There was a special division of tape recorders dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and entertainment. These tape recorders were not ordinary devices, they were built with a singular purpose - to help in the process of learning. From language courses to dance classes, and even music instruction, these tape recorders were the unsung heroes of educational institutions. Among these illustrious devices, one stood out like a shining beacon of reliability and durability. Produced in the UK by Coomber Electronic Equipment Ltd. this brit is solid as a tank. Crafted with care by skilled hands in Worcester, its body boasted a design reminiscent of a portable guitar amplifier, exuding a rugged charm. Yet, despite its sturdy construction, it remained portable enough, weighing in at a manageable 9.2 kilograms. This allowed instructors and students alike to transport it effortlessly to various events and practical sessions. Once the Coomber tape recorder found its place in the classroom, its true capabilities came to life. With the power to connect microphones, it transformed into a vocal powerhouse, amplifying voices (or mixing it over backing tracks) with a maximum stereo output of 22 Watts per channel through its internal speakers. Whether it was a passionate lecture, a lively discussion, or a spirited performance, the Coomber was there to ensure every word and note reached the eager ears of the audience. And if the need arose, external speakers could be connected to further enhance the audio experience. The tape recorder boasted class-facing loudspeakers, ensuring that students received optimal audio clarity, while the teacher-facing controls made it a breeze for educators to effortlessly manage their lessons. But the Coomber tape recorder wasn't limited to group settings alone. It had a trick up its sleeve that endeared it to those seeking personalized practice. With the ability to connect up to five stereo headphones simultaneously, it created a united soundscape, allowing a group of learners to delve into a world of auditory excellence. Imagine a language class where students whispered phrases in unison or a music workshop where budding musicians played their instruments in harmony, all thanks to the Coomber's thoughtful design. Now, let's pause for a moment to appreciate the enduring charm of this British masterpiece. Despite being built a quarter-century ago, it remains in perfect working condition, a testament to its durability and the craftsmanship of Coomber Electronic Equipment Ltd. Indeed, this company had been producing such remarkable units for many years, upholding their tradition of quality with a touch of "military-style."
I always loved the heavy duty builds. I've never seen Coomber over here; up until a few years ago all our ice rink scorer boxes had something like the Marantz PMD350 CD/Tape Deck, they were used for music between face-offs or for figure skaters. They all disappeared and people started using their phones/laptops for the music. That looks like a full-size CD player, the unit must be huge.
