About the Company
MCI (Music Center Incorporated, later Music City Incorporated) was founded in 1968 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA by Grover “Jeep” Harned and partners.
The company became known for high-quality professional audio gear, particularly multitrack reel-to-reel tape recorders, mixing consoles, and studio peripherals.
MCI was primarily targeted at professional studios, not consumer home audio.
The brand gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming a serious competitor to Ampex, Studer, and Otari in professional analog tape recording.
MCI was eventually acquired by Sony in 1982, though the brand name persisted in some products through the mid-1980s. (soundonsound.com)
Reel‑to‑Reel Tape Recorder Production
Late 1960s – Early MCI Machines
1968–1970: MCI began producing high-end studio reel-to-reel tape recorders, initially leveraging modified Ampex designs.
Early MCI machines were built for 24-track stereo and mono multitrack recording in professional studios.
Key early models:
MCI JH-16 / JH-24 series (late 1960s–1970s):
Multitrack machines with 16 or 24 tracks
Full professional features: adjustable tape tension, precision motors, and reliable transport
Optional sync modules for film and studio use
1970s – Rise to Professional Prominence
MCI became widely used in commercial recording studios in the 1970s.
Notable developments:
MCI JH-24 (1970s): A 24-track analog recorder, often considered studio standard in the U.S.
MCI JH-16: 16-track professional recorder, notable for reliability, serviceability, and robust transport mechanics.
Tape speeds: 7½ and 15 ips (professional standards)
Head configuration: 3-head for monitoring and high-quality recording/playback
Machines were modular, making maintenance and track expansion easier (reel-reel.com)
MCI decks were praised for mechanical stability, low noise, and ease of servicing.
1980s – Advanced Multitrack and Consoles
MCI introduced 32-track machines and digital synchronization options, targeting the growing multitrack studio market.
Tape recorders included full-featured monitoring, pitch control, and computer-assisted automation in some high-end studio models.
MCI consoles were often paired with MCI tape machines, forming integrated studio systems.
Popular professional models:
MCI JH-32 (early 1980s): 32-track, professional analog recorder
MCI JH-24A / JH-24B: Improved versions of the 24-track with better electronics and transport mechanisms
Technology & Features
Electronics and Transport:
Early models: Tube preamps transitioned to solid-state transistor electronics in the 1970s
Tape Formats: Half-track and quarter-track stereo/mono for multitrack recording
Reel Sizes: 10½ inch reels (common for professional analog)
Tracks: 8, 16, 24, and 32-track models depending on the unit
Tape Speeds: Typically 7½ or 15 ips, ensuring high fidelity
Target Market:
Professional recording studios
Film and TV post-production
Broadcast facilities
MCI was never a consumer brand, focusing exclusively on professional analog audio markets.
Decline & Legacy
1982: Sony acquires MCI, integrating technology into Sony’s professional lines
Late 1980s–1990s: Digital recording and DAWs reduce demand for analog tape decks
Legacy: MCI tape recorders are still highly collectible and usable in analog studio applications; known for robust engineering and reliability.