The Regency TR-1, launched in 1954, was the first commercially manufactured transistor radio, marking a revolutionary shift in consumer electronics. Developed by Regency Electronics and Texas Instruments, it utilized four germanium transistors, offering a compact, portable alternative to bulky vacuum-tube radios. Priced at $49.95 (about $500 today), the TR-1 measured just 3x5x1.5 inches and weighed less than a pound. Its performance was mediocre, with poor sound quality and limited battery life (around 20 hours), yet its novelty drove sales of approximately 150,000 units. Available in four colors—black, ivory, mandarin red, and cloud gray—the TR-1 captivated consumers with its sleek design and portability, despite a high cost. It paved the way for future transistorized devices, influencing the development of modern portable electronics. The TR-1's success highlighted the potential of transistors, transforming the radio industry and setting the stage for the transistor revolution in technology.
