Ampex Model 1250 Tubed Reel-to-Reel

The 1250 is a 1/4 track one motor model vintage 1963.The belts tend to get gooey after time. Probably not worth more than $100 to buy.

There are other tube tape decks out there that are a lot better. You might investigate the Revox G36 series and the Teac/Concord 2000 series for starters. These are 3 head 3 motor models more substantially built. Or if you have the room research the various Ampex pro models such as the 350/351 series or the Crown tube units.

I personally use a Concord 2000 that's had the caps upgraded and I use Mullard box plate tubes. It's also auto reverse.

Hope this is helpful.

I owned the Ampex F44, also of mid 60's vintage. It listed at the time for $600. Far and away the best sounding deck of it's day (not counting big pro models). Much better sounding than the Revox of the same era.

I was in the business and could get any model, but bought the F44.

Richard

Gentlemen:

I offer a gracious thank you for taking the time out of your day to answer this relatively complex issue. Like a good vinyl setup, this reel-to-reel endeavor is going to require some careful thought and research; more so given the expectation that the medium should live up to or surpass vinyl sonics.

Thank once again.

Sincerely,
SomuT

If your concidering a purchase Check out by Crown the "vanguard" its a killer sounding 7-15 IPS machine. Mono tube amplifiers included. Mine spilled tapes if not careful, but the sound was to die for, completly KILLED revox, Tascam, ect i owned, Pry can pick one up for around 2-300 mint. I used to record my favorite records on tape and play those and enjoyed VERY much. Crown Made some great reel to reels. The vanguard is from late 60's.