Revibe Radio

Bush DAC 90 (70 years old)

The vintage Bush DAC 90 radio was manufactured by the Bush Radio Company in the 1950s. It features an art-deco design with a polished Bakelite cabinet and tuning dial. Known for its clear reception and durable construction, the Bush DAC 90 became a popular choice among households and remains highly sought after by collectors today. As an icon of British manufacturing, this model featured in the 1946 V&A exhibition "Britain Can Make It" - an exhibition which aimed to demonstrate the transition from wartime to peacetime industrial production.

When we found this one it had been in an old shed, gathering more than its fair share of dust, for many years and was heading more towards a skip than the V&A.

But with a full strip down and a bit of TLC, we soon brought it back to its former glory - with just a touch of 2024 tech!

Bush DAC 10 (70 years old)

In the mid-20th century, amidst the bustling innovation of post-war Britain, emerged a radio that would not only become a staple in households but also a design icon: the Bush DAC 10. With its sleek wooden cabinet and distinctive circular speaker grille, the DAC 10 captured the essence of mid-century style, earning its place as a beloved piece of furniture in homes across the nation.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the DAC 10 boasted durability and reliability, characteristics that would contribute to its longevity. Despite being crafted in the 1950s, many DAC 10 radios continue to function today, a testament to their robust construction and enduring quality.

As the radio found its way into living rooms, it became more than just a device for tuning into broadcasts; it became a focal point for family entertainment and information consumption. Gathered around the DAC 10, families listened to news bulletins, enjoyed music programs, and immersed themselves in the captivating world of radio dramas.

The DAC 10's influence extended beyond the borders of Britain, finding its way to Commonwealth nations and beyond. Its reputation for quality and reliability made it a sought-after item in markets around the world, further cementing its place in radio history.

Today, the Bush DAC 10 lives on as more than just a radio; it's a collectors' item cherished by enthusiasts of vintage electronics and mid-century design. Its iconic design, cultural significance, and enduring appeal ensure that the legacy of the DAC 10 continues to resonate with generations old and new, preserving its place in the annals of radio history.

This DAC 10's original speaker was in very good working order and works efficiently with the 30 watt mono amplifier and bluetooth 5.3 audio system that we have installed.

It also has an aux in facility, for. the connection of external audio devices.

Kingston Gypsy (US - 90 years old)

Famously known as the Gypsy, this beautiful old-timer began her life in the United States. She was manufactured by the Kingston Radio Corporation in Buffalo, New York during the golden age of radio broadcasting in 1930's America. With its distinctive wooden cabinet and charming design, the Kingston Gypsy captures the essence of mid-20th century radio technology and craftsmanship.

The Kingston Gypsy radio quickly gained popularity for its exceptional build quality, incorporating vacuum tube technology for reliable AM radio reception. Some models even featured additional functionalities such as shortwave bands or FM reception, catering to a diverse range of radio enthusiasts. Today, the Kingston Gypsy remains highly sought after by collectors and vintage radio aficionados, cherished for its historical significance and nostalgic appeal.

What sets the Kingston Gypsy apart is not just its functionality, but its role as a cultural artifact, embodying the spirit of a bygone era. Its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless design and enduring appeal, making it a must-have addition for many vintage radio collections. At over 90 years old, the Kingston Gypsy vintage radio is a total delight with its retro charm and timeless elegance.

When we secured our Gypsy, at auction, she was definitely showing signs of ageing. However, once shown the love and respect she deserved, she soon regained her unique, elegant style and, with the help of some modern technology, managed to regain her full vocal ability.

The Transatlantic RAP London (70 years old)

This rare and highly collectible radio, named The Transatlantic, was manufactured by the British company RAP (Radio Accessories Products) Ltd., based in London. RAP Ltd. Originally built in the 1950s, and much sought after by collectors, the Transatlantic RAP London (RT 8574) is a fascinating piece of audio history, known for exceptional design and functionality.

This masterpiece of mid-20th century design truly embodies the timeless elegance and innovation of its era. Featuring a classic wooden cabinet and utilizing vacuum tube technology, the RT 8574 delivered clear and rich AM radio reception, capturing the essence of a bygone era of broadcasting. Its retro charm and exceptional craftsmanship make it a coveted collector's item, cherished by enthusiasts for its historical significance and nostalgic appeal.

When we purchased our Transatlantic RAP at auction, it had clearly seen far better days, presumably at the hands of an owner or two that did not appreciate it's rarity and value. It was a major surprise, therefore, when, upon simply removing, cleaning and reinstating the valves, our stoic 70 year old burst back into life tuned, appropriately, to the nostalgic Radio Caroline! (No other stations could be found).

While, as with all our projects, we have carefully installed safe Bluetooth technology, the original circuitry and mains lead remain intact inside the unit.

Murphy A90 (80 years old)

Step back in time with the Murphy A90, a quintessential piece of British engineering that encapsulates the spirit of the 1940s. Crafted by Murphy Radio Ltd., of Welwyn Garden City, this valve radio is a marvel of its era, boasting a wooden exterior and a suite of features that made it a household staple. With its ability to tune into Long Wave and Short Wave bands, the A90 was a window to the world, bringing news, music, and entertainment into homes during a pivotal moment in history, during World War II.

Murphy A90's were manufactured from 1940-1943, when the company diversified away from domestic radio production to manufacture electronics in support of the war effort.

The A90’s design is a testament to the era’s innovation, operating with 5 valves and utilising superheterodyne technology for crystal-clear reception. Its electro-magnetic dynamic loudspeaker delivered sound with clarity and warmth, a signature of the valve radio’s charm. Priced originally at £11, it represented both luxury and the cutting-edge technology of the time.

Today, the Murphy A90 stands not just as a radio but as a symbol of resilience and progress. As one of Murphy’s last peacetime contributions before aiding the war effort, it holds a special place in history. Displayed proudly, it continues to tell a story of technological advancement and the enduring human spirit.

When we found our Murphy A90 at auction, it was unsurprising that it was offered with no reserve. The auctioneer would almost have paid us to take it away, such was the evident state of total neglect...

But Revibe Radio could see past that and had enormous pleasure in bringing this 80 year old master back to prime condition.

With the introduction of a 100 watt amplifier (supporting Bluetooth 5.3), an auxiliary input for external devices, and a 120 Watt 3 way* Swiss speaker (* delivering crystal clear tweeter, mid-range and bass sounds), our A90 sounds absolutely as good as it looks.

Ultra T401 (78 years old)

Ultra Electric Limited, a British company founded in 1920 by Teddy Rosen, made significant strides in the radio industry with their innovative designs and engineering excellence. Known for their sleek, modern aesthetics and cutting-edge technology, Ultra Electric radios became popular household items in the UK during the mid-20th century. The company’s contribution during World War II, manufacturing radar equipment for the British military, cemented its reputation and technological prowess.

Post-war, Ultra Electric expanded its product range to include television sets and other consumer electronics. First produced immediately after the second world war, in 1946 the Ultra T401 exemplified the manufacturer's commitment to combining functionality with stylish design. Although acquired by Thorn Electrical Industries in the 1970s, Ultra Electric radios remain highly collectible today, prized for their historical significance and enduring quality.

Like all of the classic vintage radios we source, our T401 had seen far far better days and needed the full five star spa treatment to make a complete comeback.

Now fitted with the latest 30 watt amplifier and 60 watt coaxial speaker, this stylish old-timer is as comfortable singing Taylor Swift songs as Vera Lynn.