Professional Tape Deck - Studer A812

Studer A812

Having spent significant time with the Studer A812, I can say it stands as one of the best Swiss-made professional reel-to-reel tape decks I’ve ever used. Built as a successor to the legendary Studer A80, the A812 stands out for its sheer precision, ease of operation, and flexibility—features that are essential in a mastering or archival environment.

Technical Details

The A812 accommodates reels up to 12.5” and operates at three standard speeds: 15, 7.5, and 3.75 ips (38.1, 19.05, and 9.5 cm/sec), controlled by a microprocessor-based quartz reference system. This delivers exceptional speed stability—an audible upgrade from purely analog decks and a clear match for the best in the class. Servo-controlled tape transport, quartz capstan regulation, and pulse-width modulation spooling motors also contribute to its smooth and reliable handling.

Switchable NAB/CCIR equalization, real-time digital speed and time displays, as well as auto-calibration and tape memory, make setup efficient. It supports two tapes per preset (Tape A/Tape B), with individual memory settings—a lifesaver when switching between different tape stocks.

From a connectivity standpoint, the balanced XLR inputs and outputs, precise VU meters with configurable monitoring, and built-in monitor speaker or headphone jack mean the A812 fits seamlessly into any professional environment. Editing is especially straightforward thanks to jog/shuttle controls, locator functions, and a sophisticated service menu.

Performance

Sonically, the A812 is everything you want from a mastering deck. Frequency response is broad—typically up to 20 kHz at 38 cm/sec for studio quality. With robust head blocks and the spec option for butterfly or in-line heads, it tracks tape with extremely low wow and flutter and rumble, truly matching its contemporaries (A80, A820, Ampex ATR-100) in measured performance. The A812 also brings advanced features like Dolby HX PRO, contributing to lower noise and higher headroom with modern tape formulations.

Operationally, the tape transport is a highlight. Fast and precise, the A812 can wind a full 760 meters of tape in about 70 seconds, and the variable library wind feature is very useful for safe archive handling. The deck is programmable and fully remote-controllable—perfect for larger studios or broadcast setups.

Comparison

Versus other Studer decks, the A812 is arguably more versatile than the A80 (lacking the real-time display and programmable features), and easier to maintain than the A820 (which is physically much larger and heavier). The A810 is closest in usability, but the A812’s quartz capstan and digital display provide better speed accuracy and workflow enhancements.

Against other professional models like the Ampex ATR-100 or Otari MTR, the Studer A812 is equal in sound quality and reliability but surpasses many competitors in build quality and technical refinement. Its transport stability, advanced control interface, and editing capabilities set a standard that others rarely match.