Overview

Truetone was a private-label electronics brand used by Western Auto Supply Company for a wide range of consumer products, including radios, televisions, and CB equipment.

History

The Truetone brand was introduced by Western Auto Supply Company in the early 20th century as a house brand for radios and automotive-related electronics. Western Auto, founded in 1909 in Kansas City, Missouri, used Truetone to market products through its retail stores and catalog sales.

During the 1930s through the 1950s, Truetone radios were produced for Western Auto by established manufacturers, including companies such as Detrola, Wells-Gardner, and other contract builders. These radios were sold under the Truetone name rather than the original manufacturer.

In the postwar period, the Truetone line expanded to include televisions, phonographs, and automotive accessories. Western Auto continued to rely on contract manufacturing, sourcing products from various U.S. and later overseas electronics companies.

In the 1970s, Truetone-branded CB radios became part of the product lineup during the peak of Citizens Band radio popularity in the United States. These units were also produced by third-party manufacturers and sold through Western Auto stores.

The Truetone brand remained in use into the late 20th century as Western Auto transitioned through ownership changes, continuing to represent a wide range of consumer electronics and automotive products.