Ampex 1250

• The Ampex 1250 belongs to the Ampex “Fineline 1200 / 1250 / 1260 / 1270 line of high-end consumer/home tape recorders from roughly the early-to-mid 1960s. 

• The 1250 was marketed for the “high-end consumer” or hi-fi home market, rather than for professional studio use.

• Track System: Quarter-track stereo (capable of stereo playback in both tape directions); suitable for ¼-inch tape.​

• Tape Speeds: Selectable 7½ ips and 3¾ ips for high fidelity or extended play.​

• Number of Heads: 3 total—erase, record, and playback (permally composition).​

• Frequency Response: 50 Hz–15 kHz at 7½ ips; 50 Hz–8 kHz at 3¾ ips.​

• Wow and Flutter: 0.2% RMS at 7½ ips.​

• Motors: Single motor system; belt-driven.​

• Maximum Reel Size: 7-inch reels.​

• Valve Complement: Five 12AX7, two 12AU7, two 12AT7, one 6X4 tube for robust tube sound and long-term reliability.​

• Inputs/Outputs: Two microphone, two radio/TV/phono/auxiliary inputs (high impedance); RCA outputs, cathode follower, high-impedance headphone output.​

• Dimensions: 19 x 15 x 7½ inches (483 x 381 x 190 mm).​

• Weight: 38 lbs (17.25 kg).​

• Sound quality rating: 7/10 for its era; reliability rating also 7/10.​

• Equalization: NAB standard.​

• No Auto Reverse: Playback is manual direction only.

Unique Features

• Selective Erase Head (Sound-on-Sound): Enables overdubbing or layering mono tracks by erasing while recording a new signal—facilitating creative tape usage.​

• Improved Tape Guidance: Advanced tape tension system uses spring force and felt pad to ensure correct tape contact and minimize errors.​

• Mixer Section: Built-in mixer allows the use of both mic and line sources for flexible input options.​

• Master Selector Switch: Centralized switch provides easy access to transport and recording functions.​

• Automatic Shut-Off: Dual shut-off positions for unattended recording or playback—reducing wear and risk of overrun if left playing.​

• Automatic Take-up: Simplified tape threading mechanism for easier setup.​

• Recording Meter: Single level meter that can read both channels by switching—compacts the control section for ease of use.​

• Console-Friendly Design: Many units were meant to be built into cabinetry for integrated home hi-fi setups.​

The Ampex 1250 offers classic tube warmth, high build quality, thoughtful engineering for reliability and accessibility, and flexible input/output options. It evolved from earlier Ampex models and set the stage for later 1200-series decks known for “pro-level” features in a consumer format.