Decoding early model numbers

9 replies
I've recently written the following for a document, but as you can see, there are some gaps... Can anyone here fill those in?   Early models simply used the last two digits of the year in the model number. So, for example, the “Master 38 K”was the 1938 model and the “Master 41 B” was made in 1941. Later, a three-digit system was used, however, this can be“de- coded” to indicate the year as follows: The first digit is the ten’s-place in the model year, so the “JET 513 K” was made in the 1950s. The one’s-place of the year can be found by subtracting the first number from the second and third. For example, 13 - 5 = 8, therefore the JET 513 K was made in 1958. Letters B: Bakelite CH: G: Gramophone K: R: Radio S:
PLEASE READ before sending me a Personal Message. If you have questions about or problems with B&O equipment, these should be directed through your dealer and/or B&O's Customer Service department. I cannot be a "short circuit", bypassing these communication channels. Thanks -geoff
B: I think this was only used for bakelite models that were also available in a wooden cabinet. At present I can only think of Master 41K/41B U: Universal (suitable for both DC and AC mains) CH: Chartol K: I think is for Kabinet (cabinet housed) - usually with built-in speaker. I believe this is a leftover from when many radios were also available as chassis' only S: Used mainly for console models. S could be for Stående (Standing) or solitair RG: Radiogramophone (radio/gramophone combination) RGS: Standing Radiogramophone BRG: Bord-Radiogramophone (tabletop-radiogram) P: I think is for Papir-isolation (paper-insulated leads - due to WW2 material shortages) Martin
Martin to the rescue! Mange tak! Mvh -geoff
PLEASE READ before sending me a Personal Message. If you have questions about or problems with B&O equipment, these should be directed through your dealer and/or B&O's Customer Service department. I cannot be a "short circuit", bypassing these communication channels. Thanks -geoff
Martin, what is "Chartol", please?

Location: Paris France

Hmmm... my assumption about the "B" designation and your comment made me do a little more digging. We might both be wrong.. For example: Here's the Master 41-B "Klangbund" in Bakelite: But this is a Mini 510-B - definitely not Bakelite... I'll have to check tomorrow, but I think that one of the "Byggemøbler" components is a  Type Grand Prix 606 B" which is, of course, wood. I'm starting to think that B stands for many things. Too bad I can't find a "A", which would make the task simpler... :D  
PLEASE READ before sending me a Personal Message. If you have questions about or problems with B&O equipment, these should be directed through your dealer and/or B&O's Customer Service department. I cannot be a "short circuit", bypassing these communication channels. Thanks -geoff
Looking at the two pictures, 'B' could stand for 'Brown'!    
In the Master 41 service manual, where the versions B, K , S and RG are covered, the B is mentioned as the model housed in bakelite. Of course there must be another explanation for the 510B etc. S is mentioned as a "konsolskab" (Skab = cupboard or closet), so a console model. "Klangbund" is not really a part of the model name. The Klangbund ("Soundboard") is a type of passive radiator for low frequencies, working on what B&O described as an "elastic pillow" of air between the speaker cone and the radiator. In fact it is the back plate of the receiver, and it's a (relatively) airtight cover, that will "play along" with the bass (read: deepest notes) using a wall behind the receiver as reflector. Try listening to it if you get a chance, it actually works. Martin
or
BeoWorld Gold Membership card
Join BeoWorld

Register to access the forums, reference material, and exclusive member benefits — including our monthly prize draw.

Become a Member

December 2026 Prize Draw

Gold Members Only

As a Gold member you're automatically entered into our exclusive prize draw — your chance to win iconic Bang & Olufsen products. A unique benefit of BeoWorld Gold membership, every draw brings a new opportunity to win something special.

BeoSound Level

1st Prize

BeoConnect Core

2nd Prize

BeoRemote Halo

3rd Prize