Optical Disc Recorders

Optical disc recorders introduced digital audio recording to removable optical media, including compact disc and MiniDisc formats. Used in professional studios, broadcast facilities and mastering environments, these systems provided reliable stereo recording and duplication during the transition from tape-based mastering to file-based workflows.

This archive includes optical disc recording machines designed for studio and broadcast applications. From professional CD recorders to dedicated MiniDisc systems, these devices marked an important stage in the evolution of digital audio distribution and archiving.

Made In Japan

Released in 1991 /

Akai DD-1000 Magneto Optical Disk Recorder

The Akai DD-1000 Magneto Optical Audio Recorder is a significant development in audio technology, known for its innovative digital recording and editing capabilities. Combining advanced technology with professional functionality, it has established itself as a key piece of studio equipment history.

Made In Switzerland

Released in 1992 /

Studer D740 Professional CD Recorder

The STUDER D740 Professional CD Recorder introduced a direct-to-disc recording workflow that combined Red and Orange Book compatibility with professional connectivity and control. Designed for broadcast, studio, and post-production use, it enabled efficient, high-quality CD-R recording with flexible editing and reliable long-term storage.

Made In Germany

Released in 1993 /

EMT 982 Professional CD Player

The EMT 982 CD Player is a professional-grade device designed for high performance and reliability. It offers front-loading, built-in loudspeaker and headphone outputs, separate controls for track and cue settings, auto cue functionality, varispeed with digital display, and memory for up to 100 CD cue settings. Its compact 2U design and advanced features make it ideal for professional use.

Made In Switzerland

Released in 1996 /

Studer D424 MO Digital Recorder

The Studer D424 is a Magneto-Optical, 2 channel digital recorder with amazingly easy editing functions, suitable for all broadcasting, recording studio and theatre applications.

Made In Switzerland

Released in 1996 /

Studer D741 Professional CD Recorder

Studer dedicated over twelve years to CD research and development and the Studer D741 CD Recorder, enhances and finalises their range alongside existing models like the D730, D731, D731 QC, and D732 CD Players. CD technology held a firm footing in broadcast and studio domains, with none rivalling its widespread use across both consumer and professional spheres.

Made In Japan

Released in 1997 /

Otari PD-20 Digital Recorder

The Otari PD-20 is a high-quality, versatile 2-channel recorder and editor with extensive synchronisation, editing, and playback features, designed to replace traditional tape-based recorders in modern studios and broadcast environments.

Made In Japan

Released in 1998 /

Fostex CR200 Professional CD Recorder

You’ve wanted professional CD recording for ages, you’ve needed it for even longer. But the ability to professionally master audio compact discs has until now been somewhat of a luxury, with only the very top studios and recording professionals having the kind of investment to purchase a CD mastering machine.

Made In Japan

Released in 1999 /

Yamaha D24 Digital Multitrack Recorder

The Yamaha D24 Digital Multitrack Recorder delivered uncompressed 16-, 20-, or 24-bit audio to removable 640MB MO disks, with support for up to 64 tracks per project and 8-track simultaneous recording. It featured non-destructive editing with sub-frame accuracy, auto punch-in/out with up to 99 takes, and full timecode support.

Made In Taiwan

Released in 1999 /

TASCAM CD-RW5000 CD Recorder

The TASCAM CD-RW5000 provides a professional CD recording solution with flexible media support, comprehensive analogue and digital connectivity, and integrated sample rate conversion for compatibility with a wide range of audio sources.

Made In Japan

Released in 1999 /

Sony PCM-9000 Master Disc Recorder

By the late 1990s, there was a noticeable trend towards seeking superior sound quality in professional digital audio processing, resulting in a shift from using 16-bit systems to those with 20-bit resolution. Sony was at the forefront of this shift, having already introduced a CD Mastering system. Sony in 1999 unveiled the Sony PCM-9000 Digital Master Disc Recorder, which employs an MO (Magneto-Optical) disc as its recording medium.

Explore the full Sony PCM Series Series

Made In Japan

Released in 1999 /

Fostex CR300 CD-R & CD-RW Recorder

The Fostex CR300 is a highly engineered rack-mountable machine which offers state-of-the-art digital and analogue audio recording to both professional and consumer CD-R and CD-RW media via easy-to-use front panel controls.

Made In Japan

Released in 2000 /

Yamaha CDR1000 Professional Audio CD Recorder

It’s simple. It’s fast. And it’s fully professional. It’s the Yamaha CDR1000 Professional Audio CD Recorder, a fully professional CD recorder that’s fully compatible with CD-R and CD-RW. Finally, the convenience of tape-based recording formats has come to the CD.