Grundig 700L
Grundig
Germany
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
1
Number of Heads
2
Head Configuration
Half-track-mono
Wow & Flutter
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
Dimensions [mm]
405×205×305
Weight [kg]
13
Year built
1955 - 1957
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
IEC
Frequency Response
Speed
3¾, 7½
Max Reel [inch]
7
Tracks
1/2 Rec/PB
Price
User
Consumer
Additional Information
The Grundig Reporter 700L is an early 1950s tube-based mono reel-to-reel tape recorder from the "Reporter" portable series, offering dual speeds in a sturdy leatherette-covered table-top chassis for home or semi-portable use.
Basic Concept
Introduced around 1953 (German domestic and export versions); priced at ~835 DM or £80 equivalent.
Table-model low-profile design (405 × 205 × 305 mm, 13–15 kg); AC-powered (110/125/220/240V variants).
Mono half-track format; integrated speaker and amp for standalone operation.
Transport Mechanics
Dual speeds: 9.5 cm/s (3¾ ips) and 19 cm/s (7½ ips); reel size up to ~5–7 inch.
Single-motor drive with basic mechanical tension; push-button controls; auto tape-end stop.
Robust build for era, but wow/flutter higher than later transistor decks.
Heads and Electronics
2 heads: record/playback + erase (likely ferrite).
5 vacuum tubes (e.g., EM71/EM72 magic-eye for VU/level); ~40–50 kHz bias.
Built-in PM dynamic loudspeaker; power output 2.5–4W depending on model.