Fisher FM-50-B (1964)
The Fisher FM-50-B is an FM/AM tuner introduced in 1964, part of Fisher's mid-1960s high-fidelity component lineup. It sits at the point where Fisher moved from fully tube-based designs to hybrid solid-state circuitry. It was built for listeners who wanted good FM reception and early stereo broadcast compatibility. It has a slide-rule tuning dial, multiplex stereo decoding, and a clean signal path.
It has no built-in amplification, so it is a tuner and not a receiver. Fisher designed it to pair with its contemporary preamplifiers and power amplifiers. It is described as having a warm, detailed sound, and vintage audio enthusiasts still want one.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Model | FM-50-B |
| Brand | Fisher |
| Year of Production | 1961–1964 |
| Category | FM/AM Tuner (Component) |
| Tuning Bands | FM, AM |
| Stereo Capability | Yes (Multiplex stereo decoding) |
| Power Output | N/A (Tuner only – no amplification) |
| Impedance | Unknown |
| Sensitivity (FM) | 1.8 μV for 20 dB quieting (mono), 3.0 μV for 20 dB quieting (stereo) |
| Tuning Display | Slide-rule analog dial with luminous pointer |
| Tuning Features | AFC (Automatic Frequency Control), stereo indicator light |
| Connectivity | Front-panel headphone jack, four RCA audio outputs (Left/Right Main and Left/Right Recorder), antenna terminals |
| Tubes Used | 10 tubes (typically 12AT7, 12AX7, 6AU6, 6AQ8, 6FG6) |
| Construction | Hybrid design: partially solid-state (diodes, early transistors), tube-based audio and RF stages |
Historical Context
The FM-50-B arrived in the early 1960s, when FM stereo broadcasting was taking off in the United States. Manufacturers like Fisher responded by building tuners that could decode the new multiplex stereo signals. The FM-50-B was among the first generation of tuners to offer reliable stereo reception with low noise and high selectivity.
Fisher was already known for its tube amplifiers and receivers. The FM-50-B bridges the all-tube designs and the solid-state future. It keeps vacuum tubes for the critical signal amplification and tuning stages. Semiconductor components handle power regulation and detection, which improves reliability and reduces heat output.
The faceplate is aluminum. The tuning dial is precise and the stereo indicator is prominent, which made the tuner a centerpiece in many hi-fi systems of the time. Paired with Fisher's PA-500 preamp and 500-series power amps, it formed part of a reference-grade audio chain admired for its musicality and build quality.
Sound Signature
The FM-50-B delivers clean, low-noise FM reception with accurate stereo imaging, typical of well-designed tube-era tuners. The multiplex decoder separates the left and right channels well and gives a spacious soundstage. With matching Fisher components, the system sounds warm, with excellent midrange clarity and smooth highs. That suits jazz, classical, and vocal recordings.
Even by modern standards, it performs well in areas with strong FM signals. The analog tuning is tactile, which digital tuners often lack.
Maintenance and Restoration Tips
Because of its age, the FM-50-B typically needs servicing before it will run reliably. Consider the following maintenance points:
- Capacitor Replacement: Replace all electrolytic and paper capacitors, especially in the power supply and multiplex detection circuit. Aging capacitors are the most common cause of noise, distortion, or failure.
- Tube Testing and Replacement: Test all six tubes and replace any weak or noisy ones. NOS (New Old Stock) tubes or high-quality modern equivalents are recommended.
- Cleaning Controls: Use contact cleaner on volume, tuning, and band switches to eliminate crackling and improve tracking.
- Alignment: The tuner may require RF and IF alignment by a technician familiar with vintage gear to restore optimal sensitivity and stereo separation.
- AFC Adjustment: Ensure the Automatic Frequency Control is functioning to prevent drift during playback.
- Power Safety Check: Inspect for frayed wiring, degraded insulation, and ensure the chassis is properly grounded before powering on.
Restored units perform reliably and fit well into a vintage audio system.
Collectibility and Market Value
The Fisher FM-50-B has moderate collectibility, rated 6/10. It appeals to collectors of transitional-era hi-fi gear and to Fisher enthusiasts. It is not as well known as the Fisher 500-C receiver, but it is appreciated for its engineering and its role in the evolution of stereo tuners.
- Market Value: $275–$400+ USD
- Unrestored units: $50–$80
- Fully serviced and tested: $100–$150
Units in original condition with documentation, manuals, or matching serial numbers may command higher prices.
Conclusion
The FM-50-B sits between the vacuum tube era and the start of solid-state audio. It has precise tuning, reliable stereo decoding, and a warm sound. With proper restoration, it still delivers good FM listening.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Related Models
- Fisher FM-100-C (1960)
- Fisher FM-100 (1961)
- Fisher FM-1000 (1968)
- Fisher FM-200-B (1964)
- Fisher FM-50 (1959)
- Kenwood KR 3200 (1973-1975)
- Kenwood KR 3400 (1977-1979)
- Kenwood KR 4070 (1977-1979)
- Kenwood KR 4200 (1975-1977)
- Marantz 1515 (1976-1978)