Analogue Tape Recorders

Analogue Tape Recorders covers professional and semi-professional recording machines that capture audio magnetically onto tape, including reel to reel recorders, cassette tape recorders, multitrack cassette machines, and related analogue formats. These recorders formed the backbone of music production, broadcast, mastering, and home recording for decades, ranging from compact cassette-based systems to large-format multitrack studio machines. This category focuses on tape-based analogue recording technology, including transport design, tape formats, track configurations, noise reduction systems, synchronisation features, and the machines that shaped recording practice before the widespread adoption of digital recording.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1948 /

Ampex Model 200 Tape Recorder

The Ampex Model 200, introduced in 1948, was the first professional reel-to-reel recorder to achieve broadcast-quality performance. With precision tube electronics, a full-track design, and remarkable stability, it transformed radio and studio recording and established Ampex as the industry’s leading innovator.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1949 /

Ampex 300 Tape Recorder

The Ampex 300, released in 1949, set the benchmark for professional recording and mastering. With its precision mechanics, low distortion, and advanced “Sel-Sync” option, it became the dominant studio recorder of the 1950s and early 1960s, renowned for its reliability and pristine sound quality.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1953 /

Ampex 350 Tape Recorder

Introduced in 1953, the Ampex 350 Tape Recorder was a professional two-speed ¼-inch recorder offering excellent fidelity and modular design. It became a studio and broadcast standard, admired for its build quality, reliability, and smooth tape transport, helping establish Ampex as the leader in professional audio recording.

Made In Switzerland

Released in 1964 /

Studer J 37 Tape Recorder

The Studer J 37 Tape Recorder is a legendary piece of audio equipment that has etched its name in music history. Renowned for its exceptional sound quality and reliability, the J 37 was the tape recorder of choice at the iconic Abbey Road Studios. This masterpiece of engineering played a pivotal role in recording some of the most celebrated albums in history, including The Beatles’ groundbreaking work.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1966 /

3M M-23 Analogue Multitrack Recorder

The 3M M-23 Series was a modular professional tape recording system built around a high stability Isoloop transport and a versatile electronics platform that supported NAB or Dynatrack operation. It delivered improved dynamic range, reduced flutter, and reliable long term performance through fully solid state construction. The 8-track configuration represented the system at full capacity, offering a flexible and expandable solution for multitrack recording. Its combination of advanced tape transport engineering and innovative electronic design made it a significant machine in the evolution of professional multitrack recorders.

Made In Germany

Released in 1967 /

Revox A77 Stereo Tape Recorder

The Revox A77 was a landmark open-reel recorder introduced in 1967, featuring a three-motor transport, electronically regulated capstan motor, plug-in amplifier modules, and REVODUR heads. It offered exceptional reliability, long tape life, and studio-grade sound, setting the standard for semi-professional tape machines worldwide.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1969 /

3M M56 Analogue Multitrack Recorder

The 3M M56 Tape Recorder introduced a compact sixteen-track, two-inch recording system with integrated electronics, advanced transport design, and remote operation, establishing a new standard for multitrack recording in professional studios.

Made In Switzerland

Released in 1970 /

Studer A80 Professional Tape Recorder

The Studer A80 series is a modular professional tape recorder family spanning mono, stereo, and multitrack models, built on a rigid die-cast chassis with logic-controlled transport, servo capstan, electronic tension control, and plug-in amplifier cards. Interchangeable headblocks, selectable NAB or CCIR equalisation, precise bias and erase systems, and comprehensive local or remote control made the A80 a service-friendly studio standard across its original and later VU Mk II and Mk III versions.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1971 /

MCI JH-16 Multitrack Recorder

The MCI JH-16 Multitrack Recorder combined advanced transport control, excellent service access, a flexible remote system, and a thoughtfully engineered console design. Its construction and layout were intended to minimise downtime while maximising operational ease, making it a robust and highly capable studio recorder of its era.

Made In U.S.A.

Released in 1973 /

3M 79 Series Multitrack Recorder

The 3M 79 Series Multitrack Recorders set a professional benchmark with IsoLoop capstan control, modular electronics, wide format flexibility, and reliable transport. Built for performance and serviceability, they remain a respected part of multitrack recording history.

Made In Japan

Released in 1973 /

Nakamichi 1000 Tri-Tracer Cassette Recorder

The Nakamichi 1000 Tri-Tracer redefined what was possible from the compact cassette format, combining mechanical precision, advanced electronics, and meticulous engineering to deliver reel-to-reel-level performance in a cassette recorder.

Made In Japan

Released in 1973 /

Nakamichi 700 Tri-Tracer Stereo Cassette Tape Deck

Introduced in 1973, the Nakamichi 700 Tri-Tracer was a three-head, two-motor cassette deck with off-tape monitoring, a double-capstan transport, Dolby B noise reduction, adjustable azimuth, pitch control, a recording limiter and comprehensive input mixing facilities.