Crystal Radio met DRM

On 4 May 2024, a group of Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) enthusiasts, including Dr. Mohan Natarajan (VU3CUU), Nakeeran, Vaipadi Kumar, Raja (VU3LJX), and Dr. Jaisakthivel (VU3UOM), gathered at Marina Beach near All India Radio, Chennai, to discuss the future prospects of DRM Radio.

In an interesting twist, Dr. Jaisakthivel showcased a vintage crystal radio alongside modern DRM equipment, demonstrating the evolution of radio technology. Notably, crystal radios operate without external power, harnessing energy from ambient radio waves.

Following this, Dr. Mohan showcased a DRM radio within his Maruti Suzuki car. This gathering was organized by Vaipadi Kumar, who administers a Tamil WhatsApp group dedicated to DRM Radio. (Jaisakthivel)

Retro Audio Maximum Postcards

 

I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to the Postcrossing forum for facilitating the acquisition of these radio-themed maxi cards from a kind Postcrosser in Australia. Purchasing them directly would have cost nearly ₹3,000, but through the magic of Postcrossing, I was able to obtain them in a swap for a mere ₹75. Thank you, Yuri, and thank you to the entire Postcrossing community!

Here are the details of the Maximum Cards:

HMV Caprice, 1961

The popular HMV Caprice was a mid-range stereogram in a low-boy unit, released in 1961. It had a four-valve amplifier, AM radio and BSR fully-automatic turntable.

Kriesler Master Multi Sonic, 1966

The 1966 Kriesler Master Multi Sonic was a hi-fidelity, top-of-the-line stereogram, which boasted eight speakers. It included a plug-in microphone, eight-valve amplifier and a Garrard fully-automatic turntable.

AWA B28 Portable, 1963

The 1963 pale-pink AWA B28 was a portable and battery-operated mono record player, an affordable option for the youth market. While not a high-quality item, it included AWA’s revolutionary, locally-produced transistor amplifier. AWA (Amalgamated Wireless Australasia Ltd) was the first manufacturer in Australia to produce a transistor radio. (Australia Post)