Berlant Concertone 802

The Berlant Concertone 802 (often listed as Concertone 802, 802A, or Reverse-O-Matic 802A) is a late-1960s vintage open-reel tape recorder from the American Concertone 800 Series, produced around 1967–1968. This was during the final era of the Berlant/Concertone brand under TEAC-influenced or Japanese manufacturing (e.g., built by partners like Denki Onkyo Co., with design similarities to some Dokorder models). It served as a high-fidelity consumer stereo deck with advanced auto-reverse features, targeting audiophiles seeking continuous playback convenience in home hi-fi systems.

The 802 was a variant or successor in the 800 Series lineup (following the base 800 ~1964 and 801 ~1967), emphasizing the signature Reverse-O-Matic auto-reverse system for bidirectional operation without manual flipping. It appeared in period sales (e.g., Reverb, Worthpoint, eBay listings) as a tested/working or restoration item, with some units featuring minor cosmetic or functional tweaks (e.g., 802A designation possibly indicating updates like improved solenoids or labeling). Surviving examples are rare collectibles, valued for their robust build and unique autoreverse, though often requiring service for aging components.

Key Technical Specifications 

• Tape Speeds: 3.75 ips and 7.5 ips (standard for high-fidelity consumer/prosumer use; balanced quality and recording duration).

• Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 18 kHz (extended for the era, providing solid bass extension and clear highs in home listening).

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 50 dB (typical mid-1960s consumer level; clean without modern noise reduction).

• Track Configuration: 4-track (quarter-track) stereo/mono (bidirectional; supports recording and playback in both directions for extended sessions).

• Heads: 6 heads total (3 per direction: erase, record, playback) for true bidirectional autoreverse without mechanical head rotation.

• Reel Sizes: Up to 7" standard (consumer-oriented; compact and easy to handle).

• Motors: 3-motor transport (separate capstan, supply, and take-up for precise tension control, smooth autoreverse, and low wow/flutter).

• Timing Accuracy / Wow & Flutter: Approximately 0.2% (excellent stability, aided by synchronous capstan and reliable mechanics).

• Other Features:Reverse-O-Matic auto-reverse (automatic direction change at tape ends using foil sensors or cues for endless/continuous playback—a key selling point and "gimmick" of the series).
  Sound-on-sound overdubbing capability.
  Dual VU meters, stereo line/mic inputs, outputs, NAB equalization.
  Solid-state (transistor) electronics for reliability, low heat, and instant operation (transitional from earlier tube models).
  Basic monitoring off-tape, level controls.
  

• Weight: Around 50–55 lbs (sturdy chassis; similar to or slightly heavier than the 801 due to autoreverse refinements).

• Original Price: In the $400–$500 range (comparable to the 801 at ~$439.95; positioned as premium consumer hi-fi).

Design and Build Overview

The 802 shared the 800 Series' 3-motor direct-drive transport for dependable tape handling and minimal wow/flutter, with the 6-head bidirectional setup enabling seamless forward/reverse without tape path disruptions. The Reverse-O-Matic used end-of-tape sensing (often conductive foil strips) to trigger solenoid-driven direction changes, allowing hours of uninterrupted play—innovative for consumer decks and rivaling pro features in convenience.

Built on a rigid metal chassis (often with walnut case or portable enclosure options), it included integrated stereo amplification/electronics and power supply. As a late-series model, it reflected TEAC's growing influence on Concertone (post-Berlant sale/merger), shifting toward solid-state reliability over tube warmth.