TEAC A-2300S

The TEAC A-2300S is a semi-professional, solid-state 4-track, 2-channel stereo reel-to-reel tape deck produced in Japan between approximately 1972 and 1976. It is designed for both home audiophiles and light studio use, offering a balance of usability, sound quality, and compactness.

Track and Head System

• 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural quarter-track format.

• Three heads: separate record, playback, and erase heads made of high-hardness permalloy with front shielding to reduce crosstalk and improve channel separation.

• Head design includes ferrite core erase head and litz wire winding for improved performance.

Tape Transport and Motors

• Three motors:
  One dual-speed hysteresis synchronous capstan motor for precise tape speed control.
  Two eddy current induction reel motors for stable tape tension and smooth winding.

• Tape speeds: 3¾ ips (9.5 cm/s) and 7½ ips (19 cm/s) with ±0.5% speed accuracy.

• Supports reels up to 7 inches (No. 7 size).

• Wow and flutter: approximately 0.08% at 7½ ips.

• Rewind time: about 140 seconds for 550 meters (1800 feet) of tape.

Frequency Response and Sound Quality

• Frequency response:
  At 7½ ips: 30 Hz to 28 kHz (±3 dB)
  At 3¾ ips: 30 Hz to 20 kHz (±3 dB)

• Signal-to-noise ratio: around 55–58 dB (depending on source).

• Total harmonic distortion: approximately 1% at reference level.

• Crosstalk: 60 dB at 1 kHz.

• Stereo separation: about 50 dB at 1 kHz.

Inputs and Outputs

• Microphone inputs: 0.25–0.3 mV sensitivity, 600 Ω to 10 kΩ impedance, with independent level controls.

• Line inputs: 100 mV, 50 kΩ impedance.

• Line outputs: 0.3 V at 10 kΩ or higher load.

• Headphone output: 8 Ω.

• Connectors: RCA and DIN types.

Additional Features

• Touch-button solenoid controls with logic circuitry for reliable operation.

• Mic/line mixing capability for recording.

• Expanded scale, left-right independent VU meters with monitoring switch for input and playback levels.

• Quick-lock reel clamps and adjustable reel stand height to protect tape edges.

• Timer recording and playback capability with optional timer control adapter.

• Pause mechanism for smooth operation during recording and playback.

• Compact design suitable for horizontal or vertical placement.

• Optional accessories: acrylic dust cover (TZ-250), remote control unit (RC-120), timer control adapter (RC-320), and portable case (CS-420).

• Weight: approximately 18 kg (39.5 lbs).

• Dimensions: about 440 mm (W) x 392 mm (H) x 210mm (D)