Consolette Model 1

About the Consolette Model 1

The Marantz Audio Consolette Model 1, introduced commercially in 1954 as an extension of the original Audio Consolette, is a mono tube preamplifier designed by Saul Bernard Marantz. It features three vacuum tubes (two for phono circuits and one for output modification), and offers a frequency response of ±1 dB from 20 Hz to 40,000 Hz. The unit includes a seven-position selector switch, bass and treble equalization controls, a loudness compensator, and a high-frequency cutoff filter. It supports multiple input types including two magnetic phono inputs (low and high output), a high impedance microphone input, and four high-level inputs (Tuner, Tape, TV, Extra), totaling seven input channels. The Model 1 is housed in a cabinet with wooden side panels and a perforated golden grille, available in mahogany or blonde finish. It was praised for its sound dynamics and build quality, featuring high-quality components such as low-noise carbon resistors and "bumblebee" capacitors. The unit weighs approximately 13.5 lbs and measures 14-1/2 x 4-5/8 x 6 inches. It was originally The Model 1 is considered a landmark in music pre-amplification and was the foundation for Marantz's later iconic products.