Studer a800 console

The Studer A800 is a professional magnetic tape recorder that revolutionized music recording in the 1970s and 1980s, used on iconic albums.

About this subject

The Studer A800 is a multi-track magnetic tape recorder manufactured by the Swiss company Studer starting in 1970. It was one of the first machines to offer 24 tracks, giving sound engineers unprecedented flexibility for recording and mixing. Its robust construction and high-quality electronic circuitry ensured extremely high-fidelity sound reproduction, making it the standard in studios like Abbey Road, Electric Lady, and Motown.

The console became legendary for its 'warm' sound and natural tape saturation, which many musicians consider essential to the analog character. From Led Zeppelin to Michael Jackson, to Pink Floyd and Stevie Wonder, the A800 is behind recordings that defined modern music. With the rise of digital recording, A800s were gradually retired, but today there is a resurgence of interest, with vintage studios and producers seeking the 'Studer sound'.

Beyond sound, the A800 is known for its mechanical reliability. The tape transport system used DC motors and electronic brakes, reducing wear. The A800 MKIII model, released in the late 1970s, incorporated integrated circuits and improved equalization. Interestingly, these machines can still be maintained and operated with parts available on the used market, and a well-preserved unit can be worth tens of thousands of dollars.

The legacy of the Studer A800 extends beyond hardware: it has influenced tape emulation plugins like the UAD Studer A800 Tape Recorder. Its frequency response, gentle tape compression, and harmonic distortion are still sought by engineers aiming for the classic analog recording character.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many tracks can the Studer A800 record?

The original Studer A800 could be configured for 8, 16, or 24 tracks. The 24-track model became the industry standard in the 1970s and 1980s.

What is the difference between the Studer A800 and the A820?

The A820 (released in 1983) was a more advanced version with digital control electronics and an even smoother tape transport, but both are considered benchmarks in analog recording.

Why is the sound of the Studer A800 so prized?

It delivers smooth, natural tape saturation, subtle compression, and pleasant harmonic distortion, which many engineers prefer to the perceived coldness of digital recording.