Crown SS800

The Crown SS800 (also referred to as Crown SS-800 or part of the early "SS" solid-state series) is a rare, transitional solid-state open-reel tape recorder from Crown International (Elkhart, Indiana, USA), produced circa 1965–1967. It represents Crown's initial widespread shift to transistor electronics in their tape lineup, bridging the tube-era Gold Crown consumer machines (e.g., Prince/Royal series) and the full Pro 700/800 series (standardized mid-1966 onward with SX/CX variants). The "SS" prefix explicitly denotes "Solid State," and "800" aligns with the emerging Pro 800 transport family (though early SS models used pre-standardized or simplified versions of the 800-series mechanics).

This was a high-end stereo deck targeted at audiophiles, semi-pro users, broadcast, or small studios—emphasizing Crown's overbuilt American engineering, exceptional tape handling (no tension arms; torque-controlled reels), and a warm, dynamic "tape magic" sound (slight high-end contour/bloom rather than ultra-flat response). It is one of the scarcer Crown models, with very few documented survivors (mostly in collector forums like Tapeheads.net, museum archives such as reel-reel.com/Museum of Magnetic Sound Recording, or occasional sales as restoration projects). It predates the full modular CX/SX electronics but shares core transport DNA with the later Pro 800 series.

Key Technical Specifications 

• Tape Speeds: 3.75 ips, 7.5 ips, and 15 ips (three-speed professional capability; full equalization switching, with front-panel or internal selection—early SS units emphasized hi-fi speeds).

• Frequency Response (±2 dB typical): 30–25 kHz+ at 15 ips (record/play); 20–20/25 kHz at 7.5 ips; slight high-end contour (~3 dB bump) for characteristic Crown warmth and bloom (musical rather than dead-flat; real-world often strong on premium tape like Scotch 207).

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 55–58 dB (overall/record-play; respectable for early solid-state stereo, improved over tube predecessors but pre-dating later 60 dB+ in refined 800 series).

• Wow & Flutter (RMS wideband): ~0.05–0.1% at 15 ips; ~0.09–0.15% at 7.5 ips (excellent stability from massive flywheel, hysteresis capstan, and neoprene belt; transitional but approaching pro levels).

• Track Configuration: Primarily ¼-track stereo (four-track two-channel; bidirectional for extended play/overdubbing/reserve tracks; some configs half-track or full-track mono variants possible, but SS800 often quarter-track for versatility).

• Heads: 3-head design (erase, record, playback); precision micro-gap permalloy, hyperbolic contour, shock-mounted/removable for alignment; 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 large flywheel/belt; separate plug-in torque-controlled reel motors—no tension arms; electromagnetic DC braking for smooth ~3-sec stops from full speed).

• Timing Accuracy / Speed Stability: ~99.8% (minimal drift; fast wind/rewind ~60 sec for 2400').

• Other Features:Solid-state electronics (transistor-based; early/pre-modular—simpler than later CX plug-in boards, but reliable, low-heat, instant-on; basic inputs/outputs with level controls).
  NAB equalization (likely 3-speed selectable in early SS, or 2-speed in some).
  Stereo inputs/outputs (mic/line; unbalanced standard; balanced optional via accessories).
  Dual VU meters, headphone monitoring, source/tape switching, auto-stop, pushbutton controls (feather-touch, early logic/buffered).
  THD: <1% at 0 VU (1 kHz); high headroom/low distortion.
  Power: ~140–200W, 117 VAC 60 Hz (50 Hz available).
  

• Dimensions / Weight: ~19" W x 17–18" H x ~10" D (rack-mountable; detachable transport/electronics); ~50–55 lbs (heavier than earlier consumer models due to pro-oriented build).

• Original Price: ~$1,500–$2,000+ range (premium transitional positioning; comparable to early 700/800 series entry models).

Design and Build Overview

The SS800 used an early iteration of Crown's Pro 800 transport (or very close precursor): logic-controlled pushbuttons (early TTL-style switching for smooth operation), no tension arms (torque motor control for pantograph-like tension), straight-line threading for editing, and electromagnetic braking for gentle, padless stops. Solid-state electronics provided cooler, more reliable operation than tube predecessors while retaining Crown's "musical" character (dynamics/bloom from slight contouring).

As a short-lived transitional model (manufactured briefly before full Pro 800 standardization in late 1967), it was Crown's first major solid-state pro-oriented tape deck—preceding the modular SX (simpler) and CX (deluxe with plug-ins, front bias/EQ, echo) variants. It prioritized ruggedness and professional handling over consumer gimmicks—ideal for broadcast, radio stations, or mastering.

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 Pro 800 series or transitional SS references.