Philco - RP-2 WIRELESS RECORD PLAYER Turntable

PHILCO WIRELESS TURNSTILE RP-2 1942

Manufacturer: Philco, Philadelphia, USA
Model 42 RP-2, Code 121
Serial number: R 82814
Production date: 1942
Type: 2-tube wireless turntable at 78 rpm, with AM transmission
Cabinet: Mahogany wood with inlay marquetry
Light: Mini bulb on the tonearm
Switch: On/off at the tonearm support
Frequency range: AM 530 - 600 kHz
Tube alignment: 6Z4 (rectifier, = 84), 6A7 (oscillator)
Power supply: 115 Volts AC

This 84-year-old wireless turntable is a rare and scarce piece, impressive for its time; with its built-in transmitter, it eliminates the need for a cable connection and the sound can be received by any nearby radio on the AM band.

In the 1940s, Philco innovated with its pioneering inventions: the first wireless remote control, called "Mystery Control", their wireless remote turntables from 1939/42 and their beam-plug tonearm "Beam-Of-Light" (which illuminates the record). Famous designers such as Ed Combs, Clyde Shuler and Ben Nash created this unforgettable line of Philco devices.

Philco manufactured these wireless turntables RP41 and RP42 (the latter is the one I offer), between 1939 and 1942. The success was such that, into the early 1960s, certain kits inspired by these Philco models were sold.

This turntable appears cataloged in the specialized guide "Machine Age to Jet Age III" by Mark V Stein (USA).

Its technology is quite simple: it uses a pentagrid converter tube 6A7 to mix the carrier frequency BC (shortwave/mediumwave) and the output signal from the phonographic cartridge, producing a high-frequency AM signal, around 590 kHz, which is transmitted to any radio with the AM/BC band. The other included tube is a rectifier 84.

I have tested its operation after years of being on a shelf and with a small AM transistor radio, and near 590 kHz I managed to catch the sound of the record, "although at low intensity", which is probably due to a worn needle, the cartridge, or the small old radio (see photos), since the two tubes it contains are indicated as being fully functional.

The turntable is in excellent condition of preservation, with its finish, decal, power cord and plug; currently it is difficult to find a piece like this, in its original condition and good condition.

Comment: In perfect condition, checked and working, but care should be taken with what is indicated in the previous paragraph.