Grundig Niki
Grundig
Germany
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
1
Number of Heads
2
Head Configuration
Half-track mono
Wow & Flutter
0.4%
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
35
Dimensions [mm]
280 × 90 × 165
Weight [kg]
2.5
Year built
1958–1960
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
IEC
Frequency Response
120–6,000 Hz
Speed
3¾
Max Reel [inch]
3
Tracks
1/2 Rec/PB
Price
User
Consumer
Additional Information
The Grundig Niki (also known as Cub Niki or Grundig Ltd. Cub Niki) is a ultra-compact, battery-powered mono reel-to-reel tape recorder from the late 1950s, designed as an entry-level portable for dictation and casual use with minimal transistors and rim-drive simplicity.
Basic Concept
Released around 1958–1960 for UK/export markets; plastic case (280 × 90 × 165 mm / 11" × 3.5" × 6.5", ~2.5–3 kg).
Single speed: 9.53 cm/s (3¾ ips); half-track mono; 3-inch (76 mm) reels (max 2 × 15 min recording).
Power: standard radio batteries (e.g., 4–6 cells, 100+ hours life) or AC adapter; built-in speaker (~100 mW).
Transport Mechanics
Rim-drive single motor with back-tension (no foam pad); variable speed slightly (±0.3–0.4% wow/flutter).
Basic push-buttons (no interlocks); manual rewind; portable horizontal design.
Predecessor to TK1 (rim vs capstan drive).
Heads and Electronics
2 heads: combined record/play + permanent magnet erase (swing-arm).
4 transistors (2 × OC71, 2 × OC72); ~40 kHz bias oscillator; no level meter (voice by ear).
Mic input primary; basic amp, no tone control.