Magic Eye tube tuning indicators

My friend, JugularJaguar over on LiveJournal asked me what a "Magic Eye" was and wanted me to make a video describing these unique vacuum tubes. So, here it is. Though, very rough, I can't seem to speak in a coherent manner. I suppose I need a script. Shown are 6E5, 1629, EM84/6FG6, EM85/6DH7, 6T5, 6M-E5 and the 6AL7

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• antique radio
• vintage radio
• vacuum tubes
• tuning indicators
• magic eye

[BowserKoopaFTW]

how can you tell if a tube is bad? I have an old Ward-Airline radio that might need some tubes, but I don't know which to replace.

[Aerofox441]

@BowserKoopaFTW They must be tested in a tube tester. A good tube tester to find is a Jackson 648 series. Though, there are many other brand/models just as good if not better.

[NardDogz]

Wow, those are really cool! Good video also.

I read that Zenith had a non-tube tuning indicator called a Shadowgraph, but I've never seen one in action. Do you have a radio with one of those? Wish my 6S128 had a tuning eye!

[Aerofox441]

Thank you, I'm glad you liked it, though I feel I could have done a better job...

Yes, I have a few Zenith's with a Shadowgraph. I'll try to put something together soon. Zenith used it in several radios between 1933 and 1937 before switching to the Magic Eye. The 6S128 is a nice radio. True, it would have been nice to have a tuning indicator, however that year (1937), Zenith used a unique "Bulls Eye" type Shadowgraph which led to the development of the 6T5 concentric ring Magic Eye.

[anonymous479]

The “Eyes” have it, these are the best tuning devices ever made! I found a like new 6T5 at an estate sale for $4.00, ultra rare and the concentric rings are a most interesting effect. It will look great in my Zenith shutterdial

[guerra963]

VERY GOOD!! Thanks!!

[MrAngry61]

Yep - my parents have a valve Quad pre/power amp + tuner, all of which have similar displays.

[mikewm9v]

the tubes are in big demand for restorers

[knightrider1982k]

oczko

[silverbird58]

6af6  great stuff

[jkiniston]

Cool video.

[mogana100]

Magic Eyes are Great!!!