The Music Thread

[42N2Zs]

My first “audio system” was a GE Trimline 500 Record Player (1967). The whole affair folded inward for portability (note carrying handle).
GE Trimline 500 Stereo Record Player

Google Search AI Summary: “The mid- to late 1960s US music scene was a period of dynamic change, defined by the British Invasion and the rise of diverse genres like psychedelic rock, soul (especially Motown), and protest music. Major events like the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and assassinations fueled music that reflected a culture in flux, from the upbeat sounds of the era to powerful political commentary.”

My LP purchasing decisions were different from what was popular. Some of my first albums:

Brazil ‘66
I became a fan after listening to this album through a pair of complimentary United Airlines headphones. (I may have seen them on the Ed Sullivan Show prior.) I liked the melodies, rhythm, and cool style of the group.

Herbie Mann at the Village Gate
I decided to listen to instrumental jazz because there were no lyrics to deal with. I especially liked “Comin’ Guy Home Baby” on this album. (I bought another album later which featured a female vocalist, whom I liked.

Dave Brubek, Take 5
“Take 5,” of course!

Mantovani
I rank the live sound of a symphony orchestra “Tops!” Mantovani played all types of music with his orchestra and unique “shimmering strings” style. I especially liked his interpretations of popular music, new, and old. He also made recordings from another favorite category,“movie music.”

A Fistful of Dollars
I like the “Man With No Name,” still keep an ear out for original movie soundtracks.

(Record player and Brazil ‘66 pics transposed.)

It’s the Dave Brubeck Quartet and the album is “Tlme Out” …

 

[42N2Zs]

My second (and only “real”) audio system was based on a Sony STR 7055. It, and similar devices, were called Receivers because they had integrated FM tuners.

Complementary Sony components, a turntable and speakers, comprised the rest of the system. No reel-to-reel tape deck.

All components were tastefully clad with walnut. Spec-wise, the system fell at the lower end of the power scale. Aesthetically, it was at the top.

I couldn’t find any decent pics of the turntable or speakers, so I’m posting a pic of the receiver only.

The first album I bought to play on the new system was by America, mainly for the song “ Tin Man.” I was happy! …