Bang and Olufsen Beogram 6000 5502

The Bang & Olufsen Beogram 6000 (Type 5502) is a high-end tangential tracking turntable from the mid-1970s, designed primarily for quadraphonic (four-channel) playback with a high level of technical sophistication and build quality.

Technical Overview

• Tonearm: Electronically controlled tangential tracking arm, ensuring precise groove tracking at the original mastering angle, minimizing distortion and record wear.

• Playback: Supports 4-channel quadraphonic and stereo playback, with a built-in CD4 (Compatible Discrete 4) decoder for quadraphonic records.

• Cartridge: Equipped with the MMC 6000 cartridge featuring a specialized multi-radial "Pramanik" stylus geometry, designed for precise and delicate tracking. This cartridge was rated by RCA as highest performance for CD4 decoders.

• Frequency Response: Extends up to 45 kHz, making it highly capable of reproducing the full audio spectrum with clarity.

• Speeds: 33⅓ and 45 RPM, electronically controlled with precision.

• Wow and Flutter: Less than ±0.05% (DIN weighted), providing very stable playback.

• Rumble:
  DIN weighted more than 65 dB
  Unweighted more than 45 dB

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Approximately 65 dB

• Motor: Servo-controlled DC motor with belt drive for smooth platter rotation.

• Turntable: Large 30 cm platter weighing 2.2 kg ensures stable speed and minimal resonance.

• Power Supply: Compatible with 110-240 V, 50/60 Hz systems.

• Power Consumption: Approximately 30 W.

• Dimensions (W x H x D): 490 x 100 x 380 mm (19.3 x 3.9 x 15 inches)

• Weight: Approximately 12 kg (26 lbs)

• Chassis: Designed with a sophisticated suspension system to isolate the unit from external vibrations and resonance.

• Additional Features:
  Automatic record size and speed selection
  Electronic lift system for the tonearm
  Anti-skating with parallel tracking for negligible tracking errors (less than 0.04°)
  Full track search and repeat capabilities
  Designed to seamlessly integrate with the Beomaster 6000 and other Bang & Olufsen sound systems.

Summary

The Beogram 6000 is a professional-grade, quadraphonic turntable praised for its precision, remarkable frequency response (up to 45 kHz), and high-performance MMC 6000 cartridge. It was one of the most advanced tangential tracking decks of its time, combining technological excellence with classic Bang & Olufsen design aesthetics. Its built-in CD4 decoding capability made it a pioneer in quadraphonic vinyl playback, delivering immersive sound for those with compatible systems.