweeters and two oval wideband. The tweeters are placed in front of the wideband, on the same axis. This particular arrangement has the great advantage of making the origin of the sound close to that produced by a point source.
This characteristic corresponds to a very linear scatter diagram, and therefore to a much more regular realistic sound image than if the tweeters and the woofers were placed side by side.
The two loudspeakers placed on sides are, at such power level, the mid / tweeters, and allow a balanced listening from any position with respect to the radio, frontally or sideways.

This last feature makes the device very enjoyable as for daily listening. You will no longer want to turn on the HI-FI system ...

Graetz Fantasia 922 Stereosuper

 

Graetz Fantasia 922 Stereosuper

BLUETOOTH

Bluetooth receiver embed

READ MORE >

MULTI PLATFORM CONNECTION

Each radio is equipped with a cable for connection to any digital device.

READ MORE >

TUBESOUND IMPROVEMENT

- Bluetooth receiver embed - The unit is equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly by the receiver power supply. This makes it possible to control the amplifier from any external digital device as an IPAD, a Smartphone, or a sophisticated multimedia station. So you can hear your preferred web station or your lossesless file without cables on the room. Wireless Receiver can be equipped upon requests.
- Multi Platform Connection - A customized adaptation cable to connect any digital device as Iphone, Smartphone, Laptop, CD Player etc. will be provided with this radio. This special cable suits the different impedances between the modern equipment and the receiver. Furthermore the two stereo channels flow into one without increasing the load to the input unit.

Graetz Sinfonia 522

 

graetz factory

 

HISTORY

The Ehrich & Graetz metalworks was a factory established in 1866 in Berlin by Albert Graetz (1831–1901) and the tradesman Emil Ehrich (died 1887) under the name "Lampen-Fabrik Ehrich & Graetz OHG" (E&G).
By 1897 the firm was controlled by Albert's sons, Max Graetz, and Adolf Graetz. The company grew rapidly, and in 1899 factory complexes were built in Berlin, in the United States, France, the UK, and Bombay.
Around 1910-1916 Max Graetz developed the famous Petromax Lantern. Around 1925 the factory also produced radios, and other electrical appliances under the name Graetzor.

In the Second World War, just as in the First World War, the company was part of the war industry. With the use of forced laborers from France, Russia and the Netherlands the company made huge gains in production.
At the end of April 1945 the factory was claimed by the Russian army.

In 1949 the firm became part of the "peoples" program, "VEB-VolksEigenerBetrieb" and since 1950 "VEB Fernmeldewerk, Berlin Treptow (RFFT)." VolksEigenerBetrieb, means that the factory was owned by the people for the people (Communism)

In 1948 Erich, and Fritz Graetz founded a new company in Altena, Germany known by the name The Graetz Firm, which was successor to the lost family company in Berlin. The new company produced mainly radios and televisions.
In 1961 the company was then sold to Standard Elektrik Lorenz (SEL) AG, but since 1987 has been to the present owned by the Finnish company Nokia.

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production: 1960/61

Superheterodyne IF 460/10700
8 AM Circuits
13 FM Circuits

Wavebands:
Medium Waves(OM),  Long Waves (OL)
Short waves (OC), FM (UKW)

Loudspeakers:
2 Elliptical mid-woofers
4 Cone mid-tweeters

Dimensions (LHD): 680 x 395 x 310 mm / 26.8 x 15.6 x 12.2 inch
Net weight: 17 kg / 37 lb 7.1 oz

13 Tubes: ECC85, ECH81, 2 x EF89, EM84, EABC80, 3 x ECC83, 4 x EL95

Graetz Fantasia 922
Graetz Sinfonia 522
Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper
Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

LOUDSPEAKERS

As previously mentioned, the most luxurious model produced by Graetz in 1960, the Fantasia 922, features 6 permanent magnet speakers.
The low and middle notes are reproduced by two large conical speakers, elliptical 26x17 cm.

High-pitched notes are reproduced by four cone loudspeakers. Two measuring 10 cm and two 6cm.

From the acoustic point of view, the interesting thing is not only the number of loudspeakers, but also their placement. The two 6 cm tweeters, in fact, are attached to the frontal  Mid/Woofer, in a concentric position.
This is always my favourite placement and it is used in many of the best modern diffusers, such as  KEF, TAD and Tannoy and many more.
The main advantage of a coaxial is the linearity of the off-axis response, both on the horizontal and vertical plane.
With the traditional positioning of the loudspeakers, the mid/woofer next to the tweeter, the off-axis listening is consistently disturbed by the phase cancellations caused by the length differences of the route between the two drivers.
The 3D graphics on the side display the measurements off the vertical axis of a box with coaxial loudspeaker  KEF LS50 and one with traditional positioning of the  YG Anat III. The difference is noticeable. (source: www.acousticfrontiers.com )

While frontally such an excellent configuration was used, what was done laterally is no less. In fact, on each side was installed a cone tweeter, protected by a metallic dome, Isophon HS10.
This loudspeaker has a very wide frequency response, from 1.000 to 20.000 Hz. So that all frequencies with pretty strong directivity features are reproduced also laterally.
The response to low frequencies is entrusted to the big frontal elliptics. In fact, low-frequency waves – as they are not directive by nature – do not need lateral loudspeakers in order to be perceived.

With this set of loudspeakers placed as described, the response is clearly quite linear from all angles, frontally, laterally and three-quarter.

As they are loudspeakers with an Alnico magnet, they are very efficient. The 7 Watts of each of the two channels are transformed into a noticeable acoustic pressure.
To provide a reference, during the listening at “normal” volume, not bothersome, a 0,2 Watt power delivery on the loudspeakers is measured.
The sound power is thus amply sufficient to sonorize even large environments.
The use of two separate Mid/Woofers has another advantage. The cones have less inertia compared to a larger single cone. In this way, the dynamic response is quick, and the lows are curbed and without resonance.
This feature allows to make the most of the AUX-in with lossesless digital files or CD, providing a brilliant reproduction rich in dynamism.

Graetz Fantasia 922 Stereosuper   Graetz Fantasia 922 Stereosuper

KEF LS50
vs.
YG Anat III

(fonte: www.acousticfrontiers.com )

Graetz Fantasia 922

SOUND CONTROL BUTTONS

Three keys are collected to the left of the main keyboard. The first two indicate respectively:

Raum(klang)Ton - Surround - The appliance works in MONO. It should be used when any of the keys LW, MW, SW, UK are pressed

Stereo - The appliance works in STEREO. It should be used when any of the TA, TB buttons are pressed.

Graetz Fantasia 922
Graetz Fantasia 922

SWITCH TO SAVE THE MAGICAL EYE

The third key to the left side of the main keyboard is used to turn off the magic eye to avoid unnecessary consumption.
It must be used when the TA or TB keys are pressed and when you are tuned to a station in a stable manner and then there is no longer any interest in checking the correct centering.

Mag(isches)-Band – turns the Magical eye off

Graetz Fantasia 922

EQUALISATION BUTTONS

The Klangregister (Musical Register) group also consist of three buttons, which are very intuitive.

Sprache - Voice

Solo - Solo

Orchester - Orchestra

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper
Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper
Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper

TONE CONTROL WITH LEVEL INDICATION

The tones control system is very efficient. Above the large tone control knobs there is a band that lights up gradually indicating the emphasis on the band on which it acts.

By pushing any of the  Klangregister buttons, the tone-controls are excluded, since the frequencies connected with the chosen button are enhanced.
For this reason, the lights that enlighten the scale which indicates the tone-control position are turned off, too. They can be turned on again by pushing the Raumklang button and switching back to the manual setting of the favourite response curve.

BASS MAX

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

BASS FLAT

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

BASS MIN

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper

TREBLE MIN

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper

TREBLE FLAT

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper

TREBLE MAX

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper

AERIALS

Inside the cabinet there is a dipole for FM reception and a ferrite rotating aerial for AM reception.
Ferrite aerial can be rotated from the outside to achieve a perfect tuning of the device in the AM.
In this picture you can see the rotation mechanism, and the aerial position indicator.
The reception sensitivity with internal aerials is very good. This unit was in fact produced when there were not many radio stations, and those available were far from each other.
Using an external aerial sensitivity is further increased.

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper
Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus  Stereosuper

TUNING INDICATOR

The magic eye has of course been replaced.

SEPARATE CONTROL TUNING BETWEEN AM AND FM

The unit is equipped with mechanisms that keep AM and FM bands separate.
The tuning knob is single, but a selector switch commutes between cable systems (all steel made) and pulleys dedicated to each band.
The movement is transferred to both mechanisms with a system of pulleys and separated gears.

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

Keys to be pressed when the turntable or AUX1 is used. With this source it is possible to listen in stereo

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

Keys to be pressed to listen to the Medium Waves band

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

Keys to be pressed when the tape recorder or AUX2 is used. With this source it is possible to listen in stereo

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

Keys to be pressed to listen to the Short Waves band

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

Keys to be pressed to listen to the Long Waves band

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

Keys to be pressed to listen to the FM band

CONTROL PANEL

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

Left from the top:
- The Magic Eye that indicates the perfect tuning of each station.
- The antenna position indicator.

- The volume control (with built-in loudness)
- Axially this balancing.
- The rotation command of the ferrite antenna is still in axis.

- The bass control knob

In the center:
The AM display for long, medium, short waves and the FM display.

Right from the top:
The BANDBREITE indicator (High / Low selectivity in AM)
The tuning knob, whose movement is very pleasant being supported by a large flywheel
On the same axis there is a selector to control the selectivity in AM.
-The treble control knob.

The keyboard:

RAUMTON - Surround - Mono
STEREO - Stereo
MAG.BAND - Magic Eye
AUS - Switch off
TA - Turntables
TB (TA + FA) - Recorder
FA - Ferrite antenna for Medium and Long Waves
LW - Long Waves
MW - Medium Waves
SW - Shortwave
UKW - FM
SPREACHE - Voice
ONLY - Solo instrument
ORCHESTER - Orchestra

Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper

REAR SIDE

Output for external speakers.
Socket for recorder (tonbandgerat).
Turntable input (Tonabnehmer)
AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket

RESTORATION STEPS

THE USUAL AMAZING LAST IMAGE
Graetz Fantasia 922 Luxus Stereosuper
Grundig 5040W/3D 5040w3d - en

Grundig 5040W/3D Motorized – en

Grundig 5040W/3D Motorized

Grundig 5040W/3D Motorized

The Grundig 5040W/3D is one of the best products made by this brand.Grundig used to produce different classes of devices. Those of series 1xxx are the cheapest, those of series 2xxx and 3xxx are medium-class and those of 4xxx and 5xxx are high-class.
Clearly, 5040W/3D belongs to the best class, and this is visible.

The radio section is very interesting from a technical point of view, as it is provided with an automatic search feature of the stored stations. The audio section, moreover, is totally satisfying from the acoustic point of view.
Let us focus on them separately.

Audio Section

The output stage is formed by a Telefunken EF804 tube as a pre-amplifier and a EL12 as a power section.
EF804 is a pentode appositely studied to have low noise and high gain. The pinout, different from any other pentodes, is designed in order to minimize the buzzing of strings.
The cathode is built in a peculiar material appositely imported from American International Nickel Corporation, which minimizes the microphonicity of the valve.
This valve was used in devices designed for professional studios... and in Grundig 5040W/3D
The EL12 is a pentode with 18W of anode dissipation, with a maximum output delivery of 8 Watts.
A tube with such features allows to have a class A output stage of noticeable power.
The efficiency of the four loudspeakers (three of which in alnico) is very high, so that the acoustic pressure delivered by this device is also really high.

In the photos and videos published on the website, two of these stereo configuration machines were used, one for each channel, during a Grundig device exposition.
The result is difficult to describe. The most common reaction was surprise. The audience didn't expect a couple of machines from 60 years ago to sound like that.
I hope to replicate this exhibition in some other public demonstration.

Radio section

The radio section in even more interesting technically.
The different receivable AM frequency bands are divided into several ranges, in order to increase noticeably the tuning precision of each station.
The subdivisions are the following:

KW1 - 50,8 to 35 mt (5,9 - 8,6 MHz)
KW2 - 35 to 24 mt (8,6 - 12,5 MHz)
KW3 - 24 to 16,7 mt (12,5 - 18 MHz)
MW1 - 585 to 318 mt (515 - 945 kHz)
MW2 - 321 to 185 mt (935 - 1620 kHz)

Bands LW, KW1, KW2, MW1, MW2, UK1, UK2 are provided with motorised memory.
The automatic memorisation is activated with the lever under the tuning knob. Then, the tuning knob is turned to the station that is to be memorised.
Now another band button can be pushed to memorise another station in the same way.
When the button of the previous band is pushed, a motor takes the index exactly to the station previously memorised on that button.
Beautiful to see and very useful.
The station research mechanism is complex and delicate to calibrate. Later on in the description, it will be further analysed.

Only Grundig 5040W/3D and 4040W/3D are provided with the automatic research system of the memorised stations.
Saba Freiburg is provided with automatic research of the stations, but it is a very different system, with different results.

BLUETOOTH

Embed Bluetooth Receiver upon requests

READ MORE >

MULTI PLATFORM CONNECTION

Each radio can be equipped with a cable for connection to any digital device.

READ MORE >

TUBESOUND IMPROVEMENTS

- Bluetooth receiver embedded - The unit can be equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly by the receiver power supply. This makes it possible to control the amplifier from any external digital device as an IPAD, a Smartphone, or a sophisticated multimedia station. So you can hear your preferred web station or your lossesless file without cables on the room. Wireless Receiver can be equipped upon requests.

- Multi Platform Connection - A customized adaptation cable to connect any digital device as Iphone, Smartphone, Laptop, CD Player etc. can be provided with this radio. This special cable suits the different impedances between the modern equipment and the receiver. Furthermore the two stereo channels flow into one without increasing the load to the input unit.

HISTORY

1930 - At 22 years old Max Grundig begin a radio repair business.

1939 - The II world War start. Grundig works primarily for the Wehrmacht and repair of telecommunication equipment.

1945 - Immediately after the war, the demand for repair work was very great. Max Grundig built the first two Grundig appliances: the Tubatest tube tester and the Novatest testing device.

1947 - Start the sale of a kit radio, the Heinzelmann. The unit is the basis of success, sold more than 15,000 pieces.

1950 - Very high frequency (VHF) is introduced to Germany and places new demands on the industry. Grundig launches the 380 W on the market.

1952 - The first television channel starts up in Germany. After intensive research, Grundig launches the FS 080 onto the market. In the same year the first portable tape recorder Reporter 500 L is created.

1956 - After a lot of radio produced with progrssively high performances was produced the Concert Radio 5080 equipped with an equaliser, which has five controls and a visual display.

1965 - A new factory is established in Braga, Portugal. The Satellit 205 is one of many appliances in the Satellit series. This product marks the beginning of Grundig production of high-quality global receivers.

1970 - The Audiorama 7000 Hi-fi was produced, it has twelve dynamic speaker systems in one speaker.

1976 - The Reel Tape Recorder TS 1000 is equipped for semi-professional use.

1980 - The slim-line Hi-fi Tuner ST 6000 and the Monolith Hi-fi Dynamic Flat Top Antenna, which has 22 speaker systems, are two particularly popular appliances in the new hi-fi range.

1984 - After severe drop in sales Philips increased its stake in Grundig 31.6 percent and takes over the corporate management.

1997 - Philips pulls out of its involvement with Grundig.

2003 - The company files for bankruptcy.

2008 - Turkey's Koç Holding took full ownership of Grundig Multimedia B.V., the parent company of Grundig Intermedia GmbH in Nuremberg.

Courtesy of: Grundig

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production:  1954/56

Superheterodyne IF 468/10700
11 AM circuits
11 FM circuits

Wavebands: 1 x Long Waves, 2 x Medium Waves, 3 x Short Waves , 2 x FM

Loudspeakers:
1 elliptic wideband
1 electrostatic Tweeter
2 cone Mid/Tweeter

Dimensions (LHD): 706 x 444 x 318 mm / 27.8 x 17.5 x 12.5 inch
Net weight: 20.5 kg / 45 lb 2.5 oz

9 Tubes:
ECC85 EF89 ECC82 EF89 EM85 EBF80 EAA91 EF804 EL12

Grundig 5040W/3D

TONE CONTROL WITH LEVEL INDICATION

The tones control system is very efficient. Above the large tone control knobs there is a band that lights up gradually indicating the emphasis on the band on which it acts.
Interesting the high-tone control knob linked to two thin ropes. One of them is for the position indicator of the control itself, whereas the other changes the position of the ferrite in the MF transformers modifying the inclination of the transformer’s curve.
By doing so high tones were attenuated/accentuated even before getting to the BF stage. Tone control was usually put into effect with the potentiometer on the voltage amplifier stage

AERIALS

Inside the cabinet there is a dipole for FM reception and a ferrite rotating aerial for AM reception.
Ferrite aerial can be rotated from the outside to achieve a perfect tuning of the device in the AM.
In this picture see the rotation mechanism and the position indicator of the aerial.

The reception sensitivity with internal aerials is very good. This unit was in fact produced in a period when there were not many radio stations and those available fairly apart from each others.
Using an external aerial sensitivity is further increased.

Grundig 5040W/3D

TUNING CONTROL AND MOTORISED MEMORY

The tuning can be activated manually, as in every normal device, by turning the tuning knob with the automatic tuning switch turned to the right.

When it is turned to the left, instead, the station that is being played is “mechanically” stored.
For example, I have pushed the UKW2 button and I am listening to a station in 89,90 MHz.
By pushing one of the other harmony buttons, the motor takes the index on the station that was last played.
By pushing the UKW2 button again, the motor takes the harmony exactly to 89,90 MHz.

This operation can be repeated for any station on the UKW1, UKW2, MW1, MW2, KW1, KW2 and LW bands.

The automatic memorisation is obtained with a series of clutches, springs and steel rods and levers which require an accurate calibration. Once calibrated and lubricated, the mechanic system is totally reliable and solid. There is no danger of slippage as there are sprockets, and clutches are made of high-quality flexible steel blades.
A real masterpiece of mechanical engineering.

TUNING INDICATOR

The magic eye has of course been replaced.

LOUDSPEAKERS

As indicated in the description at the beginning, there are four loudspeakers. They are placed on the three sides of the device.

The main cone is a huge elliptic broadband which measures.... it is built in solid alloy and has an alnico magnet.
The dimensions of the magnet are impressive and the weight of the whole loudspeaker reveals its robustness.
Actually, it has to sustain the weight of the big EL12.
The cone curvature is of the exponential type, as befits a super-high-quality broadband.

The frontal electrostatic tweeter covers the very-high frequencies range.
On the two sides are two Mid-Tweeter produced by Grundig, also very efficient.

The final result is, of course, a very powerful sound with very deep and fast bass.
The medium range is also very clear and the voices are credible and in evidence, never imprecise.
Trebles are brilliant but sweet, not strident.

A remarkable musicality for a radio.

CONTROL PANEL

Grundig 5040W/3D

The first knob we find is that of the Volume with integrated loudness.
Coaxial to it is the rotation knob of the ferrite aerial for MW and LW.
The position of the ferrite aerial is visible, see-through view, is the windowpane of the magical eye.
The latter indicates the perfect tuning of each station.
Going further on the display, we can see the AM and FM bands scales.
Further on the right is the tuning control knob.
Coaxial to it is the lever which turns on and off the motorized research of the preset stations.

Below the tuning-dial we find, first of all, the bass-tones control knob.
Then, we see the long "piano-keyboard", the keys of which have this purpose, respectively:
On/Off
Aux-in;
Long Waves
Medium Waves 1, Medium Waves 2
Short Waves 1, Short Waves 2, Short Waves 3
FM1, FM2
Finally, there is the treble control knob.
Above the tones knobs, the respective indicators are visible.
i

Grundig 5040W/3D

REAR SIDE

Output for external speakers.

Socket for recorder (tonbandgerat).

Turntable input (Tonabnehmer)

AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket.

RESTORATION WORKS

THE USUAL AMAZING LAST IMAGE
Grundig 5040W/3D
Grundig 4004W 4004w - en

Grundig 4004W – en

Grundig 4004W

GRUNDIG 4004W

Three models of  Grundig 4004 have been produced.
The  Grundig 4004GW, cheaper version, without power transformer and tubes filaments powered in series, UL41 output tube 4,2 Watt and a single loudspeaker.
The 4004W (EL41), middle version, with power transformer, EL41 output tube 3,9 Watt and a single loudspeaker.
La 4004W (EL12), top version, with power transformer, EL12 final 8 Watt and two loudspeakers.

In this review I analyse, clearly, the most glamorous model, the Grundig 4004W (EL12).

I begin the description anticipating the most singular and interesting peculiarity of this machine: it is perfect for the reproduction in Short Waves.
In fact, apart from having the short waves band divided into three sections, it is one of the rare commercial radios provided with RF amplifier stage for AM bands placed before the converter/mixer stage.

This device is particularly interesting as it combines some features that in other radios we only find singularly.
1) compact dimensions for the class
2) top-quality trim of the cabinet
3) great output power and sound quality
4) good number of receivable bands

Let us analyse these features in detail:

1) compact dimensions for the class: despite being unsurpassed as for the output power, in Grundig's production of 1950/51 the dimensions are relatively compact. This facilitates the location in every space.
Moreover, the controls are particularly simple, intuitive and pleasant to operate. The device is thus presented as overall amicable and a high level of familiarity is immediately established, at first blush.
2) top-quality trim of the cabinet: the wood grain is very evident and they create a fascinating movement on the surface of the cabinet.
Another accuracy, expensive and difficult to obtain is the manufacturing of light frame that enclose the cabinet. It is not painting nor glued tapes, but authentic inlays of clear wood.
This technique was abandoned by Grundig the next year, in favour of much cheaper processes for the reproduction of frames.
3) great output power and sound quality: the output stage is formed by an excellent EL12 in A class, provided with an output transformer of great size for the avoidance of saturations on lower notes. The output power is at the highest level of Grundig's production of those years, about 6W. This remarkable power is transformed into a considerable acoustic pressure by the generous Alnico loudspeaker with cast alloy basket and by the slanting cone profile. The high-pitched tones, finally, become crystalline, never too sharp, thanks to the very big electrostatic tweeter placed beside the broadband.
4) good number of receivable bands: the section in amplitude modulation of this device is very accurately designed.
In the 1950's in Short and Medium waves a great number of broadcasters was present, thanks to the ability of this wavelengths to cover significant distances.
In Grundig 4004W the short wave band is divided into three sections, completely independent.
Short waves 1, from 50,8 to 35 mt (5,9 - 8,6 MHz)
Short waves 2, from 35 to 24 mt (8,6 - 12,5 MHz)
short waves 3, from 24 a 16,7 mt (12,5 - 18 MHz)
In this way the tuning on such bands is very precise, as each band has the entire extension of the scale.
In the devices produced in the next few years the short wave band is squeezed on a single scale.

Medium waves have been divided into two sections:

Medium waves 1, from 585 to 318 mt (515 - 945 kHz)
Medium waves 2, from 321 to 185 mt (935 - 1620 kHz)

Moreover, before the oscillator/converter stage there is an Amplifier RF stage formed by an EF11. This solution will also be abandoned in the next few years due to the progressive increase in the importance of the FM band.

The FM band goes from 87,5 to 100 MHz. The installation of the Bluetooth is thus highly recommended on this device.

All of these adjustments will make these devices last over time. Nowadays, should an engineer include such adjustments, he would probably be demoted or thrown out of the company!

Grundig 4004W

 

Grundig 4004W

 

Grundig 4004W

BLUETOOTH

Embed Bluetooth receiver

READ MORE >

MULTI PLATFORM CONNECTION

Each radio can be equipped with a cable for connection to any digital device.

READ MORE >

TUBESOUND IMPROVEMENTS

- Bluetooth receiver embedded - The unit can be equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly by the receiver power supply. This makes it possible to control the amplifier from any external digital device as an IPAD, a Smartphone, or a sophisticated multimedia station. So you can hear your preferred web station or your lossesless file without cables on the room. Wireless Receiver can be equipped upon requests.

- Multi Platform Connection - A customized adaptation cable to connect any digital device as Iphone, Smartphone, Laptop, CD Player etc. can be provided with this radio. This special cable suits the different impedances between the modern equipment and the receiver. Furthermore the two stereo channels flow into one without increasing the load to the input unit.

HISTORY

1930 - At 22 years old Max Grundig begin a radio repair business.

1939 - The II world War start. Grundig works primarily for the Wehrmacht and repair of telecommunication equipment.

1945 - Immediately after the war, the demand for repair work was very great. Max Grundig built the first two Grundig appliances: the Tubatest tube tester and the Novatest testing device.

1947 - Start the sale of a kit radio, the Heinzelmann. The unit is the basis of success, sold more than 15,000 pieces.

1950 - Very high frequency (VHF) is introduced to Germany and places new demands on the industry. Grundig launches the 380 W on the market.

1952 - The first television channel starts up in Germany. After intensive research, Grundig launches the FS 080 onto the market. In the same year the first portable tape recorder Reporter 500 L is created.

1956 - After a lot of radio produced with progrssively high performances was produced the Concert Radio 5080 equipped with an equaliser, which has five controls and a visual display.

1965 - A new factory is established in Braga, Portugal. The Satellit 205 is one of many appliances in the Satellit series. This product marks the beginning of Grundig production of high-quality global receivers.

1970 - The Audiorama 7000 Hi-fi was produced, it has twelve dynamic speaker systems in one speaker.

1976 - The Reel Tape Recorder TS 1000 is equipped for semi-professional use.

1980 - The slim-line Hi-fi Tuner ST 6000 and the Monolith Hi-fi Dynamic Flat Top Antenna, which has 22 speaker systems, are two particularly popular appliances in the new hi-fi range.

1984 - After severe drop in sales Philips increased its stake in Grundig 31.6 percent and takes over the corporate management.

1997 - Philips pulls out of its involvement with Grundig.

2003 - The company files for bankruptcy.

2008 - Turkey's Koç Holding took full ownership of Grundig Multimedia B.V., the parent company of Grundig Intermedia GmbH in Nuremberg.

Courtesy of: Grundig

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production:  1951/52
Superheterodyne IF 468/10700
9 AM circuits
9 FM circuits
Wavebands: Onde Medie (OM1, OM2), Onde Lunghe (OL), Onde Corte (OC1-OC2-OC3), FM (UKW), OM (Memory)
Loudspeakers:
1 22 cm wideband
1 electrostatic Mid/Tweeter
Dimensions (LHD):  644 x 384 x 272 mm / 25.4 x 15.1 x 10.7 inch
Net weight: 15 kg / 33 lb 0.6 oz
8 tubes:
EF80 EC92 EF41 ECH81 EM34 EAF42 EABC80 EL12

Grundig 4004W

TONE CONTROL WITH LEVEL INDICATION

The tones control system is very efficient. Above the large tone control knobs there is a band that lights up gradually indicating the emphasis on the band on which it acts.
Interesting the high-tone control knob linked to two thin ropes. One of them is for the position indicator of the control itself, whereas the other changes the position of the ferrite in the MF transformers modifying the inclination of the transformer’s curve.
By doing so high tones were attenuated/accentuated even before getting to the BF stage. Tone control was usually put into effect with the potentiometer on the voltage amplifier stage

AERIALS

Inside the cabinet there is a dipole for FM reception.
One arm of the dipole is also used for receiving AM bands.
Listening FM band the reception sensitivity with internal aerials is very good.
For AM bands using an external antenna the sensitivity is good.
The picture shows the dipole fixed internally to the cabinet.

Grundig 4004W

TUNING CONTROL

For both AM and FM bands the tuning system is unique.
The single variable capacitor is divided into 4 sections, two for AM and two for FM.
Each section is used respectively for the RF amplifier and the oscillator.
The mechanism is very simple and robust. It has the disadvantage of being a unique command for all bands.

TUNING INDICATOR

The magic eye has of course been replaced.

Grundig 4004W

LOUDSPEAKERS

As indicated in the first description, there are two loudspeakers. They are both placed on the front.

The main broadband cone has a diameter of 22 cm. It is made of strong alloy and has an Alnico magnet.
The dimensions of the magnet are considerable and the weight of the whole loudspeaker reveals its sturdiness.
Actually, it has to sustain the solidity of the big EL12.
The curving of the cone is exponential, as it is customary in a high-quality broadband.
This cone is protected from dust by a light loosely-woven cloth, enough to make also high-pitched notes pass through.

The electrostatic tweeter covers the range of very high frequencies.
The final result is, of course, a very clear and prompt sound on high frequencies, due to the very light moving mass.

Both the loudspeakers are produced by Grundig.

CONTROL PANEL

Grundig 4004W

The magical eye, which indicates the perfect tuning of each station, is placed on the loudspeakers panel.
On the left there is the volume control (with integrated loudness).
At the beginning of its running, the potentiometer snaps because of the ignition switch.
Moving right, we find the low tones indicator on the glass display.
Then, we find the scale of Long Waves, the two of Medium Waves and the three of Short Waves and the FM band.
Finally, the high-pitched tones indicator is visible behind the glass.
Further on the right is the harmony control knob.

Below the tuning-dial is, first of all, the low-tones control knob.
Then we see the long keyboard, the buttons of which serve as, respectively:
Auxiliary Input;
Long Waves;
Medium Waves 1, Medium Waves 2
Short Waves 1, Short Waves 2, Short Waves 3
FM
Finally, there is the high-pitched tones control knob

Grundig 4004W

REAR SIDE

Output for external speakers.
Socket for recorder (tonbandgerat).
Turntable input (Tonabnehmer)
AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket.

RESTORING WORKS

THE USUAL AMAZING LAST IMAGE
Grundig 4004W
Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58 goldsuper 58 - en

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58 – en

SCHAUB LORENZ GOLDSUPER 58

SCHAUB LORENZ GOLDSUPER 58

SCHAUB LORENZ GOLDSUPER 58

Schaub-Lorenz radios are recognizable at first glance.
In the 1950s-60s the concepts of industrial standardization, of cost optimization and of inter-enterprise economies of scale did not exist.
Industrial products – not only radios, but also cars, motorbikes and domestic appliances – were characterized by great differences, at least aesthetically, from on brand to another.
It was not necessary to read the brand on the trunk in order to distinguish an Alfa Romeo from a Citroen or a NSU.
Radios were also easily distinguishable. Some maintained an austere look, some wanted to give a strong appearance of solidity, some others had eccentric and catchy shapes.

At Schaub-Lorenz, designers and developers' efforts aim for the elegance of their prestigious devices.
Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58, in fact, has a very elegant line. Every detail is tastefully designed with great sense of balance.
The front and the sides are designed to give great lightness to the device. There are no parallel elements or surfaces on the cabinet of this device.
Flat surfaces are minimised and the residual uniformity is completely shattered by the nuance effects that make the device look like it is moving.
The shape of this device seems to transform according to the lights and shadows around it.
Apart from my expressive skills, a simple photo array with devices of other renowned brands will clear all doubt.

GoldKlang 58 is the company's top model of the same year and GoldSuper 58 only differs from the first for the final stage.
Instead of two ECL82 in counter-phase with an output power of 5,8 w, it has an EL84 with an output power of 4,4 w.
But in the GoldSuper, the final stage works in A class, which avoids the problem of Crossover Distortion.
As usual, the sound is smooth and bright, with warm and pleasant low tones.
The loudspeakers are oversized, in fact on the Goldklang the same transducers are installed.

The tuning knob is very pleasant to use because of the peculiar pulley movement transmission system.
The keys are soft and safely activated and jam-free.

The restoration was particularly challenging because of the difficult reconstruction of the shades of the cabinet. It was laborious to recreate the precise balance between the background colour and that of the shade, as well as to respect the nuance gradient.
But the result definitely pays off.

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

BLUETOOTH

Bluetooth receiver embed

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MULTI PLATFORM CONNECTION

Each radio is equipped with a cable for connection to any digital device.

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TUBESOUND UPGRADE

- Bluetooth receiver embed - The unit is equipped with a BLUETOOTH receiver powered directly by the receiver power supply. This makes it possible to control the amplifier from any external digital device as an IPAD, a Smartphone, or a sophisticated multimedia station. So you can hear your preferred web station or your lossesless file without cables on the room. Wireless Receiver can be equipped upon requests.

Multi Platform Connection – A customized adaptation cable to connect any digital device as Iphone, Smartphone, Laptop, CD Player etc. will be provided with this radio. This special cable suits the different impedances between the modern equipment and the receiver. Furthermore the two stereo channels flow into one without increasing the load to the input unit.

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58
Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

HISTORY

In 1870, Carl Lorenz (1844-1889) opens a lightning hardware shop in Berlin.
After his death, the company is acquired by textile entrepreneur Robert Held (1862-1924).
Carl's brother, Alfred Lorenz, is appointed as technical director. Under Held, the company became an important supplier of telegraphy equipment.
The company expands in the telephone industry buying Lewart and it becomes the telephone provider for postal service.
In 1906, the company is registered for public commerce as C. Lorenz AG.
At the beginning of World War I, Lorenz had reached the number of 3.000 employees and was an important provider of telephone and telegraphy equipment for the German army.
At the end of the First War, the size of the company decreases considerably and activities are oriented to the production of household radios and aeronautical communications devices.
In the 1920's, the company is the main competitor of Telefunken.
In 1930, it is under the control of Standard Elektrizitätsgesellschaft, a branch of American society ITT.
Lorenz patented the ferrite aerial in 1935, which has been used since then in most domestic receivers.
While Germany was preparing for another War, Lorenz went back to the production of material for the army.
In 1940, he aquires G. Schaub Apparatebau-Gesellschaft; its many factories were mainly used for low-cost production.
Lorenz's military products during World War II included land and air radars, radios, recorders, radio tubes and the safest communication device in Germany, Lorenz's machine and code.
Lorenz owned the 25% of Focke-Wulf, the German aeronautical company that built some of the most successful Luftwaffe fighter jets.
In the midst of the War, Lorenz had about 24.000 workers in 12 operating structures.
In 1948, Lorenz has to start over.
Some factories had been shut down and those in the eastern part had been transferred or transferred to the Soviet Union.
During the 1950's, Lorenz recovers very quickly. In 1954, the name of the broadcasting devices brand is changed to Schaub-Lorenz.
In 1958, C. Lorenz AG ceased to exist as an independent company. ITT reorganizes its activities in Germany by merging Lorenz, Standard Elektrizitätsgesellschaft and many more into a new society, named Standard Elektrik Lorenz (or SEL).
In 1961, the company also becomes the main shareholder of Graetz.
In 1987, it is incorporated by the French company Alcatel.
In 2016, Alcatel is bought by Nokia.

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

MAIN FEATURES

Year of production: 1957/58

Superheterodyne IF 468/10700
6 AM Circuits
10 FM Circuits

Wavebands: Medium Waves (OM), Long Waves (OL),Short waves (OC), FM (UKW)

Loudspeakers:
2 main wideband loudspeakers in front

2 Electrostatic Tweeters on sides

Dimensions (LHD): 600 x 360 x 275 mm / 23.6 x 14.2 x 10.8 inch
Net weight: 12.1 kg / 26 lb 10.4 oz
6 Tubes: ECC85 ECH81 EF89 EABC80 EM84 EL84

LW and MW ferrite antenna embed

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

BANDBREITE SCHALTBAR

The frequency response correction system is made of 4 keys that insert preset equalization curves operating on the feedback circuit, they are not passive filters.

The Tiefen key emphasizes the bass.
The Sprache key emphasizes the mids for a cleaner listening to broadcasts spoken.
The Hohen key emphasizes the treble.
The Raumricht  Klang excludes the side speakers.

 

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

TONE CONTROL WITH LEVEL INDICATION

The tones control system is very efficient.

Above the large tone control knobs there is a band that lights up gradually indicating the emphasis on the band on which it acts.

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

MAX BASS

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

MIN BASS

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

MAX TREBLE

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

MIN TREBLE

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

AERIALS

Inside the cabinet there is a dipole for FM reception and a ferrite aerial for AM reception.
The reception sensitivity with internal aerials is very good.
Using an external aerial sensitivity is further increased.

SEPARATE CONTROL TUNING BETWEEN AM AND FM

The tuning system is another gem.
The unit is equipped with mechanisms for keeping separate the AM and FM bands.
The tuning knob is single but a selector switch commutes into cable systems (all in steel) and pulleys separated depending on the band.

The movement is transferred to both mechanisms with a system of pulleys and separated gears.

 

TUNING INDICATOR

The magic eye has of course been replaced.

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

LOUDSPEAKERS

The loudspeakers are four.

In the front we find two big elliptic broadband very linear and efficient. 

In order to obtain a 3D effect, we find on the sides two electrostatic SuperTweeters.

 The acoustic performance is really generous.

CONTROL PANEL

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

From the left, the first knob we find is the Volume, with integrated loudness.
Above, the Magical eye indicates the perfect tuning of each station.
Below is the low-tones indicator and further down is the knob which controls them.
In the middle there is the scale, with indicated the different bands and receivable frequencies.
On the right side we find the tuning knob.
Below it, the treble indicator is visible and further below we find the knob which controls them.

Under the dialglass we find the following buttons:
TIEFEN - Bass control
SPRACHE - emphasizes the mids for a cleaner listening to broadcasts spoken.
AUS - Off
TA - Turntable
LW - Long Wave
MW - Medium Wave
SW - Short Wave
UKW - FM
HOHEN - Treble control
RAUMRICH>KLANG - Detach loudspeakers on sides

Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58

REAR SIDE

Output for external speakers.

Socket for recorder (tonbandgerat).

Turntable input (Tonabnehmer)

AM and FM aerial inputs and ground socket.

RESTORATION WORKS

THE USUAL AMAZING LAST IMAGE
Schaub Lorenz Goldsuper 58