Hallicrafters S-38C *** Refurbished ***

Description

Many shortwave listening enthusiasts believe that there are no other post-WW2 radios more symbolic of their genre than Hallicrafter's line of S-38s with their two distinctive, semi-circular dial windows on the front of the cabinet. That motif was designed by Raymond Loewy who is often called the “Father of Industrial Design”. Production of the first four models, all in that style, lasted nearly a decade from 1946 through 1955. That’s a fitting testament to their popularity which continues even today as much for their iconic appearance as for their utilitarian usage as a shortwave listening (SWL) receiver. They’re especially appreciated by those interested in listening to shortwave stations without having to manipulate an intimidating array of dials and switches. These radios are simple, easy and delightful to use.
This example is the “Model C” version - the fourth in the series and the last in the Loewy motif. It’s also the only one of the four that doesn’t have a black cabinet. Instead, it’s color is “hammertone grey”. It also has a black dial plate unlike the others whose dial plates are green. This particular set's cabinet was damaged so we adapted a cabinet from an 'A' model. This revitalized icon from the post-WW2 golden days of AM radio is ready to find a new home and provide its owner with many hours of both local and shortwave listening enjoyment. The text below details the restoration work that was carefully done to give this elegantly simple yet effective radio a second life.
Electrical
: All five tubes have been thoroughly checked and replaced as needed. All paper and electrolytic capacitors have been replaced with new
modern equivalents as have any faulty resistors. The mains supply has been re-wired, including a new polarized line cord, to remove the potential for a “hot chassis” under normal usage. A new, upgraded speaker has been installed. The intermediate frequency circuits have been adjusted for maximum sensitivity and all four band selector circuits have been aligned according to OEM specifications.
Cosmetic
: A new, crystal clear dial cover has been installed. Both dial cords have been restrung with rot-proof material. New
fastener hardware has been used throughout. Before painting, the cabinet was sandblasted to remove all previous paints and primers as well as any surface rust and discolorations. New legends have been applied.
All moving parts have been lubricated. The red dial pointers have been re-painted. All knobs have been thoroughly washed, painted, re-tapped and given new, stainless steel set screws. All threaded holes in both the chassis and the cabinet have been re-tapped to accept modern fasteners. New rubber feet have been installed.
Such careful, detailed craftsmanship as described above and the use of modern components and parts is our way of assuring that this wonderful 66 year-old radio has years of longevity left to be enjoyed by its new owner. Owing to such care and attention, it is now in many respects in “better than new” condition. Anyone interested in owning one of these beautiful radios, SWL enthusiast or not, would be hard pressed to find a better opportunity to own one in such excellent condition.
Shipping
:
It will be double-boxed using new, oversized, 200# boxes with plenty of padding to help ensure safe arrival. Domestic shipping will be via FedEx Ground/Home. International shipping will be via eBay’s overseas service. Payment is due at time of purchase.