This piece of gear has sold
View similar gear from other sellers on Reverb
Watch this gear and we'll notify you if it becomes available again.
OTARI MX-5050B II-2 Mastering Recorder - 100% RESTORED!
PROFESSIONALLY ALIGNED and CALIBRATED
2-Track & 4-Track Stereo Playback
2-Track 2 Channel Reference Recording
IEC AND NAB Equalization, Recording and Playback
Three Speeds - 15 IPS, 7 1/2 IPS and 3 3/4 IPS
Serial Number 18500112 G
PERFORMS PERFECTLY
Calibrated & Biased for RTM SM-911 Mastering Tape
Offered here is a fully restored Otari MX-5050 BII-2 professional studio Mastering Reel To Reel 1/4" tape machine. It is in beautifully restored condition. It is the model with a Direct Drive Capstan that is Servo Controlled (NO DRIVE BELTS). The unit has been completely restored to meet or exceed all original factory specifications ...and it has been professionally aligned & calibrated!
This deck is in BEAUTIFUL CONDITION
Today, there is an overwhelmingly popular demand for that magical "Analog Sound" that this machine delivers. My clients really love the fat ultra-smooth sound that this outstanding Otari captures. The machine was completely serviced and rebuilt. Every factory performance specification is now surpassed by a wide margin.
This MX-5050B II-2 model operates at all three standard speeds:
15, 7 1/2 and 3 3/4 ips …PLUS it is has Variable Pitch at all
speeds. Variable pitch is available in both recording and playback
modes. When the variable pitch function is switched off, the machine
runs rock steady, at the perfectly calibrated standard tape speed.
The machine uses standard quarter inch tape on 5, 7 and 10 1/2 inch reels. It can accept triton (cine) reels and professional NAB hubs, with the included Otari NAB hub adapters. This is the Half-Track 2 Channel version, with 4-Track 2 Channel playback ...accomplished with a simple touch of a switch under the "flip-up" head cover. All recordings are performed in Half-Track mode. The digital tape counter reads very accurately, in Hours, Minutes and Seconds, with a very useful memory function (Auto-Stop at your preset point). The Tape Counter and Memory feature work exactly as they were designed to function.
***This professional studio deck meets all of the strict criteria for superior playback of the ultra-high resolution tapes from "The Tape Project". It is one of their top two, most highly recommended tape machines.***
The VU meter lamps illuminate the meters perfectly. All four lamps have been replaced with new longer lasting incandescent tubes (NOT LEDs). The VU meters have been precisely calibrated for dead-on accuracy. The capstan Pinch Roller has been replaced with a perfect NEW Otari KPOA-007 (NOS) factory replacement, with NEW Polyslider slip washers. Those hard-to-find parts are absolutely essential for keeping wow & flutter performance well within factory specifications.
All LED indicators (RECORD, SEL. REP, EDIT, HIGH, MEDIUM, LOW (Flux Level Indicators) IEC, NAB, PEAK & SRL) all function correctly. All transport and function buttons work flawlessly. All rear panel switches (OUTPUT LEVEL, EQUALIZATION, RECORD LEVEL & MIC ATTENUATION) work exactly as they should with no cutouts or glitches. Both of the built-in "TEST OSC" signal generators (1kHz & 10kHz) function perfectly and are properly calibrated. Tape speed has been accurately calibrated for all three operating speeds.
The 2-Track Record & 4-Track Play heads are NEW, in perfect unused condition! All four heads easily surpass all original performance specs. Audio performance and erasure measurements are all verified as superb.
All capacitors and electronic components that did not meet specifications have been replaced. To put it more simply, every function on this deck works 100%!
Cosmetically, the machine is very nice looking, but with just a few very minor signs of age and use. Perfect performance was the priority here, not to just make it look "pretty" (...but, it is truly gorgeous). The head cover looks like brand new, but there is no spicing block mounted. There is NO SPLICING BLOCK INCLUDED ON THIS MACHINE.Optional Splicing Block #1 (All black with light scratches, functions perfectly). Add $50 to the price of the deck.
Optional Splicing Block #2 (Black with white head position markers) near mint condition. Add $80 to the price of the deck.
Optional Splicing Block #3 is a brand new Silver, unused Editall S-3/OT block, with the original case and documentation. This block was specially designed for the Otari MX-5050 BII-2 head cover slot. Add $150 to the price of the deck.
If you chose to add one of these optional splicing blocks, it will be professionally mounted on the head cover, before the deck is shipped to you. I cannot sell any Otari splicing blocks separately, they are only available with the purchase of a restored tape machine.
The transport deck is in fantastic shape, it's nearly "new"
looking, with very light signs of use or age. All
trim pieces, including the CUE lever cover, the center vent / Variable Pitch
panel, the top vent panel and both head trim panels are in excellent
condition. However, the tape counter "impedance roller" (to the left of the head block) has a slight "ding" in the metal trim ring. This has no affect on the roller's performance, it's purely cosmetic.
The main function button section (left side) shows one slight flaw. The "POWER" button label no longer is encircled with a white line, that was rubbed off due to use. The transport control section buttons (right side - Record, Play, Stop, Rewind & F. Fwd) has been refinished and re-labeled. All of the lettering is bright, clear and perfect on the entire panel. A protective clear matte coating has been applied to the button faceplate to protect all of the lettering from damage and wear.
The Record / Playback electronics section looks fantastic. Some of the small print characters on the bottom line (just above bottom row of buttons) was very slightly worn, but nothing that would keep the markings from being clearly legible. The panel has been coated in a clear matte finish, to prevent any more wear to the lettering. My closeup photos show the fine lettering that is a bit faded, not in "like-new" condition. The lower ventilation panel is in excellent shape.
All of the buttons and knobs are in superb condition. All of the
input and output control knobs were replaced with new Otari
replacements, in
perfect, unused condition. The VU meters are beautiful and all four
internal
meter lamps are brand new. The meter lamps were upgraded to long-life
incandescent tubes that don't burn out frequently like the originals
always do.
The top / back and bottom metal enclosure panels are in great condition, with a few light scuffs. There are several slight "rubs" and scratches present on the top and back surfaces.
This machine had been stored in a climate controlled area, unused for many years. After
removal from service, both of the original side panels got damaged. The original Otari side
panels
have been lovingly restored with an excellent matching pair of perfect Otari carrying handles installed. There are some very light
imperfections that can be detected under the new finish, but extremely close
inspection is required to find them. The original screws and finish washers were in poor condition, so all of the damaged mounting hardware was replaced with new parts. These
"dressy" furniture grade end panels look great again.
All parts that did not meet or exceed all original performance specifications were removed and replaced. Two of the rear feet were broken, so all four have all been replaced with brand new, superior quality hard rubber bumpers (these new feet will NEVER crack or break like the plastic originals). The four new feet have a strong metal internal bushing with new metal washers. The new feet are extremely robust and definitely unbreakable! They are very securely mounted and won't mar shelf or cabinet surfaces.
Both of the bottom feet were missing (they are not used when the machine is rack mounted). The missing feet were replaced with a beautiful new pair of solid mahogany feet, finished in black. Mahogany is an extremely tough wood that will last much, much longer than the molded plastic feet that often came on this model. The machine sits upright solidly or can be laid on its back. It is extremely stable in either position. Please note that many of these decks are sold with no bottom feet at all, because they often get broken or are missing (like this one) and replacements are very rare to find. That would be completely unacceptable, since the machine cannot ventilate properly in the vertical position without the proper feet being present.
The machine did required an enormous amount of time-intensive work and quite a few expensive replacement parts were installed. The restoration took over five months to complete. Now the machine is functioning perfectly again ...and it looks absolutely beautiful. The main goal was to be absolutely certain that every function would work perfectly and the sound quality would be totally beyond reproach, in both Record and Playback modes. After over more than a hundred hours of labor intensive work, those critical goals were successfully achieved!
All transport functions work like new. The machine operates very smoothly and it is very quiet. The deck was also tested with an Otari CR-705A wired remote control system, which worked perfectly. The original capstan motor is in excellent condition. It was meticulously cleaned and properly lubricated with Otari Anderal 456 oil. The worn capstan pinch roller was replaced with a new Otari KP0A007, with new slip washers. The pinch roller cover was scratched, so it was replaced.
The XLR input and output
connectors have been rewired to the standard "Pin 2 Hot" configuration.
There was no standardization when this deck was produced. It was built
with "Pin 3 Hot", which is out-of-phase with the current standard. This
unit is now fully compatible with all modern external Phantom power
supplies and all balanced professional audio gear. The connection panel
has been labeled to show that pin 2 is the positive signal connection
(pin 3 is the negative).
The brakes were both totally rebuilt and calibrated. The cue lever mechanism was damaged, it has been properly repaired and it functions like new again. Everything functions perfectly now. This recorder's transport has "Full Logic" operation. It transitions smoothly between all functions. The "EDIT" function also works exactly as it was designed to operate.
A custom port has been added to the back cover to allow easy access to the "Hi - Lo" speed mode switch ...without having to remove the back cover and feet. Please note that this machine has been calibrated in the High Speed Mode, so recordings done in Low Speed Mode would not quite be up to peak performance. That's OK, because accurate slow speed playback is not negatively affected at all. If slow speed (3 3/4 ips) recording is important to you, the machine could easily be re-calibrated to optimize it for that specialized capability. Currently, the 15 ips and 7 1/2 ips tape speeds are both precisely calibrated for superior high performance recordings.
The convenient speed mode access port was installed to allow quick playback of 3 3/4 ips tapes, whenever needed. A nice rubber grommet was installed to prevent accidental shorts to the chassis and give it a professionally finished appearance (see the pictures of the back of the machine).
This access port offers a real time-saving convenience, especially when you have 3 3/4 ips tape to audition. It's great for playing commercially produced quarter-track tapes, without the hassle of having to open up the machine to change the speed mode. You will certainly come to appreciate this great little upgrade.
Both Otari KWOH009 NAB Hub adapters have been totally rebuilt, cleaned and re-lubricated with Lubriplate. Both have new stainless steel retaining screws and rings. The hubs work perfectly now and they look good.
Here is the list of repairs and restoration procedures that were performed on this unit:
Otari MX-5050 B II-2 S/N 18500112 G
Restoration Procedures (Started: November 10, 2020)
Biased for RMGI SM-911 Mastering Tape
1. Complete unit disassembly & condition assessment.
2. Complete internal mechanical disassembly & cleaning & degreasing.
3. Repaired Variable Pitch control pot, LED & PCB.
4. Extracted three broken frame screws and replaced with new.
5. Totally cleaned all frame members & the main deck plate.
6. Reinforced Main Transformer mount with stainless steel strapping.
7. Replaced missing capstan motor servo mounting arm.
8. Completely restored brakes for supply and take-up reel assemblies.
9. Replaced both sets of brake assembly rubber & felt washers.
10. Replaced damaged right brake band assembly with new (NOS)
11. Totally cleaned & restored right reel motor, mounting bracket, capacitor & PCB.
12. Removed deck faceplate, amp faceplate & transport button eschusion for restoration.
13. Replaced all 4 rear feet with new heavy-duty rubber bumpers, screws & washers.
14. Restored rear connector panel & rear switch panel.
15. Cleaned & restored capstan motor MR5A021.
16. Cleaned & restored capstan Servo Control PCB.
17. Restored Servo Control connector.
18. Replaced all damaged & missing screws & finish washers with new.
19. Restored reel tables, spindles & triad guides.
20. Cleaned & Deoxit all transport switches.
21. Replaced damaged transport “STOP” button with new (NOS).
22. Cleaned & repaired cue mechanism.
23. Totally cleaned and re-lubricated all transport parts.
24. Cleaned & relubed tape counter impedance roller assembly.
25. Cleaned & tested tape counter PC board, performing 100%.
26. Reassembled entire transport mechanism.
27. Totally cleaned & restored Rec / Play Amplifier section.
28. Complete DeOxit cleaning and lubrication of all switches, connectors, contacts,
potentiometers, trim pots, plugs and receptacles.
29. Re-soldered all suspicious connections.
30. Replaced all 4 meter lamps with new long-life incandescent tubes.
31. Restored both VU meters & polished faces,
32. Replace all capacitors. diodes and transistors that did not meet spec.
33. Fully re-lubed & reassembled transport mechanism.
34. Calibrated all brake tensions – L 3.7oz / 9.2oz, R 4.3oz / 9.6oz.
35. Cleaned & fully tested main PC board.
36. Replaced damaged main switch assembly with a restored one.
37. Replaced damaged Time Counter strobe ring with new.
38. Cleaned & restored impedance roller assembly.
39. Rewired all input & output XLRs to standard “Pin 2 Hot” configuration.
40. Labeled XLRs as “Pin 2 Hot”.
41. Installed "Hi-Lo" speed switch access port with a new rubber grommet.
42. Cleaned & restored Top / Back cabinet.
43. Cleaned & restored bottom cover plate with new vent panel.
44. Replaced bottom feet with solid mahogany replacements with new hardware.
45. Cleaned, repaired & re-lubed left tension arm assembly.
46. Replaced missing left tension arm screw cover cap.
47. Cleaned & re-lubed right tension arm assembly & shut-off mechanism.
48. Rotated all tape guides & tape lifters to provide new virgin surfaces.
49. Replaced old capstan pinch roller with new Otari KPOA007.
50. Replaced pinch roller "PolySlider" slip washers with new.
51. Replaced capstan motor foam oil ring with a new felt oil ring.
52. Calibration of pinch roller tension – 6.8Lbs.
53. Lubricated capstan motor with Otari Anderol 456 Oil.
54. Restored Rec / Play Amp faceplate to near mint.
55. Restored transport button eschusion plate to near mint.
56. Rotated all tape guides to provide totally virgin contact surfaces.
57. Restored capstan dust cover.
58. Restored pinch roller cover.
59. Repaired, refinished & restored main deck plate.
60. Refinished & restored “flip-up” head cover assembly.
61. Precision calibration of tape speed (all three speeds).
62. Complete demagnetization of tape heads and the entire tape path.
63. Complete cleaning of tape heads and the entire tape path.
64. Cleaned, lubed & restored both Otari KWOH009 NAB Hub Adapters.
65. Cleaned & restored Top / Back ventilated metal cabinet.
66. Replaced back isolation pad with new upgraded pad.
67. Repaired SRL indicator.
68. Adjusted critical height of both Reel tables.
69. Replaced SRL switch felt mask with new.
70. Replaced all six input & output concentric control knobs with new.
71. Replaced rear panel insulation pad with new.
72. Replaced all three control knob mylar slip washers.
73. Coarse calibration of the Rec / Play amp section.
74. Installed New Otari 4-Track playback head (NOS).
75. Installed New Otari 2-Track Record head (NOS).
76. Installed perfect used 2-Track playback head.
77. Precision alignment of all 4 Heads (Height, Zenith & Azimuth).
78. Precision calibration of playback levels & equalization.
79. Precision calibration of bias, record levels and record equalization
(Record Bias & EQ calibrated with RMGI SM-911 tape).
80. Replaced damaged 10” IEC power cable with new.
81. Complete cosmetic re-cleaning of the external cabinet.
82. Complete testing of all functions with long-term burn-in period.
Machine meets or exceeds all factory performance specifications - March 11, 2021
Included Accessories:
Four New XLR to RCA type pin plug Line Output and Line Input Converters are included with the recorder. They allow direct connection to any stereo amplifier using standard RCA type stereo cables. Of course, All balanced line XLR inputs and outputs are still available.
An original pair of Otari KWOH009 Locking NAB Reel Hub Adapters are included (Rebuilt).
A brand new heavy-duty 10 foot grounded IEC power cable is included.
A professional 10 1/2" black take-up reel is supplied. The reel is brand new, with no warps or wear.
An excellent hard copy of the original Otari MX-5050 B II-2 Instruction Manual is supplied with the unit.
A new RTM LPR-35 master tape transcription IS
INCLUDED. The tape has been produced as a reference recording, by your request.
All features and functions are in 100% proper working condition.
This machine has been thoroughly "burned-in" and tested for total reliability. The deck has been working flawlessly for more than a month, without a single glitch or problem of any kind. I dubbed quite a few 2-Track recordings and listened to a lot of my commercial 4-Track & 2-Track master tapes. The sound quality of this deck is PERFECT! Record / playback frequency response is ruler-flat to beyond 21 KHz.
This deck looks AMAZING and it performs LIKE NEW!
My work station includes all of the precision instruments required to service and completely align & calibrate professional tape machines. This includes a B&K Precision Dual Trace O'scope, Signal Generators, Frequency Counter, Meters, Test Interfaces and Tension Gauges. I have a large library of original service manuals and a full set of factory specified alignment tapes (MRL and STL).
My calibration equipment and 49 years of professional engineering experience ensures that this machine is performing perfectly.
I gladly provide one-on-one customer service, through email and over the phone, for all of my buyers. If you want to re-bias the deck for a new formulation of recording tape, I will talk you through the entire procedure, step-by-step. After that, you will be able to do it whenever it is needed, just like a seasoned recording engineer. To contact me, please email me first so I will be sure to be available to take your call. Contact information will be provided immediately after your purchase.
Your Otari MX-5050 B II-2 will be expertly packed (in a heavy double-walled box) and shipped via UPS Ground Service. I will do everything humanly possible to make certain that this vintage machine will be safely delivered to you. The unit weighs over 70 lbs in the shipping container. I have shipped hundreds of very heavy units successfully. I know how do it right.
***United States Sales ONLY***
Local Pick-Up is welcomed ...AND IT'S FREE!
With local pickup, I provide a comprehensive one-on-one instruction session - Free of charge!
Williamsport, Pennsylvania 17701
Prof Audio (Gene) taught Audio Engineering at Pennsylvania College of Technology (A Penn State Affiliate), with more than 49 years of professional experience in the audio / recording business.
All text and photos used in this listing are the sole intellectual property of ProfAudio, and are fully protected by U.S. and international copyright laws.
Copyright © ProfAudio (Gene Walls) 2021 All rights reserved
