Crown Tape Recorder

Audio Amplifiers Ltd.; Essex

Data
Forum
Pictures
Collections

  • Year
  • 1960 ?
  • Category
  • Sound/Video Recorder and/or Player
  • Radiomuseum.org ID
  • 362561

 Technical Specifications

  • Main principle
  • Audio-Amplification
  • Wave bands
  • - without
  • Power type and voltage
  • Alternating Current supply (AC) / 230 Volt
  • Loudspeaker
  • Permanent Magnet Dynamic (PDyn) Loudspeaker (moving coil) - elliptical
  • Power out
  • 4 W (unknown quality)
  • Material
  • Leather / canvas / plastic - over other material
  • from Radiomuseum.org
  • Model: Crown Tape Recorder - Audio Amplifiers Ltd.; Essex
  • Shape
  • Tablemodel, Box - most often with Lid (NOT slant panel).
  • Notes

  • Crown Tape Recorder

    The Crown tape recorder, introduced in 1960 by Audio Amplifiers Ltd. in association with C.Q. Audio Ltd., was a high-fidelity, three-speed reel-to-reel tape machine engineered to deliver professional-grade audio recording and playback at an affordable consumer price point.

    Key Technical Specifications:

    Deck Mechanism

    • Model: Collaro Studio Deck
    • Tape Speeds:
      • – 7½ inches per second (ips)
      • – 3¾ ips
      • – 1⅞ ips

    Amplification and Frequency Response

    • Amplifier Output: Genuine high-fidelity 4-watt amplifier
    • Frequency Response:
      • – 40 Hz to 12,000 Hz at 7½ ips (±3 dB)
    • Equalisation: Speed-specific equalisation is achieved through negative feedback circuitry for accurate tonal reproduction at varying speeds.

    Sound Reproduction Components

    • Loudspeaker: Large elliptical “concert quality” speaker, providing extended low-end and broad frequency range reproduction.
    • Monitor Capabilities: Includes a “straight-through” monitoring function, allowing real-time audio signal analysis.
    • Visual Indicators:
      • – Magic eye (for level indication during recording)
      • – Digital tape position indicator

    Recording Functions

    • Supports superimposition (sound-on-sound) recording, enabling overdubbing capabilities.
    • Built-in replay amplifier suitable for direct loudspeaker playback or connection to external amplification systems.

    Cabinet Construction

    • Acoustically tuned, mechanically stable wooden cabinet
    • Covered in durable dark green and grained grey leatherette finish
    • Two-tone modern styling for a refined appearance

    Included Accessories

    • Dynamic microphone
    • One 7-inch reel of magnetic tape
    • Complete and ready-to-use out of the box

    Retail Pricing

    • Listed Price: 39 Guineas 
    • Marketed as an affordable option delivering performance on par with more expensive equipment
  • Price in first year of sale
  • 40.95 GB £
  • Mentioned in
  • -- Original prospect or advert (The Tape Recorder Feb 1960, Page 41)
  • Author
  • Model page created by Gary Cowans. See "Data change" for further contributors.

 Collections | Museums | Literature

 Forum