Studer A62
Studer
Switzerland
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
Number of Heads
Head Configuration
Wow & Flutter
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
Dimensions [mm]
Weight [kg]
Year built
Head Composition
Equalization
Frequency Response
Speed
7½, 15
Max Reel [inch]
Tracks
Price
Additional Information
The Studer A62 is a compact professional reel-to-reel tape deck produced from 1964–1972, renowned for its robust engineering, portability, and serviceability. Here is a detailed technical overview:
Key Technical Features
Recording Format: Mono and stereo versions available; 2-track, 1/4-inch tape configuration.
Tape Speeds: 15 inches per second (ips) and 7.5ips selectable.
Reel Capacity: Accommodates reels up to 10.5 inches diameter (CINE, NAB, and DIN adapters supported).
Transport & Mechanism:
Fully electronic tape tension control (no mechanical sensing).
Cast aluminum deck plate with removable sub-assemblies for rapid service and flexibility.
Tape threading via adjustable tension arms with piston damping (external adjustment).
Start time: max 1.5s; rewind time: max 120s for 2,400 feet of tape.Heads & Audio Path:
Interchangeable headblocks (mono, stereo, pilot tone options); Mu-metal shielded heads.
Plug-in amplifiers (transistorized); plug-in equalizer cards.
Electronic switching of record/playback.Electronics:
51 transistors and 51 diodes (stereo configuration).
Push-pull oscillator (80kHz) for high-efficiency bias/erase.Frequency Response:
30Hz–15kHz (+1/-2dB) at 15ips; 40Hz–15kHz (+1/-2dB) at 7.5ips.
Weighted signal/noise ratio (without tape): >70dB (15ips), >68dB (7.5ips).Distortion: Max 2% at 1kHz with LGR tape (200nWb/m).
Crosstalk: >40dB at 1kHz for stereo operation, >55dB for half-track.
Power Requirements: Universal AC input (110–250V, 50Hz), 100–120W operating.
Size & Weight: 482×540×268mm (W×H×D); 25.9kg (stereo), plus 9.5kg optional carrying case.
Mounting: Can be positioned horizontally or vertically for studio or mobile use.
Remote Control: All transport functions fully remote-controllable.
Summary of Practical Qualities
Portability & Mounting: Compact and light for a professional deck, suitable for OB vans and studios with space constraints.
Serviceability: Plug-in electronics, interchangeable headblocks, and modular design simplified maintenance and adaptation to new requirements.
Audio Quality: Professional-grade frequency response, low wow/flutter (≤0.05% at 15ips), and impressive S/N ratio for its class.
The Studer A62 established itself as a studio and broadcast workhorse, prized for its rugged design, audio clarity, and convenient modular features—a bridge between the valve era and the fully solid-state systems that followed