The Murphy A242 is a substantial, high-quality British valve wireless receiver introduced in February 1955 by Murphy Radio Ltd of Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire.
It was one of Murphy's most advanced domestic radios of the period and particularly significant because it was the company's first receiver to incorporate VHF/FM reception, arriving at the beginning of regular BBC FM broadcasting in Britain.
With its impressive nine-valve chassis, large loudspeaker, walnut cabinet and distinctive gold trim, the A242 was designed for listeners who wanted excellent sound reproduction as well as conventional medium-, long- and short-wave reception.
The A242 appeared at an important moment in British wireless history. During the early 1950s, most households still listened to programmes on medium and long wave. These services were prone to interference, fading and restricted audio bandwidth.
The introduction of VHF/FM broadcasting in 1955 offered much clearer reception and better sound quality. Murphy responded with the A242, combining the established AM wavebands with the new FM service.
Valves:
- 6L34: VHF RF amplifier
- EC92: VHF oscillator/mixer
- 6C9: AM frequency changer
- 6F15: intermediate-frequency amplifier
- 6D2: detector circuitry
- 6LD: detection and audio circuitry
- 6P1: audio output
- 6M2: magic-eye tuning indicator
- UU9: full-wave mains rectifier
The service manual for this radio is available in the Members’ Area.
