ROBERTS Akai Stereo Reel Tube Tape Recorder 4TRACK
( Brand: Roberts ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 997S ), ( Type: Tape Recorder )
Review ROBERTS 4track Vintage Akai 997 Stereo Reel Tube Tape Recorder
The Roberts Akai 997S 4-Track Stereo Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorder is a vintage gem for audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking a unique, high-quality recording experience. This iconic piece of equipment, a collaboration between Roberts and Akai, combines classic design with modern functionality to deliver an exceptional tape recording experience.
The 997S features four independent tracks for recording and playback, providing ample space for musicians to layer and experiment with their sound. The stereo output ensures a wide, immersive soundstage, perfect for capturing the intricacies of your music.
At its heart is a pair of high-fidelity tubes, which add warmth and depth to the recorded sound, giving it a rich, analog character that digital recorders can't replicate. The tube circuitry also ensures a smooth, natural frequency response, reducing harshness and distortion for a truly professional-grade recording.
The Roberts Akai 997S boasts a comprehensive set of inputs and outputs, including XLR and RCA connections, allowing for easy integration with a variety of audio sources and equipment. The unit also offers a built-in spring reverb effect, adding an extra layer of ambience to your recordings.
The machine's design is equally impressive, with a sleek, retro aesthetic that is both stylish and timeless. The metal construction and sturdy feel ensure durability, while the intuitive control layout makes operation easy and intuitive. The large, backlit transport controls and meter displays provide clear feedback during recording and playback.
In summary, the Roberts Akai 997S 4-Track Stereo Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorder is a versatile, high-performance machine that offers a unique, warm, and authentic recording experience. Whether you're a musician, sound engineer, or hobbyist, this tape recorder is an essential tool for capturing and preserving your audio creations in stunning detail.
Pros, Cons, and Recommendation for the 4-Track Roberts Akai 997 Stereo Reel Tape Recorder (997S)
Pros:1. Authentic Tube Sound: The 997S utilizes tube technology, which provides a warm and rich sound that digital recorders often lack. This can be particularly appealing to musicians and audio enthusiasts who value the unique characteristics of analog tape.
2. Stereo Recording: The 4-track design allows for stereo recording, enabling you to capture a wider and more immersive soundscape.
3. Versatile Inputs: The 997S offers various inputs, including XLR and 1/4-inch jacks, making it suitable for a wide range of audio sources.
4. Vintage Aesthetic: The vintage design of the 997S can be an attractive addition to any studio or home audio setup.
Cons:1. Maintenance and Expenses: Tape machines require regular maintenance and spare parts may be expensive and difficult to find, especially for older models like the 997S.
2. Tape Decay: Tapes degrade over time, which can lead to lost recordings and increased costs for replacements.
3. Limited Capacity: Compared to digital storage solutions, the capacity of tape is quite limited.
4. Noise: Tape machines can produce noise, both during recording and playback, which may not be desirable for certain applications.
Conclusion:The 4-Track Roberts Akai 997S stereo reel tape recorder offers a unique and desirable sound quality due to its tube technology and stereo recording capabilities. However, it comes with inherent drawbacks such as maintenance requirements, tape decay, limited capacity, and noise production.
Recommendation:If you are a musician, audio enthusiast, or collector who values the warm, rich sound of tube technology and the nostalgia of analog tape recording, the 997S could be a worthwhile investment. However, if you prioritize convenience, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance, a digital recorder may be a more suitable choice. It's essential to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.
Details:
Specifications track system: 4-track, 2-channel, stereo monaural system heads: 1 x playback record, erase reel size: 3, 5 or 7 inch equalization: nab tape speeds: 15 UPS wow and flutter. Missing a screw and silver grate is lifted slightly on that the right side not fitting correctly. I 'm not really sure how to use this.
The outer cover looks great but peeling up slightly in spots UPS frequency response: 40hz to 15khz signal noise ratio: 50db vacuum tubes: 6ar5, 6bq5, 6x4, 12ad7, please see pictures as they are part of - selling for parts repair and is only. In addition it provides sound on recording, a stereo output speaker control panel with six jacks. Info from different sites on the net may or bot be like mine.
The reels are not included if you really want them please let me know. The bottom light didn't come on. Before akai it was Roberts the 997 has all of features 990 including four two track stereo and monaural playback.
part #: 997s prices
- $24.99-$39.95
specifications reeltapevintagego:
- brand: Roberts
- mpn: 997s
- type: Tape Recorder
Payments reeltapevintagego:
- PayPal
Shipping reeltapevintagego:
- type: Calculated
- handling: 4 days
Ratings:
- quick shipping, good packing, no problems 04-16-19
- Vintage IBM monitor arrived promptly and worked well. Excellent packaging. 04-18-19
- excellent packaging, great product and seller 04-18-19
- Great seller 04-16-19
- Great 04-16-19
Returns reeltapevintagego:
- paid by: Buyer
- time: 30 Days
- policy: returns accepted
- type: Money Back
Seller reeltapevintagego:
- city: Binghamton, New York
- # feedbacks 04-19-19: 841
- zipcode: 13903
- rating 04-19-19: 99.8%
Offer reeltapevintagego:
- Started: April 18, 2019, 5:15 pm
- Sold: 0
- bids: 1
- quantity: 1
- best offer: false
- min. bid: $5.50
General reeltapevintagego:
- in stock: Yes
- Vintage Audio Video > Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorders
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