TEAC A-2520
TEAC
Japan
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
3
Number of Heads
3
Head Configuration
Stereo
Wow & Flutter
0.08% at 7½ ips
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
55
Dimensions [mm]
440 x 383 x 203
Weight [kg]
17
Year built
1970s
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
NAB
Frequency Response
At 7½ ips: 30 Hz to 22 kHz (±3 dB)
Speed
3¾, 7½
Max Reel [inch]
7
Tracks
1/4 Rec/PB
Price
User
Consumer
Additional Information
The TEAC A-2520 is a 4-track reel-to-reel tape deck introduced around 1972, building on the A-2500 platform with added 4-channel playback capabilities. It is designed for both stereo and multi-channel applications, offering precise tape transport and stable performance.
Track and Head System
4-track, 2-channel stereo recording and 4-track, 4-channel playback capability.
Uses a 4-channel inline playback head enabling both two-channel reciprocating playback and four-channel playback.
Separate erase and record heads compatible with both 2-channel and 4-channel modes.
Tape Transport and Motors
Tape speeds: 19 cm/s (7½ ips) and 9.5 cm/s (3¾ ips) with ±0.5% accuracy.
Motor system:
Capstan: 2-speed hysteresis synchronous motor with a dynamically balanced large flywheel for stable tape travel and low wow/flutter.
Reels: Two 6-pole eddy current induction motors providing strong starting torque and reduced hunting.Reel size support: Type 17 (7-inch) and Type 12 (5-inch).
Tape tension and reel stand height adjustable via Phillips screwdriver.
Performance Specifications
Wow and flutter: 0.08% at 19 cm/s, 0.10% at 9.5 cm/s.
Frequency response:
19 cm/s: 30 Hz to 22 kHz (±3 dB)
9.5 cm/s: 30 Hz to 16 kHz (±3 dB)Signal-to-noise ratio: 55 dB.
Total harmonic distortion: 1% at reference level.
Crosstalk: 60 dB at 1 kHz.
Stereo separation: 50 dB at 1 kHz.
Inputs and Outputs
Microphone input: 0.25 mV (-72 dB), compatible with 600 Ω to 10 kΩ microphones.
Line input: 0.1 V, 50 kΩ or higher impedance.
Line output: 0.3 V into 10 kΩ or more.
Headphone output: 8 Ω.
Additional Features
Rec Pause mechanism allows pausing tape movement during recording without turning off the recording amplifier.
Tape lifter fixing mechanism to protect tape during transport.
4-digit mechanical index counter with reset.
Monitor switch to toggle headphone monitoring between front and rear channels on 4-channel tapes.
Repeat playback function using foil sensing at tape ends for continuous operation.
Durable construction with a 5 mm thick aluminum top panel and reinforced die-cast frame sides.
Compatible with a separately sold timer control adapter for scheduled operation.
Power: 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz, 140 W consumption.
Physical Specifications
Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 383 mm (H) x 203 mm (D).
Weight: approximately 17 kg.