Bang & Olufsen Beocord 1200

The Bang & Olufsen Beocord 1200 is a 1969–1973 slim-line stereo open‑reel deck (Type 4207), designed as the tape component of the Beosystem 1200 with a strong focus on domestic hi‑fi, easy operation and matching system aesthetics.

Transport and format

• Track system: 4‑track, 2‑channel stereo/mono on ¼‑inch tape.​

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

• Reels: Up to 18 cm / 7‑inch reel size.

• Fast wind: Approx. 200 s for a full LP‑length tape.

• Tape stop: Photo‑electric end‑of‑tape stop; 4‑digit mechanical counter with pushbutton reset.

Audio performance

• Frequency response: 30–20,000 Hz at 19 cm/s (meets DIN 45500 hi‑fi spec).

• Wow and flutter: ±0.15% at 19 cm/s (DIN 45507).

• Speed deviation: <1%.

• Signal‑to‑noise ratio: 65 dB (DIN 45500).

• Distortion: <5% “over tape” at 0 dB VU, <1% within the amplifier section.

• Crosstalk: Mono >60 dB, stereo >40 dB at 1 kHz; erasure >70 dB; erase frequency 100 kHz.

Electronics and features

• Functions: Sound‑on‑sound, automatic recording level control (limiter‑type ALC), and simple mixing; built‑in PA amp can be used with the motor stopped.

• EQ: 50 µs / 3180 µs at 19 cm/s (standard NAB‑type equalisation).

• Inputs: Microphone, Radio DIN, Radio (US standard), AUX DIN, AUX (US).

• Outputs: Headphones, Radio DIN, Radio (US) for connection to the matching Beomaster or other amps.

Physical and system details

• Dimensions (W×H×D): 44 × 14.7 × 33 cm (approx. 17.3 × 5.8 × 13 in).

• Weight: 11 kg.

• Mains: 110/130/220/240 V AC, 20–52 W consumption depending on operating mode.

• Role in system: Deck‑only unit in the Beosystem 1200 (with Beomaster 1200 and Beogram 1200), notable as B&O’s last open‑reel recorder produced in significant quantities and as a stylistic bridge between classic wood‑fi and later cassette‑based Beocords.