Denon 800

The Denon 800 (also referred to as Denon DN-800 in some broadcast/professional contexts) is a vintage semi-professional or high-end consumer reel-to-reel tape recorder from the late 1950s to early 1960s (approximately 1958–1962), produced by Denon (Nippon Columbia Co., Ltd., Japan). It was a rare, tube-based (valve) model exported in limited numbers (sometimes under rebrands like Griffin in the U.S.), often paired with a separate tube preamp (e.g., 8089 unit in collector listings). This two-piece design (deck + preamp) was typical for the era, allowing flexibility and easier servicing.

Surviving examples are extremely rare—only a handful known worldwide—and appear mostly as "project" or parts units on vintage markets (e.g., eBay/Reverb). It is valued for historical significance in Denon's early tape lineup (post-PT-11/PT-12 broadcast portables) rather than everyday use, with collectors describing it as "built like a tank" despite its age.

Key Technical Specifications

• Recording/Playback System — 4-track (quarter-track) stereo/mono compatible (some sources confirm 4-track 2-channel stereo capability); records and plays stereo on tracks 1-4 forward and 3-2 reverse (manual tape flip required); mono compatible; sound-on-sound/multiplay overdub facilities via separate heads/amplifiers; no auto-reverse.

• Tape Speeds — Likely two speeds: 3¾ ips (9.5 cm/s) and 7½ ips (19 cm/s) (standard for late 1950s Denon/Griffin models; exact confirmation limited but aligns with era's stereo-capable decks).

• Reel Size — Up to 7 inches (18 cm) maximum diameter (cine-type reels common).

• Frequency Response (approximate, typical for late 1950s tube stereo):At 7½ ips: 50 Hz – 15,000 Hz (or ~40–18,000 Hz in optimal conditions).
  At 3¾ ips: 50 Hz – 10,000–12,000 Hz. Respectable for early stereo but limited highs compared to 1960s transistor models.
  

• Wow & Flutter — Approximately 0.2–0.4% at 7½ ips (good for tube-era three-motor design when maintained).

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio — Approximately 45–50 dB (typical tube performance; separate preamp helps reduce noise).

• Heads — 3 heads: separate record, playback, and erase (permalloy; enables off-tape monitoring and multiplay effects).

• Drive System — Three motors (capstan + two reel motors); belt drive to capstan/flywheel; idler tires/clutches; mechanical brakes; fast wind/rewind; robust for semi-pro use.

• Electronics — Vacuum tube (valve)-based; separate preamp unit (e.g., paired with 8089 preamp in some listings); typical tube complement includes preamp, record/playback, and output stages (e.g., EF86, ECC83, EL95 types in similar era machines).

• Amplification & Speakers — Separate tube preamp/amplifier unit (two-piece design); no built-in speakers (external amp required for full stereo playback); modest output for monitoring.

• Inputs —Microphone (low-level).
  Line/radio/phono (higher level).
  DIN-style or similar connectors.
  

• Outputs —Line out for external amp.
  Headphones possible.
  DIN-style.
  

• Features —Twin level meters (one per channel).
  Before/after tape monitoring.
  Echo/multiplay capabilities.
  Pause function.
  Portable/semi-portable two-piece design (deck + preamp unit) with handle/metal case.
  

• Power — AC mains (110–120 V / 220–240 V switchable; 100 V noted in some U.S. listings); consumption typical for tube deck (~60–100 W).

• Build & Dimensions — Metal case (silver/metal finish); two-piece unit (deck + preamp); approx. ~500 × 300 × 200 mm per unit (estimated); weight ~15–20 kg combined (robust semi-pro construction).

• Manufacturing — Japan (Denon/Nippon Columbia); exported as Griffin 707A in some markets.

Performance & Legacy Context

The Denon 800/Griffin 707A was an early multi-track capable tube recorder—offering separate heads for monitoring and effects, three-motor stability, and stereo playback at a time when many consumer decks were still mono. It delivered tube warmth and decent fidelity at 7½ ips for late 1950s standards, suitable for semi-pro or advanced home use (e.g., small studios or enthusiasts). The two-piece design was practical for upgrades or repairs.

Surviving examples are extremely rare (often "project" or parts units), valued as historical pieces rather than daily drivers. It represents Denon's bridge from 1950s broadcast portables (PT series) to later 1970s consumer hi-fi decks (DH/DN series).

Common issues today: Tube aging (preamp/output tubes weak/noisy), capacitor drying/leakage, belt/idler hardening, dirty heads (3-head alignment critical), worn idler tires/clutches, and mechanical wear on transport. Restorations are specialized (tube checks, recap, alignment); many units are sold "as-is" for parts due to rarity.

Compared to era siblings:

• Denon PT-11/PT-12 (1951) — Earlier broadcast portables (mono, tube, field-focused).

• Denon 700/Griffin 707A — Late 1950s semi-pro tube stereo (3-head/3-motor, rare export).

• Later Denon (1970s) — Transistor hi-fi like DH-710S (direct-drive, 3-head, higher specs).