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Tube Radio Troubleshooting

Tube radios are radios containing vacuum tubes, or devices that produce an electric signal via the movement of electrons within a low-pressure space. Tube radios can develop problems for a number of reasons, and you can often resolve these problems through some basic troubleshooting techniques.

Humming
- A humming noise emanating from the tube radio often results from a weak or faulty rectifier tube, or device used to convert AC (alternating current) to DC, or direct current. Replacing the rectifier tube typically stops tube radio humming.
Raspy Buzzing
- Low-rated electric eye lamps, or lamps that automatically switch off during the day, can produce raspy buzzing noises between stations. The owner should replace the current lamp with a higher-rated electric eye lamp to resolve the problem.
Low and Fuzzy Volume
- If the tube radio fails to play at a high volume and sounds fuzzy, the cause may be a weak audio amplifier tube. Audio amplifier tubes are electronic signal amplifiers that use vacuum tubes to enhance the signal's power and amplitude. Replacing a weak audio amplifier tube often restores normal tube radio volume.

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