Bang & Olufsen Beocord 1500
Bang & Olufsen
Denmark
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
2
Number of Heads
3
Head Configuration
Stereo
Wow & Flutter
0.12%
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
60
Dimensions [mm]
450 × 205 × 335
Weight [kg]
18
Year built
1964–1969
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
NAB/IEC
Frequency Response
40 Hz–18 kHz
Speed
3¾, 7½
Max Reel [inch]
7
Tracks
1/4 Rec/PB
Price
Additional Information
The Bang & Olufsen Beocord 1500 (1964–1969, with De Luxe variants) is a high-end stereo reel-to-reel tape deck from B&O's golden era of open-reel production, available in full standalone (with amp/speaker) and "De Luxe" transport-only versions for integration with external hi-fi systems.
Transport and Format
Tracks: 4-track/2-channel stereo (¼-inch tape); optional 2-track version; auto-reverse on De Luxe models.
Heads: Three-head configuration (separate record, playback, erase) enabling off-tape monitoring; hyperbolic curved heads for optimal tape contact.
Motors: Dual-motor transport (hysteresis synchronous capstan + take-up reel) with electronic speed control.
Speeds: 3¾ ips and 7½ ips (9.5/19 cm/s); NAB/IEC equalization.
Reels: Up to 10.5-inch NAB hubs for extended playtime (up to 1200 ft).
Performance Specs
Frequency response: 40 Hz–18 kHz (±3 dB) at 7½ ips; 50 Hz–12 kHz at 3¾ ips.
Wow/flutter: ≤0.12–0.15% WRMS (7½ ips).
S/N ratio: >60 dB; crosstalk >50 dB; erasure >70 dB; distortion <1.5%.
Electronics and Features
Inputs: Mic (0.2 mV), radio/phono DIN (0.5 V), gramophone preamp (exchangeable for mic preamp on De Luxe).
Outputs: Line DIN (fixed/variable), headphones; full power amp (5–7W) on standalone models.
Controls: Dual concentric level/balance knobs, bass/treble, automatic recording level (ALC), photo-electric tape end-stop.
Physical Details
Dimensions: 450 × 205 × 335 mm (17.7 × 8.1 × 13.2 in).
Weight: ~16–18 kg depending on configuration; teak/rosewood cabinets with castors optional.
Power: Multi-voltage AC (20–60 W).
Audiophile Context
Preceding the Beocord 2000/2100 series, the 1500 De Luxe represents B&O's professional-grade consumer deck with robust 10.5-inch capability and system integration (fits Beomaster 900 recess); prized for clean transport and warm Scandinavian sound—essential restoration candidate bridging 1960s portables and 1970s flagships like Beocord 1800.