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Already a member? Login Register hereAmpex Reel to Reel Tape Recorders
1944 To 1995
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Ampex produced reel to reel tape recorders from 1950 to 1983 which were manufactured in USA. These tape recorders targeted the consumer and studio market. The early models of Ampex tape recorders used tube electronics and later on they transitioned to solid-state tape recorders. The company produced both 2 and 4 track machines available in 110-120v, 220-240v & Multi voltages.
1944– Founded in San Carlos CA. by Alexander M. Poniatoff. The name AMPEX stands for Alexander M. Poniatoff Excellence.
1948– Model 200A First Ampex Tape Recorder
Early 1950s– Ampex produces 1 and 2 track machines using ?1/4-inch tape.
Model 400 affordable professional quality audio recorder.
1952– Produces a Hi-Fi movie sound system using sound magnetically recorded on 35mm film, first used in movies The Robe (1953) and Oklahoma (1955) (35mm & 70mm)
1953– April, Model 350 replaces Model 400
1954– Unknown Truck Driver, Elvis Presley records first single, “That’s All Right” at Sun Studios in Memphis using Ampex reel-to-reel
1957– Wins Emmy award for inventing the Video Tape Recorder (VTR)
1958– NASA uses Ampex data recorders and magnetic tape
1959– Ampex buys Orradio Industries in Opelika, Alabama, changes to the Ampex Magnetic Tape Division
Late 1950s– Introduces $10,000 Multitrack Machines that record 8 tracks on 1 Inch Tape.
1960– The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awards Ampex an Oscar for Technical Achievement
1965– AG-350 First all-transistorized Audio Recorder.
1967– World’s first 16 Track Tape Recorder, MM 1000
1979– ATR-124, Most advanced 24 Track recorder with audio specs rivalling the first digital recording machines. With high price tag, Ampex sells only 50-60
1983– Leaves the professional audio tape recorder market
1995– Ampex Recording Media Corporation spins off in as Quantegy Inc