Thrift Store Encounter: Magnavox Astro Sonic Console Stereo

I recently encountered the cutest Magnavox Astro Sonic Console Stereo in a local thrift store.  We didn't buy it because we don't have an SUV and didn't relish the thought of lugging it up to our third floor apartment.  But, I'm sure it will be a great buy for someone.  It was compact, intact, and seemed to be working fairly well for a nearly 50 year old stereo system. 

The Stereo indicator LED didn't seem to illuminate properly when the stereo was locked on a station.  But, you could easily tell from the sound quality when a station was tuned in properly.  The FM Stereo certainly sounded good.

I'm not sure that stereo indicator bulb is working!

The controls on this system are straight forward and fun to work with.  There is something cool about manually dialing in an FM station.  This system apparently had some capabilities for adding Auxiliary components and extra speakers.

The Heart of the Magnavox Astro Sonic Console Stereo

The turntable even seemed to spin just fine.  However, it wouldn't have been a surprise if the system needed a new needle.

This photo makes the system look a little larger than it actually is.  But, it shows the overall finish and the look of the system.  To make this really look good, it might have needed a stereo refinishing or a coat of more contemporary paint.

It looks far more dainty in this photo.  While this is a big and substantial piece of furniture, I'm surprised that console stereos have disappeared.  Nearly every stereo enthusiast has a spouse that is considerably less enthused by a constant jumble of wires and unsightly speakers.  A console stereo has the capability to blend in with the rest of the living room.  That has to count for something right?

This system was only $60.  I should have bought it.  But, I doubt we could have got it home and up the stairs in working condition.  Still, it would have been an interesting buy.  I found a nice write up of a similar system here on Retro Thing.