Ampex 863

The 800 series was a single motor, solenoid controlled, three speed, quarter-track stereo recorder
based on the same deck design of the Ampex 2070. The Ampex 863 reel-to-reel tape deck is a professional model from the Ampex 800 Series, designed primarily for high-fidelity stereo recording. It features a Permalloy head assembly with stereo head configuration and a single motor drive system.

Technical Overview

• Head Configuration: Permalloy stereo heads, which enhance magnetic signal fidelity and reduce distortion.

• Motors: Equipped with one motor to control tape transport, ensuring precise speed regulation (likely supporting standard professional speeds of 3¾ and 7½ ips).

• Voltage: Designed for 110-120V operation, typical for domestic and studio environments.

• Outputs: Provides both RCA and 1/4" headphone output for flexible monitoring.

Performance Specs

• Frequency response: approximately from 50 Hz to 15 kHz, which is suitable for high-quality stereo recording.

• Wow & Flutter: 0.15%, a standard measure of tape speed stability, indicating good pitch stability and sound quality.

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: about 46dB, ensuring relatively clear audio with moderate noise levels.

• Total Harmonic Distortion: around 2%, contributing to a warm, natural sound characteristic common in professional-grade tape decks of the era.

Additional Features

• Tape Speeds: Supporting 1⅞, 3¾, 7½ inch per second (ips), allowing for flexibility between high fidelity and longer recording durations.

• Build & Physical Dimensions: Typically built for durability with dimensions close to 483 x 343 x 190 mm and a weight of approximately 17.8 kg.

Context

The Ampex 863 was part of a line of high-end professional tape recorders aimed at studio and broadcast use, emphasizing clarity, stability, and versatility across recording speeds. Its design incorporates robust magnetic heads, precise transport mechanisms, and multiple outputs suited for studio monitoring and recording needs.