Experience the warmth, depth, and character of authentic analog recording on 24-track reel-to-reel tape machines - a rare capability in modern studios. Our rare 1976 MIDAS console and vintage gear deliver the classic sound that shaped decades of acclaimed recordings.

A Rare Recording Path

Reel-to-reel is an optional recording path at Kensington Sound - one of the only places in the region offering this service. Featuring full analog signal paths for audiophiles and purists, our tape-to-digital workflow allows you to record straight to tape and then either hand off directly to vinyl production for a pure analog chain, or digitize through our pristine high-fidelity system at 192kHz for digital distribution while preserving that analog warmth. We also offer professional reel-to-reel digital conversion services.

Professional reel-to-reel tape machine at Kensington Sound

Full Analog Recording Chain

✓ 24-Track Reel-to-Reel Tape Machines: Full analog recording to tape - an increasingly rare capability offering authentic vintage warmth
✓ 1976 MIDAS PRO5C Console Serial #001: The first PRO5C professional high-grade recording console - 26 channels with gold-tipped connections, meticulously maintained since 1976
✓ Vintage Microphones: 1956 Telefunken U47 (Hybrid), Neumann U87, vintage AKG C414s, and other classic microphones
✓ Classic Outboard Gear: UREI 1176 Silverface, DBX 160 compressors, vintage analog processors
✓ Live Tracking Ready: Full capability for live off the floor analog recording

Why Choose Analog Recording?

Sonic Warmth

Analog tape adds natural compression, harmonic saturation, and warmth that digital cannot replicate

Musical Character

Vintage equipment imparts unique sonic characteristics that have defined classic recordings

Organic Sound

The subtle imperfections of analog create a more organic, musical listening experience

Vintage Vibe

Achieve the authentic sound of classic albums from the 60s, 70s, and 80s

Featured Vintage Equipment

Microphones

• Telefunken U47 Tube (Hybrid - Original with Modifications)
• Neumann u47 FET (Vintage)
• Neumann u87 x2 (Vintage)
• AKG C414 EB x2 (Vintage)
• Sennheiser MD-441 x2 (Vintage)
• Peluso P67 Tube (U67 type)

Outboard Processors

• UREI 1176 Silverface Compressor
• DBX 160 Compressor/Limiter x2
• Universal Audio LA-610 Mk II
• Eventide Ultra Harmonizer H3000

Perfect For

• Artists seeking authentic vintage sound and character
• Albums and projects requiring organic, warm tonality
• Rock, blues, jazz, soul, and folk recordings
• Producers and engineers who appreciate classic recording techniques
• Bands looking to capture the magic of classic album production

Over 50 Years of Analog Recording

Since 1972, Kensington Sound has been Toronto's destination for authentic analog recording. Our MIDAS console and 24-track tape machines have been at the heart of platinum, gold, and diamond records, capturing performances by acclaimed Canadian and international artists. This equipment isn't just vintage - it's a working piece of recording history that continues to create exceptional music today.

Fully Analog Reel-to-Reel Recording