The 3-star rating reflects kind of an average between the useability for a British radiophile (probably 5 stars) and a US radiophile (probably 1 star). Though the book is well written and factual, it is written for the British radio enthusiast. Although all radios operate the same in any country, radio models, tubes (valves), test equipment and nomenclature in general are totally different in the UK than in the US. This makes it difficult to translate back and forth and I found myself trying to figure out what a particular term meant or what the equivalent US numbered tube might be. Not a quick read or reference if you're from west of "the pond."

ISBN 0 7506 3995 4

An ever-increasing number of Electronics Engineers, born since the transistor (1955ish), are asked sooner or later to help with a "wireless" or amplifier which contains "valves", or "tubes". In spite of countless similarities, valve systems have many important differences; and advice about servicing them is hard to come by.

But at last, here is a densely-packed book of advice, spiced with humour, reminiscences, and informed opinions - but only when and where they really help.

Whilst a pedant might pick holes in some of the theory and treatment (misplaced dots and outdated units for example), the practical advice is invaluable and will save patience, fortune, and lives. (Besides, if we are working on gadgets where 4.7 m meant 4.7 megohms, better to say so. We are even told the alternative American notation.)

If you are new to Vintage Electronics you will not be baffled by 50-year-old "slang", because commonplace terms are explained. But if you have been "at it" for 50 years you will not feel patronised. You will soon find out how much you "didn't know you had forgotten."

Bill Jarvis