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What is this odd little box I've been storing for years?

I received this switch/pot a few years ago with a used preamp and have never been able to identify it. When I asked the seller he said he didn't know either, he just thought it was part of the preamp (it's not). I wish I could post a picture here - but it's about a 3.5"black cube, with an older brown AC cord, an on/off rocker switch, fuse holder and small attenuator pot on the front. I though it might be a wireless remote switch for a turntable, but can't find any similar images online. Any ventured guesses would greatly helpful
Glenn 
gwbeers
noromance's avatar
noromance
10,017 posts
 
A 1950s snake oil product?
Could be some sort of rheostat. Does the AC plug fit the wall or could it be for a specific receptacle?
celander's avatar
celander
1,503 posts
 
Plug it into a cheap power strip (non-audiophile grade) connected to a lamp. See if it can act as a dimmer of the lamp. 
gwbeers OP
76 posts
 
It's a standard plug. Very well made, doesn't have that snake oil feel. I'm guessing more like an 80's product. I appreciate your feedback.
celander's avatar
celander
1,503 posts
 
I suspect the same thing that @noromance posited. A rheostat. 
almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Might it be a timer of some sort? Perhaps when the knob is turned up to some setting and the device is turned on a motor drive causes the "attenuator pot" to work its way down to its minimum position, at which time a sound is emitted.

Are there any slots or other openings through which a sound could be emitted? Also, would it be practical to open the device and look inside?

Regards,
-- Al 
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