G36

About the G36

The Revox G36 is a professional-grade reel-to-reel tape recorder manufactured between early 1963 and early 1967 in Germany and Switzerland. It supports 2-track stereo or 4-track stereo recording with three heads (record, playback, erase) and three motors including a pole-changing synchronous capstan motor for tape speeds of 3 3/4 ips (9.5 cm/s) and 7 1/2 ips (19 cm/s). The G36 uses tube electronics with a complement of ECC81, ECC82, ECC83, and ECL86 valves, and features six audio pre-amplifiers and a push-pull power amplifier delivering 6 watts to an internal 21 cm speaker that can be switched off. It has VU meters for record level control, a tape-tension switch for different reel sizes up to 10.5 inches, and a hysteresis-synchronous capstan motor for precise speed control with wow and flutter below 0.1% at 7 1/2 ips. The frequency response extends from 40 Hz to 18 kHz at 7 1/2 ips, with a signal-to-noise ratio better than 52 dB (2-track) and 50 dB (4-track). Inputs include microphone, radio/phono, and diode with adjustable gain, and outputs include two cathode-follower line outputs and a loudspeaker output. The unit weighs approximately 20 kg and measures 480 x 340 x 300 mm. It was available in a suitcase or chassis version, priced around 1,295 to 1,395 Swiss Francs at the time of manufacture. The G36 is noted for its reliability, sound quality, and professional features, making it suitable for both domestic high-end and studio/broadcast use.