Inspired by horology, driven by a passion for Hi-Fi, Metaxas & Sins’ extraordinary TR-X Tourbillon reel-to-reel analogue tape machine is as much a feast for the eyes as the ears.
While it’s unlikely reel-to-reel tape will enjoy quite the same revival as vinyl turntables, there’s plenty to intrigue and delight in this work of audio art. After all, it’s beautiful to look, and the audio credentials for reel-to-reel are high. Before the advent of digital, magnetic tape was the standard format for master recordings. It still has its advocates.
Interest has been fueled by the increased availability of classic albums on open-reel tape, and there’s no doubting the attraction of hearing an album in the same format on which it was made.
The company says reel-to-reel has the potential to deliver the warmth of analogue sound with less processing, greater dynamic range, and better clarity and extension at the frequency extremes compared to vinyl records.
A first generation copy dubbed in real time directly from the original master tape can get you closer to the entirety of sound captured during the recording sessions for a classic album than any other format, we’re told.
Interest has been fuelled by the increased availability of classic albums on open-reel tape…
Is the TR-X Tourbillon the ultimate expression of Hi-Fi as art?
The TR-X Tourbillon is designed for 10.5-inch reels, and is inspired by wristwatch mechanics, a tourbillon being used to increase timing accuracy. The TR-X Tourbillon is the first reel-to-reel tape machine to use the same concept to regulate the speed of the tape. It’s also transportable, thanks to an external £3,200 battery box.
The TR-X Tourbillon is available in two versions, one for recording and playback, the other for playback only. It sells for £59,998 and £46,998 respectively.
Netherlands based Metaxas & Sins was founded by Kostas Metaxas. A prolific product designer, Metaxas has collaborated with various luxury brands, producing everything from pens to clocks. He’s also a recording engineer who’s made hundreds of live concert recordings; magnetic open-reel tape is his playground.
The Metaxas & Sins TR-X Tourbillon is available from distributor Absolute Sounds.
Ruark Audio has unveiled the R710 Music Console and Talisman-R floorstanding speakers at this week’s Vienna High End Hi-Fi Show, marking a major launch for the British brand as it celebrates 40 years in audio. Finished in either Fused Walnut veneer or Satin Charcoal lacquer, both lean heavily into furniture-grade presentation and tactile operation, without…
This time out, The Luxe Review podcast lends an ear to the latest developments in personal audio. Join our AI hosts as they recap TLR’s recent headphone coverage, including a review of Sony’s new WH-1000X flagship cans, and a literal paint swatch of new colourways from JBL and Technics… Anne: The team has been covering…
The right Father’s Day gift isn’t always about extravagance, it’s about the gesture. A well-chosen token that says: I know what you love. And yes, I noticed that your favourite aftershave ran out three months ago. But what will surprise and delight? In this guide, we’ve done the hard work for you, scouring the shelves,…
The Luxe Review 
Inspired by horology, driven by a passion for Hi-Fi, Metaxas & Sins’ extraordinary TR-X Tourbillon reel-to-reel analogue tape machine is as much a feast for the eyes as the ears.
While it’s unlikely reel-to-reel tape will enjoy quite the same revival as vinyl turntables, there’s plenty to intrigue and delight in this work of audio art. After all, it’s beautiful to look, and the audio credentials for reel-to-reel are high. Before the advent of digital, magnetic tape was the standard format for master recordings. It still has its advocates.
Interest has been fueled by the increased availability of classic albums on open-reel tape, and there’s no doubting the attraction of hearing an album in the same format on which it was made.
The company says reel-to-reel has the potential to deliver the warmth of analogue sound with less processing, greater dynamic range, and better clarity and extension at the frequency extremes compared to vinyl records.
A first generation copy dubbed in real time directly from the original master tape can get you closer to the entirety of sound captured during the recording sessions for a classic album than any other format, we’re told.
The TR-X Tourbillon is designed for 10.5-inch reels, and is inspired by wristwatch mechanics, a tourbillon being used to increase timing accuracy. The TR-X Tourbillon is the first reel-to-reel tape machine to use the same concept to regulate the speed of the tape. It’s also transportable, thanks to an external £3,200 battery box.
The TR-X Tourbillon is available in two versions, one for recording and playback, the other for playback only. It sells for £59,998 and £46,998 respectively.
Netherlands based Metaxas & Sins was founded by Kostas Metaxas. A prolific product designer, Metaxas has collaborated with various luxury brands, producing everything from pens to clocks. He’s also a recording engineer who’s made hundreds of live concert recordings; magnetic open-reel tape is his playground.
The Metaxas & Sins TR-X Tourbillon is available from distributor Absolute Sounds.
CD meets streaming: Ruark launches R710 Music Console and Talisman-R speakers
Ruark Audio has unveiled the R710 Music Console and Talisman-R floorstanding speakers at this week’s Vienna High End Hi-Fi Show, marking a major launch for the British brand as it celebrates 40 years in audio. Finished in either Fused Walnut veneer or Satin Charcoal lacquer, both lean heavily into furniture-grade presentation and tactile operation, without…
The Luxe Review Podcast: These new headphones are designed to turn heads
This time out, The Luxe Review podcast lends an ear to the latest developments in personal audio. Join our AI hosts as they recap TLR’s recent headphone coverage, including a review of Sony’s new WH-1000X flagship cans, and a literal paint swatch of new colourways from JBL and Technics… Anne: The team has been covering…
55 of the best luxury Father’s Day gifts: watches, booze, fashion, experiences and tech treats
The right Father’s Day gift isn’t always about extravagance, it’s about the gesture. A well-chosen token that says: I know what you love. And yes, I noticed that your favourite aftershave ran out three months ago. But what will surprise and delight? In this guide, we’ve done the hard work for you, scouring the shelves,…
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