Part 3/11:
World War II dramatically reshaped technology. Military innovations like radar and battlefield communications were repurposed for consumer use in the aftermath. Notably, Western Electric released the 300B Tube in 1938, a tube still highly prized by audiophiles today for its exceptional sound quality—even earning the nickname "holy grail." Companies such as Altec Lansing and JBL leveraged wartime tech to develop high-quality microphones, amplifiers, and speakers. The late 1940s marked the true birth of consumer hi-fi, with affordable kits like Heathkit and legendary brands like Fisher and MacIntosh entering the scene. Hi-fi was no longer just hobbyist equipment; it became a symbol of prosperity and modern living.