Revox A700 (1973–1978)
A high-end consumer open reel tape recorder with direct-drive capstan and built-in preamplifier, made in Switzerland.
Overview
The Revox A700 is a stereo reel-to-reel tape deck manufactured by Studer Revox from 1973 to 1978. It was positioned as the ultimate consumer tape recorder of its time, featuring advanced electronics and exceptional speed stability. Unlike other Revox consumer models, the A700 includes a built-in preamplifier with a magnetic phono input, making it unique in the lineup. The machine supports 4-track, 2-channel stereo recording and playback on quarter-inch tape at three speeds: 3¾, 7½, and 15 inches per second. It can be operated in horizontal, vertical, or inclined positions, offering flexible installation.
Specifications
| Product type | High-end consumer open reel tape recorder / reel-to-reel machine |
| Manufacturer | Studer Revox |
| Production years | 1973–1978 |
| Tape speed | 3¾, 7½, 15 ips |
| Tape width | ¼ inch |
| Track system | 4-track, 2-channel, stereo |
| Wow and flutter | 0.06% (15 ips) |
| Frequency response | 30Hz to 22kHz (15 ips) |
| Dimensions (WHD) | 483 x 462 x 206 mm |
| Weight | 24 kg |
| Capstan drive | Direct-drive |
| Motor configuration | Servo controlled, three motor |
| Max. reel diameter | 26.5 cm (10.5") |
| Input sensitivity | 40mV (line), 3mV (DIN), 0.15mV (mic) |
| Output level | 45dB |
| VU meter | LED, 2 x 20 segments with overload indication |
Design
The Revox A700 features direct-drive capstan motors and advanced electronics for precise tape control. It is the only consumer reel-to-reel deck Revox made with a built-in preamplifier, including a magnetic phono input. The VU meters use LED arrays with high resolution and overload detection at +6 dB.
Context
The A700 was the flagship consumer reel-to-reel recorder in the Revox lineup during its production run. It followed the iconic A77 and preceded the B77 and PR99, representing the peak of Revox’s consumer tape technology before the decline of the format.
Market
Original cost was $1800. Today, units are highly collectible and have been listed for sale at prices ranging from €900 to €1,600. Common issues include failing power transistors that can damage servo ICs, noisy slide potentiometers, sticky transport mechanisms due to degraded rubber, and malfunctioning transport controls. Maintenance often includes recapping, potentiometer cleaning, and tension arm damper repairs.
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