Sony1980s-90s2-trk reelHome / Semi-Pro$$$Premium($800–3,000)
Sony APR-5000
Mastering engineers wanting a genuine professional-grade Sony mastering transport with real Dolby SR noise reduction.
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Strengths
- A genuine professional mastering-grade transport with three selectable speeds and exceptionally precise, stable tape handling
- Dolby SR noise reduction and Sony's professional-broadcast engineering give it a meaningfully low noise floor
- Widely used in real professional mastering facilities, giving it genuine documented commercial pedigree
Trade-offs
- Considerably rarer and more expensive to service today than more common Studer/Otari mastering decks
- Sony's exit from professional analog tape decades ago means specialist parts sourcing is genuinely difficult
Full Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sony |
| Model | APR-5000 |
| Era | 1980s-90s |
| Typical Price Tier | Premium ($800–3,000) |
| Tape Speeds | 7.5 IPS / 15 IPS / 30 IPS |
| Track Count | 2 |
| Reel Size | 10.5" |
| Tape Width | 0.25" |
| Head Configuration | |
| Noise Reduction | Dolby SR |
| Varispeed | No |
| Pitch Control Range | None |
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.
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This deckSony APR-5000
Match57
Audio Fidelity82
Flexibility42
Ease of Maintenance32
Tonal Neutrality70
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Maintenance & Supplies
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