Seventy-five years ago, the summer of 1946 was the first summer after the war, and Americans were ready to enjoy some leisure. The June 1946 issue of Radio Retailing reminded its readers that this meant there would be a big demand for portables, and manufacturers were in the process of delivering the first new sets. The season would last through fall, and dealers were advised to stock up.
There were currently 24 models on the market. Some of these included a record player, with a maximum price of $149.50. Of the 16 straight portables, the average price was $35.43, with the lowest being $17.50.
The magazine noted that only half of the new receivers were from old-name manufacturers. The remainder came from postwar startups.