Technics RS-1500
and the 1506, 1520, and 1700

From the Technics 1500 Series of reel-to-reel recorders comes the workhorse of a machine that has digitized the majority of the historic reel-to-reel audiotapes heard on SoundTheology.org.

A significant advantage of these recorders is that they can play back at 3.75, 7.5, and 15 ips. They also contain playback heads for both 1/2-track and 1/4-track recorded tapes. And they can run 10.5-inch reels. This means they can play back most reels of 1/4″ audiotape.

Panasonic introduced this series of Technics of recorders in the late 1970s, and built them into the 1980s. There are usually several of these machines available on ebay – as well as lots of parts.

These are photos of the RS-1500s that we use, as well as original Technics promo shots of the RS-1520 and RS-1700. These machines play back both 1/2-track and 1/4-track tapes, and run at 3.75, 7.5, and 15 ips.

Specifications: RS-1500 US

Track system: 2-track/4-track, 2-channel, stereo/mono
Motors: 2 x reel, 1 x capstan
Reel Size: 5 to 10.5 inch reel
Equalization: NAB
Tape Speeds: 3.75, 7.5, 15 ips
Wow and Flutter: 0.018% (15 ips)
Frequency Response: 30Hz to 30kHz (15 ips)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 60dB
Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.8%
Input: 60mV (line), 0.25mV (mic)
Output: 0.775V (line)
Dimensions: 17.6x 18 x 10.2 in.
Weight: 55 lbs.


Free Technics PDF Downloads:


DocumentDescriptionDownloads / Links
RS-1500 / 1506 / 1700 Promotional Flyer This 8-page document details all three machines, with photos, specs, and descriptions of options and operation. (5.4 MB) PDF
RS-1500 / 1506 Promotional Flyer This is a very detailed 10-page flyer. All the major features described in this brochure are shared by both the RS-1500US and the RS-1506US. The difference between the two models is solely in the recording/playback track configuration. (7.4 MB) PDF
RS-1500 / 1506 User Manual This is the 14-page user manual you want to have if you own one of these machines. (2.0 MB) PDF
RS-1500 Service Manual 1 This is the first of two service manuals for this machine. This one includes specs, diagrams, disassembly instructions, schematics, circuit boards, and parts lists. (11.1 MB) PDF
RS-1500 Service Manual 2 This 91-page manual focuses on measurements and adjustments. This is the totally-techy guide to putting one of these machines into top shape. (18.5 MB) PDF
RS-1700 Promotional Flyer This is the auto-reverse version of the RS-1500. This 4-page flyer provides the details. (3.4 MB) PDF

Relevant and Helpful Websites


DocumentDescriptionDownloads / Links
Audio-Rescue Digitizing Service This is our website -- our service for digitizing audio from reel-to-reel, audio cassette, even wire recordings. We provide service to academic and faith-based archives and libraries, and for personal recordings as well. Check our services and fees. This website also provides a wealth of technical information. Website
Field Engineer Reel-to-Reel Repair "Reel-to-Reel repair and restoration of antique and unique electronics, such as Reel to Reel Tape Decks, Tube Amps, Pro Audio Equipment (especially higher quality units). Teac's, Akai, Revox, Tascams, Pioneer, Fostex, Uher, Sansui, Sony, Robert's, Panasonic, Marantz, Mcintosh, Fender, Leak, and more." Website
J-Corder Custom Reel-to-Reel Recorders "J-Corder is the brainchild of Jeff Jacobs. Jeff, the "J" in J-Corder, has an unmatched talent for bringing things back to life along with a robust passion for good music. With decades of experience in audio sales and service, Jeff knows the requirements of a discerning audiophile. He was an authorized dealer and service technician for Technics, Sony, Pioneer, Marantz, Bang and Olufsen, and many other major manufacturers from the 1970s, 80s and 90s." Website
JRF Magnetic Sciences "Specializing in: Head Reconditioning, Replacement/Custom Heads, Digital/Optical Head Assembly Alignment, Custom Head and Head Assembly Design, Nortronics Professional and Consumer Replacement Heads, Replacement Parts for pro audio recorders and tape duplicating equipment, Alignment Tapes from MRL." Website
RX Reels New decks like the Analog Audio Design TP-1000 and the Sonorus Audio ATR10 mkII. The refurbished decks have all been professionally serviced and meticulously restored by our affiliate partner Reel to Reel Haven. All come with warranties and will be professionally shipped. Inventory changes frequently. Website
ServiceSound Tape Recorder Repairs "Reel-to-reel machines are beginning to become scarce and expensive, perhaps the most important point is that they can almost always be repaired and bought up like new. This is where Servicesound can help. Almost regardless of make and age, so long as it is intact ~ Servicesound can repair your tape recorder." Website
Technics Reel-to-Reel on eBay This link takes you directly to "technics reel to reel" listings on eBay. You'll see the machines and components currently available. Website