10-11-2013, 02:02 PM
Of the Z's you have listed the 12S265 is probably the most common, but all command a relatively high price. They do pop up from time to time at estate and garage sales, where you can get them for a better price.
Have you considered a 12A3/12S568 from 1941? They are a decent set, are a "Shutter Dial," and are generally MUCH more affordable than the other sets you listed.
The prices in Radio Attic for ALL the Zenith Radios are rediculously high. Even the 12S568 there for 350.00 is at least 150.00 more than you should have to pay for a set in better shape. From personal experience I know that one seller there offers sets that have shoddy electronic restoration by their "technician." Also same seller neglects to show chassis pics of sets that have corroded chassis, and fails to show pics of the portions of the cabinet that have significant flaws.
With respect to Philco, the model 116X, 680, 37-116 and 38-116 are all high-tube count sets that sound and receive very well, but are far more affordable than the 37/38-690.
Have you considered a 12A3/12S568 from 1941? They are a decent set, are a "Shutter Dial," and are generally MUCH more affordable than the other sets you listed.
The prices in Radio Attic for ALL the Zenith Radios are rediculously high. Even the 12S568 there for 350.00 is at least 150.00 more than you should have to pay for a set in better shape. From personal experience I know that one seller there offers sets that have shoddy electronic restoration by their "technician." Also same seller neglects to show chassis pics of sets that have corroded chassis, and fails to show pics of the portions of the cabinet that have significant flaws.
With respect to Philco, the model 116X, 680, 37-116 and 38-116 are all high-tube count sets that sound and receive very well, but are far more affordable than the 37/38-690.