Northern Electric Baby Champ Model B4000

This is the battery-powered version of the Model 5000, and was manufactured in 1946-47. It could be obtained in the unpainted bakelite rainbow cabinet or a painted ivory cabinet. Most brown cabinet examples have brown knobs and ivory cabinet examples have ivory knobs. Some brown cabinet examples appear to have been supplied with ivory knobs. A photo of one of these appears on Northern Electric Service Bulletin RS 103. These models are commonly found in western Canada due to the fact that rural electrification did not arrive in some areas until the 1950s. In general I have found that these models tend to be in the worst shape when found.

Tube Complement:

1. 1A7GT: Converter
2. 1N5GT: IF Amplifier
3. 1H5GT: 2nd Detector, AVC, 1st Audio Amplifier
4. 1T5GT: Output Amplifier

1. The airplane dial and pointer are used, but the dial (part R8145-24) is different from the Model 5000 as the dial numerals range from 55 to 160.

2. Interestingly, unlike the Model 5000, the Model B4000 does not sport the Baby Champ label on the back.

3. The back has three screw terminals: external antenna, ground, and phono input. Three decals are affixed on the back: license warning, battery connection/tube location, and 2 volt storage cell warning.

4. A guarantee notice sticker is present on the bottom of the case.

5. The back is attached to the chassis by four slot screws.

1. Speakers are found in two shapes: round and rounded square. Both speaker shapes are stamped with manufacturer's part No. R12791.

2. Wiring to battery connectors vary from all cloth covering in some examples to all plastic covering in other examples of B4000. Most examples appear to have a combination of cloth and plastic covering.

3. Screws attaching dial to chassis are of two types: slot and Robertson.

Model B4000 (Col No 007): brown bakelite, ivory knobs, replacement dial cover. (Originally found with knobs missing. Restored as per Northern Electric Service Bulletin RS 103 photo).

Model B4000 Radio Service Bulletin

Some collectors of Vintage, Retro or Antique radios, would like to hear more than just AM radio on their sets. Whether you prefer the purist approach, or don't mind altering them, in a reversible way, Retro Radio Shop has the exact accessories needed for you to hear Bluetooth and/or FM radio signals over your old gem.

If you value originality and would like a simple, stand alone product that will turn your radio into a Bluetooth receiver, without any installation or alterations, check out the Retro Radio Shop MicroMitter 

If you have some electronic experience, check out our DIY kits and Accessories pages.

We also perform repairs, safety and Bluetooth upgrades if your Baby Champ requires. Check out our Restoration and Repair page for more information.