Ampex 1260
Ampex
USA
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
1
Number of Heads
3
Head Configuration
Stereo
Wow & Flutter
0.2% RMS at 7½ ips
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
Dimensions [mm]
Weight [kg]
17.2
Year built
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
Frequency Response
50 Hz–15 kHz at 7½ ips
Speed
3¾, 7½
Max Reel [inch]
7
Tracks
1/4 Rec/PB
Price
User
Consumer
Additional Information
The Ampex 1260 reel-to-reel tape deck is a vintage tube-based quarter-track stereo recorder produced between 1962 and 1966. It follows the design lineage of the Ampex 1200 series, combining professional build quality with consumer usability. The Ampex 1260 is part of the “Fine-Line” 1200 series of high-end consumer/home reel-to-reel decks (1250, 1260, 1270). The 1260 shares much of its mechanical and tape path design with the 1250 and 1270 (same base transport, head configuration, etc.).
Track Configuration: Quarter-track stereo recording and playback (4 tracks on ¼-inch tape).
Tape Speeds: Two speeds available: 7½ inches per second (ips) for high fidelity and 3¾ ips for longer recording times.
Heads: 3 precision heads (erase, record, playback) made from permalloy for low distortion and durability.
Motor: Single motor drive system for smooth tape transport.
Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 15 kHz at 7½ ips; 50 Hz to 8 kHz at 3¾ ips (±3 dB).
Wow and Flutter: Approximately 0.2% RMS at 7½ ips.
Signal to Noise Ratio: Rated about 7/10 for sound quality.
Power and Electronics: Tube-based electronics with tube complement including 5x 12AX7, 2x 12AU7, 2x 12AT7, and 1x 6X4.
Inputs: Radio/TV/phono/auxiliary and high-impedance microphone inputs.
Outputs: RCA outputs plus cathode follower and high-impedance headphone output jacks.
Max Reel Size: 7-inch.
Dimensions: 19 x 15 x 7½ inches.
Weight: 38 lbs (17.25 kg).
Voltage: 110-120 V.
Unique Features
Classic tube sound signature prized by audiophiles.
Built-in mixer section supporting two microphone and two line-level inputs, allowing flexibility in recording sources.
Automatic shut-off positions for unattended tape playback and recording.
Compact but rugged design making it suitable for both home and semi-professional use.
No self-contained amplifier or speakers; designed to be connected to external amplification systems.
The Ampex 1260 remains respected as a reliable, well-engineered vintage reel-to-reel deck that provides warm tube audio quality with stable tape handling and versatile recording options.