Master Studer A810 recorder
   

 One of the best tape recorders you can buy is a Studer, the A810 is a fantastic machine which was used by recording studios and broadcast stations internationally. This machine is a rare version, the recorder has built in pilot tone along with the usual time code, this recorder was designed to be used for recording and producing mastering recordings and to control many lave machines during dubbing. The Studer A810 can be swapped around to either be a full size machine like the machine for sale or a portable design, this recorder can have the meter pods taken out and installed intro the machine giving you a portable recorder.  

This recorder has been fully serviced and has had parts replaced such as the bearings and main battery, the machine scores a 9.5/10 for cosmetics, I would even say this recorder has not been used very much or has had a good home previously, close up pictures of the heads and capstan shaft are below to back this theory, the recorder has had the VU bulbs removed to prevent the red part of the scale fading out (As many Studer meters do) new lamps can be fitted free of charge at buyers request. Below close to the bottom of the extensive collection of pictures you will find a video of the recorder as it has been tested, you will see that the machine is operating better than the original specifications which are also documented at the bottom.

The recorder has been tested on all 4 speeds, recording dynamics tested on 7.1/2, 15 and 30 ips, all of which show the machine can record up to 20KHz on these speeds, 7.1/3, 15 record as low as 20Hz and 40Hz at 30 ips, all within ±3dB which is better than the original specs, all of which is demonstrated in a video below.

Due to the shape of the recorder and the value, the recorder will not be shipped, instead, we offer a free delivery within 150 miles from Birmingham (Where the machine is currently located), additional travelling arrangements or meetings can be made.

This recorder has been stripped down and had many serviceable parts replaced, all bearings are from Studers stock and are not cheap bearings which can be found on Ebay but RMG bearings which cost between £12-17 each, below are some close up shots of the work done.

Erase head

Record head close up

Replay head close up

Erase head side view

Record head side view

Replay head side view

Time code head

Time code head

Pilot electronics

Capstan shaft

This capstan shaft has had very little use

PPL LED showing capstan phase lock loop

Inside the rear of the recorder is very clean

Pilot electronics, very rare.

Audio and time code connectors

Breaks are very clean LHS

Breaks are very clean RHS

Front tape plate removed showing recorder is very clean inside

New bearings fitted

With new bearings in place, and tension arm covers installed.

Old battery removed, no damage to the board, common cause of serious issues.

New battery installed

Software version 0188, no errors.

VIDEO OF MACHINE IN ACTION
The machine has been aligned and setup, the recorder has been calibrated to suit a wide range of tapes rather than a pacific however a list of pre-set values are located inside the machine for anyone wishing to re program the recorder back to factory settings. From the video you will see the machine in operation and recording at 3 of the 4 speeds, demonstrating high frequency responses and a great dynamic range along with a stable wow and flutter which can all be viewed on the oscilloscope.
 
 

SPECIFICATIONS
SHIPPING

NOTES

  • Stereo 2 track

  • take up to 10.5" reels or 11 inch platters

  • 1/4 inch tape

  • Programmable keys

  • VU meters switch between VU and PPM

  • Will run on 110V - 240V 50-60Hz

  • Runs at 30, 15, 7.1/2 and3.3/4 ips

  • Frequency response 40Hz - 22KHz ±3dB @30ips

  • Frequency response 40Hz - 20KHz ±1dB @30ips

  • Frequency response 40Hz - 20KHz ±3dB @15ips

  • Frequency response 40Hz - 18KHz ±1dB @15ips

  • Frequency response 40Hz - 18KHz ±3dB @7.1/2ips

  • Frequency response 40Hz - 16KHz ±1dB @7.1/2ips

  • Signal to noise better than 65dB @ 30ips

  • Signal to noise better than 63dB @ 15ips

  • Distortion better than 0.6% weighted

  • Crosstalk better than 65dB

  • Weighs approximately 53Kg with stand

This item is very heavy and can not be shipped safely therefore I offer a free delivery within 150 miles of Birmingham

 

 This recorder has been fully serviced and is sounding amazing, the recorder comes with a 90 day return to base warranty, please see Terms for full details.

 

Vintage Recorders are selling this machine on behalf of one of our customers, the recorder is still with our customer in Birmingham, shipping will be free up to 150 miles from this point.

For more information regarding our terms and conditions please click here