Ampex 600 (1954–1955)
A portable reel-to-reel tape recorder produced by Ampex for broadcast and field use, known for high-quality audio capture in a compact design.
Overview
The Ampex 600 was a portable reel-to-reel tape recorder introduced in the mid-1950s, built for professional and broadcast applications. Manufactured by Ampex Electric and Manufacturing Company in San Carlos, California, it was designed as a compact, high-fidelity solution for field and studio recording. It used a 2-track, single-channel monaural system and supported 7" RMA reels, running at a standard speed of 7 1/2 inches per second. Though based on earlier Ampex audio recorder designs, the 600 became a workhorse in radio broadcasting, notably serving as the main production machine at stations like KYOS. Approximately 80,000 units were manufactured, reflecting its widespread adoption.
Specifications
| Product type | Portable Tape Recorder |
| Tape format | Reel to reel |
| Track system | 2-track, single channel, monaural |
| Reel size | 7" RMA maximum |
| Tape speed | 7 1/2 inches per second |
| Power input | 117V |
| Production year | 1954 |
| Original price | $545 |
Context
The Ampex 600 emerged during a pivotal time in magnetic recording, following Ampex’s pioneering work with the Model 500 instrumentation recorder for the U.S. Navy. Marketed as meeting the performance standards of the Ampex 350 series, the 600 brought professional-grade audio fidelity to a more portable form. Its adoption by radio stations and field engineers underscored its reliability and sonic quality. With 80,000 units produced, it became one of Ampex’s widely distributed early portable recorders.
Market
The Ampex 600 remains a sought-after unit among vintage audio enthusiasts. While complete recorders have sold for as much as $1,200, prices vary significantly based on condition and configuration. Individual components, such as playback heads, list for as low as $49.99, indicating a market with both restoration projects and operational units in circulation.
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