I know that the Philco Safari was the first transistorized set (about 1959, I think), but does anyone know how long it took other manufactureres to start using transistors in their sets. I think it was likely the early seventies before sets went all transistor, but I'd be interested in the timeline of when other manufacturers started using them.

Hi Eric:

I have a Zenith 12 inch black and white that I believe was their first all transistor set and I'm pretty sure that it is a 1966 model.

Steve

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There is a Motorola set which came out about 64 or 65, I believe, that is all transistor (tube HV rect.) and has built-in rechargeable batteries. It is an 18 or 19" set that has a leatherette case like a suitcase and a zippered cover to go over the picture tube when traveling. I have not actually seen the set, but have read about it in mid sixties TV repair books.

That would be the Motorola "Astronaut" It looked like a small suitcase when the cover was on.
Gave mine away a few years ago, Now those are going for 100-200 bucks on epay!

Eric, I have a 1969 Sears portable color (11" or so crt) set that is a hybred, half transistor, half some VERY WIERD compactrons. Sorry I have no photos but it is in my Mom's guest bedroom about 300 miles from here. I also might add that while this set is small, it is really HEAVY! And, yup, it still works!
Marlin:D

Motorola had a 23" b&w console in 1964 that was 100% solid state (AC power only). I saw a new one on display then, and I have never seen one since!