Ampex ATR 800

The Ampex ATR-800 is a professional solid-state reel-to-reel tape recorder introduced in the mid-1970s, designed for studio, broadcast, and mastering applications. It is highly regarded for its sophisticated features, excellent sound quality, and versatile operation.

Key Technical Specifications:

• Tape Width and Track: Supports 1/4-inch tape with configurations including mono, stereo, two-track, and four-track operation.

• Tape Speeds: Three standard speeds shipped as 7½, 15, and 30 ips, with field conversion to 3¾, 7½, and 15 ips, plus optional variable speed control allowing ±10% adjustments.

• Equalization Standards: NAB and IEC switchable at the flip of a switch, including bias and EQ changes.

• Tape Transport: Microprocessor-controlled transport with fully closed-loop servos for capstan and reel motors, ensuring low wow and flutter and consistent tape tension.

• Motor System: Three motors providing smooth, quiet, and precise tape handling; high-quality reel motors and direct-drive capstan.

• Editing Features: Extra wide head assembly for easy access, continuously variable shuttle for manual editing, hands-on-reel and tape dump modes, and accurate electronic tape timer offering segment timing with hours, minutes, and seconds.

• Calibration: Easy format conversions between one, two, and four tracks, no realignment during head changes thanks to quick-change head assembly.

• Metering: Switchable ANSI VU or EBU peak metering ballistics.

• Inputs and Outputs: Balanced floating inputs and outputs with high headroom; microphone inputs; headphone outputs.

• Additional Features: Fader start for remote control, single point search-to-cue for quick tape access.

• Construction: Rugged professional build with metal chassis, rack mountable with standard EIA 19-inch rack hardware.

• Power Supply: Universal, field-convertible for worldwide voltage standards.

Performance:

• Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 24 kHz at 15 ips, extending to 20 kHz at 30 ips with ±2 dB tolerance.

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Up to 80 dB (A-weighted) at 30 ips.

• Wow and Flutter: Extremely low, thanks to closed-loop servo mechanism.

• Distortion: Very low harmonic and intermodulation distortion.

• Tape Handling: Gentle tape transport preserving tape condition, suitable for precise professional editing and high-quality audio recording.

The Ampex ATR-800 is a pinnacle of analog tape recording technology, combining advanced microprocessor-controlled transport with exceptional sonic fidelity and versatile editing features. It is widely respected for its reliability, precision, and sound quality in demanding professional environments such as recording studios and broadcast facilities. Its careful design and robust build make it a lasting favorite among analog tape enthusiasts and professionals alike.