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Otari MTR-90 MKII

Otari

Japan

Otari MTR-90 MKII

Tape Deck Details

Number of Motors

3

Number of Heads

3

Head Configuration

Stereo

Wow & Flutter

30 ips: ±0.04%

Signal-to-Noise [dB]

78

Dimensions [mm]

Weight [kg]

Year built

Head Composition

Permalloy

Equalization

Frequency Response

40 Hz to 20 kHz at 30 ips

Speed

7½, 15, 30

Max Reel [inch]

10.5+

Price

Additional Information

The Otari MTR-90 MKII is a professional 2-inch, 24-track analog multitrack tape recorder designed for high-end studio mastering and production applications. It is an evolution of the original MTR-90 series, featuring advanced tape transport, precise speed control, and modular construction for reliability and serviceability.


  • Tape Width & Tracks:
    2-inch wide tape
    24-track recording and playback

  • Tape Transport:
    Pinch-rollerless design with wide-diameter spindles, capstan, and tachometer to distribute tape tension evenly, minimizing tape wear and oxide damage.
    Plug-in head blocks with independent azimuth adjustment for precise alignment.
    Massive precision-machined top plate and welded steel chassis for mechanical stability.
    Modular construction including computerized transport control logic.

  • Motors:
    1 DC capstan motor with quartz PLL servo control for precise and stable tape speed.
    2 fully servoed DC reel motors with high torque for fast winding and rapid start-up.

  • Reel Size:
    Supports reels up to 14 inches diameter (NAB hub) with reel size auto sensing.

  • Tape Speeds:
    Standard speeds: 30 and 15 ips (inches per second).
    Optional speeds: 15 and 7.5 ips (manufactured to order).
    Tape speed accuracy: less than ±0.1%.
    Tape speed deviation: within 0.05% from beginning to end of reel.
    Pitch control: ±20% continuously variable with 0.01% precision readout.

  • Wow & Flutter (Peak weighted DIN 45507):
    30 ips: ±0.04%
    15 ips: ±0.05%
    7.5 ips: ±0.08%

  • Start/Stop Time:
    Max 1.0 second at 30 ips for 14" reels.

  • Frequency Response:
    Typically 40 Hz to 20 kHz at 30 ips.

  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio:
    Approximately 78 dB.

  • Total Harmonic Distortion:
    Around 0.3%.

  • Controls and Features:
    Cue wheel for precise tape positioning and gentle tape rocking during editing.
    Motor-driven retractable head shields for tape protection during editing.
    Spot erase function for selective track erasure.
    Remote control unit with transport controls, speed selection, pitch control, and digital speed display.
    Modular electronics for ease of maintenance.
    Serial and parallel I/O for external control and automation.

  • Build Quality:
    Heavy-duty welded steel chassis and precision machined parts ensure long-term mechanical stability and reliability.

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