The TK 245 deluxe reel to tube recorder from Grundig is a four-track stereo device. It was at that time, according to the manufacturer, the first stereo device with automatic recording control. By pressing a button, manual recording can also be switched over. Instead of a magical band (EM84) as used in transient versions of the device, this device has two pointer instruments. Unfortunately, the input levels of both channels can only be adjusted together with a single knob. Of course, the TK 245 can also be used to make two mono-recordings per side in order to achieve a double playing time of the tape. The tube fitting of the TK 245 is: 2x EF86, 2x EF83, ECC85, ECL86 as well as EC92. Two transistors of the type BC107 were also installed.

The exterior of the Grundig TK 245 deluxe corresponds to the then time spirit. Two rotary knobs with integrated rotary switches are used to adjust the track, the input source, the treble and the volume or the input level for manual recording. On the left are the keys for the drive control. On the front of the unit is the loudspeaker for mono playback via the unit without connected amplifier or a connected stereo system.

Let's take a look underneath the top cover. The switch for the tape speed of the TK 245 between 9.5 and 19 cm/sec also serves as an power switch. Well solved: During playback, for example, the stop button is triggered when the device is being switched off. Furthermore, the combination of the on-off switch and the tape speed switch prevents a tape speed from being selected after switching off the device. As a result, the dents which are otherwise generated on the friction wheels can be prevented.

Here you can see the audio heads and tape guides of the Grundig TK 245 deluxe. The device was already a very used state, nevertheless the sound quality is still surprisingly good.

The drive of the TK 245 provides for more troubles. During recording or playback, the right winding plate is driven directly by the motor via a friction wheel with rubber coating. The flywheel of the device is driven by the same way. By aging, these parts are already very worn. The drive of the tape winding plate is deficient, especially, when a full 18-centimeter tape reel is placed on the right reel. The construction with the drive belts for the fast forward or return runs also from today's point of view very adventurous.

The display instruments for controlling the recordings work, as was customary at that time, only during recording. They also display the input levels very slowly, but they fulfill their purpose.

Let's take a look at the TK 245 after removing the lower equipment cover. On the left is the shielded amplifier board. To be seen in the center is the AEG general-purpose drive motor, which still faithfully performs its service. Because of the amplifier section with tube technology, the device has a separate mains transformer that provides the heating voltage of 6.3 volts and the required high anode voltage of about 250 volts.

Here the shielding plate was removed. Good to see are two of the tube sockets. The circuit board can also be opened for repair work. The TK 245 has a two-way loudspeaker system. The tweeter can be seen in the upper right corner of the picture. The output transformer is located directly underneath.

The connections of the device at the rear side. Seen from left to right: microphone left, microphone right, record player, radio, headphone and loudspeaker.

A close-up of the engine and the power transformer of the TK 245.

The switch for the track locationis prone for contact problems. The recording function of the TK 245 also makes some difficulties. A thorough cleaning of the switching contacts is necessary.