Zenith Model 3000-1 TransOceanic Radio (1965)

This is the second-newest TransOceanic radio in my collection. Zenith made only one model after this, the R-7000, which appeared in three model variations into the early 1980s.

The Model 3000 is a nine-band radio, including AM, seven shortwave bands, and—for the first time in any TransOceanic—FM. It was introduced in the 1963 model year and manufactured until 1971, when it was replaced by the R-7000.

The detachable WaveMagnet was finally eliminated in this model to make room for the extra FM circuitry. The WaveMagnet name is still used, however, embossed on the integral antenna mounted beneath the handle. You can read more about WaveMagnets in my Clipper article.

From the front, the 3000 is instantly distinguishable from 1000 by its big square nameplate on the lower left of the cover. Model 1000 covers are plain.

This radio still has the original book, which slips into a compartment in the front cover. Inside the book in my set is a little sheet of paper on which the original owner logged many shortwave stations from around the world.

I removed the battery pack from the rear photo to give a better view of the radio's internals. As with the model 1000, the pack occupies the lower right area as seen from the rear.

On the back cover of both 1000 and 3000 models is white lettering with the radio's name and model number. If you have a model 1000-1 or 3000-1 TransOceanic, the -1 indicates that it can accept an external AC adapter power supply. Any adapter can be used, if it supplies 9 volts DC with a 3/32-inch diameter male plug whose tip is negative. The specs call for a 12-volt adapter, but many modern 12-volt adapters supply more than 12 volts. Your radio will run just fine—and more safely—at 9 volts.

It's easy to add an AC adapter to any solid-state TransOceanic that doesn't have a jack. The book Zenith TransOceanic, the Royalty of Radios explains how to do this.

I happen to own two 3000 TransOceanics. The first one was purchased as part of a collection of about a dozen assorted TOs. I picked up the second one at a garage sale. At the amazingly low price of $5, I just couldn't resist!

The 3000 is a great-performing radio, with excellent audio. I use mine regularly during the summertime, when working in the yard or simply relaxing in the sun.

This model is fairly common and you should be able to find a nice one in original condition for around $100, or perhaps less. As with the 1000, its weak points are the fragile carrying handle (always carry the radio from the bottom!) and thin chrome plating, which tends to blister.

If you wish to restore the electronics on one of these radios, you should get a schematic to guide your work and help you understand the electronics. You can order a TransOceanic model 3000 service manual from one of the sources listed in our Parts page.