Crown SS724

The Crown SS724 is a rare, transitional solid-state open-reel tape recorder from Crown International (Elkhart, Indiana, USA), produced circa 1965–1966. It was an early solid-state model in Crown's lineup, bridging the tube-era Gold Crown consumer machines (e.g., Prince/Royal series) and the full Pro 700 series (launched mid-1966 with standardized SX/CX variants like SX-724). The "SS" prefix denotes "Solid State," and "724" aligns with the emerging 700-series numbering (7xx for 700 transport family, last digit often indicating track/channel config—here likely ¼-track stereo).

This was a high-fidelity stereo deck targeted at audiophiles, semi-pro users, or small studios—featuring Crown's signature overbuilt American engineering, gentle tape handling, and a warm, dynamic "tape bloom" sound (slight high-end contour rather than strictly flat response). It is extremely scarce today, with very few documented survivors (mostly in collector forums, museum archives like reel-reel.com, or occasional sales as restoration projects). It represents Crown's initial widespread adoption of transistors in tape machines before standardizing the SX/CX modular electronics.

Key Technical Specifications 

• Tape Speeds: 3.75 ips and 7.5 ips (primary; some early transitional units or lineage supported 15 ips as optional, but SS724 focused on 3.75/7.5 for balanced hi-fi consumer/prosumer use).

• Frequency Response: Approximately 50 Hz to 25 kHz (or better; aligned with early solid-state Crown—good extension with characteristic slight high-end bump 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+ in full 700 series).

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

• Track Configuration: ¼-track stereo (four-track two-channel; bidirectional for extended play/overdubbing or reserve tracks—common in early solid-state Crown for versatility).

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

• Reel Sizes: Up to 10.5" NAB professional (HAP adapters standard; supports 2400'+ reels for long sessions).

• Motors: 3-motor transport (hysteresis synchronous capstan with flywheel; separate plug-in 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—simpler than later SX/CX plug-in boards, but reliable, low-heat, instant-on).
  NAB equalization (likely 2-speed selectable).
  Stereo inputs/outputs (mic/line; basic 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 like SX-722/724).

Design and Build Overview

The SS724 used an early iteration 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 provided cooler, more reliable operation than tube predecessors while retaining Crown's "musical" character (dynamics/bloom from slight contouring). It prioritized serviceability and durability over deluxe features (no full modular plug-ins or front bias/EQ like later CX).

As a short-lived transitional model, it was Crown's first major solid-state tape deck before full standardization (e.g., SX-724 as the quarter-track stereo workhorse in the 700 series, with refined specs like 0.05–0.09% wow/flutter and 3-speed EQ in some). It bridged consumer Gold Crown (e.g., Prince/Royal tube series with integrated amps) and the pro solid-state benchmark (full 700 series SX/CX from 1966–1967).

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.