64 X

About the 64 X

The Tandberg 64 X is a four-track stereo/mono reel-to-reel tape recorder made by Tandbergs Radiofabrikk in Oslo, Norway, and produced in the mid-1960s, generally cited as 1966-1968. It offers three tape speeds of 7.5, 3.75, and 1.875 inches per second, with its highest speed specified for a frequency response up to about 20-25 kHz, and channel separation better than 60 dB at standard operating speeds. It uses a synchronous motor and four heads: erase, record, playback, plus a dedicated cross-field bias head; the 'X' in 64 X denotes this cross-field system, which feeds the bias signal from the back of the tape to the record head side to improve high-frequency performance and reduce distortion during recording. The 64 X is a hybrid design with 10 vacuum tubes, 8 transistors, and 2 selenium rectifiers, housed in a wooden table-model cabinet. It is designed for 7" reels, with typical dimensions around 16 x 12 x 6 inches (approx. 394 x 298 x 171 mm) and a weight in the low-30-lb range depending on market version. The U.S. version is configured for 115V 60Hz AC and includes an interlock mains system, while multi-voltage versions cover 110-125V and 200-245V at 50/60 Hz. As a mid-1960s design, all existing units are vintage and may require professional service or refurbishment, but the 64 X remains a respected classic reel-to-reel recorder with excellent sound quality for its era, particularly noted for its cross-field recording technology.