Revox G 36

The Revox G36 is a prominent model in the Revox 36 series, manufactured in the early to mid-1960s (roughly 1963 to 1967). It represents the culmination of the 36 series design evolution, maintaining the core mechanical and electronic principles of earlier models while introducing key innovations to improve usability and performance.

Core Technical Specifications

• Track Configuration: Available in both 2-track stereo and 4-track stereo versions.

• Tape Speeds: 3¾ inches per second (ips) and 7½ ips (9.5 cm/s and 19 cm/s).

• Maximum Reel Size: Accepts reels up to 10.5 inches (26.5 cm) diameter.

• Motors: Three motors including pole-changing synchronous capstan motor (6/12 pole hysteresis synchronous motors) for slip-free tape transport.

• Heads: Three heads (1 record, 1 playback, 1 erase) made of Permalloy.

• Wow and Flutter: Approximately ±0.1% at 7½ ips.

• Frequency Response:
  At 7½ ips: 40 Hz to 18 kHz (+2 / -3 dB)
  At 3¾ ips: 40 Hz to 12 kHz (+2 / -3 dB)

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Around 52 dB (2-track stereo), slightly lower for 4-track.

• Total Harmonic Distortion: Approximately 3%

• Crosstalk: About 40 dB

• Output Power: 6 watts through built-in speaker (210 mm diameter).

• Electronics: All-tube (valve) design with tubes including 4 × ECC81, 1 × ECC82, 5 × ECC83, and 2 × ECL86.

• Diodes and Rectifiers: Silicon diodes and selenium rectifiers.

• Dimensions: 480 x 340 x 300 mm (width x height x depth).

• Weight: Approximately 20 kg (44 lbs).

• Inputs: Microphone (3 mV at 1 MΩ), Radio/Phono (50 mV at 1 MΩ), Diode (3-50 mV at 47 kΩ).

• Outputs: RCA connectors; cathode follower outputs for improved signal stability.

• Power Supply: Multi-voltage compatible (110 V, 125 V, 145 V, 220 V, 240 V, AC, 50/60 Hz).

Mechanical and Functional Features

• Tape Tension Switch: Allows use of any spool size up to 10.5 inches, with spool holders that have locking mechanisms.

• Horizontal/Vertical Operation: Can be operated in either orientation.

• Capstan Motor: Synchronous with hysteresis and direct drive, pole-changing for speed selection.

• Tape Transport: Slip-free capstan shaft with mechanical filter.

• VU Meters: Added for record level control, following ASA regulations.

• Tape Counter: Digital counter.

• Recording Features: Allows complex recording techniques such as duoplay, multiplay, and echo without external equipment.

• Mixer Function: Input amplifiers can be switched as a mixer for mono operation.

• Push-Button Controls: For transport functions (play, stop, rewind, record).

• Rewind Time: Approximately 80 seconds for a 2400 feet tape reel.

• Oscillator Frequency: 70 kHz push-pull for bias and equalization.

Design and Legacy Notes

• The G36 continues the lineage from models like the A36, D36, E36, and F36 with improvements in tape handling and electronics.

• It features a refined all-tube amplifier with built-in speaker monitoring, appreciated by audiophiles for its warm sound.

• The unit is robust, reliable, and designed for semi-professional and high-fidelity consumer use.

• It is recognized for its combination of ease of use, technical sophistication, and solid mechanical design.

• The G36 was available through the mid-1960s and helped solidify Revox’s reputation in the reel-to-reel market before the transition to newer, transistorized models.

In summary, the Revox G36 is a well-engineered, semi-professional reel-to-reel tape deck from the 1960s that balances tube amp warmth, versatile track and speed options, three-motor precision transport, and practical innovation such as tension control and VU meters—making it an important part of the Revox 36 series legacy.