Reel to Reel Here and Now: Analog Audio Design's TP-1000

by The Audio Beat | March 15, 2024

he Analog Audio Design TP-1000 ($27,000) is a new reel-to-reel recorder/player whose design and manufacture occur at the company's factory in France. Founded five years ago by Christophe Martinez, the company was "inspired by the previous giants of the tape-recorder industry" and aimed "to further improve tape-recorder performance." The TP-1000 uses low-torque Swiss-made DC motors for its belt-driven take-up reels and capstan, and the capstan is stabilized by a flywheel. The TP-1000 maintains constant tape tension via a unique strain-gauge microprocessor-controlled design that keeps voltage within 1ms with an accuracy of 0.5gr. The deck uses a touch screen display for all playback parameters, and there is an optional remote control. Ethernet/RJ45 interface means the TP-1000 can also be controlled by a smart phone or tablet. The TP-1000's integrated web server enables firmware updates and external maintenance.

The TP-1000 will be in used at the SouthWest Audiofest in Dallas, Texas, March 15-17. It will play "the wonderful one-off duplicate masters from many companies, e.g. Genesis Advanced Technologies' collection from Bernie Grundman, in rooms 1422 and 1423.