Philco BOL (Beam of Light) DEMO

A working illustration of the amazing Philco "Beam of Light" phonograph pick up, being demonstrated on a 1941 Philco model 41-616 Radio/Phonograph Console. The record changer which is a Webster Chicago Deluxe Changer is set to operate in the Manual mode to minimize the risk of damage to the record. The BOL system used a beam of light, a mirror, and a photo cell to transform the needle movement in the record groove to electrical impulses for amplification. The permanent jewel stylus rides in the groove at a meager 1.25 oz. of weight, which was a very light tracking force back in 1941.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Music
• on
• Beam
• of
• Light

[gregoryagogo]

Can mine be fixed, and if so, how much?! I know that the tone arm is missing the little mirror that leads to the needle, and the motor is runs very rough.

Mine is a 42-1008. I also need a speaker. I had work done on the radio and it worked, but since then the speaker needs replacing (not there) and some tubes are missing.

[Ampicokid30]

@gregoryagogo Hi; I'm sure it can be fixed, but the little mirror/needle assembly is probably the most difficult and costly piece to replace. You may have to find a junker and pull the parts off of it to repair your set. Depending on how much is missing, you could be looking at quite a bit of money to get your unit up and running. Sorry I can't be more specific than that without seeing your set. Good luck with it. Bob

[ardellwebster]

I understand that you restored the beam of light record changer yourself. Can you tell me where you found the rubber parts for the turntable?

[Ampicokid30]

@ardellwebster

Hi;

What rubber parts are you referring to? The parts for the BOL arm and headshell or the rubber tires etc. used on the actual turntable chassis?

[chagall56]

Because of your video, I went out and searched and found a Philco 42-1008 Beam of Light console. It needs restoration of course. I have heard that the 42 changers are a pain and that Philco had to offer a kit so owners could convert the two speed changer to 78 only. I guess I could just use it as a manual if the changer can't be rebuilt? Marc.

[Ampicokid30]

Hi Marc;

Thanks for the note. I'm glad my demonstration has inspired you to take a crack at one of these units. I can't say that I've had any experience with the '42 Philco changers though. I believe the main problem is with the speed drifting. Maybe you'll be lucky enough to have a changer that'll perform well for you. In any case it will be well worth the time and effort required to hear the BOL system. Let me know if you need any help along the way. Good Luck..Bob

[SnooperSquirrelFilms]

very nice , High tech 1942 record player in Exc condition..

[TheVideostunad]

Love that Philco Beam Of Light!Very Cool! Sal

[davegerig]

I have a Beam of light Pick-up for all 1941-42 Philco record players. All of the components are there except for the three screws to hold the cover on. I am interested in selling it. let me know if you are interested. Dave - phone: 503-507-5897

[gregoryagogo]

It's magic!

[rplace59]

Sounds amazing..with much higher noise immunity. Very innovative technology for the time. Thanks for posting this.

[samsarman]

i had this exact same model but gave it to my godmother(the record player was missing so she made shelves in that and rehinged the compartment).I had another philco with the same phono set up,my question is have you tried out the record cutter,and can you post a video of it,i have a packard bell phono-cord and a wilcox gay cutter and really would like to see one in action while i work on mine.

[NEWbobofhollywood]

That's excellent. The best things in life ARE free. YouTube is Free! And I just adore Jo Stafford also. Here's a silly lip sync I did recently using a Philco Front loading portable phonograph and a Jo Stafford record . Thank you for demonstrating this fine rare vintage phonograph.