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Average Price: $16

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$499

$1700+

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High-end

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Description

Experience the warmth of analog recording with the Revox Audio A77, a classic multitrack recorder cherished by enthusiasts and professionals alike. This iconic piece of studio recording gear is a testament to the enduring appeal of analog sound, offering a rich, vintage audio quality that digital systems often struggle to replicate. Originally released in the late 1960s, the A77 quickly became a staple in recording studios for its reliable performance and exceptional audio fidelity.

The Revox Audio A77 is designed for those who appreciate the nuances of analog tape recording. Its robust build and precise engineering ensure consistent, high-quality recordings across multiple tracks. Whether you're capturing the raw energy of a live band or the intricate details of a solo performance, the A77 delivers a distinct sonic character that adds depth and warmth to any project.

With its straightforward operation, the A77 remains a favorite among musicians and audio engineers who value simplicity and reliability. This recorder is not just a tool; it's a piece of musical history that continues to inspire creativity and innovation in the world of sound.

Key Features:

  • Classic analog multitrack recorder
  • High-fidelity audio capture with vintage warmth
  • Simple, reliable operation with a robust build
  • Suitable for capturing live performances and studio sessions
  • A favorite among analog recording enthusiasts and professionals
Dan Baker

Dan Baker

Revox A77 - a well deserved icon of the analogue tape era

Video thumbnail for Revox A77 - a well deserved icon of the analogue tape era by Dan Baker

Revox A77 - a well deserved icon of the analogue tape era

Dan Baker

Dan Baker

Video thumbnail for Overview of the Revox A77 by Edward Norton

Overview of the Revox A77

Edward Norton

Edward Norton

Video thumbnail for Using The Revox a77 To Remove Annoying Digital Frequencies by vvundertone

Using The Revox a77 To Remove Annoying Digital Frequencies

vvundertone

vvundertone

Video thumbnail for Revox A77 by Elektrickery by Dewald

Revox A77

Elektrickery by Dewald

Elektrickery by Dewald

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Revox Audio A77.

Features and functionality

  • The A77's electronic motor-speed control and 120 kHz bias-oscillator frequency enhance its precision compared to its predecessor, the G-36.

    Source
  • The A77's use of solid-state electronics contributes to a lighter and more compact design than the previous G-36 model.

    Source
  • A77 audio circuits are discrete and have a colored sound, with the saturation primarily from the circuit rather than the tape.

    Source
  • The A77 Mk IV includes Dolby noise reduction, while the B77 Mk II offers varispeed, providing different functionalities for nuanced applications.

    Source
  • The presence of a remote plug and an end-of-tape bulb are notable features that can impact functionality if missing or faulty.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The A77 is known for its versatility, being used in professional studios, NATO operations, government satellite recordings, and medical ECG captures.

    Source
  • A pre-amplifier is necessary when connecting a turntable to the A77 to ensure proper input levels, highlighting the need for compatible equipment in setups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the B77, the A77 lacks IC-based electronics, varispeed features, and sophisticated noise reduction, making the B77 more refined for certain applications.

    Source
  • The B77 has larger, more reliable VU meters and a full logic transport system, contrasting with the A77's minimalist design with fewer switches.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The A77's relay logic for transport can be complex to troubleshoot, requiring significant time to disassemble and reassemble during repairs.

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  • Cleaning switches with Deoxit is recommended to resolve crackly audio, as oxidation on contacts is a common issue.

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  • The serial number behind the machine's door helps identify the A77 model version, aiding in accurate troubleshooting and parts sourcing.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The Abbey Road mod is possible on the A77 but offers minimal audible improvement unless using high-level inputs, where it helps with headroom issues.

    Source

Build quality

  • A77's audio cards feature gold-plated connectors, enhancing durability and signal integrity.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Revox A-77 open-reel tape recorder | Stereophile.com

stereophile.com

The Revox A77 impresses with its stellar speed regulation, low noise, and smooth frequency response, making it a top choice for fidelity enthusiasts. Its compact design with built-in monitor amps is a plus for portability. However, the use of non-standard microphone inputs and occasional setup imprecision are minor drawbacks. While some users reported issues with relay contacts and reel-drum brakes, Revox's responsive service mitigates these concerns. Despite minor flaws, the A77's overall performance and unique lifetime warranty make it a standout in its class, albeit with a slightly cumbersome threading process.

positive

Revox A77 and B77

tonepublications.com

The Revox A77 and B77 reel-to-reel tape decks are celebrated for their ruggedness, functionality, and classic appeal. With superior build quality and innovative features, these machines offer a nostalgic yet high-performance listening experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of the challenges in maintaining vintage units, such as mechanical wear and tape head issues. Despite these hurdles, the Revox models remain highly regarded for their sound quality and reliability, making them a worthwhile investment for dedicated audiophiles.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 8 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Alex Turner uses Revox Audio A77

Alex Turner

Guitarist

Arctic Monkeys

...
Verified via Rolling Stone

Alex Turner used this tape machine when recording the Arctic Monkeys new album Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino

See how Daft Punk uses Revox Audio A77

Daft Punk

Music Producer

...
Verified via Archive

At the end of this 2001 interview, the duo give a brief run down of their gear, listing both the A77 and B77.

See how Brian Eno uses Revox Audio A77

Brian Eno

Singer, Keyboardist

David Bowie (band)

...
Verified via Hyperreal

Two modified ones were used for No Pussyfooting, as stated in this interview.

See how Robert Fripp uses Revox Audio A77

Robert Fripp

Guitarist, Keyboardist

King Crimson

...
Verified via Guitarcraftguitars

This page lists Robert Fripp’s gear.

See how KiNK uses Revox Audio A77

KiNK

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

"The machines used: Roland Space Echo RE-201, Mackie 802-VLZ3 (mixer), FMR RNLA (compressor) Revox A77 (tape recording, saturation), MFB Synth II (stabs) MFB 522 (drums) Enjoy:)"

See how Edgar Froese uses Revox Audio A77

Edgar Froese

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via The Music Aficionado

... This is the story of Tangerine Dream’s Ricochet.... The array of electronic equipment used by Tangerine Dream on that tour was formidable indeed. For its time it looked nothing short of a futuristic world controlled by machines. For the die hard rig fanatics, an approximate list of the machines used by the three members of the group at the Coventry Cathedral show included:

See how Chris Carter uses Revox Audio A77

Chris Carter

Keyboardist

Throbbing Gristle

...
Verified via Discogs

A Revox A77 was used on Chris Carter's The Space Between, according to the liner notes.

See how Max Rieger uses Revox Audio A77

Max Rieger

Singer, Guitarist

Die Nerven

...
Verified via Imgur

Used for recording the first All diese Gewalt album

See how Peter Baumann (2) uses Revox Audio A77

Peter Baumann (2)

Keyboardist

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via The Music Aficionado

... This is the story of Tangerine Dream’s Ricochet.... The array of electronic equipment used by Tangerine Dream on that tour was formidable indeed. For its time it looked nothing short of a futuristic world controlled by machines. For the die hard rig fanatics, an approximate list of the machines used by the three members of the group at the Coventry Cathedral show included:

See how Daniel Woodgate uses Revox Audio A77

Daniel Woodgate

Drummer

Madness

...
Verified via Muzines

"I normally master onto an old Revox A77, though if I was mastering onto cassette, I'd use a Hitachi DE7, as they've got a really close three-head system, which is much better for monitoring input/output. One of my prizes is a Sony Walkman Professional which I use for playback. And I've got an Aphex Aural Exciter. That's good for giving bass drums a big clout."

See how Dominic Glynn uses Revox Audio A77

Dominic Glynn

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Twitter

"@TheGamerPrime Korg 770, Yahama DX21, Roland Juno 6, Akai S900, Yamaha RX21, Fostex 8-track desk and tape deck, Revox A77 tape deck....:)"

Dominic confirming the synthesizers and equipment for Doctor Who.

See how Thomas Leer uses Revox Audio A77

Thomas Leer

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Minimalwave

"Private Plane was written and recorded over a 3 day period in my tiny flat in Finsbury Park, London. It was recorded on a TEAC A3440 4-track recorder and a little ALICE mixing board.

The only FX used were a WATKINS COPYCAT tape echo unit, ELECTRO HARMONIX DrQ filter, an old ROLAND drum machine (the preset variety) and a STYLOPHONE 350S.

The process was simply a case of laying the tracks down one at a time, applying FX as I went along, and then mixing them all down onto a REVOX A77 mastering machine."

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Revox Audio A77, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

EMS Synthi A
EMS Synthi A Synthesizers
2
Roland RE-201 Space Echo
Roland RE-201 Space Echo Effects Processors
2
Yamaha R1000
Yamaha R1000 Effects Processors
2
Roland MSQ-700
Roland MSQ-700 Audio Sequencers
2
EMS VCS 3
EMS VCS 3 Synthesizers
2
Mellotron M400
Mellotron M400 Vintage & Electric Pianos
2
Boss CE-2 Chorus
Boss CE-2 Chorus Chorus Effects Pedals
1
Universal Audio 1176LN
Universal Audio 1176LN Effects Processors
1
Eventide H949 Harmonizer
Eventide H949 Harmonizer Effects Processors
1

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4 artists using
TEAC A3340S

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# 17

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4 artists using
Tascam MSR-16

 

# 20

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Dave Grohl Boards of Canada Clay Parton
8 artists using
Fostex E-16

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# 23

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A.R. Rahman Michael Brook Graham Massey
4 artists using
TEAC A-3300SX

$849.00

# 24

Rank

Pete Townshend Squarepusher Paul Meany
3 artists using
Akai 1710

$30.50

# 25

Rank

Bibio
1 artist using
Tascam TSR-8

$1,200.00

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