INSTRUCTIO]| MANUAL

TEAc. STEREO TAPE DECK

 Your new TEAC A-l250Tape Deck has been manufactured under the strictest
quality control procedures, each unit has been thorouglrly checked at the factory.
Should any damage have been incurred during transit or should you have any dou' ts
as to its performance, contact your dealer.as soon as possible.
Our investigation has shown that approximately 40% of the calls for service
immediately after purchase, result from improper operation of the equipment.
Therefore it is important that you thoroughly read and understand this manual
before placing the unit in operation. A lack of, or improper cleaning can also result in
a degradation of performance. Careful observation of the cleaning and servicing hints
contained in this manual will contribute to a lengthened trouble free unit life. Please
consult the trouble shooting chart on page 16 before seeking service as most common
problems are thoroughly covered by this chart.

Service
Should the equipment need repair, contact the dealer where it was purchased, or
the authorized TEAC Service Center nearest you.
1)The Wananty period is described in the enclosed warranty card, read the card for
complete details.
2) For repairs after expiration of the warranty period a service charge will be made in
addition to the price of repair parts.
3) If only repair parts are required, place your order with your dealer, nearest TEAC
authorized Service Center.

Note
Although the unit may still be under the Warranty period, you may be
charged for repairs made necassary by misuse, or damage incurred as a
result of improper operation.
Contents
i''ar panel connections 1

General recording information' . . . : . . . . . . . I

Connections to and from the A-1250 2
Function of the operating controls J
Threading the tape 4
Basic tape deck operation 5
Playback of 4 track stereo tape 5
Playback of 4 track mono tape 6
Splicing the tape 7
Expert use of REC. BIAS and PAUSE 7
General information and preca utions at recording 8
Recording in 4 track stereo 10
Recordingin4trackmono ......1l
Recordingsound-on-sound... ....12
Correctingthereelturntableheight. ......12
Erasing .....13
Demagnetizing.... ........13
Cleaning --......14
Oiling. .....14
Changing the power line setting .... 15
Specifications ...... 15
Troubleshootingchart ...16

Environmental conditions
Environmental conditions
Although this recorder may be used in either the upright or horizontal positions, the
upright position is preferred from the point of more efficient ventilation. Mounting
locations to be avoided are;

Locations of constant high ternperature

Do not operate this unit near heating appliances or on top of an amplifier where
amplifier heat would contribute to a rise in temperature. Do not place the unit where
it will be exposed to direct summer sunlight. Temperature extremes will not only
cause degradation of sound quality but will also shorten the usefuil operating life of
the unit. Avoid temperatures higher than 100oF.

Locations of extreme low temperature

In low temperature locations lubricants will harden and satisfactory operation
cannot be expected. Operation will be sluggish and an overload may be placed on the
drive motors. Avoid temperatures lower than 40"F.

Locations of high humidity

High humidity locations will shorten equipment life due to corrosion and possible
fungus grorvth on printed circuit boards.

Dusty environments
Your TEAC recorder is a precision machine and as such should be protected from
dust. Operation in a dusty atmosphere will result in excessive head and bearing wear.
Your tapes should also be kept dust free.

Fluctuation of the supply voltage

Should you be in an area where line voltage fluctuation is severe, the use of an
automatic voltage controller is recommended.
Rear Panel Connections

O FUSE 2,A
(E AC POWER IN
€) OUTPUT
@rN /our (DIN)
@ LINE IN

DIN/rec ording/playback c onnector

An optional cord with DIN connectors may be used for
interconnecting the deck and stereo amplif ier system with a
single connecting cord.
Note: When using the DIN cord, recording levels are set by
the MIC control and MIC/LINE mixing cannot be
performed.
If use of the DIN cord results in insufficient volume level or
inferior tone quality, remove the cord and use the four
cables furnished with the equiprnent.

General Recording lnformation Sound recordings are made in a strip on the magnetic
surface of a recording tape. This magnetized strip is called
the "Track". The full tape width divided by two is called a
"2" ttack recording, and the full tape width divided into
quarters is called a"4" trackrecording.
Record Head
"2" Track recording
2 Track recording is mainly employed in Radio Stations
and professional recording studios for stereo recording, in
this case both tracks are recorded simultaneously and in the
same direction. 2 track recording in the home is usually
done one track at a time and is played back monaurally.

2 f rack recording ( Monaural ) "4" Track recording (Monaural)

In this mode, each of the four tracks is recorded
individually. At the end of the tape the reels are inter-
Record Head changed between left and right and the next track is
recorded. The order in rvhich the tracks are recorded is ii l,
*4, *3 and lastly f 2. (Note) With tape threaded on the
machine the tracks are numbered 1 through 4, from the top
to the bottom, viewed from the base side of the tape.
Four track recording gives maximum playback time,
however, the benefits of stereo reproduction are lost.

4 Track recording ( Stereophonic) " 4"

T r ack recording ( Stereophonic)
In this mode two tracks are recorded simultaneously, on
the first pass of the tape, tracks f I and f 3 are recorded.
The left and right reels are then interchanged and tracks # 2
and # 4 are recorded. The left channel sound will be on
tracks # I and # 4 and the right channel sound will be on
tracks # 2 and # 3. Four track recording in stereo will
provide the best possible stereophonic repioduction and ii
4 frack recording ( Stereophonic) the most widely used recording method today.
lst 2nd
Playback compat ibility
iecord head
A four track stereo tape deck can play back both 4 track
and 2 track tapes and from the point of compatibility has
the widest possible range of utilization. When playing a 2
track stereo tape on a 4 track recorder, track # 1 will be
completely covered by the head, track # 2 however will be
slightly off alignment but stereo can still be enjoyed by
compensating for the slight loss of # 2 track volume with
the volume or balance controls. On the other hand a four
track tape cannot be played back on a two track (Monaural)
recorder as both tracks # I and # 2 will be reproduced
4Track recording ( Monaural ) together resulting in mixed unintelligible sound.

1-
Rear Panel Gonnections

O FUSE 2A
(D AC POWER IN
o OUTPUT
@rN TOUT (DIN)
@ LINE IN

DIN/recording/playback connector
An optional cord with DIN connectors may be used for
interconnecting the deck and stereo amplilier system with a
single connecting cord.
Note: When using the DIN cord, recording leve1s are set by
the MIC control and MIC/LINE mixing cannot be
performed.
If use of the DIN cord results in insufficient volume level or
inlerior tone quality, remove rhe cord and use the four
cables furnished with the equiprrent.

General Recording lnformation Sound recordings are made in a strip on the magnetic
surface of a recording tape. This magnetized strip is called
the "Track". The lull tape width divided by two is called a
"2" track recording, and the full tape width divided into
quarters is called a "4" track recording.

"2" Tfack recording

2 Track recording is mainly employed in Radio Stations
and professional recording studios for stereo recording, in
this case both tracks are recorded simultaneously and in the
same direction. 2 track recording in the home is usually
done one track at a time and is played back monaurally.

2 T rack recording ( Monaural ) "4" Track recording (Monaural)

In this mode, each of the four tracks is recorded
At the end of the tape the reels are inter-
individually.
changed between left and right and the next track is
Record Head
recorded. The order in rvhich the tracks are recorded is i* 1,
+ 4, # 3 and lastly # 2. (Note) With tape threaded on the
machine the tracks are numbered 1 through 4, from the top
to the bottom, viewed from the base side of the tape.
Four track recording gives maximum playback time,
however, the benefits of stereo reproduction are lost.

4 frack recording ( Stereophonic) "4" Track recording (Stereophonic)

In this mode two tracks are recorded simultaneously, on
the first pass of the tape, tracks # I and S 3 are recorded.
The left and right reels are then interchanged and tracks # 2
and F 4 are recorded. The left channel sound will be on
tracks f I and # 4 and the right channel sound will be on
tracks f 2 and * 3. Four track recording in stereo wil,l
provide the best possible stereophonic reproduction and is
4 Track recording ( Stereophonic) the most widely used recording method today.
1st 2nd
Playback compatibility
lecord head
A four track stereo tape deck can play back both 4 track
and 2 track tapes and from the point of compatibility has
the widest possible range of utilization. When playing a 2
track stereo tape on a 4 track recorder, track # 1 will be
completely covered by the head, track # 2 however will be
slightly off alignment but stereo can still be enjoyed by
compensating for the slight loss of f 2 track volume with
the volume or balance controls. On the other hand a four
track tape cannot be played back on a two track (Monaural)
recorder as both tracks # I and # 2 will be reproduced
4Track recording ( Monaural ) together resulting in mixed unintelligible sound.

-1--
Gonnections to and f rom the A-1 25O

Front of A-l 250

Microphone (lelt channel) Microphone (right channel) Stereo hcadphone/8 ohms

2
 Function of the Operating Gontrols

Index counter
This is for indexing the program material position on
the tape. It can be reset to zero by pressing the zero
reset button on its right.

Reel turntable
7" reel is the maximum that can be used.

Tension arm - sensing post

This functions not only to take up the slack in the tape
when starting and stopping but acts to maintain a
constant tension on the tape although the winding
diameter will change as tape travels from reel to reel.
The tension arm also contains the sensing contacts to
provide the automatic reverse function.

Guide post
This hard stainless steel guide post, working in combina-
tion with the tension arm, acts as a mechanic-al filter to
absorb vibrations due to irregular unwinding of tape
caused by sticking to the supply reel, or unstable travel
of tape by uneven windings on the reel.

Tape speed knob 10 Microphone jacks (MIC IN)

Selects tape speed at recording or playback L: Left. R: Right channel.
H:TLAips Input impedance, 10K o.
L:33/+ ips

6 Head housing ll Headphone jack (PHONE)

An 8 o (low impedance type) is recommended.

*7 Microphone level control (MIC) l2 Monitor select switch (MONITOR)

SOURCE:This position allows monitoring of the
sound, before being recorded, by the meter,
{€g Line input level control (LINE) and by the headphone or speaker.

*9 Output level (playback or source) control (OUTPUT) TAPE: This position is used for playback or moni-
Controls the tape playback output level (volume). toring of the tape which is being recorded.

The above level controls with asterisks are dual-con- l3 Recording mode switches (RECORD MODE)
L:* centric knobs. The white knob is for the left channel These are for putting the deck in the recording mode,
to either stereo or monaural.
(left sound) and the black knob for the right channel
(right sound). When either knob is turned, the other LEFT: Up position allows recording of the left
will rotate with it. If only one channel should be channel program (of the 1 st and 2nd record-
adjusted, the other knob is to be held immovable. A ing for mono).

3h
 18 Shut-off arm
This arm automatically shuts off the tape transport
mechanism when tape is completely rewound or if the
tape breaks during transport (switch will operate to
turn off power when this arm comes to rest at its
horizontal position).

19. Tape transport buttons

With the Tape Mode Level, below these buttons, at
PLAY and the Eldepressed, the tape will .be trans-
ported from left to right, depressing theEtbutton will
cause the tape to be played back from right to left.
With the Tape Mode Lever at FAST, depressing either
the El or the El button will cause the tape to be
wound at FAST speed in the selected direction.
STOP Button, stops the tape in any mode of operation,
(disengages the record mode).
PAUSE: Temporarily stops the tape in the recording
mode without disengaging the recording mode.
During playback (Left to right only) you are able to
convert to the recording mode at any time by simulta-
neously pressing the EIand the record button.
This feature is most usefull for editing or for eliminat-
ing unwanted material.
NOTE: If theEleft button should be depressed while
RIGHT: Up position allows recording of the right in the recording mode, the recording mode will
channel program (or the 3rd and 4th record-
be automatically disengaged to prevent acci-
ing for mono).
dental erasure of your recording.

Power switch (POWER)

14 Level meter lamp Level meter lamp will light to indicate power is ON
These will be illuminated when the power is turned when this button is depressed. To turn OFF power,
on. depress again and release.

15 Level meter (left, right) 21 Recording button ( RECORD)

For monitoring the recording and playback level.

22 Record indicating lamp (REC)

l6 Capstan
Transports tape at a constant speed unaffected by
changing diameter on reel. 23 REC. BIAS
HIGH: This position is lor recording of high
performance tapes (Scotch 203, etc.)
t7 Pinch roller which requires a larger bias than regular
Hoids tape against capstan at a constant pressure to tapes (Scotch I 50, etc.).
prevent wow, speed variation and tape from shifting up NORMAL: This position is for recording of regular
or down during travel. g tapes (Scotch 150. etc.).

-'GA
 Integrated amplifier

Speaker system Speaker system

(lelt channel) (right channel)

44,
Threading the Tape

Place lull reel .a onto the lelt reel turntable shaft b so Secure end of tape onto empty reel (5,1 . Insert the end of
that the tape unwinds in the counterclockwise rotation' the tape into the notch on the reel while holding it
In doing so, engage the three notches d at the center of against the reel with your fingers and wind tape 2 or 3
the reef with the three protrusions q at the bottom of times onto the reel hub -o-l .

the shaft and press reel firmly onto turntable g. Install reel clamp t) onto the right reel ,nug r-Bi' to firmly
) lnstall reel clamp .t-- onto the lelt reel shaft .b-r to secure hold down the empty reel. In doing so, be careful not to
the reel. pinch the end of tape with the clamp.

CI @
t

Place an empty reel .hr on the right reel shaft g While holding the left reel '.4r so it will not move, rotate
3
4 Pull tl're .nO of tape with your fingers and thread it the right reel tlt counterclockwise to take up slack in the
through each part in the order shown below' tape. The slack should be taken up sulficiently to bring
the shut off lever P to its limit to the left'
After these procedures, set the switch lever, below the
tape transport buttons, to PLAY and the tape deck is
now ready to start at any time by depressing the
t-> button.

1) Tension arm O. 2) Lower side of guide post Q. 3)

Over the front faces of the head assembly (f . 4) Between
capstan fD and pinch roller @ . 5) Over the lower side of
the tape guide @ on the shut off lever.
*4$
 Playback of 4 Track Stereo
Basic Tape Deck Operation Tape
The TEAC A-1250 is an "Automatic reverse type" recorder.
It is not necessary to turn over the reels to play both sides
of the tape. At the end of the first two tracks the tape
direction will automatically reverse and playback of the
other two tracks will be accomplished. The automatic
reverse is accomplished by means of a conductive sensing
foil which should be applied as outlined below:
a. Cut a piece of sensing foil approximately 112 inch in
length.
I Set TAPE SPEED knob to desired tape speed. b. Position the foil approximately 2 feet from the end of
2 Depress the POWER switch. the tape on the base side of the tape.

NOTE: l.The recommended sensing foil is "SCOTCH"

f51 sensingtape.
2. If the sensing foil is too short or too long, the
mechanism will not function properly.
3. The sensing foil must be precisely centered on
the base side of the tape so that no adhesive
surface of the sensing tape is exposed.
4. If the sensing tape is too close to the end of the
tape, the tape may become detached from the
reel hub before the reversing action takes place.
5. If the sensing contacts on the tension arm are
3 Thread tape on the deck. dirty or should the sensing foil become tarnish-
ed, proper reverse action cannot be expected.
4 Set Tape Mode Lever to PLAY and then depress the
>button.The tape will then be transported from lett to
right at the previously set speed. Once thel:-.'button is
depressed the deck will continue to operate even though
the button is released. Depressing the -:-l button will cause
the tape to be played back from right to left.

Setting the stereo amplifier

When the Model A-1250 is connected to your amplifier
(refer to page 2) to playback tapes, fully retard the stereo
amplifier volume control and preset the switches as below:
5 Depress the STOP button and the tape will stop traveling.
6 Set the Tape Mode Lever to FAST, depress ther>fu11.t Mode* selector: To STEREO (or to LEFT or RIGHT for
and the tape will be wound at high speed (fast forward). mono playback)
Tape monitorx switch: To TAPE
* These designations apply to TEAC amplifiers. Read the
Operating Manual of your amplifier or inquire of your
dealer if it is of other manufacture.
NOTE 1 For playback of mono tape, switch to the
LEFT channel for track 1 (1st playback) and
4 (2nd playback), and the RIGHT Channel
for track 3 (3rd playback) and 2 (4th
playback).
NOTE 2 - For setting the output level, adjust the stereo
amplifier volume control.

7 Depressing the -J button will fast rewind the tape. Tape speed. Set to "H" (7Yz ips) or "L" (33/a ips), to
(In the above operation, always depress the STOp match the speed at which the tape was
button before reversing direction of tape travel or tape recorded.
may break). At playback of a high level recorded tape, adjust VOLUME
control so as not to scale out the level meter pointers.
tr
 Playback of 4 Track Mono
Tape

I Set MONITOR switch to TAPE 1 Set MONITOR switch to TAPE.

Adjust the white L knob of the playback level control

(OUTPUT) to a suitable level. The black R knob should
remain at the fully counterclockwise position.

Set Tape Mode Lever to PLAY and depress ther> button

2 Adjust playback level control (OUTPUT) knobs (white

lor L; black lor R) to the desired level.

4 The white L knob only of the OUTPUT'knob is adjusted

and set so that the left channel level meter pointer
deflection at maximum is below O VU.
5 Your stereo amplifier volume control is adjusted for final
speaker volume adjustment.

Continuous playback of multi-channel mono tape

At playbacli ol a 4 track or 2 track monophonic tape, all
of the tape after completion of the first track will be wound
onto the right reel, at which tirne the tape deck will
automatically shut off. Both the left and right reels are
removed, interchanged between the left and right, the reels
mounted on the turntable, rethreaded on the deck, and
3 Set Tape Mode Lever to PLAY and depress the playback continued of track 4, or the opposite track of a 2
button. ituik .ono tape. On a 4 track mono tape, this is repeated
three times to playback the tracks in the 1, 4,3,2 ordet'
Upon finishing playback of tracks I and 4, the left channel
OUfpUf tnoU is fully retarded and the rear R knob
advanced to playback tracks 3 and 2.

Playback Operation Chart, 4 Track Mono Tape

lsl ?rd 3rd ,1!h

Playback order
Fr)r Dlavbeck of track 3

Tape m,'de le PLAY PLAY PI-AY PLAY

OUTPLIT knob Position al Lr)W(while) LOW (white) ARLL (black AR(lF: lblack

Lcv-"1 Lefl Left tush1 Rrghl

oil'fPUT channcl Left t€11 Rrght Rishl

Advance the OUTPUT knob clockwise and adjust so that

the level meter indications (both lelt and right) at
maximum will be under O VU.
To balance the left and right meter indications, separately
adjust the OUTPUT knobs-the black knob for the right
channel and the white knob for the left channel.
Your stereo amplifier volume control is adjusted for final
speaker voiume adjustment.

-6-
 Expert Use of Rec. Bias and
Splicing the Tape Pause

REC. BIAS
for recording on regular tapes (Scotch 150;
Generally,
BASF LP-35; Agfa PE-31; SONY S-100; etc.), the REC
BIAS should be set to NORMAL.
When recording high performance tapes (Scotch 203;
BASF- LP-35LH; Agla PB-36; SONY SLH-550; etc') which
require a larger bias tlian regular types, always set the REC'
BIIS switch to HIGH. This will allow taking complete
advantage of all the merits of a high perfomance tape at
recording wide range, high SN ratio, large output, low
distortion and witie dynamic range

NOTE: Not only will the l'righ notes be exaggerated and

sound balance destroyed when a recording is made
on a high performance tape at the NOR\IAL
setting of the switch but distortion will increase
and tire sound will be unnatural.
Also, in the opposite situation--if a regular tape is
\2 recorded with the switch remaining in the HIGH
position, balance will be destroyed with lack of
high notes, and moreover, the recording level rvill
/-7-'-7----l be low and sound unnatural'

Should your tape be broken or should you desire to edit a

EXPERT MONITORING AT RECORDTNG ON
tape, use the procedures outlined below'
LOW NOISE TAPE
Scissors ; Ctmpletely demagnetize the scissors by use of Although therc will be no difference in sound level, when
the tlead or Bulk demagnetizer. LIse of a magnetized scissors recording on regular tape, if the tape MONITOR switch is
wi-ll result in a "Click" at the spliced area' set to either SOURCE or TAPE, there will be difference in
Splicing tape : Use only a commercial splicing tape' Never sound volume (including meter level difl'erence) between the
use CelJphane (Scotch) iup. ut the adhesive will spread and source ancl tape wl.ren using low noise tape (sound volume
contaminate your recording heads. will be lower on the TAPE position but this is due to
Method of splicing: Overlap the ends to be spliced by difference in tape sensitivity). If you wish to compare sound
approximately ''Linci,align them carefully then cut through between the source and tape at the same sound 1evel,
the center ofihe overlapp.d.rea at a 60" angle' The ends of advance the OUTPUT knob to match sound level with that
the slanted cut tape aie then butted together and the from the source while the Tape Monitor Switch is in the
splicing tape applied to the base side t-rf the tape' T-o insure 'I'APE position or, use the tape monitor switch on your
firm .f,f,.i.n.., tttt splice is placed on a hard surface and amplifier to which this tape deck is connected' When using
the splicing tape rubbid briskly wilh your fingernails or any this switch, set the tape deck MONITOR switch to TAPE
hard smooih obiect. Next trim off any excess splicing tape' and match the sound volume with the OUTPUT knob.
cut slightly into the tape on both edges at the spliced area'
(See illustration) PAUSE
In conventional tape decks, recording is started by
depressing the recording button and then the 'play' button
bui the Model A-1250 features a unique recording system
permitting the use of "PAUSE" during recording a "com-
mercial killer."
During recording, the tape can be stopped by setting the
Tape Mode Lever to "PAUSE" to start again when the Lever
is set to "PLAY" thus permitting one-touch start of the
tape. Also, if you should wish to switch to the recording
mode during playback, the Lever is set to PAUSE, and by
depressing the-RECORD button and then the : '-button, the
taie deck will be placed in the recording mode, ready to
begin recording as soon as the lever is set to PLAY'
Furthermore, if you wish to record or erase the tape during
playback without stopping it, the tape deck-can be put in
ihe recording mode by simultaneously depressing the
RECORD and t,> button.
General lnformation and Precautions at Recording

The tape
The length of a recording tape as well as the recording speed, tl.re better the fidelity. Howevei, due to the extreme-
time, is determined by the reel diameter and the thickness ly high quality of the TEAC tape decks, recordings of
of the base material. excellent quality can be made at the lower speeds. This
Tlre use of a 1 or 1% mil base tape is recommendcd lor 4 provides maximum tape economy and extended playing
track high fidelity recording. Polyester base tape is preferred time.
for use in humid or extromely dry areas.
The recording time indicated in the chart below is for one
Tlrree recording speeds are commonly used, 3'\/q, and l/2 single pass of the tape, therefore the total recording time
incl'res per second. will either two or four times that indicated, depending upon
71/z ips is commonly used for home high lidelity the method of recordins.
recording. Gcncrally speaking, the higher the recording

track tape brands on market

Recordins time
I aPe rengtlr BASF Agfa SONY
1% ip\T"*/A ips
52 p l% mll 37Om 1200 ft 30 min. 60 min.
Standard Polyester sz u r4rrltt -----l-
Long play I Acetate 35y lmil 550m 1800 lt 45 min.;90 min. o 190
L""g pl.tl P"lymt.t 35 tt 1 mil
Long piay Polyester 35p lmil
Double play 28 p ',4 mtl 60 min,

Good quality tape wound on correct reel Selecting the tape and reel
For recording, new tape is not necessarily needed as long
as it is of good quality as the erase head will erase the
previous recording as the new recording is made. However,
avoid using tapes whose coating is worn, peeled off or
stretched.

Tape condition can be judged by the appearance

when wound on the reel and viewed from the side
1) Is it neatly wound? 2) Is there steps or irregularities in Ifthe color ot'the winding is different throughout the
the winding? 3) Is the color of base uniform as seen from reel is an indication that two different types of tape have
it
the side? 4) Is the tape edge smooth? been spliced in. In some cases, the color may differ
according to production lot even for the same type tape, or
between opposite sides of the wound tape.

Judging tape condition by how it travels

Head

Spots seen on the edge indicate 'drop but' (skipping of

sound).
Tapes which snake up and down between the guides and
ove, ihe heads will inevitably lead to level fluctuations and
azimuth misalignment.
Head Pinch roller

Creases extending from the center positively indicate uneven

stretching. This is caused by diflerences in temperature and
humidity. Unevenly stretched tape which travels either higher or
lower than the true path of the tape will in extreme cases
\v drift ofi the pinch rolle,r.
Head

Fungus indicates old tape stored for a length of time under Capstan

high humidity. Sections where the splicing tape has been Snaky motion of unevenly stretched tape indicated by
applied are especially prone to support fungus growth. arrows.

8-
7

Normal condition reel Skillful setting of recording level

R.lrlrif tjr ror\'ro re.orJLnt tapl

tr!

tl
The use of a good qual:ity reel is an important point in ]!
preventing damage to the tape edge or uneven stretching. lq
Always use reels of the same diameter. 1C

50

Reels which damage tape

Two important factors are required in a good sound tape.

One is that the frequency range be wide and the other is
that it has a minimum of distortion and noise.
Although the frequency response is actually determined
Re.els warped in the shape of a bowl will bend the tape, by the tape deck perlormance characteristics and quality of
resulting in the so-called uneven stretcl'ring. and is sometimes the tape used, variation ol the recording level has a great
encountered even in new reels.
aflect on the end result.
ln order to make a recording with minimum noise, it is
desirable to record at tl're highest possible level just before
distortion is ir:rtroduced. Even then, it is not always
necessary to record at the maximum volume level ol the
music or to maintain the level meter indication at thg
dividing line between the red and black zone (0 Vtr. It
The reel may be wiirped in a Yo-Yo shape due to tight must be kept in mind that any tape will suddenly increase in
winding. This will nol ocrur ir) re:ls made ol hard plastic or distortion. and recording sensitivity ol the high notes will
whose hub is perfectly fitted. slightly decrease wl'ren the recording Ievel exceeds a certain
point. For this reason. a standard level of 0 dts is established
with an ample margin ol saletl taken into consideration. In
actuality. it is best to become fully acquainted with the
performance of tl.re tape and the deck you are using before
determining the operating level.
If the hub is not truly perpendrcular to the flange, the Experimentation while using the "Monitor" leature wrll
wound tape will be pressed against the flange resulting in a quickly acquaint you with the best recording level for the
seaweed form of tape. type tape you are using.

Hang down a length of tape to check straightness

ln ll
XXXXO
Selecting tape speed

Two different tape speeds, H=i!.*,

(7% ips) and
L=9.5cms (3% ips) can be selected on the TEAC Model
A- l 250.
The 19cm speed is suitable lor hi-fi recording of music
and the 9.5cm speed is used for Back Ground Music and
speech recordings.
As the 9.5cm recording speed provides twice that of the
19cm speed in recording time, if the sound quality is
satisfactory at this speed it will be more economical.
The level of quality desired in the finished recording will
determine which speed you should use.

9
Recording in 4 Track Stereo

All recording with the A-1250 is accomplished from the left

reel to the right. At the completion of the first two tracks,
the reels are interchanged and the remaining two tracks are
recorded. At this time you may affix the sensing tape and
you ale equipped for playback in either dtrection. The
automatic reverse will function at the end of side one (the
first two recorded channels) to reverse the direction of tape
travei, play back the remaining two channels and the
recorder will stop when the second two channels have been 3 Set the MIC or LINE level controls so that the meter
played through. pointer does not scale out even at maximum sound
volume (recording level adjustment). Sound volume of
Recording with microphones LINE OUT and PHONE is controlled by the OUTPUT
Plugs from the two microphones are plugged into the knob.
microphone jacks (MlC L, R) on the front panel-the left (l) Speaker volume is controlled at your stereo amplifiet.
microphone plug into L, and the right one into R. The When recording with a microphone, the speaker sound
microphone recording levels are controlled by the MIC knob will feedback through the microphone to cause un-
above. Use a microphone with an impedance of 10K o or pleasant howling. In such a case, place the microphone
lower. A 600o microphone can also be used. away from the speaker or turn down speaker volume to
zero and use a pair of headPhones.
(2) To balance the left and right levels, individually adjust
Recording from a phono player, tuner, tape, etc' -
the white and black level controls so that the left and
REC. O-UT from your stereo amplifier or preamplifier
right level meter readings will be almost the same at
outputs from your phono player, radio tuner, tape player
and others must all go to the LINE IN jacks ( refer to page
peak levels.
2). Recording level ol signals to LINE IN are controlled by
the LINE knob on the front Panel.

Sound mixing of mic. with the phono player, tape

or other sound
With the microphones plugged into MIC lN and the
proper sources into LINE IN, each signal is controlled by
iheir respective knobs to set the recording level'
4 Switch on both the LEFT and RIGHT switches of the
RECORD MODE. If the tape to be used is of the high
performance type requiring a larger bias than regular
types, set the REC. BIAS to HIGH.
5 Put the Tape Mode Selector Lever to PLAY' Then,
recording will begin when the button is depressed while
the REC. button is being depressed.

Set the TAPE SPEED knob to desired speed and thread

tape.
Set the MONITOR switch to SOURCE.

5 In the middle of a recording, if you wish to cut offthea

commercial, the tape will momentarily stop when
i;;; ;; put to PAUbE and start again when it is returned
to PLAY.
during
7 Sound recorded on the tape can be monitored
recording by setting the MdNITOR switch to TAPE and

advancing the OUTPUT knob'

in
If thebUTPUT knob is adjusted and set to matchthe
level with that of the SOURCE on the meter''
,ecorAing level can also be monitored at the
TAPE
position of the switch'
tape, the left and right reels, are
- At the end of thethe
8
int.r.t unged, and above procedtires repeated to
continue recording on the tracks'

-10-
Recording in 4 Track Mono

Recording with a microphone

When using one microphone, it is first plugged into the
LEFT-MIC jack. The recording level of the microphone is
controlled by the white (L channel) MIC knob.

Recording from a phono player, tuner, tape, etc.

Preamplifier outputs from the phono player, tuner, tape
player are first plugged into the L jack of the LINE IN. In a 5 Put the Tape Mode Selector Lever to "PLAY." Then,
stereo amplifier, the connection remains as it is and the recording will begin when the i -- button is depressed
MODE SELECTOR is switched so as to send only the left while the "REC." button is being depressed.
channel signals to the tape deck ( refer to your stereo 6 In the middle of a recording, if you wish to cut off a
amplifier Operating Manual). The line recording level is set commercial, the tape can be momentarily stc,rpped by
by the white (L channel) knob of the LINE control. putting the Lever to "PAUSE" and started again by
* The black (R channel) knob is fully retarded. returning it to "PLAY".
7 Sound recorded on the tape can be monitored during
recording by setting the MONITOR switch to TAPE and
advancing the OUTPUT knob (white L knob only).
Sound mixing of mic. with the phono player, tape Ii the OUTPUT knob is adjusted and set to match in
or other sound level with that of the SOURCE on the meter, the
With the microphone plugged into MIC IN and the proper recording level can also be monitored at the TAPE
sources into LINE IN, each signal is controlled by their position of the switch.
respective knobs (white L knobs only) to set the recording 8 At the end of the tape (at finish of track 1), to continue
signal level. recording (on track 4 which is on the opposite side of
track 1 and in the other direction) the left and right reels
are interchanged and the tape restarted in the recording
mode.
9 Track 3 is recorded next, with the full reel again on the
left. But this time. srvitch on the RIGHT channel of the
REC. NIODE and arrange that all the sources come
througl'r RIGHT channel. The completion ol the program
may be recorded on Track 2 by again turning the reels
over.

Set the TAPE SPEED knob to desired speed and thread

tape on the machine.
Set the MONITOR switch to SOURCE.

3 Set the MIC or LINE level control (white L knobs only)

so that the level meter indicates 0 VU at peak levels.
Be careful of howling (refer to page 10, recording in 4
track stereo, item 3-l).
4 Switch on the LEFT channel of the REC. MODE. If the
tape to be used is of the high performance type requiring
a larger bias than regular types, set the REC. BIAS to
HIGH.

- 1l--
Recording Sound-on-Sound

Sound-on-sound and language training can be done on the Sound-on-Sound Recording Step Chart
Model A-1250 Stereo Tape Deck.
lst 2nd 3rd
A preliminary mono recording on track I (left channel) is
played back, mixed with sound from the microphone and MIC IN or LINE IN iack L R L
re-recorded on track 3 (right channel). MIC or LINE knob L R L
For instance, a one person duet or trio with accom- SOURCI
panying music in the background (Sound-on-Sound) can be MONITOR switch and TAPE TAPE
made, or the teachers pronunciation and the students voice TAPE
can be recorded together during language training. Risht Left
Level meter Left
REC. MODE switch Irft Risht trft
OUTPUT knob L L R
Headphone L€ft Left Right

Knob R (black knob) is used at playback after finishing

recording.
** Knob L (white knob) is used at playback after finishing
recording.

Gorrecting the Reel

Turntable Height

Music (or the teachers voice) which is to be recorded first

is put on track I (refer to Mono Recording, page I 1)'
(t) nt tne beginning of recording. reset the index counter
to zeto to indicate start of recording'
(2) Upon starting the iape. the playback rs-nonitored
' (MbNITOR set to TAPE) and the OUTPUT knob set
(ro that the left channel level meter indicates a
maximum of 0 VU).
On finishing the track I recording, rewind tape- to start of
recording. Switch OFF the LEFT channel of the REC'
There is a Philips head screw at the end of both the lelt and
right turntable shafts. Using a Philips screwdriver' rotate it
MODE.
J Interconnect the OUTPUT-L and LINE IN-R jacks on the this to
with connecting cable' cJunterclockwise and the turntable will rise. Adjust
rear of amplifier a can also be made
4 Plug a heidphone into the PHONE jack and the micro-
it. rnott zuitable height. This adjustment
with the reel and reel clamper attached'
phone into the MIC-R jack.
5 bet Lever to the PLAY position' switch ON the RIGHT
of REC. MODE, and the tape will start recording when
the r= button is depressed while depressing the REC
button.
6 While listening to the playback of track I with a
headphone (lelt ear only), and using the right channel
MIC' and LINE knobs (white L channel) mix the
microphone sound (the students voice. for language
training) for the second recording with the sound from
track I and record on track 3.
7 On finishing the recording, rewind the tape to the start
and play baik the right channel (track 3)'
If the results are unsatisfactory,'the same recording
onto track 3 .can be repeated as many times as
necessary siirce the original recording still remains on
track 1.
-12-
Erasing Demagnetizing

ilre
The head line-up of the Model ,4-1250 as seen front the During long perrods of use, the heads will become slightly
lront is as shown in the photo. magnetized. As a result, the high frequency will decrease.
Since the recording head .functions throughout the noise will develop, or in extreme cases the high regions will
recording mode, il a pre-recprded tape is used for recording, drop out or introduce noise into your valued pre-recorded
the old recording will be erased frrst by the erase head and a tapes. To keep your recor,ler operating at optimum effi -
new recording made at the recording head. ciency the heads should be demagnetized at least once for
every 50 hours of use, with a TEAC Model E-l Head
To erase all recordings Demagnetizer, using the procedures outlined below:
To only erase the tape, the MIC and LINE knobs are lully
rotated counterclockwise to prevent any sound from being 1 Turn oll power to the tape deck.
recorded, the tape started in the stereo recording mode, 2 2 Attach the plastic protectors on .the pole tips of the
tracks (tracks I and 3) will be erased. After completing Demagnetizer.
erasure of the first two tracks, the reels are interchanged and 3 Plug the Demagnetizer cord into an A.C. outlet.
the above procedure repeated. This will erase the remaining -1 Depress the Demagnetizer power button, bring the tip
two tracks (tracks 4 and 2). close to the head and siowly move it up and down 4 or 5
To efficiently erase old recordings from tape in a few times.
seconds, the use of the TEAC Model E'2 Tape Eraser is 5 Slowlv draw it away from the head.
recommended. 6 After finishing the above procedure on each head, turn
otf power to the Demagnetizer ONLY after it has been
drawn at least l2 inches away from the heads.
7 The same demagnetizing procedure is lollowed on each
head. capstan shaft, and the guide posts.

Model E-2 Tape Eraser

To erase a section of a recording

1 Switch on either or both the LEFT and RIGIIT ol the
REC. MODE and start the tape in the playback mode by
depressing the button (do not depress the recording
button yet). When the portion to be erased arrives
simultaneously depress the RECORD and -- buttons.
2 As soon as the last part of the section to be erased passes
the erase head, quickly depress the STOP button. Be
extremely carelul not to erase more than intended which
may happen if you should miss correctiy timing the
instant to depress the RECORD button,;---button, and
the STOP button.

Precaution at stop-and-go recording

When you do intermittent stop-and-go recording on old
recorded tape, a portion ot' the old recording will rernain
unerased at the point where the STOP button is depressed.
To prevent such fault, always completely erase the tape of Model E-1 Head Demagnetizer
old recordings before you start recording.
Gleaning Oiling

To avoid poor erasure, decrease of the high notes or other Follow the procedure below for oiling the motor.
troubles, the heads and tape guides over which the tape l. Remove the power cord and all connecting cables.
travels must always be kept clean. Before using the tape 2. Remove the tape deck rear cover by removing the six
deck, make it a rule to clean all parts with the TEAC screws holding it.
T2-261 Head and Rubber Cleaner Kit. Apply the oil suppliod with the tape deck or TEAC TZ'252
Oil to the points listed below at every 1,000 hours of use, or
once a year even though infrequently used.
NOTE Capstanshaft. .....2drops
1. When using the polishing silicone fluid or silicone cloth Rotate the dust cap counterclockwise with your fingers
on the tape deck, do not use them on the capstan to remove and apply oil to the sponge ring. Replace dust
shaft, pinCh roller rubber surface, and reel tumtables' cap.
For cleaning the pinch roller, use the Rubber Cleaner Pinchrollershaft . ..ldrop
Fluid in the TEAC TZ-261k\1. Remove center Philips screw, pull off pinch roller and
2. Be careful not to use carbon tetrachloride for cleaning shaft assembly and apply oil to the shaft on rear side of
the pinch roller as it may cause swelling of the rubber roller.
and subsequentlY distort it.
Motors
I capstan and 2 reel motors. Oil is applied to the 2 oil
tubes each on the three motors, about 1 cc to each tube
after approximately 1,000 hours of use; or about 0'5 cc
once a year if the tape deck is infrequently used.

NOTE
1. Be careful not to apply an excess of oil. If oil should
accidentally get on rubber parts or belts, clean it off
immediately with Rubber Cleaner fluid in the TEAC
TZ -261kit.
2. Lubrication should be accomplished immediately after
use of the tape deck while it is still warm.
 Ghanging the Power Line
Setting Specif ications

Heads Three, 4 track 2 channel, stereo or

mono, erase-record, playback and
rev. playback
Reel Size 7" and 5"
Tape Speed 7% ips and 3 N ips (t 0.57a)
Motors I dual speed hysteresis synchronous
capstan motor
2 eddy current induction reel motors
Wow and Flutter 0.08% aI7 xips
0.10% at 3 %ips
Frequency Response 30 , 22,000 Hz
(* : On, 40 - 18,000 Hz) at I % ips
TEAC Model A-1250 Stereo Tape Deck is adjusted to the 30 - 16,000 Hz
power voltage and frequency indicated on the carton, before (+3 dB,40 - 12,000 Hz) at 3% ips
shipment from the factory. If it is to be used under different Signal to Noise Ratio 55 dB
power ratings, the tape deck must be reset as outlined Harmonic Distortion 1% at 1,000 Hz normal operating
below: level
Crosstalk 60 dB at i,000 Hz
NOTE: Stereo Channel
Always disconnect the power cord from the A.C. outlet Separation 50 dB at 1.000 Hz
before resetting. Fast Winding Time 90 seconds for 1,200 feet
When voltage is different Inputs Microphone: 600 ohms,
-70 dB
The Model A-1250 may be set for 100, ll7, 200, 220 and (0.3 mV)
240 volt AC. To change the voltage, unscrew the fuse in the Line : 50,000 ohms or more, 0. I V
center of the voltage selector plug. Pull out the plug and Outputs Line : 0.3 V for load impedance of
reinsert it so that the desired voltage shows in the cutout. 10,000 ohms or more
Reinstall the fuse. Headphones:8 ohms
Power Requirements 100 I 1 17 | 200I 220 I 240 V AC,
When frequency is different 50160 Hz, 140W
I Remove the power cord and all connecting cables. Dimensions 15 %',(H) x 11 y",,(W) x 8"(D)
2 Take off tape deck rear cover by removing the six screws (383(H) x aaO(w) x 203(D) mm)
holding it. eight 37rt lbs (net), (17 kg (net))
3 The belt linking the motor pulley and flywheel must be Standard Accessories Empty reel, reel holder, input-output
repositioned. connection cord, oil and applicator,
The motor pulley on the Model A-1250 has two steps fuse, cleaning stick, rubber leet,
and difference in rotation due to a different power AC power cord, instruction manual,
frequency is compensated by changing the belt step on others
the pulley. Reposition the belt with your fingers, at the * Specifications were determined using a low noise tape.
flywheel first and then at the pulley when switching from * Features and specilications subject
tJ change without notice.
60Hz to 50H2. or the pulley first and then the flywheel at
changing from 5OHz to 60H2.
4 After repositioning belt, rotate the flywheel several turns
with your finger to make sure the belt is correctly seated
on the steps.
5 The frequency selector inside the tape deck must be
switched to the frequency of the power line.
6 Reinstall the rear cover of tape deck. Optional Accessories

Hp-1ol Stereo headphone (8 ohms)

E-1 Head demagnetizer
e Motor E-z Tape eraser
RE-7o1 7 inch reel (large hub)
RE-7o2 7 inch reel (small hub)
Tz-261 Head and rubber cleaner
rz-2s2 Oil and polisher

15
Trouble Shooting Ghart

Tape transport
I

No movement -------T- Power cord loose or disconnected power cord

I L Fuse (2AJ is blown Replace fuse

Capstan does not turn ---p lmproper shut-off lever position-Check Check shut-off lever
I L Capsran belt drop off Replace belt or adjust capstan motor mounting
I

No ac,tion of pinch roller Sluggish slide movements (inside panel)- Oil sliding parts
Counter not operating --T- - Counter is running free '- Push reset button several times
L-16u111gr drive belt drop off Reinstali belt

Unstable sound Poor pinch roller pressur. ----F Soiled pinch roller Clean with rubber cleaner
I Decayed rubber of pinch roller_ Replace pinch roller
-
Dirty tape path - with head cleaner
Clean
Poor tape (decayed) Replace tape
Tape rubbing reel Adjust reel height with compensator sheet; replace reei
Il -
reel is not wobbling Adjust reel height with Philips screwdriver

Plavback
tt
No sound __T__ Check monitor selector Set monitor selector to TAPE
When monitor selector is set at TAPEl Level meter is deflecting-Output cable loose or disconnected
Check outPut cable
IL
Level meter not deflecting-Improper piayback level
Adjust playback level knob
Sound is low lmproper playback level --- Adjust playback level
--------------- Clean with head cleaner
I F Head is dirt.v
L Poor tape (decayed) Replace tape or re-record
I Clean with head cleaner
Sound is poor Head is dirty
L Poo, tape (decayed) Replace tape
--------f -
No automatic reverse Sensing contacts on tension arm Clean with head cleaner
are dirty
I Sensing tape is improperly positioned Position sensing tape as per
- instructions on page 5
-
Recording
I
-
Does not record Set monitor selector to SOURCE
Level meter nJt deflecting Input cable loose or disconnected
Check input cable
Improper mic. and line level

Set monitor selector to TAPE

Adjust .rll". und line level knob
I

Level meter not deflecting Head is dirty

Clean with head cleaner

Sound is low -------;-- ImProPer mtc. and line level --..=-.- Adjust mic. and line level
Head is dirtY - C'lean with head cleaner

DecaYed taPe Replace tape

Head is dirty Clean head with cleaner

Sound is poor ---------
DecaYed taPe Replace tape
* If trouble persists, even though this chart was closely
followed to remedy the cause, take the tape deck to your
dealer or contact any TEAC Service Center.
16-
TEAC CORPORATION SALES OFFlcE: SHINJUKU BLDG., 1-8-1, NlsHt-SHtNJUKU, SHtNJUKU, T0Ky0 pHONE: (03) 343.5151
TEAC CORPORATION OF' AMERICA 7733 TELEGRAPH R0AD M0NTEBELLO, CALtF0RNIA 90640 pH0NE: (213) 726-0303
TEAC EUROPE N.V KABELWEG 45-47, AMSTERIAM.W. 2 NETHERLANDS pHONE: 020-12 M 04

PRINTED IN JAPAN. OA71K3 5. D-]6424