Here I have for sale a rather unusual Revox PR99 – it’s a player only. I must stress this – if you’re looking for a recorder then this isn’t for you.

I bought this in the early Nineties to use as a spare which, to be honest, I seldom did. It came from a small radio station (not BBC) and was, I believe, used for emergency playout to avoid the dreaded ‘dead air’. However it was very little used for this purpose.

It’s two-track stereo, high speed (7.5/15ips). It is a genuine original Revox and not a modified machine. It’s in the 1986 catalogue along with the more usual PR99 MkII. It has a MkI style deck with a mechanical counter but MkII electronics.

It has an EOM feature (End of Message, I believe) which uses a 25Hz signal to switch in and out, though this seems overkill for a PR99! I‘ve not been able to test this.

As this particular machine had lain idle for a few years I gave it a service. Briefly:

·         Replaced RIFA capacitors on sight

·         Replaced counter belt

·         Replaced pinchroller

·         Serviced capstan control PCB with new Panasonic FC capacitors, two new ICs and a Piher preset potentiometer. Set up as per manual.

·         Replaced take-up carrier (slightly out of true)

·         Cleaned and demagnetised tape path.

·         Lubricated as necessary

·         Checked audio replay within spec.

·         48 hour test

The machine works perfectly with the performance you’d expect from a Revox. It’s in really nice condition and the deck and front panel are virtually unmarked.

Any problems?

The ‘Uncal’ switch is damaged – the clear plastic top has disintegrated. However as the switch works I saw no need to replace it. Not uncommon -  the switches on my other PR99 have done the same. These switches are available on eBay should you want to change it.

The mains on/off switch was a bit stiff but seems to have corrected itself with use.

I assume there should be a lens over the EOM lamp – there isn’t.

There are a couple of small scratches and a small dent to the underside of the case (photos) – nothing serious and won’t be seen in normal use.

I’ll include a mains socket adaptor and lead, plus one Revox NAB adaptor, but no spools I’m afraid - the ones in the photos are for demonstation only..

The machine will be double boxed for transit and will be insured and sent by a carrier I trust to an address in mainland UK with the usual exceptions for the Highlands. Of course you’d be welcome to collect it from NW Wales and audition it for yourself.

As you will appreciate this is a machine that’s getting on for forty years old, so I can’t guarantee it, but to the best of my knowledge has any problems addressed and should work well for you.

Don’t forget – this is a player ONLY, but is a lovely machine and will be a great addition to your studio. It would be ideal for checking your quarter-inch  masters and transferring them to digital.

Any questions please feel free to ask – but note I don’t have a ‘Buy it Now’ as I let my auctions run their course..

Thanks for looking!