Otari MX-80

The Otari MX-80 is a professional multitrack reel-to-reel tape recorder series designed for studio and broadcast use, offering versatile configurations and high-performance tape transport.

• Tape Width and Track Configurations:
  Supports 1-inch or 2-inch tape widths.
  Available in 8, 16, and 24 track versions.
  24-track models use 2-inch tape; 16-track models may use 1-inch or 2-inch tape.
  All accept standard 10½ inch NAB hubs.

• Tape Speeds:
  High-speed versions: 15 and 30 inches per second (ips).
  Low-speed versions: 7.5 and 15 ips.
  Machines can be configured via switches to select two of three tape speed combinations.

• Tape Transport:
  Driven by three large motors: two DC servo-controlled reel motors and one direct-drive, crystal-controlled servo capstan motor.
  Fully microprocessor-controlled transport for precision tape handling and reliability.
  Constant tape tension maintained by reel motor servo circuits with photo-optical sensors.
  Fast wind time: Approximately 80 seconds for 2,500 ft tape.

• Heads:
  Three heads (erase, record, playback) mounted in a plug-in head block allowing easy replacement and preserving azimuth alignment.
  Head assembly includes a scrape flutter roller between record and playback heads.
  Head shield manually moved, automatically raised in play and record modes.

• Frequency Response:
  Approximately 40 Hz to 20 kHz at 15 ips.

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio:
  About 60 dB unweighted.

• Wow and Flutter:
  Approximately 0.04% at 30 ips.

• Audio Channels:
  Each channel is a complete recorder PCB with record, playback, erase, and bias circuitry.
  Dolby HX-Pro noise reduction included on each audio channel.

• Controls and Features:
  Transport controls (Play, Fast Forward, Rewind, Stop, Cue, Edit/Unload) microprocessor-controlled with two-level illumination indicating status.
  Speed modes selectable via transport or remote control (fixed crystal-controlled, variable speed ±50%, or external speed reference).
  Serial and parallel ports for synchronization and external control.
  Remote control units available (CB-140 for 16/24 track, CB-151 for 8 track).
  Analog VU meters with peak and status LEDs for each channel.

• Physical and Build:
  Standard 19-inch rack mountable.
  Weight approximately 130 kg (286 lbs).
  Rugged construction suitable for professional studio environments.