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Wonder Bar radio reverb function

Started by John S, August 23, 2019, 09:05:46 PM

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John S

I've recently been told that many of the 50s Wonder Bar radios that went into the higher end GM cars had a "reverb" function. Since stereo wasn't around yet, the reverb function gave it a delayed effect through the rear speaker. Does anyone know more about this function and how to tell if your stereo had it?

Mike Josephic CLC #3877

#1
I had a '64 Pontiac that had this feature (factory).
There was a 3 position switch under the dash that
allowed for front speaker only, front & rear, and
front with reverb.  It sounded really great.  The
reverb unit was separate from the radio, it was
mounted in the trunk.

I'm not aware that this feature was available in the
50's but maybe so.  In any event, I imagine you could
purchase one of these units  (try E-Bay) and add it in
it was a simple unit and would be easy to do.

Here is a unit just like the one I had (for a '63 Buick)
and is a Delco:
http://www.2040-parts.com/gm-buick-car-stereo-7284742-reverb-unit-for-e-g-1963-wildcat-vintage-original-i863648/

Mike
1955 Cadillac Eldorado
1973 Cadillac Eldorado
1995 Cadillac Seville
2004 Escalade
1997 GMC Suburban 4X4, 454 engine, 3/4 ton
custom built by Santa Fe in Evansville, IN
2011 Buick Lucerne CX
-------------------------------------
CLCMRC Museum Benefactor #38
Past: VP International Affiliates, Museum Board Director, President / Director Pittsburgh Region

bcroe

I remember grabbing some of those with the long spring inside. 
Think they all got thrown out on the last move.  FM stereo took
over.  Bruce Roe

76eldo

My 60 Seville has an aftermarket Reverb unit installed.  Sounds great.  It was a very popular add-on back in the 60's.

Brian
Brian Rachlin
Huntingdon Valley, Pa
I prefer email's not PM's rachlin@comcast.net

1960 62 Series Conv with Factory Tri Power
1970 DeVille Conv
1970 Eldo
1970 Caribu (?) "The Cadmino"
1973 Eldorado Conv Pace Car
1976 Eldorado Conv
1980 Eldorado H & E Conv
1993 Allante with Hardtop (X2)
2008 DTS
2012 CTS Coupe
2017 XT
1956 Thunderbird
1966 Olds Toronado