Otari MX-5050

The Otari MX-5050 is a semi-professional, solid-state ¼-inch reel-to-reel tape recorder widely used in studios and by enthusiasts for its robust transport and versatile features. It was produced from 1975 through the early 2000s, with many variations and upgrades over its long production run.

• Tape Width: ¼ inch (6.35 mm)

• Track Configuration: 2-track stereo recording and playback, with 4-track playback capability (1/2 track record/play + 1/4 track playback)

• Heads: Four heads — half-track erase, quarter-track playback, half-track record, half-track playback (permalloy composition)

• Motors: Three motors — hysteresis synchronous or DC servo capstan motor (depending on model) and two reel motors

• Tape Speeds:
  Standard: 7½ and 15 ips (inches per second)
  Optional low-speed mode: 3¾ and 7½ ips via power supply modification

• Maximum Reel Size: 10½ inches (NAB standard)

• Frequency Response:
  15 ips: 35 Hz to 22 kHz (±2 dB)
  7½ ips: 30 Hz to 18 kHz (±2 dB)

• Wow and Flutter: Less than 0.05% (NAB standard)

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Approximately 62–66 dB (unweighted)

• Total Harmonic Distortion: Less than 1% at 1 kHz, 200 nWb/m

• Crosstalk: Greater than 55 dB

• Inputs: Line (-15 dBm), Microphone (-70 dBm)

• Outputs: Line (+4 or -10 dBm), Monitor output (-24 dBm)

• Dimensions: Approximately 527 x 430 x 225 mm (21" x 17" x 9")

• Weight: About 24 kg (51 lbs)

• Outputs: Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connectors

• Additional Features:
  Built-in splicing block
  Electronic 4-digit position indicator
  Cueing lever for fast tape positioning
  Adjustable bias and recording equalization from front panel
  Built-in 1 kHz oscillator for calibration and cue tone recording
  SRL (Studio Reference Level) switch for fixed output level
  Durable construction with heavy-duty XLR sockets
  Logic-operated feather-touch controls for transport functions

Variants and Versions

• MX-5050B (1978) and MX-5050BIII (1990) are notable updated versions featuring DC servo motors and refined electronics.

• Multiple variants exist with different speed capabilities and track configurations, including 2-track stereo, 4-track stereo, and full-track mono models.