TEAC F1

The Teac F1 is a rare, semi-professional reel-to-reel tape recorder produced in Japan between 1976 and 1978. It is notable for its high build quality, advanced transport system, and unique features tailored for serious audio enthusiasts or semi-pro use.

• Track System:
  1/2 track (two-track stereo recording and playback).

• Tape Speeds:
  Two speeds supported: 7½ ips and 15 ips, allowing for high-fidelity recording and playback.

• Heads:
  Three heads total: one erase, one record, and one playback head arranged in stacked/inline configuration.
  Heads made of Permalloy, a high-quality magnetic alloy for good signal fidelity.

• Transport and Drive System:
  Three motors: two reel motors and one capstan motor.
  Closed-loop dual capstan with full tension servo system to maintain precise tape tension and reduce wow and flutter.
  Electronic dynamic braking and magnetic motion sensors on the reels for accurate tape handling.
  No auto-reverse feature.

• Frequency Response:
  30 Hz to 20,000 Hz ±2 dB at 15 ips, indicating wide and flat frequency response for high-quality audio reproduction.

• Wow and Flutter:
  0.02% at 15 ips and 0.04% at 7½ ips, demonstrating excellent speed stability and minimal pitch variation.

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio:
  63 dB without noise reduction.

• Noise Reduction:
  The rear panel includes a unique connector for external DBX noise reduction units, allowing improved signal-to-noise performance when used.

• Inputs and Outputs:
  RCA line outputs.
  Mic inputs and a remote control socket available on the rear panel (specific remote model not indicated).

• Equalization:
  Switchable between NAB and BTS equalization standards (BTS possibly a Japanese variant or similar to IEC).

• Physical Dimensions and Weight:
  Transport unit size: 550 x 450 x 320 mm, weighing 40 kg.
  Separate preamplifier unit size: 550 x 190 x 330 mm, weighing 10 kg.

• Power:
  Designed for 100V, 60 Hz power supply (Japan standard).
  Frequency switchable between 50 Hz and 60 Hz, but no voltage switch.

• Additional Notes:
  The model name "F1" is believed to be inspired by Teac's sponsorship of Formula 1 motor racing, particularly relevant to Japan's involvement in F1 during 1976.
  The F1 is extremely rare and was apparently only released in the Japanese market.
  Original retail price was approximately 800,000 Yen in 1976, indicating a high-end product for its time.