Philips N4407

The Philips N4407 (including variants like N4407/00, /60, or rebranded as Maestro 4407 in some markets) is a late 1960s to early 1970s consumer stereo reel-to-reel tape recorder, produced approximately 1969–1974 (primarily manufactured in Austria by Philips Österreich). It was a mid-range model in Philips' solid-state N44xx hi-fi series, sitting between the economy N4404 (two speeds) and the flagship N4408 (enhanced features like better indicators and transport refinements). The N4407 offered true stereo recording and playback, versatile track facilities, and built-in amplification/speakers—making it a popular "starter" stereo open-reel deck for home hi-fi enthusiasts in the early 1970s.

This was a 4-track (quarter-track) stereo machine with three speeds, capable of recording and playing stereo in both directions without frequent tape flips. It supported sound-on-sound overdubbing, mic/line mixing, and flexible orientation (vertical or horizontal use).

Key Technical Specifications

• Recording/Playback System — 4-track (quarter-track), 2-channel stereo/mono compatible; records and plays stereo on tracks 1-4 forward and 3-2 reverse; mono compatible; sound-on-sound/multiplay overdub facilities; no auto-reverse.

• Tape Speeds — Three speeds:1⅞ ips (4.75 cm/s)
  3¾ ips (9.5 cm/s)
  7½ ips (19 cm/s)
  

• Reel Size — Up to 7 inches (18 cm) maximum diameter.

• Frequency Response (approximate, within ~±3 dB tolerances; varies by tape/condition):At 7½ ips: 40 Hz – 18,000 Hz (some sources: 40–16,000 Hz)
  At 3¾ ips: 40 Hz – 15,000 Hz
  At 1⅞ ips: 60 Hz – 8,000–10,000 Hz Respectable consumer hi-fi performance, especially at 7½ ips.
  

• Wow & Flutter — Approximately 0.15–0.2% at 7½ ips (some sources: 0.05–0.07% at higher speeds in ideal conditions; good single-motor stability).

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio — Better than 45 dB (typical for the era's transistor design).

• Heads — 2 heads: combined record/playback (permalloy) + erase head.

• Drive System — Single asynchronous motor; belt drive to capstan/flywheel; idler tires/clutches; mechanical brakes; fast wind/rewind (reasonable for 7" reels).

• Electronics — Fully transistorized (~20 transistors total); printed circuit board amplifier; no tubes.

• Amplification & Speakers — Built-in stereo amplifiers; dual internal loudspeakers (elliptical types); output power ~2 × several watts (adequate for monitoring).

• Inputs — Microphone (stereo pair possible); radio/line/phono; DIN connectors standard.

• Outputs — Line out; headphones; external speakers; DIN-style.

• Features —Illuminated VU meter(s).
  Piano-style push-button transport controls.
  Track selector and direction switching.
  Monitoring while recording.
  Pause function.
  Portable/tabletop design with lid and carry handle; usable vertically or horizontally.
  

• Power — AC mains (110–120 V / 220–240 V switchable, multi-voltage); moderate consumption.

• Build & Dimensions — Tabletop case (often wood/teak finish); approx. 480 × 190 × 340 mm (18.9 × 7.5 × 13.4 inches); weight ≈11 kg (24.25 lb).

• Manufacturing — Primarily Austria (Philips Österreich).

Performance & Legacy Context

The N4407 was well-regarded as a versatile, good-value stereo deck—offering three speeds (including usable 7½ ips for music), full stereo capabilities without tape flips for each pair, and features like overdubbing/mixing typically seen on pricier 3-head machines. It delivered clear, musical sound at 7½ ips when aligned and with quality tape, making it suitable for home recording and hi-fi playback. Reliability was solid (rated ~7/10 in collector assessments), though single-motor designs required belt maintenance.

Compared to siblings:

• N4404 — Economy version: only two speeds (1⅞ & 3¾ ips), otherwise similar chassis.

• N4408 — Top-of-range: added refinements (e.g., better transport, indicators, possibly enhanced response).

• N4307/N4308 — Mono, fewer speeds—budget non-stereo line.

Common issues today: Belt degradation (gooey melting—multiple belts need replacement), dried electrolytic capacitors, transistor aging, dirty heads, worn idlers/clutches, and mechanical adjustments (tape path, brakes). Restorations are common and effective—many enthusiasts praise refurbished examples for excellent performance. Service/user manuals are available (HiFi Engine, Elektrotanya—includes schematics and alignment info).