Happy Holidays!
This Atwater Kent, Model 84, is for sale near me. It appears to be in fair condition.
What is a reasonable price (ballpark) to pay for this model?
Thanks,
Allen
I would want to know the condition of the power transformer first, A.K used to use rubber wire leads on them, which breaks down, and can cause shorts. If it smells burned I wouldn't pay more then $100 for it.
Regards
Arran
I'd have to look at the chassis and also make sure it has the original speaker. The model 84 was the first in AKs line of cathedral sets (80 & 90 series). It's a handsome set but most cathedrals have taken a dive in price the last few years.
If the chassis and speaker look good I'd ballpark it at ~ $150 + or - a bit depending on how things really look (and smell.... transformer).
Note that, all AK transformers of that rubber wire period need to be rewired.
I haven't seen one sold below $250. Yes, on eBay.
In Kutztown (they are restored) they wanted way more.
AK84 is one of the popular models, so for $100-150 you are not likely to get one in good shape.
Thank you all for the excellent information. I have no experience with AKs, but now know what to look for should I consider buying this Model 84. At a minimum I'll request photos of the back of the radio before I check it out in person. Or, perhaps I'll continue to stick with Philco radios.
The reason I mentioned low balling if the transformer is burned, is that even a generic replacement, with the right voltages, is $75 minimum, rewinding the original is more then that. Them may ask more then that elsewhere but (A) Do they sell (B) What's the condition. I like to test transformers with an Ohmeter before I buy, the windings to be most concerned with are the H.V secondary, and the primary, the H.V secondary you can test via the rectifier tube socket, the tube filament windings rarely fail though those are easily tested as well at the filament pins of the rectifier tube, and any random tube in the rest of the radio via the fat pins. One concern with A.K sets is that many have been monkeyed with over the years, they were a collectable brand early on, so many were repaired or "restored" by previous owners, hence why you would want to look in the back.
Regards
Arran