The Ultimate Emotive Like No Other
Professional in Every Sense of the Word
After the introduction of the initial 3 "Isolated Loop" models (RS-1500/RS-1506/RS-1520/RS-1700) Technics decided to create the Ultimate Isolated Loop model, this was the Technics RS-1800 (U-76 in Japan). With this new model Technics added a new tape speed - 76 cm/s (30 ips).
The Technics RS-1800 has 3-speed operation capability: 76 cm/s. 38 cm/s and 19 cm/s and can be used for 2-track recording/playback and for 4-track playback. The faster tape speed is also beneficial from the point of view of tape transport stability: wow and flutter of less than 0.010% WRMS (0.02% DIN) and tape speed deviation of less than +/-0.08% at 76 cm/s. Such high-performance specifications as these are, quite naturally, supported by the 3-motor Direct Drive system used since the RS-1500, a Quartz-Locked capstan motor and dual reel motors with a tape tension control system.
The Technics RS-1800 also features pitch control with quartz-locked accuracy at all setting that are Digitally displayed by LED's, together with, at the same time, rated speed setting. The same display will also show elapsed tape transport time indicated in hours, minutes and seconds. The "Auto-Play" function is especially convenient to playback a master tape, which is usually wound up when it "tails out". In order to obtain the maximum potential from the extended high-frequency response of the 76 cm/s tape speed, the 2-track recording head, the 2-track playback head and the 4-track playback head of the RS-1800 use the SX (Sendust Extra) type of head.
SPECIFICATIONSReel Spools Size Up To 30 cm
The base for the compact Ballfinger M 002 P comprises the new, super compact tape transport system at just 50 mm high. This consists of a torsionally stiff aluminium plate with fine-milled surfaces, to which all the mechanical components are fastened. The reels are driven by ironless disc motors, which are electronically commutated and fitted with tape tension control on both sides. The machine has a tape path geometry with a completely new layout. The sensors are therefore not located beneath the reels, as is conventional, but rather between them and directly above the head block. Despite its modest dimensions of 460 mm x 380 mm, the M 002 P can therefore accommodate reels with a diameter of up to 300 mm. Inserting a tape is also self-explanatory and extremely simple.
REVIEWS
Two Switchable Speeds 19 - 38 cm/s
The capstan shaft is driven by a brushless DC motor by belt. This has allowed the tape head and capstan motor to be installed far apart from each other, which in turn results in a very high signal-to-noise ratio for the audio signal. Additionally, the power supply unit has been relocated outside the device, which has enabled further enhancement of this ratio and also means that complex measures for electromagnetically screening the tape heads were superfluous. The M 002 P is equipped with a digital real-time counter mechanism that counts hours, minutes, seconds and hundredths of seconds. The current counter reading is saved every time the device is switched off, and displayed again when it is switched back on. As is otherwise only conventional with large studio devices, the tape deck boasts an editing function with preview option for one-handed operation. The device has been primarily designed for horizontal operation. However, it can also be operated vertically.
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BALLFINGER M002P SPECIFICATIONS
The M002P is a pure playback machine and provides a high-end solution. The tape head is directly connected to the XLR connectors, so the machine, similar to high-quality record players, serves as a pure drive and can be combined with various external playback amplifiers. The compact and modern design blends in with the demands of modern interior design. It can also be easily integrated into existing high-end systems. The tape deck can be operated horizontally and vertically.
Specifications:
- Compact layout with tape tension sensors
- Super flat and compact design
- External DC power supply
- Reel spool size up to 30cm
- Belt drive capstan motor
- Direct drive reel motors
- Two speeds 19 and 38 cm/s
- High resolution digital counter
- ¼“ Stereo with 2.75mm track width
- Tape head direct to balanced XLR output
- IR remote control for tape transport
REVIEWS
The Ultimate Analog Music Is Back! Surging demand for vinyl LPs has raised hopes for the reel-to-reel tape deck, which returns to sale this month for the first time in decades.
By Stefan Nicola - BLOOMBERG
Ballfinger’s beautiful reel-to-reel tape decks are for nostalgia lovers. Ballfinger’s M063H5 high-end model is equipped with an editing system, three direct drive motors, and wooden side panels that come in black, white, or walnut. Ballfinger says except for the M063H1 model, all of the machines can be completely reconfigured, meaning the machine’s parts can be easily replaced or removed.
By Thuy Ong - The Verge
The Ballfinger amplifier, with built-in phono stage I couldn't resist photographing the rear of both the 'table and the amp since, like the M-063, the rear view reveals a great deal. They're both totally clean, cleverly hiding all their connections underneath.
By Matej Isak - Mono and Stereo
Technics RS-1520
Rebuild Like No Others
The Technics RS-1520 Open Reel Tape Recorder has long been regarded as one of the prized tape decks. Impeccable consideration to the points only the most meticulous of audiophiles would understand. Below is a description of this one of a kind rebuild. OpenReelToReel Hub has an affiliate relationship with Alter Ego Appearance, a professional tape deck restoration company. They do quality restoration work, stand behind their product and ship them to customers the right way. All Technics reel to reel players available for purchase are professionally restored. The return of the most delicate, but most considered, kind of audio format for a true audiophile. The most dubious audiophiles know the truth about reel-to-reel tape.