Eros Tape Head

About the Eros Tape Head

The Bottlehead Eros Tape Head Preamplifier Kit is a dedicated tape head preamplifier designed as a descendant of Bottlehead's top-of-the-line phono/tape preamp. It features a high gain of 50 dB, an input impedance of 47K ohms, and an output impedance of 4K ohms, optimized for reel-to-reel tape playback. The design uses an EF86 pentode input stage known for its low noise and high gain, combined with a unique C4S constant current source to isolate power supply noise. The kit includes a hybrid shunt regulator providing separate high voltage regulation for each channel, enhancing speed and frequency extension. The chassis is made of laser-cut brushed aluminum with a Pacific Northwest alder wood base. The kit requires assembly and is considered skill level 3, including detailed instructions and all necessary parts except solder. It is designed to work well with tape heads of varying output levels and is recommended to be paired with a preamp of at least 15K input impedance and short interconnect cables. The kit weighs approximately 8 lbs and measures 12 x 10 x 6 inches. An updated version is in development.