Tandberg Series 6000X reel-to-reel

The new tape recorder Series 6000X is designed for the world's most discriminating markets, and is in a class by itself when it comes to quality, precision and sound reproduction. Tandberg Series 6000X Stereo has a modern design. The operational devices are clearly arranged and in spite of its numerous technicalities the tape recorder is simple and easy to operate.

Series 6000X Stereo is a fully transistorized stereo recorder with 3 speeds: 7-1/2, 3-3/4 and 1-7/8 ips. It is intended for use together with separate hi-fi amplifiers and has therefore no built-in power amplifiers. There are separate heads for recording, playback and erase, plus a bias head. Two moving coil meters indicate recording levels. These instruments also indicate the output level at playback.

The recording is based upon the Tandberg Cross-Field technique, giving sensationally good specifications for frequency range and Signal-to-Noise Ratio. Inputs for dynamic microphone, line, radio, magnetic and ceramic pick-up. Limiter prevents excessive input signal levels during recording. Listening during fast wind and rewind if desired, makes it easy to locate a programme on the tape.

Professional tape recorder users will appraise the merits of Series 6000X Stereo. Mixing possibilities in stereo with separate input controls (2 for each channel), microphone with pick-up, line or radio. 4 input controls for mixing in mono. AB-test,  - that is you can listen to a programme during recording (monitoring). And you can also listen to the playback during recording. Possibilities for "Sound-on-Sound" copying of a programme from one track to the other, and mixing in a new programme synchronously with the first one. Possibilities for echo and other trick recordings.

Tandberg 6000X Stereo has one-lever control of tape drive, push-buttons for electrical functions and track selection, illuminated 4-digit revolution counter, automatic end-stop, pause=button and possibilities for remote control of start and stop.

Tandberg Series 6000X Stereo is available in 2- or4-track versions, in teak or rosewood cabinets.

 

Crossfield Technique

The technique employed by Tandberg introduces a separate bias head which thoroughly magnetizes and reduces the recording zone on the tape as well as wavelength dependability losses in the record function. In turn, the need for equalization in the record amplifier as well as distortion in the ultimate recording is reduced. Consequently, Signal-to-Noise Ratio, Dynamic Range and Record Frequency Response are all vastly improved. The fact that Tandberg designs and manufactures its own heads further crystallizes the ultimate potential of each Tandberg recorder into an optimum range. Therefore, it becomes evident why Tandberg's position as the world 's leading producer of tape recorders remains unmatched in the world today.

 

Specifications:

Tape:  7" max reel size. Low Noise tape should be used for recording

Tape Speeds:  7-1/2, 3-3/4 and 1-7/8 ips

Speed Tolerance:  ±1%

Playing Time (1,200 ft tape)

7-1/2 ips : 2 x 32 min. [stereo]; 4 x 32 min. [mono]

3-3/4 ips : 2 x 64 min. [stereo]; 4 x 64 min. [mono]

1-7/8 ips : 2 x 128 min. [stereo]; 4 x 128 min. [mono]

Playing Time (1,800 ft tape)

7-1/2 ips : 2 x 48 min. [stereo]; 4 x 48 min. [mono]

3-3/4 ips : 2 x 96 min. [stereo]; 4 x 96 min. [mono]

1-7/8 ips : 2 x 192 min. [stereo]; 4 x 192 min. [mono]

Fast Wind and Rewind

1,200 ft Tape :  approx. 1-3/4 min.

1,800 ft Tape :  approx. 2-1/2 min.

Heads:  1 x Erase; 1 x Record; 1 x Playback; 1 x separate Cross-Field bias Head

Erase and Bias:  85,5 kHz, distortion less than 0,5%

Inputs Sensitivity/Impedance

MIC :  70 µV/ 200 - 700 Ω (Max. Input Level 70 mV)

Radio :  5 mV/100 k Ω (Max. Input Level 15 V)

Line :  5 mV/100 K Ω (Max. Input Level 15 V)

Pickup :  1 mV/33 K Ω  (Max. Input Level 3V. With pick-up selector in position C; Impedance adapted for ceramic pick-up. Sensitivity 10 mV. Max. Input Level 30 V)

Limiter: Attack time below 5 ms. Release time approx. 1 s

Outputs Load/Impedance

Radio :  0,75 V/ 11 K Ω 

Line :  160 mV/10 K Ω

Outputs : 1,5 V/200 Ω 

Headphones :  1,5 V/ 200 Ω

Distortion: 

0,5% (From record amplifier at 0 dB recording level)

0,3% (From playback amplifier at 1,5 V output voltage)

3% :  (From tape at 0 dB recording level)

Frequency Response

7-1/2 ips : 40 - 20,000 Hz ±2 dB

3-3/4 ips : 50 - 16,000 Hz ±2 dB

1-7/8 ips :  50 - 9,000 Hz ±2 dB

Measured according to DIN 45511

7-1/2 ips : 40 - 22,000 Hz

3-3/4 ips : 40 - 18,000 Hz

1-7/8 ips :  40 - 10,000 Hz

Wow:  Measured in % according to DIN 45511

7-1/2 ips : better than 0,1%

3-3/4 ips : better than 0,2%

1-7/8 ips :  better than 0,4%

Signal/Hum :  ( Unweighted) peak value measured in % according to DIN 45511 at tape speed 7-1/2 ips and 5% tape distortion

54 dB (4-track)

54 dB (2-track)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (peak value according to DIN 45511 at tape speed 7-1/2 ips and 5% tape distortion)

56 dB (4-track)

58 dB (2-track)

Signal/Tape Noise: (measured unweighted RMS)

58 dB (4-track)

58 dB (2-track)

Signal/Tape Noise: (measured according to A-curve RMS)

64 dB (4-track)

66 dB (2-track)

Crosstalk: (at 1,000 Hz according to DIN 45511)

Mono:  better than 60 dB

Stereo:  better than 50 dB

Power Requirements:  115/230/240 V, 50/60 Hz

Power Consumption:  45 W

Dimensions (W x H x D):  15-1/2" x 6-1/2" x 12-3/8"

Weight:  21 lbs

 

Tandberg TCD3014 cassette deck

To create a cassette deck that makes today's source material technology available to the most demanding music lover in an easy to operate, yet sophisticated format. Today's source materials, including digital, represent significant advantages in sound reproduction. Frequency response, dynamic range, Signal-to-Noise Ratio have all been improved to such a degree that yesterday's acceptable cassette deck is at best mediocre today.

The TCD3014, an entirely new generation of cassette deck.

In designing and manufacturing the TCD 3014, Tandberg's engineers combined significant advantages in performance with computer technology in an easy to use system.

The result is a deck with the most sophisticated micro-processor control system available today for true simplicity of operation.

Consider now the individual, but in less overwhelming component challenges that faced our engineers and how the extraordinary solution they devices are combined to create the outstanding TCD3014.

Features:

The TCD3014 uses no integrated circuits in the signal path except new, re-designed Dolby B and C processors. Instead, individual components are selected for ultimate parameters of noise, sound quality, low distortion, gain and stability.

Polystyrene or polypropylene capacitors rather than electrolytic or ceramic types are used in all critical circuits that carry musical information to insure optimum sound quality.

The TCD3014 refuses to compromise musical accuracy and uses phase compensating circuitry and ultra-wideband design to pass a signal with no audible degradation in sound or imaging.

Dyneq, Tandberg's patented headroom extends system for tape recording, helps overcome the severe high frequency limitations inherent in the cassette recording process. This is accomplished by a Dynamic record equalizer which controls high frequency boost during record to enable more signal on the tape without loss of highs.

Actilinear II is as great a breakthrough in eliminating "the cassette sound" as was Tandberg's proprietary Actilinear. Actilinear II offers a totally re-designed transconductance amplifier which takes the music and bias signals as pure voltage and converts them to a pure current. Actilinear II is a research-grade amplifier with a bandwidth so wide that it can actually pass square wave bias frequencies.

It is totally symmetrical in operation. Its [practical benefits include in excess of 20 dB audio headroom increase in the record amplification stages. It also eliminates interaction between record head impedance and the musical signal passing through it.

 

The 3014 features both Dolby B and C  for excellence in noise reduction

Dolby B insures compatibility with previously recorded tapes

Dolby C includes improved circuitry which offers substantial improvement in signal-to-noise plus better high frequency overload capabilities. Dolby C in conjunction with Actilinear II and Dyneq achieves an outstanding musical signal free of annoying background hiss.

A wireless infrared remote control allowing most functions (including flying start/record) with the built-in receiver section (optional)

Optional side panels in rosewood to unify the TCD3014 with the rest of the Series 3000A line

Machined extruded aluminum professional rack mounts are also available

 

The TCD3014 utilizes peak-reading meters which show high velocity peaks in all their subttlety (unlike bar graphs which generally leave large gaps between segments). Yet these meters have slow decay to give good averagning results as well as easy visibility. These meters will respond to a 2 milli-second peak within 1 dB and are full wave peak detectors regardless of phase

Since all tapes are less sensitive to high frequencies than to bass and mid frequencies, tape decks use a high-frequency boost known as record equalization to achieve flat frequency response.

Meters on the Tandberg TCD3014 indicate the signal after this record equalization has been applied. Therefore, they monitor the signal being recorded on the tape, not the signal coming into the record amplifier as most other recorders do. As all Tandberg cassette meters in the part, these are set to the now industry standard of 0 dB = 250 nWb/meter.

While the TCD3014 is recording, the source/tape switch controls only the output of the deck; the meters show input levels to the tape at all times. This feature makes possible audible tape monitoring of input levels to the tape.

Tandberg meters utilize one scale for Types I and II tapes and a second scale for Type IV tapes. The second scale allows recording of the higher signal levels permitted by the metal Type IV tapes.

 

Control Flexibility

To create a recorder that is simple to use but sophisticated enough to satisfy the most advanced audiophile.

The TCD3014 offers the ideal balance of simplicity and sophistication

All microprocessor functions are controlled by the same touch sensors that govern normal tape functions

Auxiliary functions include cue and review at one third speed, individual program search in either search-to-stop or search-to-play modes, automatic rewind and replay from memory, and the choice of a real-time counter calibrated to each tape for accuracy in wind as well as play mode.

The electronic counter can be used to measure either revolutions of the tape or elapsed time in both wind modes and play/record. Instant switching with memory between revolution and real-time counting is possible.

Timer play/timer record is available with an external clock. A built-in 6-second turn-on delay is programmed for all electronic circuits to stabilize before the transport can be engaged.

Both fixed and variable outputs are included on the back panel. Input sensitivity controls and a switchable multiplex filter are included. A back panel switch permits the use of non-standardized, older, chromium dioxide cassette with auto-selection of all other tapes.

 

The Transport

To design a tape drive system that offers stable, consistent, gentle tape handling and a high-speed, responsive, easy to operate control mechanism.

The TCD3014 features four servo-controlled motors in the tape transport system linked to sensors which monitor the speed and direction of the tape. The sensors then apply the proper voltage to insure accurate handling.

In fast-forward or rewind, the supply-side motor "tells" the take-up motor the speed at which it is turning. This means that a constant speed is maintained at all times in both wind and rewind functions.

In wind or rewind, one second equals one minute of play or record time. The TCD3014 also has one-third speed for cue, review, or search.

The transport mechanism offers superb construction. It is built on a 5 mm thick aluminum baseplate rolled under 40 tons of pressure to eliminate stress and greatly increase strength. It also features an 8,2 and an 8,4 cm diameter flywheel, a dual-capstan, closed-loop drive system, and a cassette locking mechanism that guarantees accurate positioning of the tape every time.

The TCD3014 transport also features:

Tandberg built, discrete three-head system

Azimuth alignment for all tapes utilizing a built-in test system.

Linear motor drive to position the head bridge and pinch rollers to tape accurately.

Resonances are eliminated by the use of predominantly aluminum casting and the use of mass differentiated dynamically balanced flywheels, pinch rollers, and a closed-loop capstan drive.

 

Specifications

Tape Speed:  1-7/8 ips

Speed Tolerance:  ±0,5%

Wow and Flutter

WRMS Play :  0,06%

WRMS Rec - Play:  0,09%

DIN - IEC :  0,12%

Frequency Range:

Tape I (-30 dB) :  18 Hz - 20 kHz ±1,5 dB

Tape II (-20 dB) :  18 Hz - 20 kHz ±1,5 dB

Metal Tape IV (-20 dB) :  18 Hz - 23 kHz ±1,5% (with Dolby C ±3,0 dB)

Total Harmonic Distortion (-250 nW/m, Dolby B

Tape I :  less than 1,5%

Tape II :  less than 2%

Metal Tape IV :  less than 1%

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (A-curve weighted, Dolby-C)

Metal Tape IV :  better than 74 dB

Erasure (i kHz)

Metal Tape IV :  better than80 dB

Crosstalk

Side A - B (1 kHz) :  less than 60 dB

Track 1 - 2 (1 kHz) :  less than 40 dB

Inputs Sensitivity/Impedance

Low :  100 mV/150 K Ω

High :  10 mV/150  k Ω

Outputs

Minimum load Impedance/ max. Voltage at unloaded output

Play 700 mV (Fixed line output) :  100 Ω / 700 mV

Play Variable (Variable line output) :  100 Ω /0-4 V

Headphones :  8 Ω /3,5 V

Power Requirements:  115 V ±10%, 60 Hz; 230 V ±10%, 50 Hz

Power Consumption:  50 watts

Dimensions (W x H x D):  435 x 166 x 350 mm (17-1/8" x 6-9/16" x 13-3/4")

Weight:  9,8 kg (21,6 lbs)