The Golden Ears of The Absolute Sound Review the Papillon Tape Recorder
The Golden Ears of The Absolute Sound Review the Papillon Tape Recorder
By
Jun 30, 2025
Nationwide — JUNE 2025 (USANews) In the world of high-end audio, where the pursuit of perfection is a continuous journey, few achievements can match the innovation of Kostas Metaxas and his brand, Metaxas & Sins BV. One of the latest developments is the Papillon Tape Recorder, a new entrant to the analog audio reproduction landscape, recently reviewed in The Absolute Sound.
A Passionate Pursuit of Analog Sound
Kostas Metaxas’ journey into the world of high-fidelity audio spans decades, beginning with a deep fascination for sound and the technology needed to capture it. Growing up in Melbourne, Australia, Metaxas initially couldn’t afford high-end audio equipment. Nonetheless, his drive to perfect audio reproduction led him to self-study electrical engineering, eventually allowing him to create systems that met his high standards.
His professional entry into audio began in the mid-1980s when he purchased Swiss-made Stellavox tape recorders, prized for their exceptional sound capture. Despite the rise of digital technology, Metaxas found that no modern digital devices could replicate the richness and depth of analog tape recordings.
"I spent years searching for a device that could match the sound of old reel-to-reel recorders," Metaxas said. "There still is no way to fully capture the vivid reality and depth that tape offers compared to digital mediums."
The Birth of the Papillon
Metaxas' search for a modern analog tape recorder led to the development of the Papillon. Unlike previous models, the Papillon is a completely new design, the first of its kind in over fifty years. It combines advanced engineering with a commitment to analog audio’s sonic qualities.
Inspired by horology, the Papillon merges precise craftsmanship with high-performance audio technology. The recorder is named after the French word for “butterfly,” reflecting both its aesthetic appeal and its delicate yet robust design.
Papillon's Design and Technology
The Papillon is a professional studio-grade recorder designed to handle a range of tape widths from 1/4" to 1" and reels up to 14" in diameter. A standout feature is its dual-capstan system, which minimizes speed fluctuations and flutter, resulting in smoother playback. The recorder also uses MAXON BLDC motors and 316 stainless steel components to improve both durability and sound accuracy.
Metaxas has ensured that each recorder is meticulously tuned, with a focus on achieving the optimal balance for natural and accurate sound reproduction. This attention to detail differentiates Metaxas & Sins from other audio equipment manufacturers.
The Sound Experience
In his review for The Absolute Sound, Jonathan Valin, a respected voice in the audiophile community, described the Papillon as “one of the most accurate and immersive sources I have heard.” Valin noted that the recorder provides a high-fidelity experience that closely matches the original master tapes, bringing the listener closer to the musicians' intentions and the ambiance of the recording studio.
The Papillon’s ability to capture the subtleties and emotional depth of music reflects Metaxas' vision of analog sound as a conduit for emotional connection to the art form.
Metaxas & Sins: Redefining Audio Excellence
Metaxas & Sins is one of the few companies still creating new analog tape recorders, making the Papillon a unique offering in the industry. Their commitment to innovation has earned them numerous design and sound awards across multiple countries, solidifying their position as leaders in the high-end audio market.
With the Papillon and its companion, the Tourbillon, Metaxas & Sins continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in analog audio technology.
The Art and Science of Sound
For Metaxas, the creation of the Papillon was not just about engineering excellence but also about blending art with function. "I love experimenting with materials — metal, glass, ceramics — and finding ways to merge technology with artistic expression," he explained. This philosophy has contributed to Metaxas' success in both design and sound reproduction.
Through Metaxas & Sins, Kostas Metaxas has demonstrated that high-end audio can be as much about aesthetics and emotional connection as it is about technical performance.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Analog Sound
As digital formats continue to dominate, Metaxas & Sins remains dedicated to the preservation and evolution of analog sound. The Papillon stands as a testament to the enduring value of analog audio, offering a listening experience that prioritizes warmth, depth, and emotional richness over purely technical perfection.
For audiophiles seeking a return to the authenticity of analog sound, the Papillon Tape Recorder represents a glimpse into the future of high-fidelity audio reproduction.
Discover More About Metaxas & Sins:
For more information about the Papillon and other high-end audio products from Metaxas & Sins, visit the official website here.
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Reviews:
The Absolute Sound Review of Papillon here
