Fisher 24R (1958)
The Fisher 24R is a stereo tube receiver introduced in 1958, at the height of the transition from mono to stereo broadcasting. It was priced at $179.95 and positioned as an entry-level model in Fisher's late-1950s integrated receiver lineup. The all-tube design uses six 12AX7 tubes in the preamp stages and four EL84 (6BQ5) output tubes in push-pull configuration, delivering 12 watts per channel. It covers FM (88–108 MHz) and AM (530–1600 kHz) and connects to two external speakers. Period reviews praised its compact design and performance, noting it delivered the performance of separates in a single chassis Audio (October 1984, p.187).
The 24R was designed as a compact tabletop receiver offering both AM and FM reception in a single chassis, providing the performance of separates without the footprint. Collectors describe its sound as warm and detailed, with a pleasing midrange and adequate bass for smaller speakers. The tuner sensitivity is reportedly good for a compact unit.
As with many tube units of this era, the 24R has known maintenance issues. The selenium rectifier in the power supply is prone to failure and should be replaced with a silicon diode. Paper capacitors leak and should be replaced preventatively, and the power transformer can run hot when driven hard for extended periods. The push-button switches can become scratchy and intermittent and benefit from cleaning.
Typical asking prices today range from $300 to $600 depending on condition, with cleaner examples on the higher end. Tubes remain available, though NOS 12AX7s are getting harder to find.
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