Otari BTR-5

The Otari BTR-5 is a professional-grade 2-track analog reel-to-reel tape machine designed for broadcast and studio use. It features robust construction and transport mechanisms typical of Otari's mid-range vintage tape decks, made in Japan and widely used for reliable analogue tape recording and playback.

Core Technical Specifications

• Tape Width: 1/4 inch (6.3 mm)

• Reel Sizes Supported: NAB, EIA hubs, 5" to 10.5" diameter reels

• Tape Speeds: 7.5 ips (19 cm/s) and 15 ips (38 cm/s)

• Track Configuration: 2-track standard analog stereo

• Record Head: Hard permalloy

• Playback Head: Hard permalloy

• Erase Head: Ferrite

• Capstan Motor: Quartz Phase Locked Loop (PLL) servo brushless DC motor, direct drive

• Reel Motors: Brush type DC motors

• Wow & Flutter:
  15 ips: max ±0.06% (DIN Std)
  7.5 ips: max ±0.08% (DIN Std)

• Tape Speed Deviation: max ±0.06% from start to end of reel

• Tape Speed Accuracy: Within ±0.03%

• Frequency Response:
  20 Hz to 20 kHz ±2 dB at 38 cm/s (15 ips)
  20 Hz to 18 kHz ±2 dB at 19 cm/s (7.5 ips)

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio:
  59 dB (15 ips, NAB-J)
  57-59 dB (7.5 ips NAB-J or NAB)

• Distortion: Max 0.5% (1 kHz)

• Depth of Erasure: Min 75 dB (at 1 kHz)

• Crosstalk: Min 55 dB at 1 kHz

• Physical Dimensions: Approx. 634 mm (W) × 730–759 mm (D) × 1015–1040 mm (H)

• Weight: Approx. 90 kg

• Power Requirements: 100, 117, 200, 220, or 240 VAC ±10%, single phase 50/60 Hz

• Power Consumption: Approx. 150 W

Features and Highlights

• Precision Transport: Direct-drive quartz PLL servo capstan motor with brush motors for reel drives ensuring tape speed stability and low wow/flutter.

• Standardized Connectors: Uses XLR-3-31 input connectors and matching outputs with floating (transformerless) or optional transformer-equipped balanced inputs and outputs.

• Switchable Equalization: Supports NAB and NAB-J equalization curves selectable by tape speed and media type.

• Tape Lifter: Solenoid-actuated tape lifter protects the heads during fast forward, rewind, and stop modes extending head and tape life.

• Editing Functions: Includes a tape-splicing block mounted on the head cover for tape editing.

• Fast Start/Stop Times: Quick response transport control for efficient tape handling.

• Designed for Broadcasting: Built rugged and reliable for long hours of professional operation.