Fisher 400 (around 1964)

A tube FM stereo receiver from Fisher's mid-1960s lineup. Tuner, preamplifier and power amplifier share one chassis.

Overview

The Fisher 400 is a vacuum tube stereo receiver made around 1964. It has an FM multiplex tuner, audio controls and a power amplifier in a single unit. Fisher designed it to give good high-fidelity sound to a broader audience. Unlike the flagship FM-1000 and SA-1000, the 400 was the more affordable all-in-one, and it belonged to a product family that included the 500C. An original receipt from 1964 lists a price of $330, which puts it in the middle of the market. The output tubes are 7868s in push-pull, which sets it apart from other Fisher models that used 8-pin tubes.

Specifications

Type	Tube type control amplifier
Output voltage	2.5mV
Input sensitivity	Mic, Tape head: 1.5 mV / Phono: 2.8mV / High level: 200mV
Frequency characteristic	10 Hz to 25 kHz ± 1 dB
Configuration	Vacuum Tube: 10 / Diode: 2 pcs
External dimensions	Width 384 x Height 122 x Depth 305 mm
Weight	8.2 kg
Power requirements	105–120 volts, 50–60 cps AC, 200 watts at full power output
Power output	25 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)
Total harmonic distortion	0.8%
Signal to noise ratio	80dB (line)

Design

The Fisher 400 uses 7868 tubes in a push-pull configuration for its power output stage, contributing to its 25 watts per channel output. It integrates a sensitive FM multiplex tuner and full audio controls on a single chassis, streamlining the high-fidelity experience. The unit’s design emphasizes serviceability, with documented procedures for dial pointer adjustment and guide rail alignment in the service manual.

Context

The 400 sat below flagship models like the FM-1000 and SA-1000 in Fisher's mid-1960s receiver family, but it carried Fisher's reputation for quality to a wider audience. It was grouped with the 500C as a popular tube receiver option while buyers were moving from separate components to integrated systems. One user recalls owning a Fisher 400 in 1966 as part of a system with a Dual 1019 turntable and Jensen TF4 speakers.

Market

Working Fisher 400 receivers have been seen selling locally for $400-$500, and some listings run as high as $989 for fully functional units. Units also turn up for parts or restoration. Some owners report recurring trouble, such as one power tube failing over and over. Rebuilds and servicing are documented among tube audio enthusiasts.