[Hallicrafters] Memories.

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

On 7/23/06, kiyoinc at attglobal.net <kiyoinc at attglobal.net> wrote:
>
> I read the stories of the old radio shops and surplus outlets with great
> interest.

I feel compelled to share my 'radio store' story from the weekend.
Went to the HRO store in Salem NH with W1UJR and was amazed at how
empty it seemed. This even though it was full of gear. Aside from a W6
working there who was rude to Bruce about a Alpha Delta switch he
wanted to exchange (new, but damaged), it was just a very
anti-climatic experience. It probably didn't help that we had just
attended an antique radio meet before going there.

There are still a few surplus places out there. Manchester NH had one
(ESS? EES?) but I think it's gone. Same with the one in Hudson. They
were around in the 90s. Also saw a few around the Portland, OR area
back in 2003 that were very cool, thanks to some of the locals. But
for the most part, they seem to be a thing of the past.

Aside from today's plug-n-play-then-throw-away mentality, I think lack
of availability for the dealers is probably the biggest reason. I was
too young to take part in the 'Radio Row' halcyon days, but am
thankful for the few experiences I have had.


~ Todd/'Boomer'  KA1KAQ