Hi folks.

I just signed up as a new member here - and was looking for any info/thoughts re: a Philips 1959 Stereophonic Radiogram Model 218.

I will be testing one out (power connection/operation etc) later this week – and think speakers (mono), radio all work OK. TT may have an issue. The unit is gorgeous – with bakelite knobs, a blue TT colour and polished exterior...looks like it is out of the Fallout game series! Still trying to convince the other half to keep it! Not sure what it might cost to overhaul/fix vs. how much it might be worth to offload?

Spec sheet (yes, I found that on the web from the service manual!) and photos here:

https://flic.kr/s/aHsm68rFqg

All feedback appreciated.

Cheers,
Scott.

When I click on that link I get this message:

"Page Not Found
Oops! Looks like you followed a bad link.
If you think this is a problem with Flickr, please tell us."

Fixed (link above updated). Sorry. Thanks for letting me know.

Thanks for fixing the link.

I will be testing one out (power connection/operation etc) later this week

Is this radiogram in current use where it lives? As a general rule, it is definitely not advisable to power up old electronic equipment that hasn't been used for a long time because doing so can damage parts unnecessarily. Those of us who work on old gear give it a good inspection first looking for the usual suspect components and fixing/replacing them before applying mains power.

Not sure what it might cost to overhaul/fix vs.

Depends on a number of factors. Only an inspection of the chassis and a checkout of the turntable mechanism would make that clear.

how much it might be worth to offload?

Not a lot. There is not a great demand for those large radiograms. Many (most?) end up in the tip.

Yes G,
Some of the 50s 60s Radiograms bring good money,, but not that model.Mostly its the low line sideboard models that bring the bucks. GE made one in 67 and so did Pye .

This model is 1959, still full of paper caps I guess?. Dont think I would be wanting to turn it on though.
Pete

Thanks for the feedback. I checked and the unit has already been tagged, and confirmed in working order (power on, speakers, radio) by an electrician. Obviously not an expert assessment of the workings....

I think I will pass on it...despite liking the blue and white early plastic toning inside. Not my area of expertise by about 25 years

Appreciate it. I also let someone I know have a fully working (TT, radio, speakers etc) Philips 60s Novasonic Radiogram in a lovely cabinet. At $50 it was a steal!

Will report back here on any others I come across in my travels.

If you're interested in a radiogram, then I suggest you keep your eye out for those in the Krielser Multisonic range. They are attractive pieces of furniture and, when in good condition, have very good sound.

Here are some examples:

https://www.google.com.au/search?q=Kriesler+multisonic&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa...

IT'S A KRIESLER !!
Yep we all like Kriesler.

https://youtu.be/k0wSBfAPLws

I also let someone I know have a fully working (TT, radio, speakers etc) Philips 60s Novasonic Radiogram in a lovely cabinet. At $50 it was a steal!

That's also a good looking unit. At $50 it certainly was a steal.

The radiograms that tend to fetch good prices and retain their value are those with attractive cabinets, such as those with "Danish" design.

Pete: Here's a plug from Philips:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Skbf4vcKflE

Hi G,
Not bad,, but I just love my
Kriesler 11 77 and the 11 85 are great too.
Mine is not finished yet, I need some walnut veneer to finish it.
But the rest of it is looking good now.

here ! Memory lane

https://youtu.be/Pr0Goh04smA

^ All the good stuff, there.