Philco, short for the Philadelphia Storage Battery Company, was an American pioneer in battery, radio, and television production. The company later expanded into other consumer electronics, including stereo consoles. Known for innovative design and quality construction, Philco stereo consoles were popular during the 1960s and 1970s. Learn more about the Philco stereo console history now.
History
Founded in 1892, Philco became a leader in radio manufacturing in the 1920s and 1930s. With the advent of television, Philco also became a prominent name in TV production. By the 1960s, Philco had started to produce stereo consoles, which quickly gained popularity.
In 1961, Philco was bought by Ford Motor Company, becoming Philco-Ford Corporation. During this period, the company continued to produce a variety of consumer electronics, including stereo consoles, while also venturing into new areas like computer technology.
Popular Models from the 1960s and 1970s
- Philco High Fidelity All-Transistor Stereophonic Consoles:
In the early 1960s, Philco introduced a line of High Fidelity All-Transistor Stereophonic Consoles. These units were praised for their sound quality and durability. They typically included an AM/FM tuner, a record player, and an auxiliary input. The cabinets were well designed and well made, fitting in with the contemporary home décor of the time.
- Philco-Ford Stereosonic Console:
Philco-Ford’s Stereosonic Console, popular in the late 1960s, was a model known for its superior sound quality and impressive design. It featured an AM/FM tuner, a record player capable of playing both 33 and 45 RPM records, and often a built-in 8-track player—a modern feature at that time. The model was housed in an elegant wooden cabinet, making it an attractive piece of furniture.
Philco 3-in-1 Home Entertainment Center
In the 1970s, Philco introduced the 3-in-1 Home Entertainment Center, a versatile unit that included an AM/FM stereo radio, a phonograph, and a television set. This compact system was an attempt to provide an all-in-one entertainment solution for consumers and was quite popular during that period.
Later Years and Legacy
As the demand for large stereo consoles waned in the late 1970s, Philco shifted its focus to other electronics products. However, the brand’s legacy in the realm of stereo consoles lives on. Vintage Philco stereo consoles remain popular among collectors and enthusiasts, treasured for their unique designs, quality craftsmanship, and nostalgic appeal.
Thinking about buying one? Read our stereo console buyer’s guide then check out our stereo console marketplace for available Philco’s.
