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herangezoomtes Bild von dem Tonband Great Voices Vol. 1

Reel-to-Reel Tapes from in-akustik – Music Enjoyment in Three Dimensions

Reel-to-reel tapes are more than just an audiophile niche product. They are the ultimate standard when it comes to sound authenticity and emotional depth. Anyone who wants to experience music in its purest form cannot do without analog tape. Our Master Tapes bring this magic back – with the highest craftsmanship quality and a selection for beginners and true enthusiasts. What is behind it, and how do the versions differ? Here you will find answers.

What is an “Original Master Tape”?

An Original Master Tape is the sonic reference for music enjoyment – the only “transport medium” that can be transferred directly onto the playback medium without any further intermediate processing, free from transmission losses. With a reel-to-reel tape, you hear two genuine stereo channels that do not have to be artificially created from another signal.

For the in-akustik tapes, a new analog master tape is created through an elaborate process. The starting point is carefully selected, high-resolution digital sources that are specifically optimized for the analog tape by the renowned sound engineer Christoph Stickel. This creates a master that fully brings out the sonic strengths of the analog medium.

A special highlight is the album One Of These Nights by Al Di Meola: here, the newly created album mix comes directly from the original multitrack recording.

The “Studio Concert” tapes are characterized by an especially authentic recording: these are live recordings made directly analog using a direct-to-2-track stereo process, preserving the immediate sonic aesthetic of the live performance.

Tapes in 3 Variants

Our albums on tape are available in 3 variants. Each version is copied by hand on famous Studer A80 machines – the analog core that set the standards for the world’s largest studios for decades. The differences between Start, Standard, and Studio mainly lie in tape material, reference level, and packaging. Those who want the maximum in dynamics, bandwidth, and authenticity choose the “Studio” variant with the particularly high-quality RTM SM900 tape.

Master Tape Start

Tape Machine: Studer A80
Tape Format: ¼“, 2-track, stereo
Equalization: NAB
Speed: 7.5 ips (19 cm/s)
Tape Material: RTM LPR90
Reference Level: 250 nWb/m
Packaging: 1 metal reel, eco packaging

To the Master Tapes "Start"

Master Tape Standard

Tape Machine: Studer A80
Tape Format: ¼“, 2-track, stereo
Equalization: CCIR
Speed: 15 ips (38 cm/s)
Tape Material: RTM LPR90
Reference Level: 320 nWb/m
Packaging: 1 metal reel, eco packaging

To the Master Tapes "Standard"

Master Tape Studio

Tape Machine: Studer A80
Tape Format: ¼“, 2-track, stereo
Equalization: CCIR
Speed: 15 ips (38 cm/s)
Tape Material: RTM SM900
Reference Level: 510 nWb/m
Packaging: 2 metal reels, deluxe packaging

To the Master Tapes "Studio"

Christoph Stickel – The Sound Engineer

Every original tape in our editions was mastered by Christoph Stickel – one of Europe’s most renowned mastering engineers and a Grammy nominee. Since 1992, he has polished over 5,000 albums for top labels and artists (ECM, Deutsche Grammophon, Keith Jarrett, Oscar Peterson, Leonard Bernstein…) With a rare expertise, Stickel is among the few who have actually held some of the most famous master tapes of our time — and knows how to enhance their magic through sensitive remastering.

One of his most famous projects is the remastering of the legendary Keith Jarrett Köln Concert. So if you think getting closer to the original recording is impossible, you haven’t met Christoph Stickel yet. His working method combines technical know-how with musical sensitivity — always aiming to preserve the intention of the original recording as precisely as possible. Drawing on decades of experience with analog tape machines, he knows exactly when adjustments are beneficial — and when it’s better to leave things untouched.

Sound Characteristics of Master Tapes

Magnetic tapes are known for their distinctive "analog sound," which differs significantly from digital formats. Here is an overview of the key sonic characteristics:

Rich, full-bodied sound >with pleasant warmth, especially in vocals and acoustic instruments.
Wide dynamic range that makes the music sound lively and authentic.
Subtle, fine noise that adds a characteristic texture to the sound.
Open spatial sound with a natural distribution of instruments in the soundstage.
Authentic reproduction of transients and overtones, making recordings particularly lively and organic.

In comparison: Digital playback often sounds more airy and analytical, whereas tape brings warmth and a certain substance through its specific sonic character. Both formats have their own sonic advantages, and the choice depends strongly on personal taste and musical style.

Great Ballads

Reference Sound Edition Pop International

Format: Mastertape Standard

Welcome to the world of impeccable sound, the “IN-AKUSTIK REFERENCE SOUND EDITION”. This Mastertape Selection from in-akustik has been assembled with a love of musical detail. RESO Mastering, the high definition mastering procedure, provides significant acoustic improvements in transparency, dynamics, bass reproduction and depth differentiation. The music is gaining more atmosphere and emotion. Our master tapes are copied in real time onto high-quality tape material using state-of-the-art Studer A80 recorders. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. Haute couture for the ears, real master quality. The original vinyl master is transferred carefully to an analog master tape. The copying process is done directly from the analog master tape reel to reel. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. • DAA using the RESO Vinyl-Master

Variants from €29.99*

€476.00*

Great Women Of Song

Reference Sound Edition Pop International

Format: Mastertape Standard

Welcome to the world of impeccable sound, the “IN-AKUSTIK REFERENCE SOUND EDITION”. This Mastertape Selection from in-akustik has been assembled with a love of musical detail. RESO Mastering, the high definition mastering procedure, provides significant acoustic improvements in transparency, dynamics, bass reproduction and depth differentiation. The music is gaining more atmosphere and emotion. Our master tapes are copied in real time onto high-quality tape material using state-of-the-art Studer A80 recorders. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. Haute couture for the ears, real master quality. The original vinyl master is transferred carefully to an analog master tape. The copying process is done directly from the analog master tape reel to reel. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. • DAA using the RESO Vinyl-Master

Variants from €24.99*

€476.00*

Great Cover Versions

Reference Sound Edition Pop International

Format: Mastertape Standard

Welcome to the world of impeccable sound, the “IN-AKUSTIK REFERENCE SOUND EDITION”. This Mastertape Selection from in-akustik has been assembled with a love of musical detail. RESO Mastering, the high definition mastering procedure, provides significant acoustic improvements in transparency, dynamics, bass reproduction and depth differentiation. The music is gaining more atmosphere and emotion. Our master tapes are copied in real time onto high-quality tape material using state-of-the-art Studer A80 recorders. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. Haute couture for the ears, real master quality. The original vinyl master is transferred carefully to an analog master tape. The copying process is done directly from the analog master tape reel to reel. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. • DAA using the RESO Vinyl-Master

Variants from €42.99*

€476.00*

Great Voices, Vol. 2

Reference Sound Edition Pop International

Format: Mastertape Standard

Welcome to the world of impeccable sound, the “IN-AKUSTIK REFERENCE SOUND EDITION”. This Mastertape Selection from in-akustik has been assembled with a love of musical detail. RESO Mastering, the high definition mastering procedure, provides significant acoustic improvements in transparency, dynamics, bass reproduction and depth differentiation. The music is gaining more atmosphere and emotion. Our master tapes are copied in real time onto high-quality tape material using state-of-the-art Studer A80 recorders. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. Haute couture for the ears, real master quality. The original vinyl master is transferred carefully to an analog master tape. The copying process is done directly from the analog master tape reel to reel. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. • DAA using the RESO Vinyl-Master

Variants from €24.99*

€476.00*

Great Voices, Vol. 1

Reference Sound Edition Pop International

Format: Mastertape Standard

Welcome to the world of impeccable sound, the “IN-AKUSTIK REFERENCE SOUND EDITION”. This Mastertape Selection from in-akustik has been assembled with a love of musical detail. RESO Mastering, the high definition mastering procedure, provides significant acoustic improvements in transparency, dynamics, bass reproduction and depth differentiation. The music is gaining more atmosphere and emotion. Our master tapes are copied in real time onto high-quality tape material using state-of-the-art Studer A80 recorders. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. Haute couture for the ears, real master quality. The original vinyl master is transferred carefully to an analog master tape. The copying process is done directly from the analog master tape reel to reel. Each tape is produced directly and without any detour. • DAA using the RESO Vinyl-Master

Variants from €29.99*

€476.00*

One Of These Nights - Part 1

Al Di Meola Jazz Rock / Fusion

Format: Mastertape Standard

Right from the start and with an almost imperceptible smile Al Di Meola deftly conjured up the most amazing runs and gorgeous melodies. Concentration rather than tension, and devotion rather than routine are tangible in his playing. Masterful virtuosity combined with perfect feeling for emotions. Al Di Meola assembled a thoroughly excellent group of musicians for this review of the highlights of a career spanning almost three decades - a fantastic combination of romantic chamber music, traditional Latin American music and the freedom of jazz, constantly switching between off-the-cuff improvisation and intricate set-pieces. Time and again the musicians manage to vary familiar pieces with surprising rhythm changes and brilliant soundscapes. • DAA using an especially new produced mix and analog master

Variants from €19.99*

€476.00*

Greatest Hits - In Concert

America Pop International

Format: Mastertape Standard

The year 2020 marked the 50th Anniversary of perennial classic-rock favorite, America. Founding members, Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell (along with former band mate Dan Peek) met in high school in London in the late 1960s and quickly harmonized their way to the top of the charts on the strength of their signature song "A Horse With No Name." America became a global household name and paved the way with an impressive string of hits following the success of their first #1 single. Forty plus years later, these friends are still making music together, touring the world and thrilling audiences with their timeless sound. From their formative years, America has been a band capable of transcending borders with its uplifting music and positive message. Embracing a rainbow of divergent cultures, America's audiences continue to grow, comprising a loyal legion of first, second and third generation fans. Greatest Hits In Concert spans a bow over the career of these great musicians. • DAA using an especially new produced analog master

Variants from €29.99*

€476.00*

Studio Konzert

Olivia Trummer Vocal Jazz

Format: Mastertape Standard

In this concert, Olivia Trummer is on top musical form. She plays and sings in an inspired and expressive manner, not a note too much or too little. Her first solo album comes across as relaxed and self-confident at the same time and gives hope that many more solo albums will follow. The central theme of this album is songs, some of which she has penned herself as usual, but also in the form of interpretations of some well-known pop songs and jazz standards. On the first half of the album, Olivia Trummer accompanies herself exclusively on the grand piano, the brilliance of which carries the clear sound of her voice wonderfully. On the second half, on the other hand, her vocals virtually melt into the mysteriously shimmering basses of the Fender Rhodes. All the arrangements on the album are elegant, coherent and well-formed, without losing any room for spontaneity. Studio Konzert: This is the large, atmospheric studio hall that has already inspired numerous jazz greats to top performances. This is the utmost concentration of the artists, motivated to the fingertips, on the special moment. It is an attentive audience captivated by the magic of the moment. This is the only way to create fascinating moments in a unique concert environment. • Live Recording direct-to-2-track Stereo Analogue

Variants from €350.00*

€476.00*

Studio Konzert

Wolfgang Lackerschmid & The Brazilian Trio Latin Jazz

Format: Mastertape Standard

Wolfgang Lackerschmid's love of Brazilian music runs like a thread through his musical career. Whether during his time in the USA or on tours through Europe, the greats of Brazilian and Latin jazz such as Romero Lubambo, Claudio Roditi and Paquito D'Rivera repeatedly join the vibraphonist's band projects and play Lackerschmid's compositions, which are influenced by Brazilian rhythm and form, alongside traditional literature. This is how the collaboration with the Brazilian Trio came about, a congenial alliance with pianist Hélio Alves, drummer Duduka da Fonseca and bassist Nilson Matts. With breathtaking runs, rhythmic patterns and the many timbres of the vibraphone, Wolfgang Lackerschmid and his trio enchanted the magnificent audience. Studio Konzert: This is the large, atmospheric studio hall that has already inspired numerous jazz greats to top performances. This is the utmost concentration of the artists, motivated to the fingertips, on the special moment. It is an attentive audience captivated by the magic of the moment. This is the only way to create fascinating moments in a unique concert environment. • Live Recording direct-to-2-track Stereo Analogue

Variants from €350.00*

€476.00*

Studio Konzert

KA MA Quartet Jazz Rock / Fusion

Format: Mastertape Standard

The challenge is huge: The program consists of a new interpretation of John Coltrane's unique and complex suite A Love Supreme, which the Ka Ma Quartet also released as a studio CD in 2016 on the Neuklang label. Studio Concert: This is the large, atmospheric studio hall that has already inspired numerous jazz greats to top performances. This is the utmost concentration of the artists, motivated to the fingertips, on the special moment. It is an attentive audience captivated by the magic of the moment. This is the only way to create fascinating moments in a unique concert environment. • Live Recording direct-to-2-track Stereo Analogue

Variants from €350.00*

€476.00*

Coverabbildung s.a.m. - selected audiophile music

New Products Music

News Release: s.a.m. !

s.a.m. – selected audiophile music Vol.1: Discover the successor to our legendary Reference Sound Edition. s.a.m. is based on the advanced RESO Mastering 2.0 – a consistently refined version of the proven RESO technology. Available as U-HQCD and 180g double LP.