Bang & Olufsen Beocord 1600

The Bang & Olufsen Beocord 1600 is a 1969–1973 slim-line stereo reel-to-reel tape recorder with built-in amplification, sibling to the transport-only Beocord 1200, designed by Jacob Jensen for elegant hi-fi system integration.

Transport and Format

• Tracks: 4-track/2-channel stereo (¼-inch tape), no auto-reverse.

• Heads: 3 permalloy heads (record, playback, erase) for off-tape monitoring.

• Motors: 3-motor design (hysteresis synchronous capstan + 2 reel motors).​

• Speeds: 3¾ ips (9.5 cm/s) and 7½ ips (19 cm/s); IEC/NAB EQ.

• Reels: Up to 7-inch (18 cm); photo-electric tape end-stop; rewind ~200 sec for LP-length tape.​

Performance Specs

• Frequency response: 30 Hz–20 kHz (±3 dB) at 7½ ips.

• Wow/flutter: ≤0.15% (DIN 45507) at 7½ ips; speed deviation <1%.​

• S/N ratio: 65 dB (DIN 45500); crosstalk >60 dB mono/>40 dB stereo; erasure >70 dB; erase freq. 100 kHz.​

Electronics and I/O

• Amplifier: 10W/ch RMS (20W/ch music power); bass ±13/-18 dB @50 Hz, treble ±10 dB @10 kHz.​

• Inputs: Phono (47 kΩ/8 mV), radio (5–100 mV), mic (50 µV/200 Ω).​

• Outputs: Speaker (4 Ω pair), headphones, line DIN (1V).

• Features: Sound-on-sound, ALC recording, mixing, dual VU meters, L/R volume controls.

Physical Details

• Dimensions: 440 × 147 × 330 mm (17.3 × 5.8 × 13 in).

• Weight: 11.7 kg; teak/rosewood finish; power 22–135 W AC (110–240 V).

Audiophile Context

B&O's last amplified open-reel model offers full-system convenience (pairs with Beovox speakers) with solid 7½ ips performance, though slim mechanics limit braking/reliability vs. chunkier 1500 De Luxe; collectible for iF Award design and warm amp sound when serviced.