Grundig TS 945

The Grundig TS 945 (also marketed as TS 945 Super-HiFi) is a high-end, solid-state open-reel (reel-to-reel) tape deck produced by Grundig Radio-Vertrieb in Fürth, Germany. Manufactured primarily from 1976 to around 1982 (peak production 1977–1980), it was a premium consumer/professional-grade stereo recorder aimed at audiophiles and serious enthusiasts. Designed with a studio-grade mindset, it met DIN 45500 hi-fi standards, featuring quarter-track stereo, three heads, four motors (including PLL-synchronized capstan), IC control logic, tacho generator with mains-synchronized PLL, and advanced usability (e.g., retractable pressure roller and swiveling head shield for easy tape insertion/cleaning).

The TS 945 was priced originally around 1,200 DM (a high-end figure), making it one of Grundig's most ambitious open-reel decks before the brand shifted focus to cassette formats. A half-track stereo variant (TS 925) was offered for those preferring higher signal levels. It gained legendary collector status for its elite performance (64 dB SNR, 0.05% wow & flutter at top speed, and near-20 kHz extension), accessibility, and build quality.

Key Technical Specifications

• Track System: 4-track (quarter-track), 2-channel stereo (quarter-track stereo; some sources note half-track variant as TS 925 for alternative use)

• Tape Speeds: Two speeds — 9.5 cm/s (3¾ ips) and 19 cm/s (7½ ips); switch-selectable (higher speed for studio-grade fidelity)

• Reel Size: Maximum 22 cm (8½ inches; allows double-length tape compared to 6" reels; supports standard NAB/international hubs)

• Heads: 3 heads — separate erase, record, and playback (Reovac or permalloy construction; allows real-time off-tape monitoring)

• Motors: 4 motors (3 main + auxiliary; PLL-synchronized capstan with tacho generator and mains-synchronized logic for precision; reel motors for tension control)

• Drive System: Electronic/mechanical transport with push-button controls; constant tape speed via PLL regulation; foil-sensing automatic stop; advanced tension regulation; features include IC control logic, retractable pressure roller, and swiveling head shield for easy access/cleaning

• Frequency Response (±3 dB):20 Hz – 20 kHz at 19 cm/s (7½ ips)
  20 Hz – 16 kHz at 9.5 cm/s (3¾ ips) (outstanding for the era, especially at 7½ ips; meets/exceeds DIN hi-fi standards with full-range extension)
  

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 64 dB (weighted; exceptional for mid-1970s consumer stereo, aided by separate playback head and low-noise circuitry)

• Wow & Flutter: 0.05% at 19 cm/s; 0.09% at 9.5 cm/s (studio-grade stability; among the lowest in Grundig's lineup, thanks to 4-motor/PLL design)

• Equalization: IEC/CCIR/European standard (some export versions note NARTB compatibility)

• Inputs:Microphone: Low-level (1 mV; dynamic mic via DIN)
  Line/Radio: High-level (115 mV; via DIN)
  Phono/Grammophon: Additional high-level input
  

• Outputs: Line out via DIN/RCA (0.5 V stereo preamp output for external amplifiers); no built-in speakers/amplifier in pure deck form (requires external amp/speakers; some integrated variants had amp options)

• Power Supply: Alternating Current (AC) mains — 220–240 V (some export 110–120 V); power consumption around 35–60 W; no battery option (mains-only)

• Dimensions: 470 × 410 × 180 mm / 18.5 × 16.1 × 7.1 inches (W × H × D) — compact low-profile table model

• Weight: Approximately 13 kg / 28.6 lbs — substantial due to metal chassis, 3-head assembly, 4-motor transport, and electronics

• Electronics: Fully solid-state (75 transistors/semiconductors; IC control logic for speed/functions; no tubes)

• Other Features: Recording level indicator (VU meters); mechanical tape counter; automatic tape-end stop; pause function; input mixing; sound-on-sound overdubbing; recording time up to 8–16 hours total (depending on speed, tape thickness, and track usage) on 8½-inch reels with long-play tape

Design and Performance Notes

The TS 945 was a studio-perfectionist deck with a focus on elite performance and accessibility: quarter-track stereo allowed two stereo tracks (or four mono tracks by flipping), doubling capacity compared to half-track. Dual speeds provided flexibility—7½ ips for near-professional fidelity (20–20 kHz extension, excellent transients), 3¾ ips for balanced use. The three-head design enabled real-time off-tape monitoring. The four-motor transport (with PLL-synchronized capstan) ensured ultra-low wow & flutter (0.05% at top speed). The solid-state electronics delivered clean, dynamic stereo sound with superior clarity and imaging—modern vintage ratings place it around 8/10 for sound (one of the finest Grundig reel-to-reel models) and 8/10 for build reliability/durability.

Common long-term service needs include:

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

• Replacing rubber drive belts/idlers (common failure point in 1970s solid-state models)

• Replacing electrolytic capacitors (leakage common after 50+ years)

• Lubricating mechanisms

• Checking transistor/IC stages and power supply

Historical Context

The TS 945 was part of Grundig's late-1970s push toward high-fidelity solid-state reel-to-reel decks before cassette formats dominated. It followed earlier stereo models like the TK 244/TK 247 and represented a "Super Hi-Fi" pinnacle in Grundig's open-reel lineup. Surviving examples are highly sought-after by collectors, often prized for their studio-grade performance and condition due to robust construction, but most require restoration (especially rubber components and capacitors) for reliable operation. They represent a high point in vintage solid-state open-reel collecting, especially for those interested in 1970s German audio engineering and DIN-compliant quarter-track stereo designs with three-head monitoring and PLL control.