A common scene in urban and suburban areas alike back in 1984: a breakdancer performing on a sheet of cardboard to beats thumping from a nearby stereo. Captured from the 1984 film Breakin’.
Breakin’
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Author Archives: pocketcalculatorshow
Hitachi TRK-8600
Hitachi wows us with this model–the TRK-8600. We’re guessing this was released sometime in 1981 or 1982. Unusual color scheme–it appears to have a copper-colored finish around the controls. What would you say if we told you this baby is still available today? Okay, browse here and take a look. UPDATE: Bad news, it’s sold out.
Field Trip To Classic Computers
In the never-ending quest for old electronic stuff, there are rare occasions when we stumble upon an unknown, unmapped source for a cornucopia of desirables. If you’re a fan of old and obsolete computers, Classic Computers in West Haven, Connecticut is indeed such a place.
From the outside, this shop sure doesn’t look like much, does it? We dare you to try finding this place on your own. The old mid-size servers to the left are reminiscient of stripped autos one might find in a South Bronx neighborhood.
Unfortunately, only one quarter of the store was navigable on the day I went– exploring most of the store required a grappling hook and climbing gear to get over the 3m high piles of hardware.
A mass grave for a thousand extinct data centers.
Many systems used teletype terminals instead of video terminals in the 70s and early 80s. The computer operator would perform input using a keyboard and observed output as characters were printed on spooled paper by the built-in printer. Pictured above, a 1974 DECwriter terminal captured in action amidst a busy office.
A row of poor old DECwriters waiting to die.The second floor of Classic Computers probably has one of the best collections of old DEC hardware imaginable. Some believe this hardware is no more valuable than the dust they’re collecting–we, however know otherwise.
Like a sea-siren, this Commodore PET beckons you to approach–but take caution, or you’ll stumble over the pile of 1981 IBM 5150 machines like the one pictured below.
I was lucky to pick up one gem–a 1982 Non-Linear Systems Kaypro II, as shiny and new as the day it was made. Gordon looks on with bewilderment (or embarassment).
Perhaps you’re like this guy–a real lover of old IBM and Digital, DEC & PDP mainframe equipment. Why not give Classic Computers a call. Tell’em the guys from Pocket Calculator sent you!
Classic Computers
614 Campbell Avenue
West Haven, CT 06516
(203) 933-7599
Early Panasonic Boombox
Panasonic Portable FM/AM Stereo Cassette Recorder. Fluid design improves slightly upon the Marantz, but an otherwise insipid format. As you’ll soon see, it wouldn’t take long for Panasonic to come into their own. The Japanese giant’s first offering featured 3 1/2″ speakers, twin volume controls, mic mixing, built-in stereo condenser mics and VU/battery meter. Approx. $150 by 1977.
Breakin’ Boombox
Can you identify this one? Featured in the 1984 movie Breakin’. Ghetto blasters like this one were found on city streets throughout the country in the mid-80s. This is probably a Taiwanese or Chinese no-name brand, but we are intrigued by the apparent second cassette located above the primary one. UPDATE: This is the Conion C-100F or the Clairtone 7980 and is indeed one of the most sought after stereos of all time. Tagging it and making it your own with stickers, paint was common in the day.
West German Grundig RR-750 Boombox
Imagine our surprise when we spotted this one at a local flea market for $30 (I think it one of the Portland, Maine flea markets on US Route 1). This exotic-looking Grundig featured a myriad of functions including SW/AM/FM/LW reception, a hideaway telescopic antenna, presets, variable stereo knob (from 0 to “super”), LCD clock and alarm–all in that sleak euro chassis. We’re guessing this was released sometime in 1982.
Emerson Double Cassette For Salvage
Is this old broken Emerson worth the effort of repairing? Jay and Paul assess the damage in this shot and make that determination. We uncovered a pile of these in a junk shop during one of our electronic hunts in NYC.
Panasonic RX-5500
Panasonic’s RX-5500, a fine example of the classic ’80s boombox. This model was actually released in 1981. Other manufacturers imitated designs like this one for years after. Nice twin LED meters…
General Electric Ghettoblaster
Looks like a wall, doesn’t it? Powered by 8 D batteries, this was GE’s flagship ghetto blaster in 1983. It offered “feather touch” controls, the MLS music search system, stereo & loudness switches, balance, bass and treble control.
1985 JVC Boombox
Unsure on the model number of this ghetto blaster. We do know this JVC was released sometime in 1985. Notice multiple component facade–this trend began in mid-80s and continued into later years. We guess the speakers are detachable, making this an appropriate home stereo for the apartment dweller or college student. update: Hemlyn from the UK writes, “Mine is model JVC PC-200W, and though it doesn’t look exactly the same (mine has less black and more silver on the front) all the functions are exactly the same and in the same places. In daily use here in northern England, though it gracefully retired from recording cassettes a few years ago (ie this function no longer works!) Plays ‘em fine tho.’ Still has a very, very clear stereo sound, will go quite loud, and will boom very satisfyingly if required. Quite heavy, esp. with batteries installed, but who cares? Sling out that pathetic walkman, sling your blaster on a guitar strap and let the neighbourhood know that you’re coming down the street!
