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Columbus · 501
Columbus Model 501 Mantel Radio
1953 Good Partially Working For Sale
NZD $350.00
Inquire About This ItemDescription
A classic New Zealand-made mantel radio from the early 1950s. The Columbus 501 features a wooden cabinet with a distinctive Art Deco-influenced grille pattern. This model was one of Columbus Radio's most popular receivers, designed for everyday household use across New Zealand.
| Type | radio |
| Brand | Columbus |
| Model | 501 |
| Origin | New Zealand |
| Dimensions | 38W x 28H x 20D cm |
| Weight | 5.2 kg |
| Completeness | complete |
Technical Specifications
Cabinet
| Material | Timber (Rimu veneer) |
| Finish | Original lacquer, minor wear |
Electrical
| Tube Lineup | 6BE6, 6BA6, 6AV6, 6AQ5, 6X4 |
| Power Supply | AC Mains, 230V |
| Power Output | ~3W |
Internal Components
| IF Frequency | 455 kHz |
| Speaker | 5" permanent magnet |
Tuning
| Bands | AM Medium Wave |
| Frequency Range | 550-1600 kHz |
This Item's Story
This particular unit was found in an estate sale in Christchurch. The previous owner's family had kept it in their living room since it was purchased new in 1953. The dial light still glows warmly, though the set needs a capacitor recap to restore full audio quality.
Provenance
Acquired from an estate sale in Christchurch, 2024. Previously owned by the Henderson family since 1953.