Technical Details
Brand: Ampex
Model:AG440
Category:Super High Fidelity
Application:Studio
Electronics:Solid State
Equalization:NAB , IEC
Country of Manufacture:USA
Release dates:1967 - 1970
Tracks:1/2 Rec/PB
Max Reel Size("): 10.5"
Number of heads: 4
Head Composition: Permalloy
Head Configuration: Stereo - Stacked
# Motors: 3
Voltage(s): 110-120v
Outputs: XLR Balanced, RCA
Sound quality rating:8 / 10
Long-term reliability rating: 7/ 10
Additional Details
Description
This was the machine that finally replaced the aging 350 series in January 1967.
The AG-440 modular in design, allowed the user to add extra channels into its over bridge modular mount and with a change of heads and cabling, you could go right up to 8 channels.
A 1/4″ head assembly was standard on 1 and 2 channel recorders and 1/2″ on 3 and 4 channel machines. These assemblies are we switched over with three screws and dowel pins which align the assembly.
The Ampex 440 transport was mounted on a precision milled casting which allowed motors, guides and major components to be quickly removed and replaced with perfect alignment.
Servicing the 440 is relatively easy with front panel plug-in boards.
The AG 440 was a two speed machine with either 15 & 7½ ips or 7½ & 3¾ ips options, had a 10½
inch reel capacity and was available in a console model as pictured here or in a portable, two-package set.
Synchronous-servo capstan motor drive was employed. This was THE mastering machine of the late
1960s – mid 1970’s “… a new generation of the 350 and 351 Series recorders, the most widely used professional audio recorder / reproducers ever built.” (according to Ampex!)