Studer A807 M2 — Reference-Grade Playback Transport

Direct Head Output Configuration | ARIA Class-A Mastering Playback System

Price: $30,000 USD

This Studer A807 M2 is offered as a reference-grade analog playback transport, prepared specifically for uncompromised tape reproduction. The machine is clean and configured to bypass the internal Studer playback electronics, allowing the playback head signal to be routed directly to balanced XLR outputs.

Playback Architecture

• Direct playback-head output to balanced XLR connectors

• Internal Studer playback electronics bypassed

• Optimized for use with an external, mastering-grade head preamplifier

ARIA Class-A Mastering Playback Electronics

The system is intended for use with the ARIA Class-A playback electronics, a purpose-designed mastering solution for Studer machines.

• Two-channel, playback-only mastering electronics

• Engineered by Crane Song and manufactured by ATR Service

• Housed in a tabletop chassis with hardwood side panels

• Supplied with an outboard DC power supply, supporting 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz

• Includes low-capacitance tape-head interconnecting cables, internally terminated on the ARIA side for optimal signal integrity

Playback Head Configuration

• Supplied with a ¼-inch 2-tks ARIA playback tape head

• Mastering playback head manufactured by Flux Magnetics for ATR Service

• Optimized for maximum resolution, low noise, and tonal accuracy

Recording Capability Retained

• The machine retains its original erase and record heads

• Allows the use of internal Studer electronics or user-supplied electronics for recording, if desired

• Playback system configuration does not compromise recording functionality

Why This Is Not a “Stock” Studer

When used with dedicated external Class-A head electronics, the A807 M2 functions as a pure reference transport, analogous to a high-end turntable paired with a world-class phono stage. This architecture exceeds the performance limits of the original Studer playback path and places the system in a significantly higher performance category.

Ideal Applications

• Audiophile reference playback systems

• Mastering and archival transfer

• Critical evaluation of master tapes and safety copies

• Studios and collectors seeking maximum playback accuracy and musical realism

Summary

• Flagship Studer A807 M2 transport

• Clean, fully serviced, professionally configured

• Direct head output for external Class-A mastering playback electronics

• ARIA two-channel playback system engineered by Crane Song, manufactured by ATR Service

• Flux Magnetics mastering playback head

• Recording capability retained, but requred retro work)

Inquiries welcome.
Please contact us to discuss configuration details, system integration, and listening goals.

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Service Scope & Disclosure
This machine has undergone targeted mechanical service, alignment, electronic testing, and selective component replacement appropriate to its intended configuration and application. All work performed is reflected in the description above.

This offering should not be interpreted as a complete factory-new restoration of every original subsystem. As with all vintage professional audio equipment, the long-term behavior of legacy components outside the serviced scope cannot be guaranteed.