VINTAGE TECHNOLOGY ARCHIVE / AUDIO / REVOX

Revox

Swiss precision tape machines that still run like clockwork

History

Revox was founded in Zurich, Switzerland in 1948 by Willi Studer, an engineer who had previously worked at a radio station and been frustrated by the poor quality of available tape recorders. Studer set out to build the finest tape machines in the world.

The company's first product was the Revox T26 (1949), a professional tape recorder. This was followed by the Revox A36 (1952), which established the company's reputation for precision engineering. The "Revox" name came from "revolution" and "voice," reflecting Studer's desire to revolutionize sound recording.

The A77 (1967) became Revox's most iconic product. This quarter-track stereo reel-to-reel recorder brought professional quality to serious home recordists. The A77 featured three motors, three heads, and exceptional tape handling that made it a favorite among audiophiles and professionals alike.

The B77 (1977) updated the A77 design with improved electronics and features, remaining in production for over a decade. The PR99 (1980) was Revox's final reel-to-reel recorder, bringing professional features to the consumer market.

Willi Studer also founded Studer (the professional brand), which became the industry standard for professional multitrack recording. The Studer A800, A827, and A820 tape machines were found in virtually every major recording studio worldwide.

Key Facts

Legendary Products

Revox A77 (1967-1977)

The most popular high-end reel-to-reel recorder ever made. The A77 featured three motors (two capstans, one for reels), three heads (erase, record, playback), and a robust transport mechanism. It offered professional quality at a price home recordists could afford.

Revox B77 (1977-1990s)

An improved version of the A77 with better electronics, improved speed stability, and enhanced features. The B77 remained in production for over a decade and is still highly sought after by tape enthusiasts.

Revox PR99 (1980-1990s)

Revox's final reel-to-reel recorder, bringing professional features like XLR inputs and balanced outputs to the consumer market. The PR99 represented the pinnacle of Revox's tape recorder engineering.

Revox A700 (1970s)

A high-end reel-to-reel featuring direct-drive capstan motors and advanced electronics. The A700 offered exceptional speed stability and was considered the ultimate consumer tape recorder.

Classic Models

Sound Signature

Collecting Revox

Vintage Revox gear is valued for: A77 and B77 - The classic reel-to-reels, Original condition - Unmolested units preferred, Working transports - Critical for value, PR99 - The final statement, Studer heritage - Professional lineage.

Most collectible models: A77 - The most popular, B77 MK II - The refined classic, PR99 - Professional features, A700 - High-end deck.

Restoration Tips

Competitors & Comparisons

Revox vs Tandberg: Both European; Revox more studio focus. Revox vs Akai: Akai more consumer; Revox more professional. Revox vs Technics: Technics direct-drive; Revox three-motor transport.

All Models in Archive (8)

A76
Piccolo
PLENUM-B-MKII1979
B7601981
B7801980
G361967
symbol-b-mkii1979
T781975
Models

Reel To Reel

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VINTAGE TECHNOLOGY ARCHIVE / 03-16-2026 / FEEDBACK