Otari MTR15

The Otari MTR-15 is a professional mastering reel-to-reel tape recorder, highly regarded for its precision, reliability, and advanced features tailored for high-end studio applications. It supports multiple tape widths, speeds, and equalization standards, making it versatile for various mastering needs.

• Tape Width and Track Configurations:
  MTR-15N (N-M): ¼ inch (6.3 mm), 2-track, 2-channel NAB stereo.
  MTR-15D (D-M): ¼ inch, 2-track DIN stereo.
  MTR-15T (T-M): ¼ inch, 3-track 2-channel NAB + timecode.
  MTR-15H-M: ½ inch (12.7 mm), 2-track, 2-channel NAB.
  MTR-15H2/4-M: ½ inch, 4-track, 2-channel NAB.

• Tape Speeds: 30, 15, 7.5, and 3.75 inches per second (ips).

• Tape Speed Accuracy: Within ±0.06%, with maximum deviation of 0.1%.

• Pitch Control Range: ±50% from nominal speed, with 0.01% resolution.

• Wow & Flutter (DIN 45507 Peak Weighted):
  30 ips: < ±0.04%
  15 ips: < ±0.05%
  7.5 ips: < ±0.07%
  3.75 ips: < ±0.10%

• Frequency Response:
  At 30 ips: 40 Hz to 20 kHz (±2 dB typical).
  Extended response up to 28 kHz for record/playback at 30 ips (per some sources).

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

• Total Harmonic Distortion: About 0.3% at 1 kHz, 250 nWb/m, 15 ips.

• Heads:
  Erase heads made of ferrite.
  Record and playback heads made of hard permalloy.
  Plug-in head blocks with independent azimuth, zenith, and wrap adjustments.

• Reel Size: Accepts NAB reels from 5 to 12.5 inches (318 mm), EIA (Cine), and DIN hubs. Maximum tape length up to 3750 ft (1143 m) on 50 μm tape.

• Motors:
  Quartz PLL servo-controlled direct-drive DC capstan motor.
  DC closed-loop bi-directional servo reel motors.

• Transport Features:
  Optical sensors detect reel size and maintain constant tape tension.
  Cue wheel for variable tape speed in shuttle and jog modes.
  Fast start and stop times (e.g., max 0.5 s at 15 ips).
  Fast wind times under 75 seconds for 762 m tape.

• Electronics and Controls:
  Fully automated audio alignment system for gain, EQ, phase compensation, and bias level, with memory for multiple tape formulations.
  Built-in digitally controlled oscillator for calibration and testing.
  Dolby HX Pro headroom extension for improved high-frequency recording performance.
  Four equalization standards selectable: AES, NAB, NAB-J, IEC.
  Multiple remote control options including RS-232-C and RS-422-A serial interfaces.
  Input/output levels adjustable between +13 dBu and -20 dBu, balanced or unbalanced line outputs.

• Additional Features:
  Built-in four-point locator with three one-touch cue points, search zero, last play search, and repeat mode.
  Wear meter tracking total power-on, head wear, and lifter wear hours.
  Display options for tape time in hours/minutes/seconds/frames, speed in ips or percentage.

• Dimensions and Weight: Approximately 482 x 300 x 488 mm, weighing around 46 kg.