Revox E 36

The Revox E36, introduced in early 1962, is a significant model in the Revox 36 series, known for advancing stereo tape recording technology and offering mixing, echo, and multiple recording possibilities for enthusiasts. It was the first Revox model to be introduced in substantial quantities to the British market.

Core Technical Specifications

• Track Configuration: Half-track (2-track) or quarter-track (4-track) stereo/mono

• Tape Speeds: 3¾ and 7½ inches per second (ips)

• Max Reel Size: 7 inches (some sources mention compatibility with up to 10.5 inches in other 36 series decks)

• Number of Motors: 2

• Number of Heads: 3 (Permalloy composition; stereo configuration)

• Frequency Response: 40Hz to 15kHz at 7½ ips

• Wow and Flutter: 0.1% at 7½ ips

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Better than 50dB

• Channel Separation: ≥55dB (mono), 40dB (stereo)

• Bias Frequency: 70kHz

• Rewind Speed: Approximately 80 seconds for a 2,400 ft reel

• Outputs: RCA connectors, 1.0V from cathode follower at 5kΩ impedance

• Inputs:
  Microphone: 100μV at 200Ω
  Radio: 80mV at 120kΩ
  Diode: Variable from 100μV at 1kΩ to 500mV at 47kΩ

• Audio Output Power: 6 watts single channel at less than 1% distortion

• Dimensions (W x H x D): Approximately 18 x 13 x 11 inches (457 x 330 x 279 mm)

• Weight: Around 50 lbs (22.7 kg)

Electronics and Tubes

• Vacuum Tube Complement:
  3 × ECC83
  2 × ECC81
  1 × ECL82
  2 × ECL80
  1 × EM71 magic eye level indicator (single beam)

• Semiconductors:
  4 × OC45 transistors
  3 × OA81 diodes
  3 selenium bridge rectifiers

Features and Functional Notes

• The E36 was engineered to provide advanced mixing, echo, and multi-recording capabilities desired by users in the early 1960s.

• It possesses a single "magic eye" tube that can be switched to display the level of channel 1, channel 2, or the combined signal.

• Designed with reliable mechanics including a heavy-duty solenoid pinch roller and precise braking system.

• It does not include auto-reverse features.

• The E36 was tailored for the European market but saw revisions later (such as the F36) for broader international compatibility and more features.

Legacy and Context

• The E36 bridged earlier Revox models like the D36 (first stereo Revox) and later more advanced models such as the F36.

• It marked Revox's entry into the UK market in larger numbers and brought hybrid electronic design (tubes combined with semiconductors).

• The E36 is prized for its robustness, sound quality (with a sound rating around 7/10), and reliability (rated similarly around 7/10).

• Compared to the F36, which offered refined features including the twin-beam EMM801 magic eye level indicator and enhanced international usability, the E36 is somewhat simpler but still highly functional for its time.

In summary, the Revox E36 is an early 1960s semi-professional reel-to-reel tape deck recognized for its hybrid electronics, stereo capabilities, and flexibility for creative recording techniques, making it a valued classic among enthusiasts and collectors