Ferrograph 66

Description

Attractively finished in gold bronze with cream knobs, the Ferrograph “66” was basically a Series 2 (or series 3 – not exactly sure which one but they were both
virtually the same anyway!) without the case and loudspeaker. It was designed
to be fitted into an existing piece of furniture or be part of a larger installation.

Like the Series 2, it had three independent motors, two for the reels and one for the capstan. This capstan drive motor used the ‘octaquad’ synchronous principle developed by Ferrograph.

The unit came in two versions, each with two tape speeds: Model 66N with 3¾ and 7½ ips and Model 66/H with 7½ and 15 ips.

Large 8¼ inch diameter spools could be used, allowing up to 68 minutes playing time at 7½ ips.

The output stage provided 2.5 watts of distortionless output at 15 ohms.

An auto stop switch instantly cut off the motor when the tape ran out or a breakage occurred (in record or play mode only).

As per the Series 2 (and in fact all models up to and including the series 6), all tape function controls were operated via a set of three controls. The main selector knob was used to select the required mode – play, record, fast forward or rewind. Next, a start/stop lever engaged the desired mode and a stop button put the recorder back to neutral.

A very cumbersome operation especially as the main selector knob requires a rather FIRM grip to budge it! I have stripped my Series 2 down and cleaned, lubricated and lovingly restored this contrivance, all to no avail. The sound of the stop button being pressed is like a small steam hammer.

This was a very solid and rugged machine which sold for around $400 in the USA.