Nagra SNN

Description

The SN family of recorders has been regarded by many as Nagra’s finest achievement in miniature engineering.
Its unique appearance has become instantly recognizable as an icon of Swiss precision.
The Nagra SN miniature analog recorder was created specifically to satisfy the stringent requirements of recording during the 1970s. As its reputation of superb sonic performance and unrivalled mechanical reliability grew, the Nagra SN became the machine of choice for many security agencies around the world and was even featured in numerous motion pictures.

In Nagra’s own words:

..”All electronic circuits are highly sophisticated and includes a voltage converter with variable ratio, and an automatic level control. A special miniature-omni directional capacitor microphone can be used and it is also possible to work with a conventional dynamic microphone. A small meter indicates the compression rate of the automatic level control or the battery voltage. Headphones can also serve as an output monitor (confidence playback).

The tape-deck is milled from a solid piece of metal and the case and lid are of drawn light metal alloy.

The NAGRA SN recorder, in spite of its small size, produces exceptionally high quality recordings. It is much appreciated by reporters, who can record broadcast quality tapes and, at the same time, be more mobile. The SN solves film-makers’ synchronous sound recording problems: it can easily be concealed during filming and strict synchronization is guaranteed.

For scientific research, the SN can also record data while on board a propelled craft. Reels of narrow 1/8″ (3.81 mm) tape are used, and tape drive is by a slaved capstan motor. Rewind is manual but rapid thanks to an overdrive system, using a small folding crank handle…”

There were two versions of the recorder:
NAGRA SNN: 3¾ and 1_7/8 ips (9.5 and 4.75 cm/s)
NAGRA SNS: 1_7/8 and _15/16 ips (4.75 and 2.38 cm/s)