Overview
Gonset Company was a U.S.-based manufacturer of radio communications equipment, known for amateur radio gear and early citizens band (CB) radios.
Description
Gonset Company operated in Burbank, California and produced a range of communications equipment including amateur radio transmitters, receivers, and CB radios. The company became known for compact and mobile-oriented designs, particularly during the transition from tube-based equipment to more portable units. Gonset products were widely used by amateur radio operators and early CB users.
History
- 1891: Robert Roman Gonsett born in Ukraine (then Russia)
- 1907: Emigrated to Eastern Canada
- 1916: Family relocated to California; Gonsett Company established in Burbank
- 1916: Faust R. Gonsett born; later amateur radio operator W6DIZ
- 1930s: Faust contributed technical articles to RADIO magazine
- 1942: Faust co-edited the Radio Handbook
- WWII era: Gonsett’s Waterproof Electric Company supplied equipment to the U.S. Navy and government
- 1951: Robert R. Gonsett died (June 25)
- 1950s: Expansion into amateur radio equipment
- Late 1950s–1960s: Entry into CB radio market; popularity of compact “Communicator” series
- 1958: Gonset Company sold to Young Spring & Wire Corporation
- 1960: Faust Gonsett became president and majority owner of Minitron Incorporated (brief period)
- 1963: Faust founded Side Band Engineers
- 1960s–1970s: Continued production of amateur and CB equipment
- 2006: Faust Gonsett inducted into the CQ Hall of Fame (inaugural group)
Historical Addresses
- Gonsett Company (1916–)
Burbank, California - Gonset Company
601 So Main
Burbank, California - Gonset
A Subsidiary of Altec Lansing Corporation - Gonset (1958–)
A Division of Young Spring & Wire Corporation
801 South Main St.
Burbank, California