VE 7-26 X
Like
the other models in the Victrola "7 Series", the
VE 7-26 was a "home entertainment center" priced in the upper-middle range,
pairing an electronically-amplified phonograph with a RCA Radiola 18. This
popular phonograph featured the latest Victor audio amplifier and a paper-cone
speaker. The
Radiola 18 was an advanced 'TRF' (Tuned Radio Frequency) set that required
only a single knob for tuning, rather than the typical array of knobs that was
previously required to select a radio station. In addition, it did not require
the use of dry-cell batteries, which would require replacement after long
periods of radio use. The 7-26 was a true "state of the art" machine, and
provided exceptionally good performance for the time.
The 7-26 was introduced in the fall of 1928, and production ran through the
first few months of 1929. The "tall boy" cabinet was
finished in a two-tone mahogany veneer, and the hardware was gold-plated. It sold new for $425.00, which equates
to approximately $8,300.00 in today's money. An optional speaker with improved
performance was offered for an extra $50.00.
Based on the serial numbers of surviving examples,
at least 16,000 VE 7-26 models were produced (including both speaker
types); however actual production of this model was likely much higher, possibly
greater than 20,000 units. The 7-26 was a big seller, especially considering the
relatively high price tag for this model.
The high cost of restoration of these early electronic sets
limits the interest of many collectors today.
The current survival database shows the earliest existent VE 7-26 to be s/n 599 and the latest to be s/n 16726.
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