Circa 1957.
This model aimed at hi-fi enthusiasts, and was designed to be mounted into an hi-fi cabinet.
Where this differs from the normal Ferrograph is in the colour of the deck, gold-bronze with cream control knobs and meter bezel.
No output amplifier stages were incorporated.
According to the brochure this model is based on the Series 3 deck, but the model illustrated is in fact a late series 2 mechanism. Because Ferrograph models evolved over a period, these differences often occurred, to the detriment of some buyers.
This is a series 2 deck, note the lack of tape guides and tape counter.
The "V" slot head cover is lacking the pause control but the moulding that would eventually hold the pause control is actually included.
The controls were identical to the normal portable tape recorder, with volume control, and bass / treble.
It also had rear mounted inputs / outputs to allow neater installation into a cabinet system.
The lack of tape counter identifies this has a late series 2 deck, rather than the newer series 3.
Although the same model, this is a now an actual Series 3 deck. Note that both tape guides and counter are fitted. Rather usually this deck has 3 securing bolts, rather than the normal 2, with the extra immediately behind the tape counter.
Because this model was designed to connect to an external amplifier system the internal speaker is omitted.
The Gold Bronze colour and cream knobs blended better in the domestic environment, than the usual industrial blue/gray of the normal range.
SERIES 66.
In two models
66N 3.75 / 7.5 i.p.s 84 gns.
66H 7.5 / 15 i.p.s 88 gns.
Hitherto all tape recorders have been designed as portables.
But portability is no great advantage to those who don't intend to carry their equipment around.
It can indeed be a serious matter. The time necessary to connect up and prepare the instrument may well deprive him of valuable recording opportunities that will never return.
Today, therefore, there is a distinct trend towards a permanent installation particularly when associated with a hi-fi system and external speaker system.
For this situation the Ferrograph 66 is ideal. In general design it is identical to the Series 3A, except for the omission of the internal speaker system.
Due to its overlapping base it can be fitted with into any cabinet by preparing an opening 15 3/4" x 16" with a working depth of 5".
The Ferrograph 66 is finished in an attractive shade of gold bronze with it's controls in cream.
Illustrations of possible mounting options from the Ferrograph Series 66 brochure.
Imhof's of London were one of the most prolific manufacturers of quality hi fi furniture.
The Ultimate Option.
Dyed in the wool hi-fi enthusiasts who were well heeled would go for the Shirley TWA1515 record/play amp, 15watts/channel, combined with a Wearite tape deck, and choice of top hi fi components, all housed in an attractive if bulky cabinet, and fed through an external speaker system.
For many enthusiasts this was the only way of incorporating the industrial styled Ferrograph into the domestic environment.
FERROGRAPH
MAIN DESIGN FEATURES
Three Independent Motors- two to operate the Tape reels and the third to drive the capstan.
Main Drive Motor-special construction using the "Octaquad" synchronous principle developed by Ferrograph engineers.
Recording Level (VU) Meter-circuit of unique design bringing transients into proper relativity.
Speed Change-effected by simple switch which automatically changes compensating correction network in playback amplifier circuits.
Single Knob Control - ensures maximum simplicity of operation safeguarded against accidental erasure by mechanical and electrical interlock.
Separate Tone Controls- for bass and treble cuts and combined record gain/playback volume control.
Tropical Treatment-given to all windings, motors and components to withstand abnormal operating conditions of excessive heat and humidity.
Large Spools 81/4" diameter, permit the use of 2,600 feet of "long play" tape equivalent to 68 minutes playing time per track at 7.5 ips.
Endless Loop Cassette-permits the continuous replay of up to 4 minutes of recording (7.5 ips ). Optional extra.
Output stage - provides genuine 2.5 watts of distortion-less output through internal elliptical speaker of high quality. ( Model 3A only)
Auto-Stop Switch - instantly cuts off motor drive when spool is empty or if tape breaks.
Turns Counter. A clock type zero setting counter is incorporated.
Editing Facilities. Every Ferrograph deck is drilled to receive the "Bib" splicer.
Input and Output arrangements include socket for external 15 ohms loudspeaker and alternative high impedance output for feeding into other high-fidelity amplifiers.
In Series 66 these sockets are at the rear: in the Series 3A they are on the front.
Ferrograph Amplifier, when not needed for its recording function, can be employed for gramophone record reproduction or in conjunction with FM and other tuners.