Hubbry Logo
RevoxRevoxMain
Open search
Revox
Community hub
Revox
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Revox
Revox
Revox
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia
ReVox corporate logo
Revox A77 (1967–1977)
Complete Hi-Fi system from 1977 with audio amplifier A750, synthesizer tuner B760 (middle) and reel to reel audio tape recorder B77 (top).

ReVox (on-logo styling REVOX) is a brand name, registered by Studer on 27 March 1951 for Swiss audio equipment.[1]

History

[edit]

The first Studer-designed tape recorders were branded Dynavox. After the first production series of Dynavox recorders, a new marketing company was formed in 1950 called ELA AG. Revox was adopted as the brand name for amateur recorders, while the professional machines retained the Studer name.[1]

The first Revox-branded tape recorder was the T26, in 1952, successor to the Dynavox 100.

The T26 was also made available as a radio-recorder combination unit. 2500 T26 recorders were made, priced at 1395.00 Swiss francs.[1]

The A36, the first 36 series recorder. became available in 1954. Unusual features for the time were pushbutton solenoid transport operations and a direct-drive capstan with no belts or idler wheels. The B36 of 1956 was the first 3-head model, the D36 of 1960 was the first stereo model.

Revox A77 (1967–1977)
Revox PR99 Mk II, a 1/4 inch tape recorder. Produced from about 1985.

The company moved to Löffingen and Bonndorf, West Germany, in 1966, due to labour issues in Switzerland. But the building of a second factory was started in Regensdorf, Switzerland in 1967 - to open in 1968.[1]

Revox B790 Linear tracking record player (1977–1982)

In 1967 the 36-series tape recorders ended with the G36, and were superseded by the transistorised A77 with a servo-controlled direct drive capstan. Over 80,000 36-series recorders had been manufactured. The A77, of which more than 460,000 were built,[2] was complemented by an integrated amplifier (A78) and FM tuner (A76). The start of the 1980s saw the introduction of the "B7xx" series of high fidelity components, which was in turn replaced by the B2xx series in the mid 1980s. The B2xx series was versatile (the B250 amplifier offering 10 signal inputs, each with automatic sensitivity calibration) and feature-rich, all components containing microprocessors. Contrastingly, the "H" line, with "H" standing for Human, went to the opposite extreme, with minimalist control interfaces: several "H" components having only three buttons.

Revox H7, Digital-Tuner of H-series

In 1990 Willi Studer sold the Studer Revox Group to the Swiss company Motor-Columbus AG, including all subsidiary companies. In 1991, Motor-Columbus split the Studer Revox Group into Studer (Pro), Revox (HiFi) and a Manufacturing-division. Motor-Columbus sold several subsidiaries and plants.

The extensive reorganization culminated in the sale of the Studer Group to Harman International Inc., in March 1994. The Revox Group was excluded and sold to private investors. On 17 March 1994 Harman International Industries completed its acquisition and acquired from Motor-Columbus AG 100% of Studer Revox AG. Harman paid 100 Swiss Francs (approximately US $70.00) for all of the issued and outstanding stock in Studer Revox. Harman assumed post-acquisition indebtedness of Studer Revox of approximately 23 million Swiss Francs (approximately US $16 million).[3]

Revox B 215, 4-motors-Cassettedeck without belts (1985-1992)

The founder of Revox, Willi Studer, died on 1 March 1996.[4]

The company logo is the word "REVOX" in capitals, with a "V" larger than the other letters; when printed in fixed-size type, the mixed-case spelling "ReVox" is sometimes used, but in all older and most newer references the name is shown as "Revox".

Many consider ReVox open-reel tape recorders to be high-end audio equipment. The most famous of these are the G36 (valve type), A77 (solid state with relay controls) and B77 (solid state with logic control and direct-drive). The A700 was the top-of-the-line 1970s machine with 3-speed quartz PLL capstan, or, like the B77 which appeared in 1979, variable tape speed from 2.5 to 22.5 inches per second. Pictured to the right is the PR99 Mk2, a variant of the B77 for professional users, differing from the B77 in having balanced line in/out, and a real-time counter and auto-locator. The PR99 series was superseded by the C270 series, available also in multi-track formats (C274, C278).

Robert Fripp used Revox machines to produce his Frippertronics recordings in the late 1970s onward, until he replaced the recorders with digital delays in the 1990s.

Cassette recorders, CD players, televisions

[edit]

Revox also produced well-regarded cassette tape recorders, notably the B710 and later the B215, which used the same transport and substantially the same electronics as the more expensive Studer A710 and Studer A721, respectively. It is worth noting that the Revox H11 and C115 cassette recorders are not true Revox or Studer products, but rebadged Philips Model FC60. As such, they do not meet the exacting performance standards of the B710, B215 and H1 which are Studer designed and built.[citation needed]

In the same fashion, the Revox B225 and B226 compact disc players were very heavily based on the Studer A725 and A727 professional CD players. Likewise, the Revox FM tuners were almost identical to the Studer professional models. A limited run of the B226 CD player was issued to celebrate Studer's 40th anniversary. Dubbed 'The Signature', it featured a black faceplate (in contrast to the then silver (anodized aluminium) B226) and used the high performance Silver Crown version of the Philips TDA1541 DAC, which later featured in non-Signature B226-S versions.

Revox was one of the first manufacturers to market a plasma television set, the model E542 in 1999. Before that, they commissioned Loewe to manufacture a limited number of models of S-VHS and VHS video cassette recorders and CRT television sets branded with the Revox name. A DVD player bearing the Revox name (model S27) was built by the French company Micromega.

Current technology

[edit]
modular multiroom system M51

In 2002, Revox introduced with the Re:system M51 a modular audio video system in the market. This system can provide up to 32 rooms in 4 different listening zones with music. Different modules allow the user to select which sources he would like to use in his home, available sources (modules) for the M51 and M10 are amongst others FM-tuner, SAT-radio, Internet-radio, Multiroom, Audio server and also Audio streams. Solutions are available for all imaginable application possibilities up to the control via Apple products with the corresponding Apps. The operation of Multiroom require the availability of the corresponding Multiroom module and small amplifiers of the type M219 in the remote rooms. Also the first audio server of the company, the Revox M57, was perfectly in line with the Multiroom concept.

The M51 MKII is available with two different amplifiers. The analogue version performs 5 x 60 Watt sinus, the digital Class-D-amplifier 5 x 200 Watt sinus.

The M-series was extended in 2006 by the M10, a 19“ rack solution as central nerve and source centre and in 2010 by the M100, an audiophile Hifi-stereo amplifier with 2 x 200 Watt sinus power, FM-tuner and DVD-drive in an extremely compact housing. For the models M10 and M51, the latter is currently available in version MKII, the insertable modules are identical. For the M100 the modules, except for Multiroom, are offered as pluggable supplementations to the basic model.

network receiver Joy S119
(since 2012)

In the Multiroom operation the control of the rooms is effected by wall control units of the type M217/M218, by the remote controls M207 or M208 or by Apps, which are momentarily only available for the iOS-operating system.

In addition to the pure Audio server M37 MKII the Multimedia server M117 was introduced in 2011. In 2012 Revox presented the new audiophile network receivers Revox Joy S120, S119 and S118.

The workmanship of the devices is typically for Revox on a very high level and is characterised by the selection of precious materials like aluminium and glass.

At the begin of 2020 Revox surprised with a new belt-driven turntable Studiomaster T700, which has a tone arm made of carbon fiber and a built in MC-Pre-amplifier. It is delivered with an Ortofon Quintet Bronze pick up.[5]

Reel to reel revived

[edit]

As of May 2016, Revox announced the re-introduction of a reel-to-reel tape player, to be released in the first quarter of 2017. Manufactured and developed in conjunction with HORCH HOUSE (a division of Lutz Precision k.s.), it will initially be a playback-only machine, with a recorder/reproducer to follow.[6] In 2024, ReVox announced the birth of a brand new tape recorder, based on the historical success of the B77 line, the new B77 MK3. A top notch audiophile tape recorder for audiophile home use. [when?]

Loudspeakers

[edit]

For more than 40 years, Revox has been producing loudspeakers. The first speaker of the brand Revox was the series 46 (1970), which was developed for the former HiFi system A77, A76 and A50. The AX- (1976), the BX- (1977) and the BR-series (1980) followed. All speakers were developed and manufactured in the Revox plant in Ewattingen / Black Forest.

Numerous other speakers went along with the company in the 1980s. The most famous speakers were the Symbol B (1983) as well as the first Revox active speaker Agora B (1986). A milestone in the speaker development was the two digital active speakers Scala 4.7 (1994) and Scala 3.6 (1996). 1980 also saw the introduction of the Triton, one of the first sub-woofer / satellite systems for home high fidelity. The Triton subwoofer comprised a 200 lb cabinet designed to also act as a piece of furniture on which the entire B7xx series (including B77) could stand.[7] The Triton system was superseded by the smaller and more compact Piccolo, and later the Power Cube, which was a Piccolo bass unit with built-in power amplifiers and optional remote control and multi-room controller.

In 1987, Revox acquired the rights to manufacture the Stereolith Duetto, a single-box stereo loudspeaker. Built in the shape of a triangular prism, the Duetto was designed to complement, in acoustics and appearance, the Piccolo bass unit (passive operation) or the Power Cube (active operation).

Today’s Revox range includes a very comprehensive[clarification needed] speaker assortment. Classical three-way speakers such as the Prestige of the Re:sound G or Re:sound S series, medium and small speakers as well as a very comprehensive range of installation speakers, which come into operation especially in the multi-room field.

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Revox

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Revox is a Swiss specializing in equipment, renowned for pioneering reel-to-reel tape recorders and evolving into advanced multiroom and smart home audio systems that deliver studio-quality sound. Founded in 1948 by Willi Studer as "Willi Studer, Factory for Electronic Equipment" in , , the company initially produced oscilloscopes for high-voltage laboratories and early tape recording devices under the Dynavox name. The Revox was established to target the premium home hi-fi market, distinguishing it from the professional line, with the first Revox product being the tape recorder in the early , a high-fidelity device adopted by broadcasters for its precision and reliability. Throughout the and , Revox gained acclaim for its 36-series stereo tape recorders, such as the D36, which set standards for domestic audio reproduction with innovative features like dual-speed operation and robust build quality. The marked Revox's peak in analog audio innovation, exemplified by the A77 reel-to-reel tape deck, a that integrated an FM tuner and , earning international awards for its excellence and fidelity. As digital technologies emerged in the and , Revox adapted by developing cassette decks, CD players, the B790 quartz-controlled turntable (introduced late ), and the Scala 3.6 digital speakers to address acoustic challenges like runtime delays, while maintaining a commitment to minimalist design and superior acoustics. In the 2000s, the brand shifted toward integrated systems, introducing the M51 modular multiroom system supporting up to four zones for distributed audio. Today, as part of the Revox Group with over 77 years of heritage, Revox focuses on contemporary solutions such as the STUDIOART series of compact, multi-source speakers (A100, P100, B100), the high-end T700 turntable with built-in MC phono preamplifier, the V400 Multiuser Server for seamless streaming and control via apps or voice assistants, and the revived B77 MK III reel-to-reel tape recorder (announced 2025). The 2021 acquisition of purSonic expanded Revox's portfolio into invisible and architectural speakers, enhancing smart home integrations, followed by the 2024 acquisition of Horch House for analog master tape production. Revox products are celebrated for their durability, innovative engineering, and timeless aesthetic, appealing to audiophiles seeking uncompromising performance in both heritage analog and modern digital formats.

History

Founding and Early Innovations (1948–1960)

Willi Studer founded the "Willi Studer, Factory for Electronic Equipment" on January 5, , in , , employing three people to produce oscilloscopes for high-voltage laboratories. This venture marked Studer's entry into precision electronics amid the post-World War II economic recovery in , where demand for advanced technical instruments surged due to reconstruction efforts and emerging consumer technologies. In 1949, the company pivoted toward by developing its first reel-to-reel tape recorders, initially marketed under the Dynavox brand. On March 27, 1951, registered the Revox trademark specifically for consumer audio devices, establishing it as a distinct line parallel to the professional brand. That same year, Revox launched its debut product, the T26 tape recorder—a modified version of the Dynavox—which found applications in and was priced at 1,395 Swiss francs for the standard model, with a total of 2,500 units produced by the end of its run in 1954. Key advancements followed with the introduction of the A36 in 1954, featuring a three-motor drive, push-button controls, and solenoid operations for enhanced reliability and user convenience over prior models. In 1956, the B36 debuted as the first three-head Revox recorder, enabling real-time monitoring of recordings directly from the tape for improved audio quality control. These innovations positioned Revox as a high-fidelity option for amateur and home users, complementing the professional-grade Studer equipment amid growing postwar interest in magnetic tape technology for personal recording and playback. To meet rising production needs, established manufacturing operations in Säckingen, , in 1955 to handle metalworking and assembly. By 1960, the company opened a new factory in Regensdorf, , expanding capacity for Revox's consumer-oriented production while maintaining its focus on .

Growth and Iconic Tape Recorders (1961–1989)

During the 1960s, Revox expanded its focus on high-fidelity audio for home use by entering the era, building on its earlier mono foundations. The company launched the D36 in 1960, marking the first open-reel designed for amateur users, including musicians, with capabilities for 2- or 4-track recording and a newly developed section optimized for playback. This model retained mechanical elements from prior series while introducing electronics tailored for , enabling broader adoption among hi-fi enthusiasts seeking professional-grade sound at home. By the mid-1960s, Revox's production scaled significantly to meet growing demand in , where it positioned itself as a premium brand for discerning audiophiles due to its Swiss engineering precision and reliability. The 1967 introduction of the A77 series represented a pinnacle in Revox's analog lineup, featuring a that allowed integration with FM tuners and amplifiers for seamless hi-fi systems. Produced until 1977, the A77 utilized a three-motor transport with electronic switching for silent operation and cool running, delivering superior and low noise compared to its tube-based predecessors. Over 400,000 units were sold worldwide across its variants, underscoring its status as a bestseller in the semi-professional and markets. In the , the A77 was frequently paired with Revox's AX series speakers and dedicated amplifiers, forming complete integrated systems that emphasized balanced, high-fidelity reproduction for living room setups. Revox continued innovating with the B77 in , an of the A77 that incorporated direct-drive capstan motors for enhanced speed stability and updated for improved signal-to-noise ratios. This model maintained the modular ethos, supporting optional accessories like remote controls and extended tape paths, and became a staple for both home and light professional use through the . Complementing these reel-to-reel icons, Revox ventured into cassettes with the B710 in the late , a microprocessor-controlled deck aimed at bridging professional tape quality with compact formats. By the , the B215 cassette , introduced in 1985, elevated this line with noise reduction, auto-reverse, and automatic , positioning Revox as a leader in high-end analog cassette technology. For professional applications, the PR99 Mk II, released in 1985, offered a robust 1/4-inch reel-to-reel recorder with variable speeds up to 15 ips and IEC equalization, serving as a versatile tool for studios, , and . This period's growth was bolstered by key production expansions: in 1966, Revox established a subsidiary factory in Löffingen, , to ramp up output amid labor constraints in and increasing European demand. A second Swiss facility in Regensdorf opened around 1967, further enhancing capacity for the booming 36-series and subsequent models. The technology's influence extended to iconic recordings, as evidenced by the related Studer J37—Revox's professional counterpart—used by in 1967 for multi-track sessions on Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, highlighting the lineage of -Revox engineering in shaping modern music production.

Ownership Transitions and Product Diversification (1990–2009)

In 1990, Willi Studer sold the Studer Revox Group to Motor-Columbus AG, marking a significant shift amid growing financial pressures on the company. The following year, 1991, Motor-Columbus restructured the organization by splitting it into separate divisions: the professional audio-focused unit and the consumer hi-fi-oriented Revox brand, with Revox emphasizing diversification into home entertainment products while subsidiaries and manufacturing plants were divested. By 1994, further reorganization led to the sale of the professional division to Inc., which integrated it under operational control from its UK-based Soundcraft subsidiary, while the Revox consumer group was transferred to private investors, preserving its independent Swiss operations and brand identity. This transition allowed Revox to leverage some shared technologies from the broader group, such as those derived from , in its evolving product lineup. Willi Studer, the company's founder, died on March 1, 1996, after a brief illness, at the age of 84. Amid the industry's rapid move from analog to digital formats, Revox diversified its portfolio in the by introducing CD players like the B226, produced from 1986 to 1994 and featuring high-fidelity audio based on engineering principles. The company also refined its analog offerings, including the B790 turntable with its quartz-locked direct-drive mechanism and linear-tracking tonearm, adapting it for continued consumer appeal. Entering the video sector, Revox partnered with Loewe to launch its first television product, the E542 in 1999, noted for its sharp 852x480 resolution and slim design as an early entry in flat-panel technology. Complementing this, the late saw the debut of the "Easy Line" multiroom audio system and the B200 audio/video controller, enabling distributed sound and integrated AV control across home environments. The early brought further innovation with the 2002 launch of the Re:system M51, a modular multiroom platform supporting up to four independent zones, complete with audio servers for digital music storage and playback, reflecting Revox's adaptation to networked demands. These developments occurred against a backdrop of corporate instability and the broader challenge of declining analog tape demand, which pushed Revox toward digital, video, and integrated systems to sustain its high-end consumer market position.

Modern Revival and Analog Renaissance (2010–Present)

Following the challenges of the early , Revox achieved greater stability under the private ownership of the Swiss-based Revox Group AG, which has emphasized the brand's heritage in high-fidelity audio while incorporating modern technologies such as multiroom streaming and smart home integration. This period marked a strategic focus on blending analog warmth with digital convenience, allowing Revox to maintain its reputation for studio-quality sound in an era dominated by wireless and networked systems. Key product launches underscored this revival, beginning with the Re:system M100 modular amplifier in 2010, a compact high-end system featuring a customizable interface and expandable modules for lifelong upgrades. In 2012, the Joy S119 network receiver followed, offering seamless , UPnP streaming, and 60 watts per channel output in a sleek aluminum , praised for its low-distortion audio performance. The momentum continued into the with the 2020 launch of the Studiomaster T700 turntable, a belt-driven high-end model equipped with an integrated MC phono , Ortofon Quintet Bronze cartridge, and precision PLL speed control for precise analog playback. The analog gained traction with Revox's reentry into reel-to-reel territory, starting with playback-only machines offered through refurbished programs around 2017 that catered to enthusiasts seeking the superior of tape over digital formats, building on the brand's historical tape legacy from the mid-20th century. This culminated in the 2024 announcement of the B77 MK III stereo , a full-function 2-track model with updated capstan and sustainable manufacturing practices using eco-friendly materials; production began in May 2025, including a limited edition of 25 units in collaboration with , featuring custom black-and-red aesthetics signed by the artist. In September 2025, Revox announced a partnership with the U.S.-based National Audio Company to produce premium blank and prerecorded cassettes under the Revox and Horch House labels, with market entry planned for Q4 2025 at its Villingen, facility, aiming to revive high-quality cassette as a viable analog medium. Complementing this, the Studiomaster A200 active speaker was introduced in 2025, a compact room-filling model with built-in amplification and Multiuser 3.0 app compatibility for easy integration into modern audio setups. Revox expanded its portfolio through strategic moves, including the 2021 acquisition of purSonic GmbH on January 1, which enhanced its offerings in invisible speaker technology for discreet home installations. The company showcased these innovations at the High End exhibition from May 15 to 18, 2025, in Hall 2 (booth G02/J03), highlighting analog products alongside smart home solutions. As of 2025, marking over 75 years since its 1948 founding, Revox's ethos centers on fusing analog revival—exemplified by tape and vinyl systems—with intelligent connectivity, ensuring enduring appeal for audiophiles in a hybrid audio landscape.

Core Audio Products

Reel-to-Reel Tape Recorders

Revox reel-to-reel tape recorders primarily utilized 1/4-inch wide , a standard format for high-fidelity audio applications that allowed for recording and playback with sufficient track separation. These machines typically operated at tape speeds of 7.5 inches per second (ips) for and 15 ips for higher quality, balancing duration and on standard open-reel spools up to 10.5 inches in diameter. Equalization standards included both NAB (North American Broadcast) and IEC/CCIR (/Comité Consultatif International des Radiocommunications) curves, enabling compatibility with a range of professional and consumer tapes while minimizing anomalies. Modular construction was a hallmark, with interchangeable heads, upgradable electronics, and serviceable mechanical assemblies that facilitated long-term and enhancements over decades of use. The G36, introduced in , marked Revox's entry into semi-professional territory with its robust three-motor design and tube-based amplification, delivering reliable performance for home and studio dubbing tasks. It featured a solid integral casting for the capstan motor and pinch roller assembly, ensuring stable tape transport at speeds of 3.75 and 7.5 ips, though it lacked the solid-state advancements of later models. Successor to earlier tube designs, the G36 emphasized durability with heads for stereo operation and supported reel sizes up to 10.5 inches, making it a bridge between amateur and pro-level recording. Launched in 1967 and produced until 1977, the A77 represented a significant leap with its three-motor configuration, including a servo-controlled capstan for precise speed regulation, and electronic logic for automated functions like tape end detection via photoelectric sensors. This model achieved worldwide sales exceeding 300,000 units, underscoring its appeal to audiophiles for its and bias oscillator at 120 kHz, which improved high-frequency response over predecessors like the G36. Variants included the A77/4 for four-track quarter-track operation, alongside options for stereo and low-speed models like the A77 SLS for extended recording up to 12 hours at 1.875 ips, all sharing disengageable for enhanced . The B77 series, introduced in with production extending into the 1990s, refined the A77's architecture through direct-drive AC servo capstan motors that eliminated belts for superior speed stability and reduced wow and flutter to less than 0.08% at 7.5 ips. The Mk I version (–1980) focused on core reliability, while the Mk II (1980–1998) added built-in vari-speed control (±7 semitones) and revised audio circuits. These machines supported both 7.5 and 15 ips speeds, with modular head assemblies allowing switches between stereo and multi-track modes. In 2025, Revox revived the B77 lineage with the Mk III, a limited-production stereo model restricted to 20 units per month due to high demand and specialized manufacturing, featuring updated electronics for modern compatibility while retaining the original direct-drive mechanics. This version supports both playback and recording on 1/4-inch tape at 7.5 and 15 ips, with redesigned audio paths incorporating low-noise op-amps and a new capstan shaft forged from five tons of steel for enhanced precision. Revox reel-to-reel recorders found primary use in home hi-fi environments for archiving vinyl and broadcast sources, as well as from master tapes, offering a warm analog prized by enthusiasts. Their compatibility with tapes stemmed from shared manufacturing heritage, allowing seamless integration of high-grade media like or formulations for optimal results. Key technical specifications across flagship models like the A77 and B77 included a of 30 Hz to 20 kHz (±2 dB at 15 ips), ensuring faithful reproduction of full-range audio. Signal-to-noise ratios exceeded 70 dB when equipped with B noise , surpassing unprocessed levels of 64–67 dB and minimizing tape hiss in quiet passages.

Cassette and Other Tape Formats

Revox entered the compact cassette market in the late with the B710, a basic hi-fi stereo deck designed for consumer playback and recording. This single-cassette model featured a four-motor drive system, including dual capstans for stable tape transport, and supported to enhance audio fidelity on standard Type I tapes. With a tape speed of 4.78 cm/s and wow-and-flutter specification below 0.1%, the B710 offered reliable performance for home use, though it lacked advanced calibration adjustments. Its aluminum chassis and microprocessor-controlled operation contributed to a of 72 dB, positioning it as an entry-level option in Revox's analog lineup. In the 1980s, Revox advanced its cassette offerings with the B215, a three-head, four-motor deck that supported professional-grade features for both recording and playback. Equipped with B, C, and HX Pro , as well as compatibility for metal (Type IV) tapes, the B215 achieved a of 30 Hz to 18 kHz on Type I tapes and up to 20 kHz on chrome and metal formulations. Its dual-capstan, direct-drive transport, powered by quartz-controlled DC motors, minimized wow and flutter to under 0.1%, ensuring precise tape handling during sessions. Microprocessor-assisted automatic adjusted , equalization, and levels for optimal results across tape types, while a real-time counter and optional enhanced usability. By contrast, the company focused primarily on compact cassettes as a more portable alternative to its reel-to-reel predecessors, which had set benchmarks for high-fidelity . In September 2025, Revox announced a partnership with the U.S.-based National Audio Company to revive premium cassette production at its Villingen, facility. This collaboration installs National Audio's production line for high-quality music duplication, targeting labels and artists with releases under Revox and Horch House branding slated for the fourth quarter of 2025. These cassette decks bridged the gap between Revox's professional reel-to-reel machines and emerging digital formats, providing audiophiles with compact, high-performance options for home and portable analog playback in an era of transitioning audio technologies.

Turntables and Analog Sources

Revox entered the turntable market in the with the B790, a direct-drive model featuring quartz-locked speed control and a tangential tonearm designed to minimize tracking errors and resist record warps. The B790's ultra-short Linatrack tonearm, measuring just 4 cm and weighing around 40 grams with cartridge, ensured precise linear tracking while maintaining low mass for optimal performance. Its speed accuracy of ±0.01% provided exceptional stability, making it a benchmark for analog playback during an era dominated by digital transitions. In 2020, Revox reintroduced turntables with the Studiomaster T700, a belt-drive model emphasizing high-fidelity vinyl reproduction through premium materials and . The T700 features a 2.85 kg POM platter for high mass and low , paired with an aluminum sub-platter and a carbon fiber tonearm tube to dampen vibrations and enhance clarity. Speed stability is achieved via PLL electronic control with a contactless optical , yielding a variation of less than 0.1% and tolerance of ±0.02%, ensuring consistent playback free from wow and flutter. The turntable includes an integrated adjustable MC phono compatible with both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, such as the pre-mounted Ortofon , and offers seamless integration with Revox amplifiers like the M500 and series through galvanically isolated outputs. These turntables complement Revox's reel-to-reel offerings, appealing to analog purists seeking vinyl dubbing and playback in one . In the lineup, they underscore Revox's commitment to analog revival, with the T700 prominently featured in demonstrations at High End 2025 to highlight its role in modern high-end audio setups. Swiss engineering principles guide Revox's turntable production, prioritizing through high-mass designs, optimized bearings, and resonance-tuned components to deliver studio-grade performance with minimal external interference.

Integrated Systems and Components

Amplifiers and CD Players

Revox amplifiers emerged in the as essential companions to the brand's renowned tape recorders, particularly the A77 model. The A78 integrated , rated at 2 × 40 watts, provided clean power and low to form a cohesive hi-fi system alongside the A76 FM tuner. This setup translated professional studio standards into consumer audio, emphasizing reliability and sonic accuracy for playback of analog sources like reel-to-reel tapes. In the modern period, Revox revived its amplification lineup with the M100 stereo amplifier, introduced in 2010 as part of a modular hi-fi platform. Designed with a Class AB and an aluminum for and durability, the M100 delivers 2 × 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms (sinusoidal), supporting expandable configurations while maintaining low noise floors suitable for . Its versatile inputs, including balanced XLR options in professional variants, ensure compatibility with both legacy and contemporary sources, bridging Revox's analog heritage with digital integration. Revox's CD players marked the brand's foray into during the late 1980s, with the B225 serving as an early flagship single-disc model. Equipped with dual TDA1540 digital-to-analog converters offering 14-bit resolution and a CDM-0 or CDM-1 transport mechanism, the B225 achieved a of 2 Hz to 20 kHz and a exceeding 96 dB, with below 0.006%. Built from 1984 onward, it prioritized mechanical stability and precise error correction to deliver transparent sound in hi-fi environments. The B226, produced from 1986 to 1994, refined this approach with upgrades including the TDA1541 16-bit DAC, enhanced jitter reduction via improved , and an optional infrared remote control for user convenience. It maintained low under 0.005% across its 20 Hz to 20 kHz bandwidth while adding variable outputs for integration with amplifiers like the B251 series. These components formed the backbone of Revox hi-fi stacks, enabling seamless transitions between analog tape decks and emerging digital formats. Amplifiers and players emphasized minimal signal path interference, with features like balanced XLR inputs on select models reducing noise in professional setups and achieving levels below 0.005% to preserve audio purity.

Multiroom Audio Systems

Revox pioneered multiroom audio solutions in the with the introduction of the Easy Line system, a wired setup that enabled distributed audio playback across multiple rooms using peripheral switching commands integrated with the B200 audio/video controller. This innovation marked Revox's entry into networked , allowing synchronized or independent zone control for hi-fi components. In 2002, Revox advanced this concept with the Re:system M51, a modular audio-video system supporting up to four independent multiroom zones where different sources could play simultaneously. The M51 served as a central hub with audio servers, expandable for whole-home distribution and compatible with bases like the M100. The 2000s saw further refinements with the M10 compact controller, part of the Re:system M100 series, which streamlined multiroom management in smaller setups while maintaining expandability into full systems. By the , Revox introduced the V400 Multiuser Server, leveraging the proprietary Voxnet protocol—an Ethernet-based text protocol for streaming and control—to deliver high-fidelity audio from sources like , UPnP media servers, and zone-synced playback across multiple users and rooms. Key features of these systems include support for , UPnP integration for local network streaming, and flexible zone synchronization, all controllable via dedicated apps. Recent enhancements incorporate the STUDIO CONTROL C200, an Android-based touch controller certified by , which unifies audio management with broader smart home functions. The Joy Audio Network Receiver supports multiroom capabilities with seamless connectivity to services like Tidal and while supporting app-based control and high-resolution streaming.

Speakers and Acoustics

Revox entered the loudspeaker market in 1970 with the Series 46, its inaugural line of floorstanding speakers designed to pair with the brand's high-fidelity playback devices like the A77 and A76 tape recorders. These early models emphasized robust construction and balanced acoustic performance to reproduce the full of analog sources. The AX series, launched in the mid-1970s, introduced compact 3-way bookshelf speakers such as the AX3-3, featuring dedicated bass, , and drivers for precise sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum. These speakers were developed in Revox's German facility in Nellenburg and became emblematic of the brand's commitment to audiophile-grade acoustics during a of expansion. In 1983, Revox released the Symbol B, a premium three-way sealed-box floorstander with a highly rigid, braced to minimize resonances and ensure tight bass response. This model, produced until the mid-1980s, incorporated high-quality drivers including dual woofers for enhanced low-end extension, reflecting Revox's focus on controlled acoustic environments over ported designs. The Scala 4.7, introduced in 1994, marked a significant advancement as one of the first digital active speakers from Revox, integrating built-in amplification and to optimize crossover points and runtime delays for improved phase alignment and lifelike sound staging. This transmission-line design, followed by the similar Scala 3.6 in 1996, prioritized conceptual fidelity by addressing challenges like latency, delivering a performance close to live acoustics. Entering the 2000s, the Re:sound series brought modern compact solutions, such as the 2-way shelf speakers with a 100 mm and 19 mm dome , offering 60 W nominal power handling in a space-efficient format for contemporary home setups. These models maintained Revox's heritage of coherent imaging through simple yet effective enclosure geometries. Revox's recent STUDIOART lineup, developed in the , includes the active A100 room speaker with a 70 mm full-range driver and of 52 Hz to 20 kHz, the passive P100 as its wired counterpart for pairing, and the B100 bass module extending low frequencies down to 35 Hz. These aluminum-housed units support bi-amping configurations via external amplification and emphasize phase coherence through aligned driver timing. In 2021, Revox acquired purSonic , incorporating its innovative invisible in-wall speakers like the INV series, which use ultra-thin surface transducers for seamless integration under , , or without visible grilles, providing high-efficiency sound dispersion for custom installations. The STUDIOART S100 Audiobar, a 3.1-channel active , features dual-port loading and a range of 44 Hz to 20 kHz, supporting bi-amped low-frequency drivers for cinematic audio. In 2025, Revox unveiled the STUDIOMASTER A200, a portable active speaker with technology and multiroom compatibility, delivering studio-grade fidelity in a battery-powered as of November 2025.

Innovations and Legacy

Technological Milestones

Revox pioneered several key innovations in audio engineering, particularly in tape recording and playback technologies, beginning in the mid-20th century. The company's early advancements focused on enhancing precision and usability for consumer-grade equipment, drawing from professional studio expertise developed under founder Willi Studer. These milestones established Revox as a leader in high-fidelity analog reproduction, influencing subsequent developments in both analog and systems. In , Revox introduced the B36 , marking the first consumer model with a three-head configuration that allowed simultaneous monitoring of recording and playback signals through separate record and replay heads. This enabled amateurs to achieve professional-level results, such as off-tape monitoring for immediate quality assessment, while incorporating a three-motor drive for stable tape transport. The B36's innovation democratized advanced tape technology, producing over 2,500 units annually by the late 1950s and setting a benchmark for hobbyist . The Revox A77, launched in , advanced tape transport mechanisms with an integrated logic control circuit that managed relay-based operations, ensuring reliable and damage-resistant handling. This logic-controlled system, combined with a servo-regulated capstan motor maintaining speeds of 19 cm/s and 9.5 cm/s within ±0.2% accuracy, eliminated mechanical wear from belts or couplings and supported versatile positioning (horizontal, vertical, or inclined). The A77's three-motor design and electrically actuated brakes further minimized wow and flutter to ≤0.08% at higher speeds, making it a staple for audiophiles and professionals alike, with over 80,000 predecessor 36-series units paving the way for its success. During the 1980s, Revox innovated in vinyl playback with the B790 turntable, featuring a tangential tonearm that tracked records linearly, mimicking the cutting lathe's motion to reduce distortion and wear. This servo-controlled, pneumatically damped arm, paired with a quartz-locked direct-drive motor achieving ±0.01% speed stability at 33⅓ and 45 rpm, ensured precise stylus placement and minimal tracking error. The B790's electronic servo system and 4-digit LED speed display represented a sophisticated yet user-friendly approach to high-end analog sources, addressing common pivot-based arm limitations. As digital technologies emerged, Revox ventured into video with the E542 plasma television in 1999, one of the earliest consumer models offering razor-sharp 852x480 resolution in a flat-panel format. This integration of technology with audio expertise highlighted Revox's adaptability, providing immersive home theater experiences through advanced picture reproduction and built-in cooling systems, though audible fans were a noted trade-off. In the , Revox developed the Voxnet protocol for its Multiuser , enabling lossless, synchronized multiroom audio streaming over Ethernet with CD-quality (16-bit/44.1 kHz) delivery across zones. This proprietary text-based protocol supported external integrations like KNX and , allowing seamless control of diverse sources while maintaining studio-grade fidelity without compression artifacts, positioning Revox as a pioneer in IP-based networks. Revox's analog revival in 2025 included the B77 MK III tape recorder, featuring an updated direct-drive capstan shaft machined from high-grade Swiss steel with concentricity tolerances of 0.001 mm across 17 production steps. This precision engineering, using five tons of material for the initial batch, compensates for minute speed variations via servo control, achieving wow and flutter below 0.08% and supporting tapes up to 26.5 cm reels for extended playback. The design revives the iconic B77 series with modern manufacturing for superior stability and sound quality. That same year, Revox partnered with National Audio Company Inc. to launch high-resolution cassette production, installing a dedicated line at its Villingen facility for Type II chrome-compatible tapes optimized for studio-quality recording and playback. This collaboration enables duplication of Revox's music catalog at resolutions supporting full analog frequency response (up to 20 kHz), with premium casings and formulations exceeding standard consumer cassettes, targeting audiophiles seeking uncompressed analog media. Market entry occurred in Q4 2025, expanding global access outside North America. Revox contributed to audio standards through early adoption and implementation of NAB tape equalization in its recorders, such as the A77 and B77 series, which included switchable NAB/CCIR modes for compatible playback of American and European tapes (NAB emphasizing 50 Hz/3.18 kHz poles for broader bass response). This facilitated cross-regional use without sonic degradation, aligning with NAB's 1953 curve for open-reel formats. Additionally, Revox integrated control in turntables like the B790 and B795, using crystal oscillators for locked speed regulation (±0.01%), which became a for precision analog playback in the and beyond.

Cultural Impact and Recent Collaborations

Revox's A77 and B77 reel-to-reel tape recorders emerged as iconic symbols in the 1970s community, prized for their professional-grade and reliability that bridged home hi-fi with studio environments. These machines were particularly favored by dedicated enthusiasts who valued their and ability to handle open-reel tapes, which were expensive and less accessible than vinyl records, fostering a among those seeking unparalleled audio fidelity. Their cultural significance extended to professional music production, where modifications like the "Abbey Road mod"—developed to optimize input circuitry—gained prominence due to their adoption at for demo recordings and mastering sessions. In the broader audio industry, Revox products established benchmarks for home studio performance during the analog era, influencing standards for and sound reproduction that persisted into professional workflows. The A77 and B77, in particular, democratized high-end tape technology for domestic use, enabling audiophiles to achieve near-studio results and inspiring a generation of setups. This legacy has fueled a resurgence in the amid the analog revival, where vinyl and tape enthusiasts drive demand for premium formats, positioning Revox as a leader in restoring authentic, uncompressed audio experiences. The brand's focus on unaltered master tapes and revived classics appeals to this niche, capitalizing on a growing appreciation for tangible media in an increasingly digital landscape. Recent collaborations underscore Revox's enduring appeal and adaptability. In April 2025, Revox partnered with rock icon to release a limited-edition B77 MK III stereo tape recorder, producing just 25 units worldwide in a distinctive black-and-red aesthetic inspired by Cooper's stage persona, complete with exclusive master tapes of his music. This edition not only celebrates analog playback but also ties into Cooper's advocacy for high-fidelity audio, with events planned in and the to showcase the machines. Complementing this, Revox announced a with National Audio Company Inc. in September 2025 to manufacture high-quality audio cassettes at its German facility, marking the brand's entry into cassette production alongside its reel-to-reel offerings. This partnership includes a Q4 2025 launch of music cassettes developed with a major label, aiming to deliver studio-mastered analog sound to a broader audience. Revox maintained a strong presence at the High End 2025 exhibition from May 15-18, exhibiting in Hall 2 (booth G02/J03) to demonstrate its full range, including the edition and innovative audio systems. The event highlighted the brand's commitment to live demonstrations of premium analog and speaker technologies. Earlier that year, in July 2025, Revox released a company video commemorating its 75-year milestone since 1948, emphasizing pioneering contributions to audio standards and the timeless value of true-to-original sound. On a broader scale, Revox has shifted toward sustainable practices in its premium analog lineup, aligning with an eco-conscious market that prioritizes durable, long-lasting products over disposable digital alternatives. By focusing on recyclable materials and high-quality manufacturing in , the brand appeals to environmentally aware consumers seeking ethical, heirloom-grade that reduces . This approach reinforces Revox's role in a revival movement that values analog's warmth and permanence, fostering a cultural reconnection with in sustainable living contexts.

References

  1. https://revox.com/us/revox-history
  2. https://audioxpress.com/news/revox-announces-b77-mk-iii-stereo-tape-recorder-alice-cooper-limited-edition
  3. https://audioxpress.com/news/revox-acquires-horch-house-analog-master-tape-business
  4. https://revox.com/us/company
  5. https://reel-reel.com/tape-recorder-brand/studer/
  6. https://museumofmagneticsoundrecording.org/ManufacturersStuderReVox.html
  7. https://reel-reel.com/tape-recorder-brand/revox/
  8. https://www.reeltoreel.nl/studer/Public/SwissSound/HistoryStuder1948-87e.pdf
  9. https://www.reeltoreel.nl/studer/Public/SwissSound/HistoryStuder1948-79e.pdf
  10. https://www.radiomuseum.org/r/studer_revox_b36.html
  11. http://www.soundfan.it/en/history.html
  12. https://bh.hallikainen.org/uploads/harold/Revox1948-1979.pdf
  13. https://www.rikkie.be/documents/history_of_tape.html
  14. https://www.reeltoreel.de/worldwide/36er.htm
  15. https://www.reeltoreel.de/worldwide/HistoryE.htm
  16. https://www.tonepublications.com/old-school/revox-a77-and-b77/
  17. https://www.muzines.co.uk/articles/revox-a77/6351
  18. https://www.vintagedigital.com.au/revox-b77/
  19. https://revox.com/en/classic/classic-products/171/b77-mki-tape-recorder
  20. https://www.tapeheads.net/threads/revox-b710-convince-me-not-to-but-it.69725/
  21. https://revox.com/en/classic/classic-products/173/b215-cassette-deck
  22. https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/golden-gear-studer-revox-pr99
  23. https://www.abbeyroad.com/news/studer-j37-gearthatmadeus-3195
  24. https://www.aes.org/aeshc/jaes.obit/JAES_V44_5_PG435.pdf
  25. https://revox.com/en/classic/classic-products/169/b226-cd-player
  26. https://fuzzaudio.shop/products/revox-b790-turntable
  27. https://www.soundandvision.com/content/revox-e-542-42-inch-plasma-monitor
  28. https://revox.com/en/revox-history
  29. https://revox.com/media/pdf/b6/62/95/EN_TD_Revox-Joy-Network-Receiver_S120_S119.pdf
  30. https://revox.com/us/audio-systems/turntable/48/studiomaster-t700-turntable
  31. https://revox.com/us/revox-news/b77-mk-iii-stereo-tape-recorder-alice-cooper-limited-edition
  32. https://revox.com/us/revox-news/cooperation-between-national-audio-company-inc.-and-revox-group
  33. https://revox.com/us/revox-news/new-b-studio/b-master-a200-room-speaker
  34. https://revox.com/en/revox-news/visit-us-at-high-end-2025-in-munich
  35. https://revox.com/75jahre/
  36. https://boginjr.com/electronics/old/revox/
  37. https://www.hifiengine.com/manual_library/revox/g36.shtml
  38. https://www.reddit.com/r/ReelToReel/comments/qwqeao/revox_b77_hs_equalization_versions/
  39. https://revox.com/world/widgets/emotion/index/emotionId/76/controllerName/listing
  40. https://reel-reel.com/tape-recorder/revox-g36-736/
  41. http://www.muzines.co.uk/articles/revox-a77/6351
  42. https://www.hifiengine.com/manual_library/revox/b77.shtml
  43. https://revox.com/en/classic/classic-products/172/b77-mkii-tape-recorder
  44. https://reel-reel.com/tape-recorder/revox-b77/
  45. https://revox.com/en/tape-recorder/285/b77-mk-iii-stereo-tape-recorder
  46. https://revox.com/en/revox-news/revox-b77-mk-iii-stereo-tape-recorder-special-capstan-shaft
  47. https://www.stereophile.com/content/revox-77-open-reel-tape-recorder
  48. https://museumofmagneticsoundrecording.org/images/R2R/RevoxA77A76A78.pdf
  49. https://www.hifiengine.com/manual_library/revox/b710.shtml
  50. https://www.premium-hifi.com/en-gb/studer-revox-b710-tape-recorder
  51. https://www.theturntablestore.com/products/revox-b710-single-cassette-deck-fully-serviced
  52. https://www.hifiengine.com/manual_library/revox/b215.shtml
  53. https://mortechpr.wixsite.com/cassetteadventures/single-post/2018/03/27/the-revox-b-215
  54. https://www.hifi-classic.net/review/revox-b215-240.html
  55. https://www.hifipig.com/national-audio-company-and-revox-group-cassette-tape-manufacturing/
  56. https://www.hifi-classic.net/review/revox-b710-mkii-378.html
  57. https://www.vinylengine.com/library/revox/b790.shtml
  58. https://www.premium-hifi.com/en-gb/studer-revox-b790
  59. https://hifi-wiki.com/index.php/Revox_B_790
  60. https://revox.com/us/revox-news/
  61. https://revox.com/us/audio-systems/turntable/
  62. http://revoxservice.co.uk/the-revox-a77/
  63. https://www.red-dot.org/project/m100-stereo-amplifier-multiuser-24728-24727
  64. https://www.hifiengine.com/manual_library/revox/b225.shtml
  65. https://www.gammaelectronics.xyz/audio_09-1984_revox.html
  66. https://www.tnt-audio.com/sorgenti/revoxb226_e.html
  67. https://revox.com/en/classic/classic-products/185/b150-hifi-amplifier
  68. https://revox.com/us/multiuser-multiroom/products/server/49/v400-multiuser-server
  69. https://revox.com/us/multiuser-multiroom/products/control/128/studiocontrol-c200
  70. https://audiovintagestore.com/en/product/revox-ax3-3-loudspeakers-classic-vintage-fully-revitalized/
  71. https://www.vintageaudio.lv/revox-resound/
  72. https://revox.com/media/pdf/11/d1/be/Datenblatt-Revox-STUDIOART_A100_P100_EN.pdf
  73. https://revox.com/en/loudspeakers/wireless-speakers/30/studioart-b100-bass-module
  74. https://revox.com/en/loudspeakers/wireless-speakers/39/studioart-s100-audiobar
  75. https://hifi-wiki.com/index.php/Revox_B_36
  76. https://www.vintagedigital.com.au/revox-a77/
  77. https://vintagehificlub.com/reviews-articoli/revox-77/
  78. https://www.gammaelectronics.xyz/high-fidelity_mag_1980-01_revox.html
  79. https://www.preservationsound.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Revox_80_part1.pdf
  80. https://www.installation-international.com/ise-daily/multi-room-music-over-ip-with-revoxs-voxnet-2
  81. https://revox.com/en/multiuser-multiroom/experience/advantages-of-revox/
  82. https://www.analogplanet.com/content/revox-b77-mk-iii-reel-reel-stereo-tape-recorder
  83. https://revox.com/en/revox-news/cooperation-between-national-audio-company-inc.-and-revox-group
  84. https://www.analogplanet.com/content/revox-and-national-audio-company-team-new-era-audio-cassette-production
  85. https://revox.com/media/pdf/ae/5f/fd/2025_06_EN_STEREO_Revox-B77_web.pdf
  86. https://www.vinylengine.com/library/revox/b795.shtml
  87. https://www.tapeheads.net/threads/revox-a77-mki-delivers-what-all-the-rest-only-promised.110122/
  88. https://gearspace.com/board/geekzone/1161786-revox-a77-abby-road-mod.html
  89. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpDP4kLmc9Q
  90. https://www.galaxus.be/en/page/revox-a77-my-nostalgia-machine-21200
  91. https://revox.com/us/revox-news/revox-appoints-ryan-o-connor-as-new-president-north-america
  92. https://revox.com/us/revox-news/new-revox-analog-master-tapes-collection-tapes-for-the-very-best-music-enjoyment
  93. https://revox.com/us/tape-recorder/509/b77-mk-iii-stereo-tape-recorder-alice-cooper-limited-edition
  94. https://www.hifipig.com/revox-at-high-end-munich-2025/
  95. https://revox.com/media/pdf/c5/bc/2a/EN_Revox_image-brochure_web.pdf
  96. https://positive-feedback.com/industry-news/the-return-of-an-icon-the-new-revox-b77-mk-iii-tape-recorder/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.