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Webcor (Webster-Chicago)

This list is not complete. I'm doing my best to try to list as many Webcor reel-to-reel machines as I can find. Info comes from several sources (see Notes below) which explains why I sometimes have data (like frequency response) and sometimes not.

I have noted examples where I actually own the machine. For some things like frequency response, having the unit doesn't tell me the info; for other things like the recording level indicator or the tube compliment, it works great.

Wire machines are listed in order they appear on Webcor's Technical Service Bulletin #37 (see Sources at bottom of pate). Tape machines are listed in numeric order by Model Number.

Webcor did not assign model numbers strictly in numerical order; they tended to be grouped, but they also followed some internal company logic that is now lost to us. The result is that the years of introduction are somewhat chronological but not strictly. Dash numbers typically indicate cabinet style, and letters typically refer to revisions.

Webcor liked to reuse its model names (Royal, Viscount, Coronet, etc.) even though the model numbers changed. Names begin appearing on tape recorders after the first generation or two. When looking at recorders with names, be sure to find out which model number it really is. e.g. the Royal could be a mono-only model, a high-fidelity mono, a mono with built-in AM radio, or a stereo-playback machine, but they're all called Royal and they're cosmetically very similar.

Models types are roughly:

• Portable: the vast majority of Webcor's product output. A portable has a carring handle, and usually had a fabric covered cabinet.

• Table: a portable model without a carrying handle. Typically a bare-wood cabinet in a variety of finishes.

• Console: a machine built into a floor-standing cabinet; usually as part of a system with a radio tuner and a phonograph.

• Deck: the recording mechanism without an amplifier; meant to be used as part of a system.

• Office Dictation: only wire-recorders got this designation. Designed for use as a business machine. Usually comes with a foot control.

Service manuals: Webcor-factory manuals are available but tend to be only found on eBay and are usually pricey. A few schematics are floating around—try a Google search. SAMS Photofacts are available on eBay or from Steve Johnson—prices vary; it pays to shop around.

Please note on the model numbers: With a few exceptions where the differences are available, I've removed the various prefixes (BP, EP, etc.) and suffixes (-1) because I believe they're more confusing than enlightening.

Wire Recorders

Reel Tape Recorders

Sources:

Information comes from a variety of sources, which explains why I sometimes have data and sometimes not. My major sources:

• SAMS Photofacts, as noted in the table above.
• Billboard Magazine had a roundup of available reel recorders of 1965. The article is available online through Google Books.
• Billboard (also via Google Books) published a number of articles, mainly press-releases, on Webcor products.
• Consumer Reports - November 1963
• Google Books offers Life and other magazines in full-view mode, which include various Webcor advertising.
• Billboard, High Fidelity magazine, Tape Recording magazine have advertising, news and articles about Webcor equipment.
• Webster-Chicago.com has some information on selected models of Webcor products; also some technical service bulletins.
• If I have to, I sometimes go by eBay or other on-line sites that sell these machines. They're no good for years of manufacture, but they good for matching up names with model numbers, and whatever you can determine from the available photographs.