Studer a800 console

The Studer A800 is a professional reel-to-reel tape recorder, an icon of the analog era in the recording industry, renowned for its robustness and sound quality.

About this subject

The Studer A800, manufactured by Swiss company Studer Revox starting in 1970, became a standard in recording studios worldwide. Unlike mixing consoles, the A800 is a 24-track magnetic tape recorder using 2-inch tape. Its modular construction and high-performance electronics enabled recordings with low noise and high fidelity, qualities that made it a staple in rock, pop, jazz, and classical music productions.

The machine featured an extremely stable tape transport system with servo-controlled DC motors and an advanced braking system. This ensured smooth operation and precision in physical tape editing. The A800 also stood out for its ease of maintenance and reliability, being used in studios such as Abbey Road, Electric Lady, and Capitol Studios.

With the rise of digital recording in the 1980s and 1990s, the A800 gradually lost ground but never disappeared. Many audio engineers and producers still seek its characteristic sound, associated with pleasant harmonic saturation and natural compression. Today, restored units are coveted by collectors and vintage studios, and its legacy influences analog emulation plugins.

Interestingly, the A800 was used in iconic recordings such as Pink Floyd's "Dark Side of the Moon" and Michael Jackson's "Thriller," at specific studios. Its presence in top studios helped define the sound of decades of popular music.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sets the Studer A800 apart from other tape recorders of its time?

The A800 stood out for its robust construction, extremely stable tape transport, and low-noise electronics. Its modularity made maintenance and configuration for different recording needs easier.

Is the Studer A800 still used in studios today?

Yes, although rare, the A800 is still used in studios that value vintage analog sound. Many units have been restored and are used in recordings seeking a warm, saturated sound.

What is the recording capacity of the Studer A800?

The Studer A800 is a 24-track recorder using 2-inch magnetic tape. It operated at standard speeds of 15 or 30 inches per second, offering high fidelity and frequency response.