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Wollensak Reel to Reel Tape Recorder
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ClydeSight Channel on YouTube features 84 videos for vintage tape recorder lovers. Some are about reel to reel machines, others are about vintage cassette tape recorders. ALL feature a narrated walkthrough of the functions of each machine, voice and music tests, and an exploration of the inner workings of each machine that has been lovingly restored by ClydeSight. Find information about YOUR favorite vintage tape recorder on ClydeSight Channel on YouTube Today! Click Here for ClydeSight Channel! |
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This page contains our YouTube video of the funtion of a copletely restored similar Wollensak 5750, which ends with a complete performance of original music by Craig Farraway "Losing My Head Over You." This music is used with Craig's permission.
For a sample of stereo playback performance, please click here. For a sample of recording performance, please click here. The 5000 series was unique in having a single "head" for all functions - erase, recording, and playback. Most machines of the time had at least two heads, an erase head and a record/playback head. High end units had three heads, erase, record, playback. While the goal was for the three head design (more reliable electronically and sonically), Wollensak seems to have chosen to move in the opposite direction, possibly to keep the overall design of their machines more compact.
The 5750 came in two models, the EV (Early Version) shown here - dating from approximately 1967, and the LV (Late Version) of unknown date (the 5000 series was produced between 1965 and 1969).
In the EV, the "power cam" assembly had no provision for lifting the tape away from the combination erase/record/playback head when activated, resulting in an unpleasant "woo - wow - squeal " sound as the machine lost speed and connection between the tape and the head during the "power cam" operation. This is clearly evident in the video.
The "direct line" pressure pad assembly (two spring loaded straight plastic bars with felt pads on the end) were an unconventional design that sometimes made the tape misalign with the combination erase/record/playback head. The design of this assembly made it impractical for a simple lever operation to disengage them, so they only release when the entire transport is moved away from the head by the "power cam".
The EV main drive idler wheel (not shown here, see "Main Cabinet" in the Restoration section, or just click here) never disengages from the motor and capstan flywheel, leaving it vulnerable to developing "flat spots" if the machine is not used for an extended period of time.
The LV had changes made to the design of the main drive idler wheel assembly, the pressure pad assembly (opting for the more conventional "swing arm" style, which could easily be disengaged by a simple lever), and the "power cam" to correct these problems.
Please DO NOT ASK US how to sell your old machine or tapes or records. We will NOT respond to selling or value estimate inquiries.
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