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Help Identifing GE Console Unit

Posted: Wed May 09, 2012 8:27 pm
by btkeith
Here are a couple of pictures I took of the unit. Any help would be appreciated. I could not find a serial number anywhere.

Image


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Re: Help Identifing GE Console Unit

Posted: Thu May 10, 2012 2:37 am
by MattTech
Serial numbers are meaningless - I don't understand why people seem to think they are of importance.
MODEL numbers, on the other hand, are the ticket to device identification.

For the record, that console is an early '60's tube-powered unit.
It includes a "Vaccu-matic" record sweeping system with an asbestos container that has to be removed/modified for safety.
If it hasn't been gone over by a reputable technician recently, it shouldn't even be plugged in to "try it".

I've worked on many, and am currently restoring a 1961 Zenith console stereo that was neglected - but customer insisted on using it.
The owner sadly now has to pay MUCH more in fees due to a fried transformer and associated parts that blew due to using it in "as is" condition.

Re: Help Identifing GE Console Unit

Posted: Thu May 10, 2012 3:26 am
by btkeith
I have tried it already. Radio works, but sound fades out periodically. Record player does not seem to work. I know repair cost can vary depending on issues, but I'm trying to figure out if it is worth it to get it repaired. No local repairmen in my area, but might be willing to drive somewhere nearby if cost aren't too bad. What kind of price ranges are we talking about on these items? Could one be placed in working condition for $200-$300, or can they run much higher.

Re: Help Identifing GE Console Unit

Posted: Thu May 10, 2012 4:49 am
by deash
Matt is right serial numbers are meaningless, mostly used for start and stop points of daily production an example at the end of a shift someone wants to
know how many units were built that day well what serial # did we start the shift with? and this last unit is number XXXXXXX do the math and we built XXXXXX today. I think if you find some reputable you can get your console repaired for $200-$300 or less, but I'm curious what Matt has to say about this.

Re: Help Identifing GE Console Unit

Posted: Thu May 10, 2012 6:31 am
by MattTech
btkeith wrote:I have tried it already. Radio works, but sound fades out periodically. Record player does not seem to work. I know repair cost can vary depending on issues, but I'm trying to figure out if it is worth it to get it repaired. No local repairmen in my area, but might be willing to drive somewhere nearby if cost aren't too bad. What kind of price ranges are we talking about on these items? Could one be placed in working condition for $200-$300, or can they run much higher.


Sound fades? - avoid powering it up then.
Could likely be due to several things, but stressing the (aged) electronics is not good, because the moment smoke rises, it's too late.
That's what happened to several of the consoles I had in the shop.
People used them, not knowing the consequences. - and now it costs them way more.
I hate to see that happen.

Depending on what parts are needed, costs can run from 200 on up.
I refrain from quoting simply because it's impossible to know for sure - each unit I get has its own "surprises" that needs tending to - thus determining final costs.

Post a location, and perhaps someone nearby can provide the same service that I do.
I realize not too many of us dedicated restorers are around.

Re: Help Identifing GE Console Unit

Posted: Thu May 10, 2012 2:09 pm
by btkeith
Thanks for the responses. I'm in Madisonville, ky. So if anyone knows a repair location please pass it along.