Technics RS-1500US Professional 2-Track Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorder

Offered here is an excellent example of the legendary Technics RS-1500US, one of the most highly regarded open-reel tape machines of the classic analog era. Built around Technics' sophisticated isolated-loop transport, three-motor direct-drive system and quartz-locked capstan, the RS-1500US was engineered as a serious high-performance recorder rather than simply another consumer reel-to-reel deck.

This example has just returned from professional service and testing and is operating beautifully.

Service included cleaning, flushing and exercising all controls; inspection of the rubber components with replacement as needed; lubrication of moving components; and comprehensive testing of the transport, playback and recording functions. All functions tested and passed. Record and playback response is excellent, and the machine is expected to provide reliable long-term service.

CONDITION

This example is fitted with the desirable factory-optional Technics RP-9120 rosewood-finished wooden side panels. The panels present especially well and give the otherwise purposeful, professional-looking RS-1500US a particularly handsome appearance. The brushed controls, reel tables, meters and transport assembly all present extremely well.

There is some light age-related patina and surface wear on the face and top panel, which becomes more apparent under certain lighting and can be seen in the photographs. There are also small signs of normal use around the headblock/transport area. We see no major dents, cracks, heavy gouges or other obtrusive cosmetic damage.

We have photographed the machine extensively from multiple angles so its condition can be evaluated accurately. Please examine all photographs closely; they form an important part of the description.

ABOUT THE RS-1500US

The RS-1500US employs Technics' famous Isolated Loop tape path, designed to isolate the critical head-to-tape interface from variations in reel tension. The transport uses three direct-drive brushless DC motors: a quartz-controlled, phase-locked direct-drive capstan motor plus individual direct-drive reel motors with electronic tape-tension control.

Unlike many consumer decks, the RS-1500US is a 2-track, 2-channel record/playback machine, making it particularly desirable for high-quality stereo recording. It additionally provides selectable 4-track, 2-channel playback, allowing playback of quarter-track stereo tapes without sacrificing its half-track recording capability.

The machine accommodates reels from 5" through 10.5", operates at 3¾, 7½ and 15 IPS, and provides ±6% pitch control during both recording and playback.

FACTORY SPECIFICATIONS

• Head system: 4 heads
• Record/playback configuration: 2-track, 2-channel
• Additional playback: 4-track, 2-channel
• Motors: Three direct-drive brushless DC motors
• Capstan motor: Quartz-controlled, phase-locked DC brushless servo
• Reel motors: Two electronically tape-tension-controlled direct-drive motors
• Reel capacity: 5" through 10.5"
• Tape speeds: 3¾, 7½ and 15 IPS
• Pitch control: ±6%, record and playback
• Speed deviation: ±0.1% at 15 IPS
• Speed fluctuation: 0.05% at 15 IPS
• Wow & flutter: 0.018% WRMS at 15 IPS; 0.03% WRMS at 7½ IPS
• Frequency response, 15 IPS: 30 Hz–30 kHz ±3 dB at -10 dB recording level
• Frequency response, 7½ IPS: 20 Hz–25 kHz ±3 dB at -20 dB recording level
• Frequency response, 3¾ IPS: 20 Hz–15 kHz ±3 dB at -20 dB recording level
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 60 dB at 15 IPS; 60 dB at 7½ IPS; 58 dB at 3¾ IPS
• THD: 0.8% at 0 VU operating level
• Channel separation: Better than 50 dB
• Erasure ratio: Better than 65 dB
• Recording bias frequency: 120 kHz
• Equalization: NAB
• Fast-wind time: Approx. 150 seconds for 2,500 ft. of tape
• Microphone input sensitivity: 0.25 mV
• Line input sensitivity: 60 mV
• Power: 120V AC, 50/60 Hz; 24V DC operation possible with optional RP-086 battery adapter
• Power consumption: 120W
• Dimensions: 19⅜" W × 17½" H × 10⅛" D
• Weight: 57⅜ lbs. / 26 kg

Specifications are taken from Technics' published literature for the RS-1500US.

SHIPPING

This is a large, heavy and mechanically sophisticated precision tape recorder, and it will be packed accordingly.

The machine will be professionally and extremely carefully packed, with substantial protection surrounding the cabinet and transport and particular attention paid to preventing movement or impact around the reel tables, controls and other vulnerable components. The finished package will be appropriately oversized and heavily cushioned for safe transit.

The shipment will be fully insured for its purchase value.

We have extensive experience packing and shipping large, heavy vintage reel-to-reel machines and other high-value audio equipment throughout the United States and internationally.

Worldwide shipping is available. International buyers are welcome; please contact us if a shipping quote is required for your destination.

Local pickup is also very welcome, and we will be glad to arrange a convenient pickup for buyers who would prefer to collect this substantial machine in person.