Sony ST-1950
A late-1970s FM/AM stereo tuner developed with FM air check in mind.
Overview
The Sony ST-1950 is an FM/AM stereo tuner built with FM broadcast monitoring in mind. The FM band covers 76 - 90 MHz, and AM comes in through a bar antenna. Sony marketed it around 1976. It has two meters, one for signal and one for tuning, so you can watch reception closely. An optional wood case, the TAC-17, was sold with it.
Specifications
| FM Practical Sensitivity (IHF) | 1.9 μV |
| FM Signal-to-noise ratio | stereo: 68dB, mono: 73dB |
| FM Capture ratio | 1.0dB |
| FM Selectivity (400 Hz) | 60dB |
| FM Image interference ratio | 50dB |
| FM IF interference ratio | 90dB |
| FM Spurious interference ratio | 75dB |
| FM Distortion factor | Mono: 0.2% at 400 Hz, 100% modulation; Stereo: 0.3% at 400 Hz with Sub 45% Pilot 10% modulation |
| FM Stereo separation | 100Hz: 35dB, 1kHz: 40dB, 10kHz: 35dB |
| AM Sensitivity (with bar antenna) | 250 μV/m |
| AM Signal-to-noise ratio | 50dB |
| Power consumption | 19W |
| External dimensions | Width 360 x Height 145 x Depth 310 mm |
| Weight | 5.1kg |
| Voltage | 100V |
| FM band | 76–90 MHz |
| Original price | ¥29,800 (circa 1976) |
| Accessory | Wood case TAC-17 (sold separately, ¥4,500) |
Design
The radio wave input stage uses FET technology for better sensitivity and interference rejection. The IF stage has a uniphase filter, and the MPX section uses a PLL IC. The two meters are a signal meter and a tuning meter.
Context
Sony developed the ST-1950 with FM air check applications in mind, which suggests broadcast monitoring or professional audio use.
Market
Units turn up for sale on eBay and Facebook Marketplace, often described as being for collectors. Some are noted as needing alignment. Others have confirmed operation.
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Related Models
- Sony STR 7055 (1972–1976)
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- Kenwood KR 3200 (1973-1975)
- Kenwood KR 3400 (1977-1979)
- Kenwood KR 4070 (1977-1979)
- Kenwood KR 4200 (1975-1977)
- Marantz 1515 (1976-1978)