Analog 4 Track
This portable 4-track recorder is designed for musicians and producers who work across multiple locations, balancing durability with intuitive handling while remaining part of a larger gear ecosystem.
Client: Templo Devices
Year: 2025
One of the more strategic aspects of this design isn't immediately obvious: its ability to adapt as production scales. The top plate serves as the keystone component where most parts connect. Initially manufactured via CNC to eliminate tooling costs and minimize startup risk, it's been designed with a clear migration path to die-casting. Once production volume justifies the investment, the transition to die-casting becomes a de-risked decision that dramatically reduces per-unit costs at scale.
Beyond manufacturing strategy, the physical design reveals similar intentionality. The dished top surface serves multiple functions beyond its distinctive aesthetic. Primarily, it recesses the knobs below the surrounding rim, protecting them from impact and improving durability. This same recess creates a natural grip point—the lip catches your thumb when handling the device, making it secure and intuitive to hold.
The fasteners serve dual purposes. The protruding fasteners are celebrated as an exposed design feature while simultaneously functioning as protective bumpers that prevent the powder-coated aluminum side panels from scratching during transport or when nested alongside other gear—an important consideration since this product is typically used as part of a larger collection of equipment.
