Fostex1980s-90s4-trk4-Track Portastudio$Budget($50–250)
Fostex 280 Multitracker
Producers wanting genuine dbx noise reduction and dual-speed flexibility on a cassette 4-track.
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Calculate pitch & speed changes for the Fostex 280 Multitracker
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Strengths
- Real dbx noise reduction (rather than the more common Dolby) gives it a distinctive, genuinely lower noise floor than most rivals
- 8-channel onboard mixer with an effects loop gives real flexibility beyond the base 4-track recording function
- Dual-speed operation lets you trade runtime for fidelity depending on the session
Trade-offs
- dbx noise reduction requires dbx-encoded tape handling knowledge that differs from the more common Dolby workflow
- Less collector interest today than Fostex's own 250, despite arguably superior specs
Full Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Fostex |
| Model | 280 Multitracker |
| Era | 1980s-90s |
| Typical Price Tier | Budget ($50–250) |
| Tape Speed | 3.75 IPS |
| Dual Speed | Yes |
| Noise Reduction | |
| EQ Type | |
| Simultaneous Record Tracks | 4 |
| Mixer Inputs | undefined |
| Aux Sends | undefined |
| Tape Type Required | |
| Pitch / Varispeed Range | None |
| XLR Mic Inputs | No |
A relative used-market guide, not a live quote — real prices vary by condition, region, and timing. Check the Reverb/eBay links on any item for current listings.
Similar 4-Track Portastudio
Match Score Explorer
Weight what matters to your workflow. Every deck is re-scored live against your priorities, benchmarked against the Fostex 280 Multitracker.
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This deckFostex 280 Multitracker
Match54
Audio Fidelity58
Flexibility62
Portability48
Ease of Maintenance48
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Maintenance & Supplies
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