AEG/Telefunken Magnetophon 85

The AEG Telefunken Magnetophon 85 is a high-end consumer half-track mono tape recorder from 1959–1968, representing the pinnacle of late-1950s German engineering before stereo became standard. Produced by Telefunken under AEG's Magnetophon division, it evolved from the Magnetophon 75 with larger reels, improved electronics, and push-pull amplification for superior dynamics.

Key Technical Specifications

• Track System: Half-track mono (2-track, single channel); quarter-track and stereo variants available

• Tape Speeds: 3¾ ips (9.5 cm/s) and 7½ ips (19 cm/s)

• Maximum Reel Size: 7 inches (18 cm)

• Heads: 2 heads — record/playback (permalloy composition) and erase head

• Motors: Single motor transport with mechanical tension control

• Frequency Response: 30 Hz–20 kHz (±3 dB) at 7½ ips; 30 Hz–18 kHz at 3¾ ips

• Wow and Flutter: ≤0.2% at 7½ ips; ≤0.4% at 3¾ ips

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >50 dB unweighted (300:1 below normal level)

• Total Harmonic Distortion: <4%

• Electronics: Tube amplification (7 valves typical: EF86, ECC81, 2x ECC83, 2x EL95/EM87, ECL82; selenium rectifier)

• Inputs: Microphone (2–2.5 mV / 2 MΩ), Radio (2–2.5 mV / 100 kΩ), Pickup (2 mV / 2 MΩ)

• Outputs: Radio out (1.5 mV / 18 kΩ), headphone (5V), external speaker (6W at 15Ω)

• Audio Output Power: 3W (85K single-ended); 6W push-pull (85KL De Luxe with dual speakers)

• Speakers: 2x PM Allvox oval (17x10 cm or 18x10.5 cm) on KL/De Luxe models

• Equalization: IEC standard

• Features: 5-button controls, magic eye (EM87/EM71A) level indicator, mechanical tape counter, auto-stop

• Power Requirements: 110/127/150/200/220/240 V AC multi-voltage

• Rewind Speed: ~180 seconds for 1,800 ft tape

• Dimensions: 450–464 x 197–200 x 410–432 mm (17.7–18.3" x 7.8–7.9" x 16.1–17")

• Weight: 14–15 kg (31–33 lbs)

• Build: Wooden case with artificial leather covering; tabletop (85T) and suitcase (85K/KL) versions

Variants and Context

• Magnetophon 85K: Base portable/console with single speaker

• Magnetophon 85KL De Luxe: Top model with dual speakers, push-pull output, enhanced cosmetics

• 85T: Tabletop amplifier version

• Parallel construction to AEG Magnetophon 85 across all variants

Priced at 749 DM new (~$170 USD equivalent), the 85 earned 5/10 ratings for sound and reliability in period tests, praised for low noise/hum, extended frequency range, and professional-grade build. Tube warmth and permalloy heads delivered exceptional mono performance for radio, voice, and classical recording. Modern restoration addresses capacitor aging and idler wear. Collectible today as AEG/Telefunken's last major mono flagship before the stereo era.