Overview
This is a sophisticated modular radio receiver system from the infancy of commercial broadcasting, featuring the iconic 'honeycomb' tuning coils and multi-stage amplification panels.
1Identify
Preliminary identification
De Forest Radio 'Interpanel' Multi-Stage Wireless Receiver, c.1920
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
Lee de Forest, the man behind this machine, famously called himself the 'Father of Radio' after inventing the Audion tube in 1906, which allowed for the amplification of sound.
Maker / Origin
Lee de Forest was a brilliant but controversial inventor who held over 300 patents and spent much of his life in bitter legal battles with rivals like Edwin Armstrong.
Condition & Value
The cabinet shows a beautiful aged patina with some expected surface wear; the Bakelite panels appear remarkably well-preserved without visible cracking. Early De Forest sets are highly prized by technology historians.
Research
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This could merit a closer professional appraisal if condition, maker, or provenance points turn out to be stronger than the quick read suggests.