Sony

Sony became a dominant force in professional audio with its pioneering digital recorders and studio effects. DASH machines like the PCM-3324 and PCM-3348 were studio staples in the 1980s and 90s, known for their superb sound and reliability. Sony also led in digital effects, with the DRE-2000 and DPS series offering versatile tools for reverb, delay, and modulation. Innovations like the PCM-1630 for CD mastering and DSD-based recorders for high-resolution audio further showcased Sony’s engineering. Highlights such as the DPS-V77 and DRE-S777 solidified their legacy, helping define the sound of an era.

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Released in 1994

Sony HR-MP5 Multi Processor

A year before releasing the Sony DPS-V77, Sony decided to offer a more affordable multi-effects processor in the HR-MP5, a half rack sized processor. The Sony HR-MP5 is not what one would hope for if looking for a ‘Best of Sony’ and probably was not intended to be that. Aimed at home recording studios rather than topflight studios, Sony had great success with the HR-MP5.
Released in 1994

Sony HR-GP5 Guitar Processor

The Sony HR-GP5, introduced in the mid-1990s, is a compact half-rack multi-effects processor tailored for guitarists and bassists seeking a diverse range of high-quality effects in a portable format. Designed and manufactured in Japan, this unit exemplifies Sony’s commitment to precision engineering and sound excellence.
Released in 1994

Sony PCM-800 8-Track Digital Recorder

In the realm of embracing budget-friendly digital 8-track recording, Sony took a collaborative approach instead of crafting their own system. Opting to partner with Tascam, the result is the Sony PCM-800, essentially a Tascam DA-88 with a touch of rebranding.
Released in 1995

Sony DPS-V77 Multi Effects Processor

Having done all they could with the DPS series, Sony only had one place left go, and that was to combine all four DPS effects into a single processor. The Sony DPS-V77 was born! In creating the Sony DPS-V77, Sony unleashed a ‘Best of Sony’ in terms of not only the effects on offer by combining all the best DPS Series effects, but also the sonic performance of the internals too.
Released in 1996

Sony PCM-7010 Digital Audio Tape Recorder

The Sony PCM-7010, an affordable recorder in the PCM-7000 Series, is ideally suited to simple program transmission applications. As a playback machine, the PCM-7010 is designed to provide compatibility with both professional and consumer audio equipment.
Released in 1996

Sony PCM-7030 Digital Audio Tape Recorder

As flexible, cost-effective recorders for professional audio applications, the Sony PCM-7030 provide the superb quality of DAT digital recording on compact and easy to handle cassettes.
Released in 1996

Sony PCM-7040 Digital Audio Tape Recorder

The Sony PCM-7040 was set to enhance the long-standing reputation earned by Sony PCM-7000 Series recorders for their cost effectiveness and functionality in broadcast studios and in post-production houses.
Released in 1996

Sony PCM-7050 Digital Audio Tape Recorder

As flexible, cost-effective recorders for professional audio applications, the Sony PCM-7050 provide the superb quality of DAT digital recording on compact and easy to handle cassettes.
Released in 1997

Sony PCM-R500 Digital Audio Tape Recorder

Incorporating Sony’s legendary high-reliability 4 D.D. Mechanism, the Sony PCM-R500 sets the standard for professional-use DAT. The Shuttle and Jog Dial offer outstanding operational ease, while extensive interface options and multiple menu modes meet a wide range of application needs.
Released in 1997

Sony PCM-3348HR DASH Multitrack Digital Recorder

The Sony PCM-3348HR is a 48-channel digital multi-track audio recorder supporting 16-bit and 24-bit resolution, using 1/2-inch tape in DASH and DASH PLUS formats. Introduced in the 1990s, it became a professional studio staple for its high audio fidelity and ability to handle complex projects, from album production to film scoring. Its 48-channel capacity made it ideal for large-scale recordings, cementing its place during the shift from analogue to digital recording.
Released in 1998

Sony DPS-V55 Multi Effects Processor

Sony made a killer effects processor with the DPS-V77, so next step was to capitalise on that with a four-channel version, right? But something went wrong…On paper at least, the Sony DPS-V55 should be a killer effects processor, but by all accounts, it does not succeed. Just as Roland did with their SRV-3030, the sound quality leaves a lot to be desired.
Released in 1999

Sony DRE-S777 Sampling Digital Reverb

After the lacklustre DPS-V55, Sony had one last shot at the studio effects market, and they went out on a high with the spectacular DRE-S777 Sampling Reverb. The Sony DRE-S777 was a new type of reverb, one that used real impulse responses to capture real space, rather than the traditional method from the past of trying to emulate a real space.
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