Grundig 500L
Grundig
Germany
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
1
Number of Heads
2
Head Configuration
Full-track-mono
Wow & Flutter
0.3%
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
38
Dimensions [mm]
Weight [kg]
Year built
1960–1964
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
Frequency Response
100–8,000 Hz
Speed
3¾
Max Reel [inch]
5
Tracks
1/2 Rec/PB
Price
User
Consumer
Additional Information
The Grundig 500L is a portable, battery-powered mono reel-to-reel tape recorder from the early 1960s "Reporter" series, designed for field reporting, dictation, or home use with basic transistorized electronics and a simple transport.
Basic Concept
Produced around 1960–1964 as the "Reporter 500L" variant; compact suitcase-style portable (about 4–5 kg) with carry handle, AC/battery operation for mobility.
Single speed: 9.53 cm/s (3¾ ips); half-track mono on ¼-inch tape; small reels up to 5-inch (127 mm).
Power: internal batteries (e.g., 6–9V packs) or 220V AC adapter; built-in speaker for instant playback.
Transport Mechanics
Single-motor drive with basic capstan/flywheel; mechanical tape tension via felt pads; auto-stop at tape end.
Push-button controls; manual rewind; no fast-forward interlock, typical for portables of the era.
Horizontal operation only; rugged case protects against travel bumps.
Heads and Electronics
2 heads: combined record/playback + erase; ferrite or early permalloy construction.
Fully transistorized (6–8 transistors like AC128/AC188); ~50 kHz bias oscillator; mic input dominant, optional radio/phono jacks.
Simple RC EQ (NAB-style); no line-level metering beyond basic magic-eye or needle indicator.