Neutron Ltd.
Sicilian House, London WC1. (1924 - 1927)

Neutron Distributors
144. Theobald  Road, London, WC1 (1925 - 1927

Neutron Ltd., a British company, flickered brightly but briefly in the early days of radio. From 1924, they carved a niche for themselves with crystal detectors and crystal sets, even venturing into the burgeoning valve market for a short period. However, financial woes ultimately led to their demise in 1927.

The Birth of the Neutron Crystal (1924):

A fascinating detail emerges from an April 1924 article in Popular Wireless Weekly. It reveals that the "Neutron" crystal detector, the cornerstone of Neutron Ltd.'s success, was the culmination of sixteen months of research conducted by W. Bennison, F.C.S., and T. Hadley, B.Sc., at their Cale Street (Chelsea) Laboratories under the auspices of G. Street & Co., Ltd. This information sheds light on the scientific foundation behind the Neutron crystal and the collaborative effort that went into its development.[1]

The Allure of the Neutron Crystal (1924-1925):

Neutron Ltd.'s journey began in 1924 with the introduction of their namesake product: the "Neutron" crystal detector. Their marketing campaign hinged on a bold claim – the Neutron crystal doubled the range of a crystal receiver. This, coupled with promises of exceptional loudness, clarity, and sensitivity, resonated with the burgeoning community of radio enthusiasts. Early advertisements were filled with testimonials like "W. T. T." from Harrietsham, Kent, who declared he'd "never had such a good result before" after using a Neutron crystal. This strategy, emphasizing the ease of achieving superior reception with a single, well-branded product, proved effective. [2]

Crystal Sets: Capitalizing on Success (1924):

Riding the wave of their crystal's popularity, Neutron Ltd. launched a series of crystal sets in 1924. These pre-built radios, designed specifically for use with Neutron crystals, offered a range of features and price points. Set No. 1, the most basic, featured a simple detector, variometer tuning, and a black-and-yellow Neutron crystal tin, all for a price of 10 shillings and sixpence. More advanced sets, like No. 4, boasted low-loss coils, variable condensers, and the promise of receiving telephony at a distance of at least 125 miles. This strategic product line allowed Neutron Ltd. to cater to a wider audience, from budget-conscious hobbyists to those seeking a more powerful crystal radio experience. [3]

Expanding Horizons: The Introduction of Valves (1925):

Recognizing the growing popularity of thermionic valves, Neutron Ltd. diversified its product portfolio in 1925 with the introduction of its "Neutron Dull Emitter" valves. Marketed as high-quality, British-made alternatives, these valves were touted for their long life, low filament emission (leading to crystal-like clarity), and complete absence of microphonics (unwanted sounds caused by vibrations). Advertisements often depicted Neutron valves alongside their crystals, suggesting a complete "Neutron radio solution" for enthusiasts. [4]

A Flurry of Activity and the Looming Shadow (1926):

By 1926, Neutron Ltd. seemed to be thriving. Their advertisements showcased not just valves and crystals but also a broader range of radio accessories, including detectors, earth chemicals that supposedly boosted signal strength, and HT batteries. However, beneath this facade of success lurked financial trouble. [5]

The Demise: A Perfect Storm of Debt and Shifting Interests (January 1927):

Early 1927 exposed the precarious financial situation of Neutron Ltd. A creditors' meeting revealed a crushing debt burden, with the company struggling under the weight of debentures and unsecured trade debts. An initial proposal to restructure the company and repay debts over a year proved unfeasible. Further complicating matters, a key creditor, P.G. Marr Ltd., who had initially shown interest in potentially investing in Neutron Ltd., decided the company no longer aligned with their goals. This shift in support left Neutron Ltd. in a vulnerable position.

The final blow came in the form of a potential receivership due to a debt owed to the first debenture holder. With mounting financial pressure, a lack of viable rescue plans, and a declining interest from potential investors, the fate of Neutron Ltd. was sealed. [6]
In February 1927, the company was compulsorily liquidated, marking a swift and unfortunate end to its endeavors in the radio market.[7]

A Legacy of Innovation, Overshadowed by Competition:

Despite their brief existence, Neutron Ltd. played a role in the early days of radio by offering innovative crystal detectors, crystal sets, and valves. Their marketing strategy, emphasizing ease of use and superior performance, likely appealed to many early radio enthusiasts. However, the rapidly evolving radio market, coupled with their financial woes, ultimately proved too much to overcome. Neutron Ltd.'s story serves as a reminder of the fierce competition and financial challenges faced by early radio companies, even those with seemingly promising technology.

[1] Popular Wireless Weekly Apr 5, 1924, Page 221.
[2] Modern Wireless Dec 1924, Page 811.
[3] Popular Wireless Jan 3, 1925, Page 1105.
[4] Wireless World Jan 17, 1926, Page 17.
[5] Wireless Constructor Nov 1926, Page 48.
[6] Electrical Review Jan 28, 1927, Page 136.
[7] Electrical Review Feb 18, 1927, Page 266.