MX-5050-8 / 8D: the half-inch eight-track
½″ 8-channel
Designations
- MX-5050-8
- MX-5050-8SD
- MX-5050-8SHD
- MX-5050-8SLD
- MX-5050-8D
Compare the multichannel MX-5050 models →
Search service parts and donor leads for this model →
What it is↑ TOP
The eight-track is the first generation's wide-format machine: ½″ tape, eight channels, and the DC capstan servo "as standard" while the two-channel deck still listed it as an option (db, April 1976). Studio Sound's October 1976 survey lists it as the MX-5050-8 at $4,000 (Studio Sound, October 1976). By 1978 Otari's line-up ad calls it the MX-5050-8D, and in July 1981 the MARK III/8 replaced it.
The narrative — what it cost, who bought it, and why none of its prices apply to a silver-face Mini Pro — is on the 8-track page.
How to identify one↑ TOP
- Half-inch tape and an eight-channel head block: no first-generation quarter-inch machine has either.
- The rear plate carries "MX-5050-8" or "8D"; the faceplate reads "MX-5050" like every other machine in the line. See the face badge.
- A DC-servo capstan with no belt, fitted as standard.
Specifications↑ TOP
The period press gives the launch description and price. Otari's shared 8SD instruction manual now adds a factory specifications table for the later 8SD configuration; keep that model distinction when comparing the figures.
| Item | MX-5050-8 | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Tape | ½″ | Studio Sound, Oct 1976 |
| Channels | 8 | Studio Sound, Oct 1976 |
| Capstan | DC servo, standard | db, Apr 1976 |
| Price, Oct 1976 | $4,000 | Studio Sound, Oct 1976 |
Documents
Start with the manual
Instruction and preventive maintenance manual (OIM-1004E)
Covers MX-5050 2SD₂ (MKII-2), QXD, ½QXD (MKII-4) and 8SD
Includes preventive maintenance and four fold-out schematic and wiring sheets.
Service and repair
Service training binder
Covers the whole MX-5050 line
Maintenance manual supplement (OMM-1002E)
Covers MX-5050 2SD₂ (MKII-2), QXD, ½QXD (MKII-4) and 8SD
Specifications and sales
Sales sheet S-110A — MX-5050-8 Compact Eight Channel Recorder (January 1978)
Covers the compact eight channel recorder
Period press
The family archive also covers other models in this line.
Browse all 20 First generation Period Press sightings →Sources↑ TOP
Factory documentation
-
8SD instruction manual, OIM-1004E — Table 1-6 gives Otari's specifications for the shared early wide-format line.
-
8SD maintenance supplement, OMM-1002E — service procedures, schematics and parts lists for the 8SD and three related configurations.
Period press
-
db, April 1976 — the DC servo "as standard" on the eight-channel machine.
-
Studio Sound, October 1976 — the MX-5050-8 listed at $4,000.
-
db, January 1978 — the line-up ad with the MX-5050-8D.
Site history
- The 8-track — the full history page.
Have one, or paper for it?↑ TOP
The instruction manual OIM-1004E and maintenance supplement OMM-1002E cover the 8SD alongside the 2SD₂, QXD and ½QXD. The copy labelled "MKII-2, QXD, MKII-4 AND 8SD" is the same OMM-1002E book with two model names lettered over on its cover, not a missing second manual. A head-block photo or a rear identification plate would help. See how to contribute.