Otari MTR-12

The Otari MTR-12 is a professional, high-fidelity reel-to-reel tape recorder series designed primarily for mastering and production applications in studios. It is known for its precise tape transport, wide frequency response, and versatile configuration options.

• Tape Width and Tracks:
  Available in ¼ inch (6.3 mm) and ½ inch (12.7 mm) tape widths.
  Configurations include 2-track/2-channel stereo/mono and 4-track/4-channel stereo/mono/multi-channel versions.

• Tape Speeds:
  Supports 3¾, 7½, 15, and 30 inches per second (ips), user-configurable depending on model.

• Frequency Response:
  2-track models: 40 Hz to 27 kHz at 30 ips.
  4-track models: 60 Hz to 29 kHz at 30 ips.
  Some variants extend response down to 33 Hz.

• Wow and Flutter:
  0.04% (DIN 45507 peak weighted) at 30 ips, indicating very stable tape speed.

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio:
  Approximately 73 to 77 dB depending on model and track configuration.

• Total Harmonic Distortion:
  Around 0.15% across models.

• Heads:
  Three heads (erase, record, playback), made of permalloy, in stereo configuration.

• Motors:
  Three DC servo motors, including a quartz PLL capstan motor for precise speed control.

• Reel Size:
  Supports reels up to 12.5 inches, with automatic reel size sensing and compensation.

• Equalization:
  Switchable between NAB, IEC, and AES standards.

• Controls and Features:
  Variable pitch control ±20% with digital percentage and ips display.
  Cue control with tape lifter defeat and shuttle mode allowing variable speed forward and reverse tape movement.
  Built-in multi-frequency square/sine wave generator for calibration.
  Tape timer with hours/minutes/seconds display.
  Dynamic braking during mode transitions to prevent tape damage.
  One-hand "reel rocking" system for easy tape tension adjustment without slack or spillage.
  Illuminated control buttons for low-light operation.
  Search-to-zero mode for precise tape positioning without overshoot.
  Balanced XLR and RCA outputs.

• Dimensions:
  Approximately 846 x 584 x 660 mm (W x H x D).

• Sound Quality and Reliability Ratings:
  Sound quality: 8/10
  Long-term reliability: 8/10