Byer Reel to Reel Tape Recorders

Company Description

Byer produced reel to reel tape recorders from 1958 to 1963 which were manufactured in Australia. These tape recorders targeted the consumer, semi-pro and studio market. Byer tape recorders used tube electronics. The company produced both 2 and 4 track machines available in 220-240v voltages.

1940– Max Byer started Broadcast Recording Supplies (BRS) in Malvern, Australia. His experience as a projectionist and in converting silent and sound-on-disk projectors to optical sound made him see a need for locally produced blank acetate recording discs.
1946– BRS was a major supplier of acetate discs in Australia manufactured for the broadcast industry. The company name was changed Byer Industries Pty. Ltd. The product range expanded to include turntables, disc cutters, tape add-on units for turntables, pick-ups, microphones, amplifiers, and tape recorders.
1956– Byer introduced the “66” Mk II reel to reel recorder and continued production until the mid 1960’s. The model was portable and came in a suitcase
1957– Rola (Aust.) Pty. Ltd. purchased Byer Industries after facing financial difficulties. Rola continued to develop the product range. Rola was a manufacturer of loudspeakers, transformers, wire and associated magnetic components
1959– Earliest advertised date for the Model 100, a console reel to reel recorder with 14″ reel capacity
1960’s– Plessey Electronics took over Rola (Aust) during the mid and continued to manufacture many of Rola’s products.

General Information

Brand: Byer

Years in Business: 1940 To 1965

Country: Australia

Years making R-R Tape Recorders: 1946 To 1965