About the Company
Sound (TRE) was a British manufacturer of tube-based reel-to-reel tape recorders from 1954 to 1965, targeting both consumer and studio markets with 2-track machines for 220-240V and multi-voltage operation.
Company and technology
Sound (TRE) produced vacuum-tube electronics typical of mid-1950s British designs, leveraging Collaro or similar transports for reliable domestic and semi-professional recording.
The TRE designation likely ties to a specific engineering or distribution partnership, positioning these decks between hobbyist portables and early studio gear.
Product scope
These were quarter-inch, 2-track (half-track stereo/mono) recorders suitable for home hi-fi, broadcasting, and light studio use, with features like dual speeds and robust construction for the era.
No evidence exists of 4-track, solid-state evolution, or extended production beyond 1965 as transistors and Japanese imports dominated.
Production end
Output ceased around 1965 amid market consolidation; surviving units are rare collector pieces representing transitional British tape engineering before the hi-fi boom.
Historical role
Sound (TRE) exemplifies small UK firms bridging wartime disc recording to consumer reel-to-reel, valued today for tube sonics rather than innovation or high volume.