Studer a800 console

The Studer A800 is a Swiss analog multitrack tape recorder that revolutionized the recording industry in the 1970s and 1980s.

About this subject

The Studer A800, introduced in 1970 by the Swiss company Studer, became one of the most iconic tape recorders in music history. It was a 24-track machine using 2-inch tape, offering exceptional audio quality and mechanical reliability. It was widely adopted in professional studios worldwide, including legendary ones like Abbey Road, Electric Lady, and Sun Studio.

Its robust construction and high-end electronics allowed for low-noise, high-fidelity recordings, essential for classic album production. The A800 provided the sonic foundation for records by Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Queen, and many others. It supported speeds of 15 and 30 ips, with frequency response extending beyond 20 kHz.

Notably, the A800 was known for its extremely stable tape transport, yielding very low wow and flutter. This was crucial for multitrack recordings where each track needed precise synchronization. Despite the digital shift, the A800 remains revered by sound engineers and collectors, with functional units preserved in vintage studios.

The legacy of the Studer A800 influenced later recorder designs and is still used by analog purists. Its presence in studios is a symbol of quality and tradition, and many contemporary albums choose to record on it to obtain the characteristic warmth of tape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Studer A800?

It is a 24-track analog tape recorder manufactured by Swiss company Studer from 1970, considered a recording industry standard.

Which famous albums were recorded with the Studer A800?

Albums by artists like Pink Floyd (The Dark Side of the Moon), Led Zeppelin (Physical Graffiti), and Queen (A Night at the Opera) were recorded with the A800.

Why is the Studer A800 still used today?

Many engineers seek the characteristic analog sound of the A800, with its natural compression and saturation, which is difficult to replicate digitally.