Revox B215 (1985)
A microprocessor-controlled cassette deck with automatic calibration and Dolby noise reduction, introduced by Swiss manufacturer Revox.
Overview
The Revox B215 is a high-end cassette deck made by Revox, a Swiss brand known for precision audio equipment. Introduced in 1985, it was designed as a successor to the Revox B710 and built upon its technical foundation. The B215 stands out for its advanced automation features, including auto-reverse and microprocessor control, making it one of the most sophisticated consumer tape decks of its era.
Design
The B215 features Dolby noise reduction, auto-reverse, and automatic bias calibration, all managed by an onboard microprocessor. It includes a built-in calibration computer with an integrated tone generator that uses three frequencies: 500 Hz for level, 10 kHz for azimuth, and 20 Hz for tape contact. The deck employs Dolby HX Pro during recording and uses a 4-motor transport system for precise tape handling.
Specifications
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 72 dBA with Dolby C NR |
| Wow and Flutter | 0.1% |
| Input Sensitivity | 35 mV |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 450 x 153 x 332 mm |
| Type | 3-head, single cassette deck |
| Playback Frequency Response | Within +1.5, −0.5 dB from 31.5 Hz to 16 kHz (ferric) and within +1, −0.5 dB from 31.5 Hz to 16 kHz (chrome) |
| Separation | 40 dB |
Context
The Revox B215 was positioned as a premium cassette deck, succeeding the legendary Revox B710 and inheriting its studio-quality engineering. It represented the pinnacle of consumer tape technology in the mid-1980s, combining professional-grade calibration systems with user-friendly automation.
Market
Refurbished Revox B215 units were offered for €3000 as of June 2023, reflecting its status as a sought-after collector's item.
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