TEAC X-2000R (1980s)
A high-end prosumer reel-to-reel tape deck from TEAC’s X-series, featuring dbx noise reduction and a 6-head fixed configuration.
Overview
The TEAC X-2000R is a 4-track, 2-channel stereo reel-to-reel tape deck made in the 1980s, positioned as the final and most advanced model in TEAC's prosumer lineup. Marketed as "the ultimate TEAC reel-to-reel" and "the pinnacle of TEAC's consumer reel-to-reel engineering," it combines professional-grade features with consumer accessibility. It supports 10.5" (26-type) and 7" (17-type) reels and operates at tape speeds of 19 cm/s and 9.5 cm/s, with a closed-loop dual capstan drive system and full-tension servo mechanism for precise tape control.
Specifications
| Track system | 4-track, 2-channel stereo |
| Reel Type | 10.5" (26-type) and 7" (17-type) |
| Heads | 6 heads total (2 x Cobalt Amorphous for recording, 2 x Cobalt Amorphous for playback, 2 x Ferrite for erase) |
| Motor | For Capstan : FG Servo DC Motor x1, For Reel : 2 slotless DC motors |
| Drive system | Closed-loop dual capstan system |
| Tape speed | 19 cm/s and 9.5 cm/s (± 0.5%) |
| Wow & flutter | 19cm/s: 0.03% (WRMS), 9.5cm/s: 0.04% (WRMS) |
| Fast winding time | Within 100 seconds (7" reel, 550m tape) |
| Frequency response (overall) | 19cm/s : 30 Hz to 40 kHz (40 Hz to 33 kHz ± 3 dB, -20VU), 9.5cm/s : 30 Hz to 24 kHz (40 Hz to 22 kHz ± 3 dB, -30VU) |
| Signal-to-noise ratio (overall) | 65 dB (WTD, 1 kHz, 3% 3rd harmonic distortion) |
| dbx S/N ratio | 100 dB (WTD, 1 kHz, 3% 3rd harmonic distortion) |
| Bias and erase frequency | 150 kHz |
| Recording level | 185 nWb/m (+6dB = 0VU) |
| Calibration reference level | 185 nWb/m |
| Reference tape fluxivity | 250 nWb/m |
| Dynamic range | 115 dB (with dbx, 1 kHz, peak level) |
| Distortion (overall) | 0.4% (1 kHz, 185 nWb/m level) |
| Stereo separation | 50 dB (1 kHz) |
| Input terminal | Mic : 0.25 mV/-72dB / impedance : 200 Ω or more, Line : 60 mV/50k Ω |
| Output terminal | Line : 0.45 V / load impedance 10k Ω or more, Headphone : up to 100 mW (8 Ω) |
| Power | 100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz |
| Power consumption | 70 W |
| External dimensions | 432 mm (W) x 456 mm (H) x 268 mm (D) |
| Weight | 21 kg |
Design
The X-2000R uses a 6-head fixed configuration with independent cobalt amorphous heads for record and playback, and ferrite heads for erase, allowing optimal performance in both directions. It features a closed-loop dual capstan and full-tension servo mechanism, a soft electromagnetic brake, and a motion sensing mechanism. The equalizer amplifier employs a fully push-pull configuration with vertical symmetrical circuits. Additional features include dbx Type I noise reduction, CES (Computer Matic Edit System), a 5-digit LED linear counter, Dupli Sync, ±6% pitch control, BIAS FINE adjustment (±10%), block repeat, and a capstan shaft cleaning pad. It has a 5 mm thick front panel, L/R independent recording and monitor switches, and a 1-3, 4-2 track selection queue. The unit supports auto-reverse, includes a tape selector with an EE (Extra Efficiency) position, and offers a remote control terminal. Color options are black and silver, with a wood case available as a separate option.
Context
The TEAC X-2000R was the last prosumer reel-to-reel deck from TEAC and represented the peak of their consumer reel-to-reel engineering. It was part of the X-series line, which included the X-1000R and X-10R, and was designed to deliver professional-level performance with user-friendly features for serious audiophiles.
Market
The TEAC X-2000R has become one of the most sought-after reel-to-reel decks among collectors and audiophiles. A serviced unit has been listed for $4,990. Common issues include tape misalignment due to incorrect belt installation and failures related to tantalum capacitors. Maintenance typically involves lubrication and calibration of electronic components.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.