May 1959 Popular Electronics Table of Contents Wax nostalgic about and learn from the history of early electronics. See articles from Popular Electronics, published October 1954 - April 1985. All copyrights are hereby acknowledged.

This series of comics describes the reactions you might expect to receive from various kinds people who, while visiting your home, are introduced to your new stereo setup. Although they appeared in a 1959 edition of Popular Electronics magazine, the scenarios still hold true today, only now you can extend the equipment types to include a gaming computer, a wide screen television, a personal robot, and other modern electromechanical wonders. Now, however, while "admiring" your equipment, he/she will simultaneously be referring constantly to his/her smartphone. It is rare to see this kind of entertainment in newer publications - probably for fear of being sued by an overly sensitive person who sees himself/herself as being lampooned.

Hi-Fi Guest List

By Carl Kohler

Sooner or later the avid hi-fi and stereo enthusiast begins inviting friends over to admire his latest equipment acquisitions and enjoy his newest recordings. Portrayed here are a handful of guests any stereo-loving host may encounter to his bewilderment.

Exhibitionist

Becoming strangely affected the moment the music begins, this guest fancies himself something of an impromptu conductor. He sometimes breaks into interpretive dance routines ranging from quasi-ballet to the common waltz-clog, and has been known to do a fandango to locomotive sound recordings. He can be persuaded to sit still only if test tones are played.

Killjoy

He seems to derive an almost sadistic satisfaction from finding minor flaws in his host's equipment and pointing out that the same turntables, tuners and amplifiers are selling for half of what the host paid, elsewhere. A genius at discovering minute damaged areas on cabinets which have escaped the attention of his host.

Tinkerer

If not closely watched, he will quietly begin "investigating" any piece of hi-fi stereo equipment he can put his paws on. He can easily be spotted since he invariably carries a miniature tool kit in his hip pocket and is given to loitering around the backsides of cabinets.

Critic

This guest hasn't really approved of any recording since "Cohen On The Telephone" was issued. He listens to his host's latest and most unique records with utter dissatisfaction and frequent grunts of derision. Always giving the strong impression that he has been shanghaied into lending ears (which may be true), he has been known to stalk out during the first bars of music which keeps other people rooted to their chairs.

Researcher

Caring little for his host's splendid library of recordings, he is quite impressed with the cataloging and cross-filing system. He has a dismal habit of insisting upon discussing record-classification methods in detail while his host's most enthralling musical selections are vainly being played for him.

Sloth

Displaying a flattering interest in anything and everything his host may suggest be played, this type actually wants only background music so he can find the most comfortable chair in the room and take a nap. He demonstrates a weird ability to doze off no matter what kind of music is offered him.

Posted September 8, 2022
(updated from original post on 2/22/2013)