Note
The AR-1 is a very basic receiver and first appeared in Heath’s 1949 Christmas flyer. The AR-1 was Heath’s first general coverage receiver, preceded only by the Heath K-1 and K-2 “all wave” radios.
The receiver is a five-tube superheterodyne design covering 550 kHz to 20 MHz in three bands using a 455 kHz IF, and is designed for AM reception only. It features a transformer power supply and a tone control and an input for a phonograph.
The band switch is labeled “POL BC SW,” meaning police (1.7 to 5.5 MHz), broadcast (550 kHz to 1.6 MHz) and shortwave (6 to 20 MHz). A 0 to 100 logging scale is also printed in the tuning dial. There is also a “PHONO TONE RADIO” control. When turned fully counterclockwise until a click is heard, the phono amplifier function is enabled. Turning the control fully clockwise until it clicks again enables the receiver. Rotation of the control between the two clicks adjusts the tone.
A 120 VAC outlet (not shown on the schematic) on the rear deck is for use with a record player or other accessory. The AR-1 does not have a built-in speaker, but will support speakers from 4 to 8Ω. There is a pilot light, but it is not visible with the optional cabinet installed, and it does not illuminate the front panel. The AR-1 does not have a BFO, bandspread, headphone jack, or AVC switch. Sensitivity was advertised as 15 µV or better on all bands. Optional gray perforated metal cabinet and front panel combination—$4.50.
Alignment requires a VTVM and signal generator, although it is possible to do an alignment by ear.
Replaced by the AR-2 late in 1953.
Caution: The receiver is not fuse protected, and the power supply does not include bleeder resistors.
Caution: The pilot light is connected in parallel with the filament of the 5Y3 rectifier tube. Because the filament is also the cathode, the pilot light socket is about 300 volts above the chassis. A shock hazard exists.
References:
Modify for amateur use. QST May 1953, p. 38.
Stabilizing. CQ. Jan 1960, p. 47.
Stabilizing (Correction). CQ. Apr 1960, p. 11.
Tubes: (1) 1626 OR 12J5, (2) 12SH7/12SH7GT, (1) 12C8, (1) 12A6/12A6GT, (1) 5Y3
Photos, general information and specifications from "Heathkit: A Guide to the Amateur Radio Products," by Chuck Penson, WA7ZZE. Used with permission.
