Bud Radio "phono oscillator" (AKA, AM transmitter)

[radiotvnut]

While moving some stuff around in the shop, I found this little gem - a "Bud Radio Inc" phonograph oscillator model WO-6 and was made in Cleveland, OH. This is probably from the '40's and, as most know, this is actually a small AM transmitter that was designed to be attached to a phonograph pick-up for the purpose of transmitting the content of phonograph records to a nearby AM radio. I think these were mainly intended to make it easier to run a phonograph through a radio that didn't have a phono input jack. I think Philco and other companies actually made turntables that had a self contained "phono oscillator" for the purpose of transmitting music from records to a nearby radio.

I have not tested this unit and it appears to have one octal tube inside. I'm sure this was designed for use with the old 2 to 3 volt crystal 78 rpm cartridges; so, I don't know how well it would do with a modern line level input. Also, if I ever actually use this, I'd run it through an isolation transformer, since this is likely a hot chassis unit.

Anyway, just thought I'd throw this little item up here for those who may be interested.

[Reece]

I remember these. They were in the Allied catalog in the fifties, may have been in the forties, too.

[dieseljeep]

It definately is a hot chassis unit. Circuit uses a single 117L7 tube. Transmitts about one foot away. My radio DJ blows it away.

[capbuster]

Just trying to learn . Why does it have antenna lead on it. Curiosity killed the cat. Makes fox sly.

[Reece]

Connect a piece of wire to act as its broadcasting antenna. The metal case would shield and keep radiation from the interior from going very far. The wire wouldn't be connected to anything on the other end of it.

[capbuster]

Thanks and thanks. Now i know the rest of the story. Good day.

[markdi]

does it work ?

it looks really kool

[Hemingray]

So this is something like the "Lil' 7"?