A new sound spectrograph is described that incorporates several automatic features facilitating operation and permitting higher analyzing speed. The mechanical assembly includes a tape-handling system for continuous record and playback with flutter below 0.15% and frequency response within ±1 dB from 50 to 12 000 cps. An integral part of the mechanical assembly is a tape scanner and marking drum. The scanner will repeatedly scan any 2.4-sec segment of tape for spectrographic analysis and the tape may be automatically advanced for continuous-signal analysis. A high speed-up ratio enables a spectrogram to be made in 80 sec. Three basic types of spectrograms may be made with either uniform frequency equalization or a special speech equalizer: the normal display of time vs frequency with intensity shown as blackness, an amplitude contour display, and cross-sectional amplitude spectra. Analyzing filter bandwidths of 50 and 300 cps are used with optimal frequency and transient responses. Either a linear or logarithmic frequency scale may be selected and an internal calibrator will automatically mark the frequency scale on each spectrogram. The marking stylus assembly has been designed to provide automatic engagement and pressure adjustment.