09-09-2011, 11:19 PM
Good evening everyone,
I'm new to this forum and look forward to absorbing the abundance of wisdom on these pages...and hopefully one day contribute my own.
I found this unique Midwest model 181 on the local Craigslist and would like to know your collective opinion on its potential and value. I haven't purchased it yet, because the owner is getting an appraisal from a local antique dealer. That will probably mean big $$$.
It's been in the same family since new. The owner's grandmother purchased it in 1941.
I don't think it is a common model; never heard of it before. ( I've heard of Midwest, just not this model ) It does have a separate tweeter built in the speaker frame. It's tube count is 18, including the eye tube. 4 6V6's for output. It also has the 78 record player. The tuner bezel is a type of plastic that has shrunk a little over the years. Overall, it does not look to have been electrically molested. Both speakers will need to be re-coned and I'm sure a full recap is necessary before applying power.
The cabinet is solid, also. No veneer lifting. It will need a good refinishing, however. I was thinking I should offer around $125-$150, if the appraisal isn't too far off. Is that in the ballpark, or am I nuts?
Paul
I'm new to this forum and look forward to absorbing the abundance of wisdom on these pages...and hopefully one day contribute my own.
I found this unique Midwest model 181 on the local Craigslist and would like to know your collective opinion on its potential and value. I haven't purchased it yet, because the owner is getting an appraisal from a local antique dealer. That will probably mean big $$$.
It's been in the same family since new. The owner's grandmother purchased it in 1941.
I don't think it is a common model; never heard of it before. ( I've heard of Midwest, just not this model ) It does have a separate tweeter built in the speaker frame. It's tube count is 18, including the eye tube. 4 6V6's for output. It also has the 78 record player. The tuner bezel is a type of plastic that has shrunk a little over the years. Overall, it does not look to have been electrically molested. Both speakers will need to be re-coned and I'm sure a full recap is necessary before applying power.
The cabinet is solid, also. No veneer lifting. It will need a good refinishing, however. I was thinking I should offer around $125-$150, if the appraisal isn't too far off. Is that in the ballpark, or am I nuts?
Paul
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