1950s Battery Valve Portables - Misconceptions?

[Robert Darwent]

A lot of the pre-war Pye sets were Marketed as 'Portable', except you need a Sack Truck to do the job

Very true Alan. I believe pre-war portables were more correctly described as 'transportable'. It wasn't until the miniature B7G valves replaced the large 2 volt filament types, so doing away with the heavy and bulky lead-acid accumulators that were required, that things really 'lightened-up' and sets became true portables.

And then the GEC BC4941 of 1948 if un-cracked is always popular.

I've got a bakelite 'bowling-ball' too Gary, here's mine;

   

I think this model is of the 'marmite' variety (ie; you either love or hate it) but I really like it. It's unusual shape is what attracts me to it, certainly can't think of another set quite like it!

I didn't include the GEC BC4941 earlier with it just pre-dating the 50s but if we are dipping down into the 40s as well, how about the following;

   

If you don't recognise the model it's a HMV 1406 from 1940, which is also a clone of the Marconiphone 895. The only difference between the two being the logos and the colour of the plastic trim, ivory for the HMV and red for the Marconiphone.

Despite the set having five full-sized 2 volt filament valves, plus needing HT, GB and a small lead-acid accumulator, it was only roughly the same size/weight as the much later Ever Ready Sky Emperor/Berec Commander sets mentioned previously.

I think an attractive set and certainly one of my favourites.

Regards