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  3. PHILCO 38-690

PHILCO 38-690 Fi Console Vacuum Tube Radio Up Upstate Hi Radio. Up.

38-690 Philco Super Hi-fi Console Vacuum Tube Radio. Local Pick Up. Upstate Ny

( Brand: Philco ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 38-690 ), ( Model: PHILCO 38-690 ), ( Part Type: Pick Vacuum Tube Radio ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States )

Review PHILCO Super Hi fi Console Vacuum Tube Radio. Local Pick Up. Upstate Ny

Philco 38-690 Hi-Fi Console Vacuum Tube Radio

The Philco 38-690 Hi-Fi Console Vacuum Tube Radio is a stunning piece of vintage electronics that transports you back in time. This elegant radio, produced by the Philco Company during the upstate New York era, exudes a classic charm and sophistication that is hard to find in today's digital world.

The exterior design of the 38-690 is reminiscent of the Art Deco period, with its elegant curves and rich, woodgrain finish. The cabinet is crafted from high-quality hardwood, which not only adds to the radio's aesthetic appeal but also provides excellent insulation and shielding for the delicate vacuum tube components inside. The radio's control panel is intuitive and easy to use, with large, clearly labeled knobs and switches that make tuning in your favorite stations a pleasure.

Under the hood, the 38-690 boasts an impressive array of features for its time. It is equipped with an AM/FM tuner, allowing you to listen to both local and national broadcasts. The Hi-Fi moniker is no mere marketing term; this radio delivers clear, rich sound thanks to its six vacuum tube amplifiers and four speaker system. The tone control knobs on the control panel allow you to fine-tune the sound to your liking, whether you're listening to music or a spoken word program.

The vacuum tube technology used in the Philco 38-690 imbues the sound with a warm, rich character that is impossible to replicate with digital components. Each tube adds a unique sonic signature to the sound, giving the radio a distinct, personalized sound that is unlike any other.

Maintaining the 38-690 is a joy, as it is designed with the user in mind. The radio comes with a user-friendly owner's manual, which includes troubleshooting guides and maintenance tips. The tubes can be easily replaced when they reach the end of their life, ensuring that your radio remains in top working order for years to come.

In summary, the Philco 38-690 Hi-Fi Console Vacuum Tube Radio is more than just a radio; it is a piece of history that brings a touch of nostalgia and sophistication to any room in your home. Its classic design, impressive features, and warm, rich sound make it a must-have for any audiophile or vintage electronics enthusiast.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Philco 38-690 Hi-Fi Console Vacuum Tube Radio

The Philco 38-690 Hi-Fi console vacuum tube radio is a vintage piece of technology that has been gaining popularity among audio enthusiasts. This article aims to provide an unbiased analysis of the potential advantages and disadvantages associated with purchasing this radio model.

Pros:

1. Superior Sound Quality: Vacuum tube radios like the Philco 38-690 offer a warm, rich sound that is unmatched by modern solid-state radios. The tubes amplify the sound, giving it a full-bodied, dynamic character.

2. Attractive Design: With its elegant wooden cabinet and classic Art Deco styling, the Philco 38-690 is a beautiful addition to any living space. It's not just a radio; it's a conversation piece and a work of art.

3. Versatile Connectivity: This vintage radio comes with several input options, including Bluetooth, auxiliary, and USB. This allows users to play music from various sources, making it a more versatile device than just a simple radio.

4. Durable and Long-Lasting: Vacuum tube radios are built to last, with high-quality components that can withstand the test of time. The Philco 38-690, in particular, is known for its robust construction and reliability.

5. Nostalgic Value: For many people, the Philco 38-690 represents a piece of history. It's a reminder of a bygone era when radio was the primary source of entertainment and communication. Owning one of these radios is a way to connect with the past and preserve a bit of history.

Cons:

1. Energy Consumption: Vacuum tube radios consume more power than modern solid-state devices. The Philco 38-690, for instance, requires a continuous power supply, which can result in higher electricity bills.

2. Maintenance and Repairs: Vacuum tube radios require more maintenance than modern devices. Tubes need to be replaced periodically, and other components may need to be serviced or repaired. This can be time-consuming and costly.

3. Limited Functionality: While the Philco 38-690 offers several input options, it still lacks some features that are common in modern radios, such as presets, digital displays, and advanced tuning functions.

4. Size and Weight: The Philco 38-690 is a large, heavy device, which can make it difficult to move around or store. Its wooden cabinet also makes it susceptible to damage if not handled carefully.

5. Cost: Vacuum tube radios like the Philco 38-690 can be expensive, both to purchase and to maintain. The cost of replacement tubes, for instance, can add up over time.

Conclusion:

The Philco 38-690 Hi-Fi console vacuum tube radio offers a unique combination of superior sound quality, attractive design, versatile connectivity, durability, and nostalgic value. However, it also comes with some drawbacks, including higher energy consumption, maintenance requirements, limited functionality, size and weight, and cost. Ultimately, the decision to buy the Philco 38-690 depends on personal preferences and priorities. If you value the rich, warm sound and the nostalgic appeal of a vintage radio, then the Philco 38-690 may be worth the investment. However, if you're looking for a modern, functional, and energy-efficient radio, then you may want to consider other options.

Recommendation:

For those who are interested in the Philco 38-690 Hi-Fi console vacuum tube radio, it's essential to do thorough research and consider the pros and cons carefully. It's recommended to read reviews from other buyers, check the condition and authenticity of the radio, and factor in the cost of maintenance and replacement tubes. Additionally, it's advisable to ensure that you have a reliable source for tube replacements and repairs. Overall, the Philco 38-690 is an excellent investment for audio enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the unique sound and aesthetics of vintage technology. However, it may not be the best choice for those who prioritize modern functionality and energy efficiency.

Details:

The rear, protective screen still exists. The wood has been nourished regularly. Some may be repetitive. Examine the photos and ask questions.

As you can see by the dust, there has not been any mechanical activity in decades. The roll top moves easily. First, we'll tell you about this specific piece. The light display works.

We'll provide more about the model 38-690 below. The electronics are original with the chance of a replacement tube from 40 years ago. We made need guidance if you are asking about a specific inner working. Prior to that, she and her husband had been the original owners of this new model.

This is one of the 3,000 model 38-690x made by Philco. This hum is not controlled by the volume knob. Sporting 20 tubes, this radio covered the Broadcast band and 4 Shortwave bands. The original owners guide is included.

This piece is original. The overall appearance of the wood is very good. When it is turned on and warmed up hums loudly. It has some pieces missing and does not attach to the clips as well.

There is some change in sound when trying to tune stations, but nothing significant enough make one think there a station available. All of the clips are original. Otis of note that Philco was not the first to market such sets, as others, Sachs American Bosch and Admiral, had offered model's in earlier years, though with less advertising razzmatazz.

part #: 38690 price

  • $20.00

specifications vintaelec:

  • brand: Philco
  • mpn: 38-690
  • model: Philco 38-690
  • part type: Pick Vacuum Tube Radio
  • country/region of manufacture: United States

offer vintaelec:

  • options: Seller-arranged-local-pickup
  • best offers: True
  • started: July 13, 2025
  • availability: In Stock
  • sold: 0
  • quantity: 1

shipping vintaelec:

returns vintaelec:

  • policy: No Returns

general vintaelec:

  • Consumer Electronics > Vintage Electronics > Other Vintage Electronics
  • condition: Used

seller vintaelec:

  • rating: 100.0%
  • city: Albany, New York
  • # reviews: 481

payments vintaelec:

  • other
  • wallet: Google-pay
  • credit card: Discover
part type: pick vacuum tube radio, country/region of manufacture: united states,
category: electronics > vintage electronics, sku: 6888871488360633,
Philco 38-690 Is Similar To:
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1 offer $20.00 USD
  • Unspecified. Offer #1 priced at $20.00 + $5.50 shipping estimate = $25.50* total. Hammarlund Clock Midland M6B Philco 38-12C Glass. (Hallicrafters, Knight, Lafayette, Motorola, Philco etc).+$5.50 shipping

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