Grundig 2400 (1967–1969)

The Grundig 2400 is a reel-to-reel tape recorder produced from 1967 to 1969. It was sold in two versions, the base 2400 and the 2400U. Grundig’s own marketing described the 2400U as a "Kombikoffer" — a combined unit that paired the tape deck with a multi-band radio, essentially a portable mini hi-fi system. That description matches how the machine is remembered today: a self-contained stereo recorder with a built-in radio, meant to be carried around via its handle. Period advertisements show Grundig actively marketing its tape products to consumers, with a Studio Sound mail-order listing from October 1967 featuring Grundig among the leading tape brands (Studio Sound, October 1967, p.6). A 1971 Studio Sound catalog listing included Grundig among the tape recorder brands offered at discounted prices (Studio Sound, December 1971, p.55).

Mechanically, the 2400 is a three-motor, direct-drive design, running at 9.5 and 19 cm/s. It uses electronic push-button transport controls rather than mechanical levers, and features a push-button tape selector, two stereo playback heads, and a 4-digit tape counter. The built-in amplifier is rated at 1.7 watts (2 × 0.85 watts). Frequency response is listed at 30 Hz to 18 kHz. Inputs and outputs are DIN sockets located on the front panel, alongside a stereo headphone jack — a placement a Russian-language user review on audiozuba.com specifically praised, noting the set offers "well organized sound with lots of bass and treble presence."

Documentation on the 2400 is thin. No original price, dimensions, or weight are recorded, and the track format beyond "2 tracks" is not confirmed. There is also a discrepancy in output power claims: Radiomuseum.org lists 5 watts, while other sources say 1.7 watts. Given that the latter figure is more commonly cited and appears consistent with a built-in amplifier of this class, it is the more credible figure. Collectors should also be aware of common failure points: leaky capacitors in the power supply and audio sections, and idler wheels, belts, and pressure rollers that need attention after five-plus decades. Recent asking prices on German hifi-archiv listings have ranged from €100 to €150.

Known Specs

Type: Reel-to-reel tape recorder with built-in multi-band radio
Years produced: 1967–1969
Motors: 3, direct drive
Tape speeds: 9.5, 19 cm/s
Output: 1.7 W (2 × 0.85 W) built-in amplifier
Frequency response: 30 Hz – 18 kHz
Inputs/outputs: 2 DIN inputs, 1 DIN output, stereo headphone jack (all front)
Features: Electronic push-button transport, tape selector, 2 stereo playback heads, 4-digit counter, handle