Exclusive Reel Inspiration

Technics RS-1500US Stereo Reel to Reel Tape Recorder (1977-87)

Technics was in fact a real contender in reel to reel tape recorders, they released 7 models, starting in late 1977 and the remainder in 1978. The Technics RS-1500 came first and shortly thereafter the Technics RS-1506, Technics RS-1520, Technics RS-1700, Technics RS-1800, Technics RS-777, and TechnicsRS-10A02 “R&B Series”.

Technically, the machine is identical to the Technics RS-1506US. Audio head carrier on the Technics RS-1500US is the Technics RP-2224 (2-track record playback/4-track playback). On the RS-1506US, the audio head mount is the Technics RP-2422 (4-track record/playback/2-track playback). Both headstocks can be interchanged at will between the two machines by loosening three screws. The Technics RP-2224 and Technics RP2422 headstocks also work on a Technics RS-1700, but here the auto reverse function is switched off.

The Technics RS-1500 is a half track Record/Play with switchable quarter track head using the RP-2224 headlock. It has the Isolated Loop tape path developed by Technics with really low wow and flutter (.018%) that also keeps down modulation noise. A very smooth and stable tape path using a large 34mm capstan and 2 pinch rollers combined with an electronic tension control system completes this transport. Tape tension on the Isolated Loop tape path is low compared to many other machines, so for those using older tapes with rippled edges, this may not be the ideal.

A Quartz-Locked Direct-Drive Capstan Motor completed the well-designed assembly. Logic controlled electronic braking, which applies reverse torque to the motor prior to deploying a mechanical brake, results in very smooth transition between function selections and virtually no tape stretch. Control functions included a three position speed control, remote timer, start, meter sensitivity, mike attenuator, source tape monitoring (separate for each track), three switch positions for bias and equalization, record track selection levers, and a tape counter indicating minutes and seconds at 38cm/s per second 10½ ”. Two good quality VU’s were fitted, but transients still under-read appreciably and no peak indicators were supplied. The recorder could also be used with a 24V DC power supply. Direct-drive, brushless DC motor with phase-locked quartz control for the tone shaft (from turntable e.g. 1210), two direct-drive, brushless DC motors with tape tension control for the winding plates.

Technics RS-1500 Specifications:

• Track system: 2-track, 2-channel, stereo/monaural system
• Motor: 2 x reel, 1 x capstan
• Reel size: 5 to 10.5 inch reel
• Equalization: NAB and now in 2024 with CCIR Eq.
• Tape speeds: 33⁄4 / 71⁄2 / 15ips
• Wow and flutter: 0.018% (15ips)
• Frequency response: 30Hz to 30kHz (15ips)
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 60dB
• Total harmonic distortion: 0.8%
• Input: 60mV (line), 0.25mV (mic)
• Output: 0.775V (line)
• Dimensions: 446 x 456 x 258mm
• Weight: 25kg

Made in Osaka, Japan

Technics RS-1500 reel tape recorder, fully rebuilt with NEW features and functionality like a digital counter and new NAB IEC equalisation selector.

The best can only be hand-crafted, one at a time and is never replicated. Almost every piece of this Technics RS-1500 has been custom-made from blocks of solid metals & alloys. Each knob, lever, pinch roller cap, face plate, head block and more was made brand new and it is breath-taking.