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Museum object · Tools and Equipment

Reel-to-reel recorder with three microphone pre-amps owned by Bo Diddley

1950s

Smithsonian NMAAHC collection

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Source catalog description

This description refers to material held by Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Visual details below describe the original material.

Seafoam green reel to reel recorder by Ampex with three microphone pre amps. Reel to reel recorder has larger opening in front, where a door likely once was. Recorder has a platform that features two large black wheels that turn, as well has various switches, buttons, and tape rollers. Microphone preamps are labeled [1], [2], and [3], starting from the bottom and working upwards. Pre amps feature small meters at center with glass front. Pre amps also feature various black dials and some metal switches.

Sources & collection details

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture — original record ↗

Source collection ↗

Catalog metadata · CC0 · Source checked 2026-10-13

Catalog reference: 2013.177.5a

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