Phonorex Unknown

Early-1950s German reel-to-reel built by Max Ihle - the engineer whose firm also made the well-known Ferrophon for Loewe-Opta - and generally known simply as the 'PhonoRex' (hence the missing model number). Made from about 1952-53. Configuration: half-track (old German track layout, coating facing inward so the lower track is scanned); two tape speeds, 9.5 and 19 cm/s; reels up to 25 cm; a single motor drives all transport functions through a special clutch, and the rubberised capstan (a relic of the Ferrophon's 'Omega' drive) is turned by three weldable belts. Features: reverse operation (no need to turn the tape over), tape-end shut-off via a mercury switch or switching foil, adapters for AEG-type reels/open spools, and a lid loudspeaker; some units also had a built-in medium-wave radio. The design patent names Max Ihle, Willi Feiler and head-specialist Bruno Woelke.