Posted 13 years ago
CharredPC
(1 item)
Sometimes I get lucky, and this was one of those times. Thanks to some nice rich people a few cities over- who decided that this old family relic wasn't as useful any more- I paid $50 and am the proud owner of a beautiful 70-year-old working 1942 RCA "Magic Brain" Victrola, model V-215! This is like one of those "little old lady drove it to the store and back once a week" car stories, except it's true; the radio has never traveled 30 miles from where it was purchased almost three quarters of a century ago, or left the original purchasers' home. It has never been rebuilt or restored, except for the power cord being replaced (I believe in the 60's). It works marvelously, aside from the record player needing some oiling. A little polishing, and it gleamed like new. I love listening to it while relaxing late at night, and some of the original 'electric tuning' labelled preset stations are still there, like KOA from Denver, CO! While this model doesn't seem to be worth a lot from what little I can gather online, I've yet to see one in this kind of condition. If anyone has any interesting tidbits, details, or comments on this model, I welcome them. Regardless, I cherish it :) Sorry for the lousy pictures, blame my camera-phone. (Edit: added a few pics)
wow awesome
Nice finding,I'm working on a restoration on one like this but 1941.Can you share photos on the insides of the radio?
Thanks for your time.Alex.
I have one exactly the same also in perfect working condition. I really love the beauty of the wood and the cabinet style. I have had mine now for over 20 years. My RCA sits in my dinning room attracting a lot of attention by visitors.
I'll try and get some more photos added. After buying NOS (New Old Stock) replacement A1 and A3 (78 rpm and 33/45 rpm) needles for it, I'm now enjoying vinyl on this quite a bit. Francois, great to hear that there's at least one other survivor out there! As I'm sure you know, one of the best things about this model is the AUX jack- mine is often used as a jukebox, plugged into my phone or laptop. I just love that a 71-year-old antique is still both enjoyable and useful daily :)
I have one in almost as good condition as this one. I proudly paid $30 for mine, and it does work. ???? I absolutely love it.