Audio Recorders

Audio Recording formats, encompassing both stereo and multitrack configurations, are essential tools in the creation and preservation of audio content. Stereo recording formats capture two audio channels, typically left and right, providing a simple yet effective method for reproducing sound with spatial accuracy. Stereo formats are commonly used in music production, broadcasting, and consumer audio devices, offering immersive listening experiences across various media platforms.

Multitrack recording formats, on the other hand, enable the simultaneous recording of multiple audio channels or tracks onto a single medium. This allows for the independent manipulation of each track during the mixing and editing process, offering unparalleled flexibility and creativity in audio production. Multitrack formats are widely used in professional music studios, film and television production, live sound reinforcement, and podcasting, enabling artists and engineers to craft complex arrangements, add effects, and achieve precise control over the final audio product.

Both stereo and multitrack recording formats have evolved over the years, from analog tape-based audio recorders to digital technologies such as hard disc recording, solid-state recording, and computer-based digital audio workstations (DAWs). These advancements have democratized audio production, making high-quality recording accessible to a broader audience while pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation in the field of sound engineering and music production.

Decades
Made In Switzerland
Released in 1989 /
The Studer A827 24 Track Multi-Track Recorder is quite possibly the finest 24-track analogue audio recorder ever made, celebrated for its superior sound quality, reliability, and precision. Released in the late 1980s, it became a staple in professional studios worldwide. Many units are still in use today, valued for their ability to deliver the unmistakable warmth of analogue sound.
Made In Japan
Released in 1989 /
The Panasonic SV-3500 is a professional DAT recorder combining advanced rotary head technology, 18-bit conversion systems, and comprehensive indexing features to deliver precise digital recording and playback in a compact format.
Made In Japan
Released in 1989 /
The TASCAM TSR-8 was a 1989 8-track analogue recorder/reproducer using 12.7mm tape at 38cm/s. Designed for home studios, small commercial studios and video post-production, it combined built-in dbx type 1 noise reduction, synchroniser compatibility, automatic punch-in and punch-out, spot erase, and a three-point autolocator in a compact open-reel format.
Made In Japan
Released in 1989 /
The Sony PCM-3348 was one of the defining professional digital multitrack recorders of its generation, bringing 48-track DASH recording to major studios around the world. Built for large-format production, it became closely associated with the transition from analogue multitrack tape to high-end digital recording during the late 1980s and 1990s.
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Made In Japan
Released in 1989 /
Introduced in 1989, the Pioneer CT-91a was a three-head Reference-series cassette deck with a closed dual-capstan transport, Dolby B, Dolby C and Dolby HX Pro, automatic tape selection, bias and level calibration, fluorescent peak metering and extensive counter, search and timer functions.
Made In Japan
Released in 1989 /
TASCAM 644 MIDIStudio combines analogue cassette multitrack recording with built-in MIDI synchronisation and a 99-scene recall memory. It offers sixteen inputs on eight channels, dual-mix routing into four busses, two inputs per channel with trim and three-band EQ, two sends, four effect returns and real-time MIDI mute automation.
Made In Japan
Released in 1989 /
The Technics SV-360 DAT Recorder was a Japanese-made rackmount Digital Audio Tape recorder produced from 1989 to 1990, designed for professional and installation use, and documented as being identical in construction to the Panasonic SV-3500.
Made In Switzerland
Released in 1989 /
The Studer D820X – developed for stand-alone use also fits effortlessly into any system through its extensive interfaces and offers advanced facilities for digital mastering.
Made In Japan
Released in 1989 /
The TASCAM 688 MIDIStudio is an eight-channel cassette multitrack recorder with dual-mix routing, built-in MIDI synchronisation, 99-scene recall, real-time MIDI mute automation and extensive EQ, send and insert flexibility for hybrid analogue-MIDI production.
Made In Japan
Released in 1990 /
The Fostex D-20 DAT Recorder is a professional DAT-based digital master recorder that delivers reliable two-track recording with full timecode and synchronisation support. Combining digital accuracy with analogue-style operation, it became a trusted solution for mastering and programme recording in studios and broadcast facilities during the early professional DAT era.
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Made In Japan
Released in 1990 /
The Akai DR1200 was a 12-track digital hard disk recorder from the early 1990s. It was designed as a professional digital multitrack recorder, aimed at studios looking for high-quality digital recording without relying on tape formats like ADAT or DASH.
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Made In Japan
Released in 1990 /
The JVC XD-Z507 was a domestic DAT recorder manufactured from 1990 to 1995. It supported 48 kHz, 44.1 kHz and 32 kHz recording and playback, included SCMS, Auto ID Edit, optical and coaxial digital connections, 1-bit conversion technology and system control features for use within JVC hi-fi systems.