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Check Out the National NC-183D!

Recognizing Radio Amateurs 0 Comments 12/17/2017 (This is a Level 0 News item)

Thanks to Jerry, K9GAS, for this superb example.

In all the years of my collecting, I've never seen a finer example of the National NC-183D receiver. From around 1956, this 17-tube receiver is positively beautiful. The paint shines like new. The tuning and meter dials are crisp (most are faded and/or discolored). Hooked up to a worthy speaker, the push/pull 6V6 audio is in a class by itself. In fact, the powerful audio is the best thing about this big band cruiser, next to its stunning appearance.

Jerry, K9GAS, has carefully recapped this receiver, which has no discernable hum or distortion. Sensitivity is par for the period. Sideband is of course a touchy proposition: careful manipulation of the RF Gain is required. Selectivity and Phase controls work well, and there is no indication that this one needs alignment. But, oh - that audio. How can one describe it? It's like enjoying a real cup of coffee from a Seattle cafe, after having to endure the stuff from Speedway for years. It's easy to forget that dimension to shortwave listening.

You vintage sideband guys, know this: the AM crowd has lots of very serious collectors and restorers who are committed to keeping this old gear preserved. Thanks Jerry!