Sony M1
Sony
Japan
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
1
Number of Heads
2
Head Configuration
Full-track-mono
Wow & Flutter
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
Dimensions [mm]
Weight [kg]
Year built
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
NAB
Frequency Response
Speed
3¾
Max Reel [inch]
5
Tracks
1/2 Rec/PB
Price
Additional Information
The Sony M1 reel-to-reel tape deck is an early portable field recorder designed for professional audio recording and newscasting produced by Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo. It features robust construction with a compact and portable design intended for outside broadcast and field use.
Technical Overview:
Tape Size: Uses ¼ inch tape on up to 5-inch reels.
Tape Speed: Approximately 3¾ inches per second (ips), a standard speed for professional portable recorders.
Track Configuration: Monophonic full track, optimized for voice and field recording.
Motor: Spring-driven or battery-operated motor for portable use.
Inputs/Outputs: Includes microphone input and headphone output.
Construction: Metal chassis with a rugged design for durability in field conditions.
Usage: Primarily targeted at professional audio capture for reporting and broadcast applications rather than consumer hi-fi.
The Sony M1 emphasizes reliability and ease of use in professional recording environments of the mid-20th century, similar to other Sony Newscaster series tape decks. It provides basic but effective recording and playback capability for portable analog analog magnetic tape.