One of the “unicorn” models that Zenith produced, this was the 6R980LP, produced one year only, to “bridge the gap” between 78s and the first LPs. This was 1948-49...ALL “records” up until then were 78RPM. When the LP was introduced, it kinda threw the industry into a panic, coming up with ways to play the old and new formats on the same machine.
Zenith’s answer (and Robert Davol Budlong’s design): Give the record player two tone arms! One for 78s, one for them new-fangled LP thingees. Keep in mind, kids, the 45 RPM “single” would not come into existence for about another FIVE YEARS. The same sort of thing would happen then...some very...unique...ways of playing were tried, including two turntables in the same machine! When Zenith finally came up with the “Cobramatic” with the strobe light, in 1955, the “modern” turntable was born.
Oh, it’s got an AM radio, as well. That grille and dial just scream “Budlong”! All those wonderful curves! Curves, curves, beautiful curves!!!
This one I sold a few months ago. Since I have had to part with almost all my Zeniths now (goin’ broke sucks!), I figured I’d share some of the gems I got to caretake for a little while. I’m also selling the remainder of my collection (eventually) along with all my LPs and CDs (there are thousands) on eBay. Here’s the link to my store: https://www.ebay.com/str/yestergroove
