Baby Paramphonic Reproducer

The 1933 Baby Paramphonic Reproducer was a groundbreaking audio system introduced in the early 1930s, representing a significant advancement in sound reproduction technology. It followed on from the 1931/32 Baby Pamphonic model.

System Overview
The Baby Paramphonic Reproducer consisted of two main units:

1. Turntable and amplifier unit
2. Large electro-magnetic moving-coil speaker

The system was priced at £150, which was a considerable sum for the time, reflecting its high-end positioning in the market.

Amplifier Unit
Design and Construction

The amplifier unit was ingeniously designed to resemble a handsome pedestal gramophone in oak.
However, its construction was far more sophisticated:

• Sides made of thick gauge metal gauze
• Removable front and back oak panels
• Massive metal framing serving as the amplifier chassis
• Valves used 354V, 164V  & DO.75
   

Power Supply
The amplifier featured three independent mains units:

1. Speaker field current supply
2. H.T. current for the DO.75 output valve (using ESU75 rectifier)
3. H.T. current for 354V and 164V valves in earlier stages (using DW.4 rectifier)

Circuit Design
The amplifier incorporated several innovative features:

• Direct coupling between the 164V valve's anode and the DO.75 valve's grid
• Ingenious grid-bias arrangement for the output stage
• Proprietary circuit designs (subject to pending patents at the time)

Output Power
The Baby Paramphonic Reproducer was capable of delivering 18 watts of undistorted output, which was considered exceptionally powerful for its time.

Speaker Unit
The speaker system consisted of a large electro-magnetic moving-coil speaker mounted on a thick oak baffle measuring 4 feet square.

Controls
The system featured a volume control connected between the pick-up and the amplifier.

The Baby Paramphonic Reproducer boasted an exceptionally effective tone control:

• Allowed for a wide range of high-note response adjustments
• Could achieve "super-brilliance" suitable for large rooms
• Capable of isolating bass instruments (e.g., tympani, double-basses, celli)

Audio Quality
The Baby Paramphonic Reproducer was noted for its exceptional audio quality:

• Impressive depth, breadth, and range of sound
• Remarkable definition in audio reproduction
• Ability to create a strong illusion of reality, especially when listened to from a distance
• Excellent high-note response, particularly noticeable with massed strings
• Capable of faithfully reproducing a wide range of musical genres and artists

Limitations and Considerations
Despite its impressive capabilities, the system had some limitations:

• Required a large room for optimal performance due to its high output power
• The point-source effect could be emphasized when listening at close range
• Room echoes could be problematic in smaller spaces

The Baby Paramphonic Reproducer represented a significant leap forward in audio technology for its time, offering unprecedented power and sound quality for home audio enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Here you find 76 models, 42 with images and 31 with schematics for wireless sets etc. In French: TSF for Télégraphie sans fil.
All listed radios etc. from Pamphonic, Paramphonic, PAM (brands), Pamphonic Reproducers Ltd.; London