Grundig TK 22

The Grundig TK 22 is a mid-1960s open-reel (reel-to-reel) tape recorder produced by Grundig Radio-Vertrieb in Fürth, Germany. Manufactured primarily from 1964 to around 1966–1967 (part of the TK20–TK25 family of similar models), it was a compact, mono domestic machine aimed at entry-level to mid-range home users, radio enthusiasts, and hobbyists. It emphasized push-button operation, automatic features in some variants, and solid build quality for its price point.

The TK 22 was priced originally around £50–60 in export markets (equivalent to roughly 500–600 DM in Germany), positioning it as a step up from budget models like the TK 18/TK 19 while remaining accessible. It was valued for its reliability, warm tube sound, and straightforward controls for dubbing radio broadcasts, family recordings, or basic music.

Key Technical Specifications

Track System: 2-track (half-track), single-channel monaural (monaural record/playback; records on upper half of tape in one direction, lower half in reverse)

• Tape Speeds: Two speeds — 9.5 cm/s (3¾ ips) and 4.75 cm/s (1⅞ ips); switch-selectable (lower speed for longer runtime, higher for better fidelity)

• Reel Size: Maximum 18 cm (7 inches); commonly used with 13–18 cm reels; supports standard NAB/international hubs

• Heads: 2 heads — combined record/playback head + erase head (permalloy construction; no separate playback head or off-tape monitoring)

• Motors: 1 motor (capstan drive; single-motor design with mechanical reel assistance; reliable induction-type motor typical of mid-1960s consumer machines)

• Drive System: Mechanical transport with push-button operation; constant tape speed; foil-sensing automatic stop at tape end; basic tension regulation suitable for standard and thinner tapes

• Frequency Response: Approximately 40 Hz – 12,000–13,000 Hz (at 9.5 cm/s; respectable for a mid-range mono recorder of the era, with improved clarity over earlier single-speed models)

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: ≈45–55 dB (typical; good for mid-1960s consumer mono, aided by quality circuitry)

• Wow & Flutter: ≈0.2–0.3% (at 9.5 cm/s; low and acceptable for domestic use; single-motor designs had tolerable variations)

• Equalization: CCIR/European standard for the period (some export versions note NARTB compatibility)

• Inputs:Microphone: Low-level (dynamic mic via DIN or proprietary socket; often supplied external mic)
  Line/Radio: High-level input via DIN connector (Grundig 5-pin standard)
  Phono/Grammophon: Additional high-level input for record players
  

• Outputs: Built-in loudspeaker (elliptical permanent-magnet dynamic type); line out via DIN socket; output power ≈2.5–4 watts

• Power Supply: Alternating Current (AC) mains — 110–240 V (multi-voltage taps for export); power consumption around 55–80 W; no battery option (mains-only domestic/portable hybrid)

• Dimensions: Approximately 350 × 180 × 320 mm / 13.8 × 7.1 × 12.6 inches (W × H × D) — compact suitcase/portable form factor with handle

• Weight: Around 10–11 kg (22–24 lbs) — portable yet substantial due to metal chassis, transformers, and tubes

• Electronics: Valve/tube-based (typically 5 tubes; common complement includes EF86 preamp, ECC81 phase splitter/driver, EL84 output (push-pull), EM84 magic eye level indicator; metal rectifier for power supply)

• Other Features: Magic eye (EM84) recording level indicator (glow for level monitoring); mechanical tape counter; automatic tape-end stop; pause function; recording time ≈90–120 minutes total (depending on speed and tape thickness) on 7-inch reels with standard tape

Design and Performance Notes

The TK 22 was a practical mid-range domestic recorder with a focus on ease of use and sound quality: push-button controls and the tube circuitry delivered a warm, musical tone suitable for radio dubbing or home entertainment, with improved frequency response over earlier single-speed models like the TK 18/TK 19. Modern vintage ratings place it around 6–7/10 for sound (solid mono performer) and 7–8/10 for build reliability/durability.

The drive mechanism was durable and straightforward, with minimal electronics complexity. Common long-term service needs include:

• Tube replacement/check (EF86 microphonics; EL84 output wear)

• Cleaning heads, capstan, pinch roller, and tape path

• Replacing electrolytic capacitors (leakage common after 60+ years)

• Lubricating mechanisms and checking drive belts/pulleys

• Magic eye alignment and rectifier checks

Historical Context

The TK 22 was part of Grundig's foundational 1950s–1960s TK series that popularized open-reel recording in Europe and export markets. It followed models like the TK 18/TK 19 and preceded later multi-speed/stereo machines (TK 14x, TK 24x, etc.). Surviving examples are collectible today, often in good cosmetic condition due to robust construction, but most require tube and capacitor restoration for reliable operation. They represent an accessible entry into vintage tube-era open-reel collecting, especially for those interested in mid-1960s German audio engineering.