TEAC A-4000S

The TEAC A-4000S is a 4-track, 2-channel stereo reel-to-reel tape deck with auto-reverse playback, produced in the mid to late 1960s and early 1970s. It is designed for high-quality analog tape playback and recording (when paired with the optional RA-40S record amplifier).

Track and Head System

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

• Four heads: erase, record, playback, and reverse playback heads, enabling automatic bidirectional playback without manual tape flipping.

• Heads made of permalloy for durability and good magnetic performance.

Tape Transport and Motors

• Three motors: one 2-speed hysteresis synchronous capstan motor and two eddy current outer-rotor reel motors.

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

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

• Wow and flutter: 0.12% at 7½ ips, 0.15% at 3¾ ips.

Performance Specifications

• Frequency response:
  7½ ips: 30 Hz to 20 kHz (±3 dB)
  3¾ ips: 30 Hz to 15 kHz (±3 dB)

• Signal-to-noise ratio: approximately 50 dB (weighted).

• Crosstalk: 50 dB channel-to-channel at 1 kHz; 40 dB between tracks at 100 Hz.

• Equalization: NAB and EIA standards supported.

Inputs and Outputs

• Line input: 140 mV, 10 kΩ impedance.

• Microphone input: 0.25 mV, 10 kΩ impedance.

• Line output: 1 V for load impedance greater than 100 kΩ.

• Headphone output: requires high-impedance headphones.

• Connectors: RCA jacks.

Additional Features

• Auto-reverse playback eliminates the need to manually flip the tape.

• Solid wooden cabinet with metal chassis for durability and vibration damping.

• Compatible with TEAC RA-40S record amplifier for full recording functionality (A-4000S alone is playback only).

• Logic-controlled push-button transport operation.

• Bias frequency: 100 kHz.

• Power consumption: approximately 100 W at 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz.

• Dimensions: approximately 441 x 443 x 216 mm (17.4 x 17.4 x 8.5 inches).

• Weight: about 16.3 kg (36 lbs).