The MARK III/2 ¼″ Two-Channel Recorder

Otari heads the page with three markets, set as a checklist:

• BROADCAST — stereo production/news and studio editing
• TELEVISION & FILM — audio post-production; daily transfers with pilot-tone resolving
• RECORDING STUDIO — mixdown and copy

The opening paragraph rests the machine's case on its "optimized three head configuration" and on Otari's reputation, and claims it as the best performing ¼″ two-channel machine in its price category.

Professional Features that make the MARK III/2 easy to use↑ TOP

• Transformerless, balanced inputs and outputs with XL type connectors
• Dual-element metering: user-adjustable peak reading LEDs plus standard VU
• Built-in test oscillators, 1 kHz and 10 kHz, for Record alignments or test tones on tape
• Front panel Record setup adjustments
• Line output switch selectable for +4 dBm or −10 dBV
• Headphone amplifier with channel select and level control
• Transformerless, balanced mic input with selectable 20 dB pad (and mute)
• Mic/Line mixing on each channel
• Record reference levels switch selectable — 185, 250, 320 nWb/m
• Equalization switch selectable, NAB or IEC
• Low frequency Reproduce equalization adjustments
• Microprocessor-controlled hours/minutes/seconds real-time counter with zero-return and LED display, tape accurate at any speed
• Front panel Cue Control (tape lifter defeat)
• Full-function auto locator (CB-116) optionally available

⤢ zoomThe CB-102 remote control photographed face-on: an auto-locator display showing 0.13.20 at the top right, a row of six numbered cue buttons across the middle, transport controls along the bottom with a large red Record button, and function legends screened in pale type.

The remote control (CB-102) duplicates the MARK III Series transport control and record buttons. For the ultimate in remote operation, the auto locator (CB-116) includes these functions, plus a separate hours/minutes/seconds LED display and six cue point memories for search or repeat.

Features that deliver Superb Tape Handling and Transport Control↑ TOP

• Microprocessor-governed transport control logic, motion sensing and dynamic braking
• ±7% variable speed control (+50%, −100% speed via external control), usable in Record and Reproduce
• Reel size switch selectable — 5″, 7″, 10.5″, EIA or NAB

⤢ zoomA head-on view under the transport: the machined alloy deckplate with a cast X-brace spanning the opening, the capstan motor housing rising above it and a motor can visible behind the brace.

Rugged 9mm alloy deckplate with cast structural supports.

Additional Features for Flexibility, Reliability, and Serviceability↑ TOP

• 3 tape speeds, switch selectable in 15/7.5 ips or 7.5/3.75 ips speed pairs
• Fourth head switch selectable for quarter track stereo playback
• High torque, AC reel motors
• Interface connector for external machine control via SMPTE/EBU time-code-based editors, machine controllers or synchronizers
• Positive-locking NAB hub adaptors
• Plug-in head assembly with hinged cover
• Modular construction, with rear panel electronics and connector access
• Rack mounting kit RK-32 (optional)
• Roll-around floor stand ZA-52L-32 for variable-profile mounting (optional)

⤢ zoomTwo machines photographed together on floor stands in a dark studio: the MARK III/2 at the back with its rack-mounted two-channel meter unit above it, the MARK III/4 in front with a four-channel meter unit to its right, and an auto locator on its own stand at the left, all with white NAB reels fitted.

The MARK III/2 ¼″ two-channel recorder and MARK III/4 ½″ four-channel recorder