How I Use the STUDER A800 When Making Beats and Samples

The STUDER A800 analog tape machine, produced from 1977 to 1988, remains one of the most iconic multi-track recording devices in music production history. Known for its durability, sonic warmth, and smooth workflow, the A800 is a tool many producers swear by for capturing that vintage analog vibe.

This tape machine is an essential part of my studio workflow, adding that analog warmth and depth that’s hard to beat. I find that using it on drum tracks really brings out the punch and harmonics, while softer instruments gain a rich, full-bodied tone.

What Makes the STUDER A800 Special?

The A800 isn’t just another tape machine; it was built with innovation in mind. With 24-track capability, it was the first of STUDER’s tape machines designed exclusively for multi-track recording, making it perfect for complex arrangements and intricate soundscapes. Here are a few standout features that set it apart from the rest:

One of the A800’s hallmark qualities is its ability to deliver that rich, full-bodied analog sound. Analog tape adds natural compression, softens harsh transients, and imparts a unique warmth to recordings. With this machine, you get flexibility in recording speeds (7.5, 15, and 30 ips), allowing you to control the amount of tape saturation and character added to the sound. Lower speeds, for instance, give recordings a denser, bass-rich sound, while higher speeds offer more clarity and detail.

For today’s producers, the STUDER A800 brings a timeless quality that digital plugins and emulations often strive to recreate. Using it effectively in your studio can elevate your recordings and bring a unique flavor to your sound.

1. Tracking with Analog Warmth

When tracking drums, vocals, guitars, or any instrument where you want a bit of vintage character, running the audio through the A800 adds subtle harmonic distortion and a warm, tape-driven presence that digital recordings lack. The tape’s natural compression can make individual instruments sit perfectly in a mix without heavy processing.

Pro Tip: Try recording at different tape speeds to see what fits your mix best. Faster speeds, like 30 ips, will give you a cleaner sound, while slower speeds can add thickness and warmth, especially useful for bass-heavy instruments.

2. Layering Tracks for a Full, Cohesive Sound

The STUDER A800 excels at multi-track layering, making it perfect for recording full bands or complex productions with multiple instruments. It’s especially effective for genres like rock, jazz, and any style that benefits from a cohesive, unified sound. With up to 24 tracks available, you can record multiple layers without losing fidelity or introducing excessive noise.

Running a hotter signal into the A800 can add pleasing saturation and natural compression. This is a great trick for drums and bass, giving them a punchy, vintage feel.

Pro Tip: When layering, consider slightly adjusting the tape speed or running some tracks at different saturation levels. This creates subtle variations in tone, adding depth and richness to the mix.

3. Tape Editing and Syncing Capabilities

The A800 wasn’t just great for recording; it was also highly advanced for its time in terms of editing and syncing. The machine’s software-controlled tape motor and audio functions allow for precise editing. The “Rehearse” function enables you to simulate cuts in real-time, making it easy to pinpoint exact edit points down to 1/1000 of a second, perfect for anyone who wants precision.

Pro Tip: Use the autolocator with 20 address points for seamless editing and syncing. This feature can be a lifesaver for producers working on sound design or syncing music with video, as it ensures you get exact start and stop points every time.

The STUDER A800 analog tape machine is more than just a tool; it’s a way to infuse character, warmth, and authenticity into modern music production. I love running drum tracks through it because of the natural punch and saturation it brings to each hit. It makes the drums feel alive, adding subtle harmonics that give the sound a distinct edge.

Check out my FAT Drum Samples pack from Hex Loops. Designed to bring weight and punch to your tracks, this kit is filled with professionally crafted drum samples perfect for adding that thick, warm feel often associated with analog. Grab your copy today, and get ready to make your beats fat!

Also read: Behind the Samples – The Making of FAT Drum Samples.