Crown SS722

The Crown SS722 (also listed in some historical references as Crown 722 SS or early solid-state 722 variant) is a rare, transitional solid-state open-reel tape recorder from Crown International (Elkhart, Indiana, USA), produced around 1965–1966. It bridges Crown's early tube-era Gold Crown consumer machines (e.g., Prince/Royal series) and the landmark solid-state Pro 700 series (introduced mid-1966 with models like SX-722). The "SS" likely denotes "Solid State," marking Crown's shift from tube to transistor electronics in their tape lineup, with the 722 designation aligning with the emerging 700 transport family.

This model was a high-fidelity stereo deck aimed at serious audiophiles, semi-pro users, or small studios—emphasizing Crown's signature rugged American build, gentle tape handling, and warm "tape-like" sound (slight high-end contour rather than ultra-flat). It is ultra-rare today, with very few documented survivors (mostly in collector forums or museum archives like reel-reel.com), often appearing in sales as "parts" or restoration projects due to age-related issues.

Key Technical Specifications 

• Tape Speeds: 3.75 ips and 7.5 ips (primary; some transitional units supported 15 ips as optional or in early 700 lineage, but SS722 focused on 3.75/7.5 for hi-fi balance).

• Frequency Response: Approximately 50 Hz to 25 kHz (or better; aligned with early solid-state Crown specs—respectable extension with slight contour for warmth/bloom).

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Around 54–57 dB (solid for early solid-state stereo; improved over tube predecessors but pre-dating later 60 dB+ figures).

• Wow & Flutter (RMS wideband): ~0.09–0.2% at 7.5 ips (good stability for transitional era; benefited from Crown's mechanical precision, though not yet at 0.05% of full 700/800 series).

• Track Configuration: Stereo (likely ½-track or ¼-track stereo record/playback; early solid-state models often half-track for superior SNR/dynamics in 2-channel use).

• Heads: 3-head design (erase, record, playback); precision permalloy with hyperbolic contour, shock-mounted (off-tape monitoring capability).

• Reel Sizes: Up to 10.5" NAB professional (standard for extended hi-fi recordings; HAP adapters supported).

• Motors: 3-motor transport (hysteresis synchronous capstan with flywheel; separate reel motors; early electromagnetic or differential-magnetic braking for smooth, padless stops).

• Timing Accuracy / Speed Stability: High for era (~99.8%; minimal drift with hysteresis drive).

• Other Features:Solid-state electronics (transistor-based; early pre-modular design—simpler than later SX/CX plug-in boards, but reliable and low-heat).
  NAB equalization (likely 2-speed selectable).
  Stereo inputs/outputs (mic/line; basic mixing or level controls).
  VU meters, headphone monitoring, auto-stop, pushbutton or knob controls.
  THD: <1–1.5% at 0 VU (high headroom/low distortion typical of Crown).
  Power: ~100–140W, 117 VAC 60 Hz.
  

• Dimensions / Weight: ~19" W x 15–17" H x ~9–10" D (rack-mountable; detachable transport/electronics in lineage); ~40–50 lbs (sturdy aluminum chassis).

• Original Price: ~$800–$1,200 range (premium transitional positioning; comparable to early 700 series entry models).

Design and Build Overview

The Crown SS722 used an early version of Crown's 700-series transport foundation: rugged 3-motor direct-drive for precise tension and low wow/flutter, electronic braking for gentle operation, and straight-line threading in lineage. Solid-state circuitry marked the shift from tube warmth to cooler, instant-on reliability—retaining Crown's "musical" sound via slight contouring (dynamics/bloom). It prioritized serviceability and durability over deluxe features (no full modular plug-ins like later CX).

As a transitional model, it bridged consumer Gold Crown (e.g., Prince/Royal tube series with integrated amps) and the pro solid-state benchmark (full 700 series SX-722/CX-722 from 1966–1967, with refined specs like 0.05–0.09% wow/flutter and modular boards). The SS722 was likely short-lived or limited-production, serving as Crown's first widespread solid-state tape deck before standardization.

Today, these are ultra-rare collectibles (few known survivors). Common restoration needs: electrolytic recapping (critical for solid-state longevity), belt/pinch roller/idler renewal, motor bearing service, head relapping/alignment, and control cleaning. Service info overlaps with early 700 series or Gold Crown references.