TR-56

Vintage Sams TR-56 Photofact Tape Recorder (1969) by Howard Electronics

Step back in time with this exquisitely preserved vintage Sams TR-56 Photofact Tape Recorder, manufactured by Howard Electronics in 1969. A true relic of the golden age of audio technology, this recorder boasts a distinctive design and a rich history.

The TR-56 Photofact Tape Recorder is a testament to the elegance of mid-century engineering. Its sleek, compact design, featuring a glossy black finish and chrome accents, exudes an air of sophistication. Measuring approximately 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) in length, 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) in width, and 2 inches (5 cm) in height, it is compact enough for easy storage or display yet powerful enough to capture high-quality audio.

At the heart of this recording marvel lies a 1/4 inch, 2-track, open reel tape system. This configuration offers excellent sound quality and the flexibility to record and playback multiple audio sources simultaneously. The recorder is equipped with a built-in speaker, allowing you to enjoy the playback without the need for external speakers. Furthermore, it comes with a set of RCA outputs, enabling you to connect it to external amplifiers, speakers, or recording equipment for enhanced listening experiences.

The TR-56 Photofact Tape Recorder is an intuitive and user-friendly device. Its control panel is adorned with a host of easily accessible functions, including a large, red record button, a stop button, a pause button, a rewind button, a fast-forward button, and a volume control knob. Additionally, it comes with a microphone input, allowing you to record your voice or other live audio sources directly onto the tape.

This vintage recorder showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that was synonymous with Howard Electronics. Its outer shell is constructed from high-grade materials, ensuring its durability and longevity. The control buttons and knobs display a smooth, tactile response, providing a satisfying user experience. The recorder also comes with a set of original accessories, including a user manual, a power cord, and a pair of test recordings.

In conclusion, the Sams TR-56 Photofact Tape Recorder (1969) by Howard Electronics is a must-have for audio enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone with an appreciation for the rich history of technology. This vintage recording device offers a unique blend of style, functionality, and nostalgia, making it a cherished addition to any home or office.

The Samson T-R56 Photofact Tape Recorder, produced by Samson in 1969 and designed by Howard, is an vintage piece of audio equipment that has gained the interest of collectors and hobbyists. Below, we will discuss the pros and cons of purchasing this vintage tape recorder.

1. Unique Design: The T-R56 is a visually appealing piece of equipment with its unique design and compact size. It can serve as a conversation starter or an attractive addition to a home studio or office.

2. Authentic Sound: Vintage tape recorders like the T-R56 offer a warm, authentic sound that modern digital recorders cannot replicate. This can be especially appealing to musicians and audio enthusiasts.

3. Durability: Vintage equipment is often built to last, and the T-R56 is no exception. Its solid construction and high-quality components make it a reliable recording device.

4. Collector's Item: The T-R56 is a rare and sought-after piece of audio equipment. Owning one can be a source of pride for collectors and hobbyists.

1. Maintenance: Vintage tape recorders require regular maintenance and care to keep them functioning properly. This can be time-consuming and expensive.

2. Limited Capacity: The T-R56 uses reel-to-reel tape, which has a limited recording capacity compared to modern digital recorders. This may not be suitable for those who need to record large amounts of data.

3. Compatibility: The T-R56 uses obsolete tape formats, which can be difficult to find and expensive. Additionally, it may not be compatible with modern equipment, requiring additional adapters or converters.

4. Noise and Distortion: Vintage tape recorders can produce more noise and distortion than modern digital recorders. This may not be suitable for professional recording applications where high-quality sound is essential.

The Samson T-R56 Photofact Tape Recorder is a unique and appealing piece of vintage audio equipment with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. If you are a collector, hobbyist, or audio enthusiast who values the authentic sound and unique design of vintage equipment, then the T-R56 may be the perfect addition to your collection. However, if you require a reliable and high-capacity recording device for professional applications, then a modern digital recorder may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision to purchase the T-R56 depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.

If you are interested in purchasing the Samson T-R56 Photofact Tape Recorder, I would recommend conducting thorough research to ensure that it is in good working condition and that you have access to the necessary tape and maintenance supplies. Additionally, consider purchasing the recorder from a reputable seller to ensure authenticity and reliability. Finally, be prepared for the additional costs and time required for maintenance and upkeep.

Details:

The manual is a valuable resource for anyone interested in repairing or restoring tape recorder from that time period. Made in the USA by Sams, this manual is a rare find for those passionate about vintage audio technology.

specifications vintamanual:

• brand: Sams
• mpn: Tr-56
• part type: Tape Recorder
• country/region of manufacture: United States
• modified item: No

general vintamanual:

• category: Electronics > Audio Video > Parts Accessories > Vintage Manuals

payments vintamanual:

• wallet: paypal
• credit card: mastercard
• other

offer vintamanual:

• best offers: true
• prices: $7.00–$20.19
• item condition:
  • Good
  • Very Good
  • Used
  • Brand New
• started: august 30, 2025
• in stock #: 5
• availability: in stock
• options: ship-to-home
• sold #: 13

returns vintamanual:

• policy: no returns

shipping vintamanual:

• carrier: usps
• type: calculated
• transit: 6-12 days
• class: economy
• service: usps media mail

seller vintamanual:

• city: cedar rapids, iowa
• rating: 100.0%
• # reviews: 2202

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