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Description

Discover the authentic warmth and character of analog recording with the Nagra IV-S, an iconic multitrack recorder revered by audio professionals for its exceptional sound quality and reliability. Celebrated since its introduction, the Nagra IV-S offers a dual-mono recording capability that sets it apart, providing a purer, more dynamic range than standard stereo models. Designed for studio recording and fieldwork alike, this recorder features a rugged construction and intuitive design, making it a staple for both seasoned engineers and aspiring audio enthusiasts.

The Nagra IV-S is equipped with a highly precise AC bias oscillator, ensuring minimal distortion and a clean, vibrant sound. Its analog VU meters provide accurate monitoring, allowing you to dial in the perfect levels for each session. With its classic reel-to-reel format, the Nagra IV-S delivers a tactile and immersive recording experience that digital simply can't replicate. Whether capturing the subtle nuances of a live performance or layering complex studio tracks, this multitrack recorder delivers a rich, organic sound that has stood the test of time.

Key Features:

  • Dual-mono recording capability for enhanced stereo separation and clarity
  • Rugged, reliable construction suitable for studio and field use
  • Analog VU meters for precise level monitoring
  • High-quality AC bias oscillator for minimal distortion
  • Classic reel-to-reel format for a true analog recording experience
  • Renowned for its superior sound quality and historical significance in the industry
Adam Savage’s Tested

Adam Savage’s Tested

Adam Savage's New Nagra IV-S Vintage Audio Recorder!

Video thumbnail for Adam Savage's New Nagra IV-S Vintage Audio Recorder! by Adam Savage’s Tested

Adam Savage's New Nagra IV-S Vintage Audio Recorder!

Adam Savage’s Tested

Adam Savage’s Tested

Video thumbnail for NAGRA ANALOG WORKSHOP NAGRA IV S by NagraAudio

NAGRA ANALOG WORKSHOP NAGRA IV S

NagraAudio

NagraAudio

Video thumbnail for The NAGRA MUSEUM : The NAGRA IV-S by NagraAudio

The NAGRA MUSEUM : The NAGRA IV-S

NagraAudio

NagraAudio

Video thumbnail for Magnetofon szpulowy Nagra IV-S Kudelski (stereo) by ANALOG BYDGOSKI

Magnetofon szpulowy Nagra IV-S Kudelski (stereo)

ANALOG BYDGOSKI

ANALOG BYDGOSKI

Video thumbnail for Nagra IV-S and QGB play Jazz by Michael TV

Nagra IV-S and QGB play Jazz

Michael TV

Michael TV

Video thumbnail for Nagra IV-S tape recorder & Grateful Dead: resolving Pilotone by ANALOG BYDGOSKI

Nagra IV-S tape recorder & Grateful Dead: resolving Pilotone

ANALOG BYDGOSKI

ANALOG BYDGOSKI

Video thumbnail for Nagra IV-S - Analog Tape Playing 7" Reel @15IPS by Dre J Analog

Nagra IV-S - Analog Tape Playing 7" Reel @15IPS

Dre J Analog

Dre J Analog

Video thumbnail for Nagra IV-S - Analog Tape Playing  10.5" Reel @15IPS by Dre J Analog

Nagra IV-S - Analog Tape Playing 10.5" Reel @15IPS

Dre J Analog

Dre J Analog

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Nagra IV-S.

Build quality

  • The Nagra IV-S is praised for its meticulous engineering and durability, designed to last and be easily repaired as needed.

    Source
  • The machine's robustness is evidenced by its continued use in film schools and its ability to withstand decades of use.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Although outdated for professional film production, the Nagra IV-S remains highly desirable among audiophiles for home playback due to its neutral sound quality.

    Source
  • The Nagra IV-S is not sought after for the "tape sound" in music studios, as it was designed for clean and neutral recordings, which modern technology now replicates.

    Source
  • A notable film project used a Nagra IV-S for a flashback scene, requiring tape bias adjustments due to the unavailability of BASF 468 tape.

    Source
  • Historically used in film schools, the Nagra IV-S required mixers to efficiently manage limited tape for optimal recordings, offering a hands-on learning experience.

    Source
  • The Nagra IV-S was frequently employed for recording interviews and smaller gigs, showcasing its portability and reliability in various professional environments.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite some debate, the Nagra IV-S has sold for $4,000 to $5,000 on platforms like eBay and Reverb, indicating significant value to collectors and enthusiasts.

    Source
  • It's noted that while the Nagra IV-S may not sell quickly, it still holds substantial value, especially if associated with historical or notable film projects.

    Source
  • Despite being out of modern workflows, the Nagra IV-S retains value well compared to other electronics from its era, with some units selling for around $2,500 in 2008.

    Source
  • Pristine Nagra IV-S units have been observed selling for $7,000 to $8,000, indicating high collector demand.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The Nagra IV-S requires opening the machine to adjust tape bias for different tape types, unlike professional multitrack machines with per-channel bias controls.

    Source

User experience

  • Users highlight the need to be cautious with the piezo crystal during location shoots, an essential component that can be easily misplaced.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The unit's bias adjustment features a five-position switch for minor tweaks, aligning more with high-fidelity machines than professional multitrack recorders.

    Source
  • The Nagra IV-S maintains sync with 24fps film cameras, crucial for seamless audio-visual integration on film sets.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Nagra IV-S is likened to a Mercedes or Porsche, emphasizing its high-end construction and prestige compared to more common brands.

    Source

Critic Reviews

THE NAGRA IV-S…. ‘two track magic in a portable tape machine’ » Adventures in Hifi Audio

adventuresinhifiaudio.com

The Nagra IV-S, a revered portable tape machine, excels in sound quality, capturing audio with impressive clarity and dynamics, especially for voice and symphonic recordings. Its legendary build quality and reliability make it a sought-after piece for enthusiasts. However, its outdated status, complex setup with rare accessories, and compatibility issues with modern equipment pose challenges. The lack of production means buyers must navigate the used market carefully, with potential modifications limiting its audio application. Overall, while it offers an unmatched analog experience for purists, practical considerations may deter casual users.

Nagra IV-S Stereo Recorder | Sound & Vision

soundandvision.com

The Nagra IV-S is a testament to Swiss engineering, revered for its exceptional build quality and superior sound clarity. Designed for both music and film synchronization, it was a game-changer in the 1970s. The tactile feel of its controls and the Nagramaster biasing system offer a noise-free recording experience that was ahead of its time. However, its steep price back then was nearly as much as a new economy car, making it accessible only to the affluent. Despite this, the IV-S remains a nostalgic favorite for audiophiles and industry veterans, who cherish its unparalleled sound performance and robust design.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Aphex Twin uses Nagra IV-S

Aphex Twin

Music Producer

Universal Indicator

...
Verified via Photo

Also on the Syro gear list present on the album packaging is the Nagra IV-S Reel To Reel 2-Track Tape Recorder.

See how Nils Frahm uses Nagra IV-S

Nils Frahm

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

The Nagra can be seen very clearly in the Video.

See how Chet Faker uses Nagra IV-S

Chet Faker

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video, the Nagra can be seen in all frames with Chet in them, on his left. Judging by the three black knobs(?) in the left of the VU-meter, te NAGRA is a IV-S.

See how Amon Tobin uses Nagra IV-S

Amon Tobin

Composer, Music Producer

Two Fingers

...
Verified via Soundstatements

“What's funny is my particular Nagra is a bit of a dodgy unit,” Tobin quips, “so sometimes you can even just switch the thing off, and something cool will happen. I used it all the way through ‘Big Furry Head’ — there's kind of a chuuung! sound there that's just the Nagra being switched on and off. I thought it was a really wicked sci-fi noise, so we kept it.”

See how Olafur Arnalds uses Nagra IV-S

Olafur Arnalds

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Spitfire Audio YouTube video "Creative Cribs - @olafurarnalds 1.0 (Broadchurch)," Ólafur Arnalds is shown using the Nagra IV-S, an analog multitrack recorder, highlighting its role in his studio setup.

See how Bibio uses Nagra IV-S

Bibio

Music Producer

...
Verified via Beatport Buzz

Favourite piece of musical kit?

"I had this question before, but it hasn’t changed, it’s still my Nagra IV-S reel-to-reel. It’s just a gorgeous object, and it’s reliable and I’ve discovered some magical tricks with it. Even though it’s just an analogue tape recorder, it’s an important part of my musical process. I use it on every track I write in some way or another."

See how Al Jourgensen uses Nagra IV-S

Al Jourgensen

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Ministry

...
Verified via Guitarguitar

"Actually, my first ‘sampler’ was a Sony Nagra portable recorder. I would walk around sampling noises and edit them on tape later, or I would dump them on a disc and place them back on an Akai 3000. As far as why I sampled? I was fascinated with the cut up literary methods of William Burroughs and Brion Gysin and the way you could change the narrative of a story or in my case a song through manipulation thereby changing the entire atmosphere of a pretty rudimentary riff or storyline."

See how Kiasmos uses Nagra IV-S

Kiasmos

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

No statement by the band. You can see the nagra on top of the left desk rack.

See how John Carpenter uses Nagra IV-S

John Carpenter

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Texas Toad Lickers

...
Verified via The Official John Carpenter

According to John Carpenter's website, a Negra IV-S was used on the soundtrack for "Escape From New York."

See how Ben Frost uses Nagra IV-S

Ben Frost

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

A Nagra IV-S can be seen in this video of Frost recording.

See how Chris Watson uses Nagra IV-S

Chris Watson

Composer, Music Producer

Cabaret Voltaire

...
Verified via Sound On Sound

Chris Watson uses the Nagra IV-S, as confirmed by his own words in a Sound On Sound article: "Twenty years ago I was carrying Nagra IV‑S stereo recorders around, which weigh an absolute ton. They sound fantastic, as the preamps are astonishingly good, and occasionally I still use the preamps and take the noise reduction outputs from the Nagra into a digital recorder. For example, recently I was working on a film soundtrack where the director wanted an analogue patina to the atmosphere tracks, so I processed some original digital recordings via the Nagra, recording at 15ips."

See how Preston Hazard uses Nagra IV-S

Preston Hazard

Guitarist

Strange Sense of Comfort

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube Hazard can be seen using a Nagra IV tape machine to record nat sound and dialogue.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Nagra IV-S, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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See also: Analog, Nagra, Nagra Analog

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