How much do the big machines weigh ?

[qwarks]

I'm interested in picking up an analog 2" 16 track machine for a personal
home studio(yeah, maybe a bit extreme) and I'm wondering :

How much do the various models weigh ?

I think I read on the net recently that the Ampex MM1100 was 1200 lbs.
That can't be correct ?

I'm looking into these machines:

-3M M-79
-MCI JH-16
-*possibly* Ampex
- the ubiquitous Otaris
-Studers are out of my range, unfortunately .

Any insights into how much these behemoths weigh ?

Thanks

 

[The Ghost of FM]

I don't have an exact spec for you but, I do know how much my TASCAM MS-16, one inch, 16 track deck weighs with all of it's parts combined and that clocks in at 300 pounds.

Being that the machines you are talking about are 2" models with heavier motors and base plates to mount it on, realistically you might add about 100 more pounds to the weight of mine to figure out the weight of the ones you are thinking about.

Older models like Studer and Ampex could well well substantially more because of the separate electronics casings for each set of channel's amplifiers so, in those cases, 800 pounds could be a realistic weight.

Keep in mind that to ship something like this by courier or cartage company, the crating and padding will add a couple of pounds too and we're not talking cardboard boxes either! Wood crates with steel strapping is necessary to protect these machines during transit.

Good luck!

Cheers!

 

[The Ghost of FM]

Here's a shot of an Ampex MM1200 being lifted into a van by forklift truck!

Picture

Cheers!

 

[qwarks]

Oy !

Wow.. this takes some of the steam out of my idea, to be sure, but I'll continue to
mull it over a bit .

I just bought an Otari MTR-10 1/2" 4-track that I'm awaitnig delivery on, so maybe
I should work with that for awhile; heh, it only weighs 175 lbs. . .

I don't know if I could get a 2"/16-trk through the door !