Do you remember?

In 1961, Gates, a subsidiary of Harris-Intertype, manufactured and advertised the Studioette speech input console. The four channel, step-type mixer offered generous key switching facilities to accommodate four microphones into two preamplifiers, three turntables, two tape machines and three remote lines. Three utility keys were provided for individual needs.

The unit also included a high-gain program amplifier, 10W ultra linear monitoring amplifier, dual muting and warning light relays, a 4" illuminated VU meter, a self-contained power supply, complete cueing facilities for turntables, net, tapes and remotes and an output emergency key.

In its day, this level of switching was considered to provide a great deal of flexibility. Compare this to the modern routing and control surfaces available today, and the Studioette might not even have enough flexibility for a news booth or dubbing station.

That was then

Photo courtesy of WTIC

In this 1950 photo, Frank Atwood, the host and producer of the Connecticut Farm Forum, interviews an unidentified area farmer on the subject of farm safety. The WTIC mobile unit was equipped to cut 16" aluminum-based disks in the field. Engineer Al Jackson manned the controls during the interview.

Sample and Hold

Does radio lose a substantial portion of its audience during commercial breaks?

Source: Arbitron, Media Monitors, Coleman study, September 2006