Realistic STA-52 (1977–1978)
Entry-level AM/FM stereo receiver with simulated quadraphonic sound, sold through Radio Shack.
Overview
The Realistic STA-52, catalog number 31-2072, is an AM/FM stereo receiver produced for Radio Shack from 1977 to 1978. Marketed as a budget-friendly entry-level component, it features 12 watts per channel output into 8Ω and includes a magnetic phono input, separate bass and treble controls, and speaker A/B switching with an "A Rev" mode that reverses audio channels. The unit was sold in Radio Shack catalogs in 1977 (page 4) and 1978 (page 12) before being replaced in 1979 by the STA-52B, which offered 16 watts per channel but omitted the Quatravox circuitry.
Specifications
| Model | Realistic STA-52, Catalog No. 31-2072 |
| Manufacturer | Realistic (Radio Shack) |
| Year Introduced | 1977 |
| Production Years | 1977–1978 |
| Type | AM/FM Stereo Receiver |
| Power Output | 12 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.2% |
| Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 30 kHz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 60 dB (MM), 65 dB (line) |
| Input Sensitivity | 2.5 mV (MM), 150 mV (line), 280 mV (DIN) |
| Outputs | Tape (RCA and DIN), 2 x Speaker terminals |
| Speaker Outputs | Supports two sets of speakers with A/B switching and "A Rev" mode |
| Inputs | PHONO (magnetic), AUX, TAPE (DIN and standard) |
| Tuner Bands | AM (BC), FM |
| Tuning Method | Superheterodyne with dual LED tuning meter |
| Headphone Jack | 1/4" (6.3mm) |
| AC Outlet | Unswitched, 100 watts max |
| Power Supply | 120V AC, 60 Hz |
| Power Consumption | 180 watts |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 17.375 × 5.1875 × 11.25 inches (441 × 132 × 286 mm) |
| Weight | 15.75 lb (7.151 kg) |
| Case Material | Wooden case |
| Front Panel Design | Silver with black dial face and gold lettering |
| Country of Manufacture | South Korea (custom manufactured for Radio Shack) |
Design
The STA-52 features Quatravox/Quadraphonic Voice circuitry designed to simulate a four-channel sound experience from stereo sources. Its front panel includes a dual LED tuning meter and aesthetic details such as a silver finish, black dial face with gold lettering, and a bookshelf-style wooden case. The receiver includes a 1/4" headphone jack and an unswitched 100-watt AC outlet for powering other components.
Context
The STA-52 was positioned as an entry-level receiver in the Realistic product line. It was replaced in 1979 by the STA-52B, which increased power output to 16 watts per channel but removed the Quatravox circuitry. The STA-52 appeared in the 1977 and 1978 Radio Shack catalogs, listed as a budget offering for consumers seeking solid performance at an affordable price.
Market
The original price was $199.95. Current market values vary widely: units can be found at thrift stores for $10–$60, while professionally restored models sell for up to $320. Common issues include tuner problems (often diode-related), failing power supply components, noisy pots and switches, and blown dial lamps. The receiver is straightforward to service, with common repairs including recapping, control cleaning, and replacing dial lamps—sometimes upgraded to LEDs.
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