Berlant Concertone 500

The Berlant Concertone 500 (also known as Concertone 500 Series or Concertone 505 in related variants) is a professional/mid-1960s open-reel (reel-to-reel) tape recorder produced by Berlant Associates / Concertone in Los Angeles, California, USA. Manufactured primarily around 1960–1962 (with some overlap into early 1963), it was a rugged, rack-mountable or portable mono/stereo-capable machine targeted at broadcast, studio, and semi-professional users. It featured a high-torque transport, NAB reel compatibility, and expandable head options.

The Concertone 500 was priced originally around $495–$655 (depending on configuration), positioning it as a mid-to-high-end professional recorder. It was valued for its reliability, low wow & flutter, and broadcast-grade performance, though it was tube-based and not as refined as contemporary Ampex models in some aspects.

Key Technical Specifications

Track System: 2-track (half-track) stereo/monaural standard (2-track record/playback); full-track mono available in some configurations; provision for up to 4–5 heads (for simultaneous record/playback or custom monitoring)

• Tape Speeds: Two speeds — 7.5 ips (19 cm/s) and 15 ips (38 cm/s); instantaneous switch selection

• Reel Size: Maximum 10.5 inches (professional NAB hubs; supports up to 2400–3600 ft tape for extended runtime)

• Heads: 3 heads standard (erase + record + playback); expandable to 4–5 heads (interchangeable for professional applications)

• Motors: 3 motors (1 two-speed capstan motor + 2 reel motors; high-torque, continuous-duty rated; no belts, clutches, or idlers in the main drive for simplified maintenance)

• Drive System: Professional transport with positive reel locks ("Reelok" design); automatic cut-off on tape breakage or run-out; constant tape speed; fast rewind/fast forward (less than 60 seconds for 2500 ft); air circulation blower integrated with capstan motor

• Frequency Response: 40 Hz – 15,000 Hz (±2 dB at 15 ips); 40 Hz – 12,000 Hz at 7.5 ips (professional-grade for the era)

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 55 dB (weighted; high for mid-1960s, aided by quality electronics)

• Wow & Flutter: <0.1% RMS at 15 ips; <0.2% RMS at 7.5 ips (excellent for professional machine)

• Equalization: NAB standard (US professional/broadcast curve)

• Inputs:Microphone: Low-level (high-impedance or balanced)
  Line: Balanced bridging input (50/250 ohms or high-impedance with plug-in transformer option)
  

• Outputs: Cathode follower line output (600 ohms balanced with plug-in transformer option); headphone monitoring; zero dBm across 600 ohm line

• Power Supply: AC mains, 115 V / 60 Hz (some export variants 220 V); power consumption moderate (~220 W)

• Dimensions: Compact portable/rack-mount form factor (drive mechanism typically 14" × 19" panel; amplifier 5.25" × 19" panel; depth ~6–7 inches)

• Weight: Approximately 30–40 lbs (portable but substantial due to professional build)

• Electronics: Tube-based (high-quality broadcast-grade tubes and transformers in the amplifier section; cathode follower output)

• Other Features: Positive reel locks; automatic cut-off on tape breakage/run-out; provision for multi-head setups; fast forward/rewind; professional NAB hubs; variable signal mixing from line/mic

Design and Performance Notes

The Concertone 500 was built for professional reliability: the 3-motor transport (no belts/clutches/idlers in main drive) simplified maintenance and provided excellent timing and tension control. The expandable head provision (up to 5 heads) allowed custom setups (e.g., simultaneous record/playback or multi-head monitoring). Tube electronics delivered high-headroom, clean sound with professional fidelity for the era—modern vintage ratings place it around 7–8/10 for sound (excellent mono/stereo performer) and 8/10 for build reliability/durability.

Common long-term service needs include:

• Tube replacement/check (aging tubes cause drift or noise)

• Cleaning heads, capstan, pinch roller, and tape path

• Replacing electrolytic capacitors (leakage common after 60+ years)

• Lubricating mechanisms

• Head alignment (especially in multi-head setups)

Historical Context

The Berlant Concertone 500 was part of the mid-1950s to early 1960s professional tape recorder wave in the US, competing with Ampex and early Concertone models. Berlant Associates later merged or rebranded under Concertone, producing high-quality portables/broadcast machines. Surviving examples are rare collectibles today, often prized by vintage tape enthusiasts for their professional heritage and condition, but most require restoration (tubes, capacitors, and mechanical parts) for reliable operation. They represent an important chapter in early US professional open-reel history, especially for those interested in 1950s–1960s broadcast-grade mono/stereo designs with expandable heads.