1946 Emerson Model 578A Vacuum Tube Radio - Ideal for Restoration or Modern Conversion

Step back into the post‑war golden age of American radio design with this 1946 Emerson Model 578A Vacuum Tube Table Radio — a beautifully preserved example of mid‑century craftsmanship. With its molded birch plywood cabinet, ash veneer, and iconic Plaskon details, this radio is a standout piece for collectors, restorers, and anyone who loves blending vintage style with modern function.

The molded birch plywood cabinet with ash veneer retains its original finish, showcasing the warm, natural tones and elegant curves that defined Emerson’s mid‑century aesthetic.

The original Plaskon dial face is crack‑free. The iconic “Ferris Wheel” Plaskon knobs are original as well as its back cover. Service cord was replaced at some point.

It hums and picks up only a faint voice on one channel — a classic sign that the tubes likely need replacing. Ideal Restoration Project

Perfect for Modern Conversion - This cabinet is an excellent candidate for a Bluetooth speaker conversion, allowing you to enjoy wireless audio inside a genuine 1940s shell.

CONDITION:
Exterior wood veneer: Very Good
Some small scratches on the Plaskon dial face.

SIZE:

Due to irregular shapes sizing is close, but not exact.

L: 9.125'
D: 5.5"
H: 6.5"

We want our customers to be satisfied and enjoy their purchases. Please feel free to ask questions.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Vintage and antique items are old and used and therefore may show signs of wear commensurate with their age, such as such as light scratches, minor chips, discoloration, scuffs, etc. Please view the photos & read the description carefully. We make every effort to describe items as honestly and accurately as possible however sometimes something small may unintentionally get overlooked. We also can’t see hidden defects. All items are sold “as is’ with no implied or actual warranty. We are not experts. It is the responsibility of the buyer to determine the accuracy of the information provided. The buyer also acknowledges that Collector Cowboy LLC, its owners and officers have no responsibility for any property damage, bodily injury and/or personal and advertising injury that may result from the use or miss-use of any item purchased from Collector Cowboy LLC.

Refunds and Exchanges:

ALL SALES ARE FINAL. Due to the vintage nature of each item returns and exchanges are not accepted. We want our customers to be satisfied and enjoy their purchases. Please feel free to ask questions or ask for additional photos, if you need more information before purchasing.

IMPORTANT NOTICE OF RISK:

All used electrical equipment should be thoroughly inspected by a professional before use. Please be aware that vintage and modern appliances and electrical devices may have electrical hazards so the buyer is responsible for any risks in use of them.

SHIPPING:

We ship each Saturday or sooner as long as the USPS is open and weather permitting.

Please note that our primary means of shipping is via the USPS. In special cases where an item is too large for the USPS, we reserve the right to ship via other means without prior notice. If your package is returned to us due to an outdated shipping address on file with your Etsy account, we'll gladly ship back to you, however we will charge additional shipping and handling before doing so.