Description
Lafayette Bocama LA 224T amplifier. Classic Vintage. Fully revitalized.
“Wholesale Radio Service” was established by Abraham Pletman in the early 1920s in New York. In 1931, its radio receivers were given the trademark “Lafayette”. In 1948, the company issued a catalogue entitled “Lafayette-Concord”, naming itself “the world’s largest supplier of radios”. Lafayette Radio Electronics (LRE) fast became a successful mail order organisation and promoted high-quality audio equipment in places where availability was low. For example, the electronic components offered in the portfolio were especially useful for amateur radio operators and electronics hobbyists who could not buy them at local points of sale. Lafayette was advertised intensively in the biggest American consumer electronics magazines in the 60s and 70s, such as: Audio, High Fidelity, Popular Electronics, Popular Mechanics and Stereo Review. The company also released a free-of-charge, 400-page catalogue with descriptions of electronic equipment, microphones, speakers, tape recorders and other components. In 1981 Lafayette Radio declared bankruptcy and sold its New York shops to Circuit City.
Lafayette Bocama LA224 T is a high-quality transistor amplifier from the second half of the 1960s. This model resembles its one year older predecessor – Bocama LA224 B tube amplifier – both in terms of its classic, characteristic of the era design, and the beautiful, warm and juicy sound. What is more, the LA224 line equipment can boast not only its “good looks” but also a stable and sturdy structure.
The enclosure has been fully revitalized, made from rosewood. The wood finishing is Chinese oil produced from natural oils, and natural turpentine-based beeswax. Potentiometers are in perfect condition. The device has been fully reviewed and serviced, it was given new aluminium legs.
Collector’s model. The device is in perfect condition.
Technical data:
– power – 2 x 15W
– frequency response – 20Hz – 25kHz
– input sensitivity – 5mV (MM), 600mV (line)
– weight – 5kg
– impedance – 8-16 Ohm
– dimensions – 28,5cm x 13cm x 22cm (width x height x depth)
– year of production – 1969/70
– made in the USA