Superior Electric Voltbox Metered Variac/Autotransformer Review

This is a Superior Electric AC Power Supply Type UC1M. This unit was made in Bristol, Connecticut starting in 1947. If you're into old electronics, a variac, otherwise known as a variable autotransformer is a tool that's useful for slowing bringing old electronics up to values close to line voltage. You can even use one of these to run your old electronics at lower line voltages to lower heat and prolong transformer life. Of course, a bucking transformer is a better option especially if someone may end up touching your stuff. This unit features a meter to measure both line voltage and load.

[@ukewarrior]

Great Review. thanks so much.

[@jongreen2198]

Who is selling new old stock?

[@kimoclyde]

I'd like to know as well.

[@phogroian1]

Someone with access to government surplus. i guarantee there are hundreds of these sitting new in the box on some dusty steel shelving.

[@marinabraid9525]

I remember one of these in my science lab storeroom , but being NZ it was 240v and I think it went to 120% voltage. great for high school experimentation ....

[@chrisw.3077]

Very cool. I enjoy mine.

[@antonyb3505]

Are you planning on just collecting this or using it? I need to use it for amplifier repair and considering making a 3 prong conversion out of it. Did you do any of that?

[@antonyb3505]

I have the same variac, it's a beauty and making a 3 prong conversion is almost a no op... but curious if you considered it

[@chrisw.3077]

I use it all the time. For my three prong needs, I simply lift the ground and then ground the adapter properly of course.

[@jongreen2198]

I have a version with grounded Edison receptacles.