FULLY SERVICED & CALIBRATED
BACKED BY WARRANTY
STEREO CASSETTE 
TAPE DECKS / RECORDERS / PLAYERS
VINTAGE AND RESTORED
 

 

A FEW OF OUR CASSETTE DECKS WAITING FOR A SPOT ON THE RESTORATION BENCHES...
(YES, WE HAVE OUR WORK 'CUT OUT FOR US')


  
OUR SERVICED / RESTORED CASSETTE TAPE DECKS:
 

          NEW LISTING 4/16/2022
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos) 
warranty
VINTAGE, REFURBISHED, FULLY SERVICED
NAKAMICHI CASSETTE TAPE DECK
NAKAMICHI RX-202
#...6682
With DOLBY B & C NR
"UDAR" (Unidirectional Auto Reverse) (the correct way!)
MADE IN JAPAN!
Circa early 1982-93 (that's a testament to this decks success as a design, as it was current for an 11 year time span!!!)
"WORLD AC POWER" ™
for sale

Initial 'pre-test' conditions; 'Control motor' doesn't move (even though Voltage is present momentarily). Mode motor finally started running with manual manipulation. Fast wind motor works, but no reel hub movement indicating failed idler tire.

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves removal / disassembly of the transport, DISASSEMBLING, removing old / stiff lubes, cleaning inside and out, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below.

ü Brand new, Reel hub 'drive' tires 'pre-conditioned' and installed (PRB #STC.5629).

ü Capstan Drive belt replaced with NEW for trouble-free service (does not utilize a 'counter' belt).

ü Slide chassis disassembled, timed correctly, lubed and re-installed

ü Slide chassis to Cam motor belt replaced w/ PRB #SQC4.8.

ü Rubber pinch roller has been resurfaced and reconditioned

ü Flywheel removed and Capstan burnished. Bushings cleaned and lubed.

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü All internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment.

ü FF, REW, Play, Eject and Auto-Reverse slide chassis / transport functions all test perfectly and controls tested for 'positive / accurate' responsive.

ü Eject operates properly.

ü Tape Counter Function tested

ü Both Dolby NR circuits tested

ü 'Memory / Zero Return' function tested

ü Heads are in great condition, with virtually no visible wear!

ü Pinch roller in GREAT condition!!!

ü Both level meters adjusted for even playback.

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and 10kHz adjusted for BOTH directions for 'peak performance' with Oscilloscope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources'. Both channels now even output.

ü Pinch roller and heads all in GREAT condition!!!

ü Speed adjusted to 100% accuracy BOTH directions, with with TEAC MTT-257H 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1000Hz +/- 1 Hz.)

ü Plays perfectly and after adjustment, records AMAZINGLY well with 1kHz @ 0 dB = -1dB! on High bias type tapes. (Following the extensive restoration, we did 'test recordings' of a 'ddd' CD on Maxell 'XL-II' High Bias with the following results;
1kHz @ 0dB; L=-1dB & R=-1dB
PN @ 0dB; L=-1dB & R=-1dB
WN @ 0dB;  L=-1dB & R=-1dB
DDD Pre-Recorded CD material @ 0dB;  L=0 to -1dB & R=0 to -1dB
Bottom line is, it recorded amazingly well!

Cosmetically, there's some scuffs on a couple of the transport buttons, a small 'chip' on the well window corner, and some tic on the upper face surface. Camera and lighting actually make the blems show up more than they seem to in person (see photos above).
 Total technician time to restore ~11 HOURS!
  ____________________________

The Nakamichi RX-202, Auto-Reverse (the best way) Stereo Cassette Tape Deck. Great deck for doing your tape transfers if your tapes were recorded with no NR or with Dolby B or C.
It's also quite 'fun' to operate. While I sold these when new as a Nakamichi dealer back in the mid-late 1980's, I had forgotten how well they function. The transport commands are VERY precise and quick. You might think that if the tape has to come all the way out, flip a 180, then re-load and go back into play mode might take a few seconds. You might. However, in reality, I think it's less than and certainly seems like no more than about 1 second! It's quite the 'head turner' when it functions.

Nakamichi RX-202 Features include:
  
- 4 Motors (Capstan, Reel, 'Cam' {head control} and UDAR chassis)
- 3-Mode, "UDAR" (Unidirectional Auto Reverse) for related 'cool factor', check next feature
- Music-Sensing Circuit monitors playback and fast-forwards through blank 'tail' of tape to provide less interrupted playback when auto-reverse is engaged.
- Special, PR-2D R/P head separates the head into 2 parts so there's a head for playback and separate Record head instead of having them combined as they are in most "2 head" decks.
- Super-hard, Record / Playback heads
- Super Hard, High-Performance, Laminated Sendust, semi-discrete,' R/P head w/ EXTREMELY NARROW gap, allowing for 20-20,000Hz performance
- IC Logic / Touch tape transport with motor driven 'cam control mechanism' (From the original Nakamichi RX-202 brochure; "Microprocessor-controlled silent tape transport ensures smooth operation and minimum flutter")
- Selector for Normal (EX / I) & CrO2 (SX / II) & ZX (IV Metal) Tape Types
- Tape Type EQ selector for 120 or 70 μsec tape
 - Auto-Record Standby automatically rewinds the tape, skips over the leader, records a 6-second bland header and activates the "Record Standby Mode". Pressing twice during recording, Auto Rec Standby instantly advances the tape to the end, switches to Side-B, skips the leader, records a blank header and enters "Record Standby". Pretty cool if you do a lot of recording. This is especially handy if you start recording, the realize you screwed something up and need to start again. WAY less buttons to push.
- Electronic "Master Fader" for professional, 2 or 4-Second (selectable) Fade-In and Fade-Out when recording
- LED "VU" signal level meters w/ 37dB of range
- 4 Digit, digital tape counter
- MPX filter (for filtering the 19kHz pilot tone out of FM transmissions)
- Dolby B & C NR
- Variable Output Level (one of our favorite features on a tape deck)
- 1/4" Headphone jack (follows Output level control so you can control the volume without blasting your ears off)
- Record level control with L & R balance
- Memory Stop / Play for counter
- Standard RCA I/O's on rear panel
- Timer Play / Record (has the option to immediately engage "Play" or "Record" modes when power is sent to deck either via the 'Power' button or the AC Power cord via a switched outlet if the 'Power' button is already engaged)
- "WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC and 100-240V. Currently set up for US / North American AC power.

Nakamichi RX-202 Specifications:
 
Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Motors: 2 DC Servo motors. 1 for capstan drive and one for reel hubs / fast wind
Freq Response; 20-12,000Hz +/- 3db w/ SX or EX Tapes @ -20dB
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): <0.11% WTD Peak / <0.06% WTD RMS
Tape Speed: 1-7/8 ips
Harmonic Distortion:  <1.0% @ 400Hz & 0dB
S/N ratio w/ CrO2 tape: >68dB @400Hz w/o Dolby C engaged and High Bias Tapes
>62dB @400Hz w/o Dolby B engaged and High Bias Tapes
Bias Frequency: 105KHz
Erasure: >60dB below saturation level @ 1kHz
Separation: >36dB @ 1kHz, 0dB
Crosstalk: >60dB @ 1kHz, 0dB
Line Input: 50mV & 30K Ohms
Line Output: 500mV w/ 400Hz = 0dB w/ Output control @ max with 2.2k Ohms impedance
Headphones Output: 2.2mW w/ 400Hz = 0dB w/ Output control @ max with 8 Ohms load
  
Again, following the above stated bench work / testing, our technician has 'Certified' this deck and it is an great performer sonically and mechanically. It's been fully serviced / completely gone through cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing.

Also great for transferring your no NR or Dolby NR encoded tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3. Built very well! Cosmetically, again there's some scuffs on a couple of the transport buttons, a small 'chip' on the well window corner, and some tic on the upper face surface. Camera and lighting actually make the blems show up more than they seem to in person (see photos above). Looks decent, works and sounds great. Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf of the Nakamichi RX-202 owners manual and Nakamichi RX-202 Brochure. Measures 17.75" wide x 10" deep x 5.5" tall and weighs 20 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty. 
NAKAMICHI RX-202
Cond. 8.5
$1299.

(tape shown in photos not included. We do ship our decks with a  a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback, made on this 'specific' deck, and a tape to 'practice record' on.) 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

     

FINALLY, A FEW MORE BACK IN STOCK
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
MINIATURE / MINI REEL TO REEL
CASSETTE TAPES TAPE
for sale
We just bought a very limited quantity of these "mini-reel to reel" cassette tapes. Follow this link to order...Click Here 
 

Did you know?
3-Heads vs 2-Heads; 'Normal / 2-head' decks have an erase head and a 'combination' playback / record head that serves 'double duty' depending on whether it was being sent a 'record signal' or sending a 'playback signal', thus the "2-heads". Most 'higher end' cassette tape decks / recorders offered '3-Heads' for superior 'recording' performance. The 'Third-head' was almost always achieved by separating the playback and record heads, positioning a playback head immediately after the record head to allow 'almost instantaneous' (about a third second behind, as a cassette shell only has 'so many openings') monitoring of the actual recorded signal on the tape, as opposed to simply monitoring the 'input' signal to the deck. However, the '3rd-head' 'generally' does nothing for playback of already recorded tapes. There's some credence to the argument that playback heads can have a closer 'gap' designed into them than record heads, so if you get a '3-head' deck that has a playback head with a closer gap, then it would (could) offer better playback performance. Possibly, if you check the specs (if available) and find that is the case, the heads aren't worn and the balance of the deck is of substantial quality. Many better 2-head decks offered playback heads in the 18-20kHz.
I get a lot of folks that are shopping for cassette decks, with only the purpose of 'playing back' their old tapes, but thinking they want a 'Three-Head Cassette Tape Deck' because they've been 'told' that it would be better quality. Since the third head does 'little to potentially nothing' for playback (except it does make doing final audio adjustments / fine biasing adjustments when servicing MUCH easier), there's minimal reason to hold out for that feature, nor to pay extra for it…unless you just want it, or you ARE going to be 'recording' or it's coming along on a deck that has other features you wish. Now if you are going to be 'recording' then I 'HIGHLY' recommend a deck with 'Tape Monitoring' via the third head, thus "3-Heads"!

          NEW LISTING 2/16/2023
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos) 
warranty
FULLY SERVICED / REFURBISHED / RESTORED W/ WARRANTY
VINTAGE TECHNICS CASSETTE TAPE DECK
TECHNICS RS-M270X
With DOLBY B, & dbx NR
(SAME MODEL OWNER OF OAK TREE VINTAGE OWNS SINCE PURCHASED NEW!)
#...6419
Circa early 1981-82
Made in Japan
SOLD 4/1/2024
SHIPPING TO ALAN IN KENTUCKY

Initial 'pre-test' conditions; All of it's basic functions were there, but someone that didn't know what they were doing had tried to adjust the heads in the past, and in the process got them ' WAY out of whack' so much so that the 'Phase' was out. That is one of the things we addressed. 'Tape well' and 'power / dbx' lamps out. Pinch roller had become 'polished', literally to almost a 'mirror finish'. We had never seen that before. I think someone must have put a tape in that transferred material to it at some point, that then became polished smooth by further tape motion. My tech originally thought it was some kind of 'special' pinch roller, but I assured him that it should not look that way, even though it still functioned. Tape select switch intermittent (expected and pretty standard to have intermittent switches on 40 YO gear).

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves removal / disassembly of the transport, cleaning inside and out, DISASSEMBLING, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below.

ü Rubber pinch roller removed from arms and have been resurfaced on drill press and chemically reconditioned.

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü NO capstan / flywheel belt as this is a 'Direct Drive' unit.

ü New counter belt installed.

ü Replaced Tape Well lamp #23-1370

ü Replaced Power / dbx lamp #25-490

ü All user pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Floor noise tested to -74dB.

ü All fluorescent displays and LED's working fine.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment.

ü FF, REW, & Play transport functions all test perfectly and controls positively responsive.

ü Eject door mechanism operates smoothly.

ü Heads in good shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Speed adjusted to 99.99% accuracy with 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1001Hz +/- 1Hz (the service manual spec states +/- 15Hz @ 3k is acceptable BTW, which is close and pretty good...but, not acceptable to us as musicians. We really want them running accurately) 

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and factory 10kHz, Sony alignment tape and O-scope for 'peak performance' with an Oscilloscope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources'. Both channels now even output. Playback meters zero with factory test tone tape.

ü Now, following all of the above, deck now performs VERY WELL! Plays perfectly and after adjustment, records AMAZINGLY well with 1kHz @ 0 dB = 0dB! on High bias type tapes. (Following the extensive restoration, we did 'test recordings' of a 'ddd' CD on Maxell 'XL-II' High Bias with the following results;
w/ no NR; 1kHz @ 0dB; L= -1dB & R= -1dB
w/ Dolby B; 1kHz @ 0dB; L= -1dB & R= -1dB
w/ dbx; 1kHz @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB

DDD Pre-Recorded CD material sounded AMAZING on Maxell UDXL-II and dbx engaged (I'll include that tape recording for these tests recorded in dbx with material on both sides). We really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy.
    ____________________________
    
The Technics RS-M270X, Dolby B & dbx NR. This is a 'high end' deck with performance to match, as well as of great deck for "all around use" home or project studio. And since it utilizes DBX NR, it can squeeze up to 110 dB of dynamic range onto a cassette tape (normally the best recorders might do up to 72 dB with Dolby engaged. Another great feature of this model is that there's no drive belt to deteriorate as it's "direct drive". "dbx" noise reduction has been used for years in the recording industry for noise reduction and compression / expansion of tape signals. It can give a dynamic range of 110dB! That is WAY beyond what cassette tapes can typically give (the best may have a possible dynamic range of 73dB) and more than many Reel to Reel's.

Technics RS-M270X Features include:
    
- IC Logic "touch-control" transport (one of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83)
- 100% Direct Drive Capstan (means no drive belt needed, or to worry about. one of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83)
- Dual, Asymmetrical Flywheels and capstans
- Dolby B NR built-in as well as the dbx NR (dbx is THE main reason I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83) dbx noise reduction is so much better for recording and then of course, dbx playback for playing back all those dbx encoded tapes you have.
- dbx Disc Decoder (for any dbx encoded vinyl you might have) (another of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83 as I have some dbx LP's)
- 2 Motors (1 for Direct Drive of Capstan, and one for reels) (another of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83)
- Auto Tape Type selector for Normal, CrO2 & Metal
- Super hard, "Sendust" Head (another of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83)
- Auto Record Mute for 5 second song spacing
- Analog tape counter
- Dual Fluorescent VU signal level meters with Peak Hold (another of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83)
- DUAL Manual Record Level controls (NO SINGLE WITH A BALANCE!!!)
- Variable Output level control (another of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83. I used this feature EXTENSIVELY and still do for many of my home studio / pro-audio applications)
- Front mounted Stereo Headphone jack
- Dual, rear mounted, 1/4" mic jacks
- Timer Play / Record function.
-  Optional Wired Remote control port on the rear of deck (Technics RP-9645 remote not included, nor available from us).
   
Technics RS-M270X Specs:
   
Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Direct Drive: No drive belt
Heads: 1x 'Sendust Extra' head (one of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83) for Rec/PB and 1x Double-gap, Sendust/Ferrite head for erasure
   Motors: 2x; 1x FG Servo for Direct Capstan Drive (no belt needed and one of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83) and 1x DC motor for tape reel hubs
Freq Response: w/ Metal tape; 20-20,000 Hz -20dB (30-17,000 Hz +/- 3dB @ -20dB)
w/ CrO2 tape; 20-19,000 Hz -20dB (30-16,000 Hz +/- 3dB @ -20dB)
w/ Normal / LN tape; 20-17,000 Hz -20dB (30-15,000 Hz +/- 3dB @ -20dB)
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): 0.35%
Dynamic Range: 110db @ 1kHz DBX on (A weighted)
S/N ratio ((A weighted and w/ CrO2 tape): 92db DBX (think about that...out of a 'cassette tape'!!!)  (one of the many reasons I chose this deck as my first 'real' tape deck to purchase back in about '83)
68dB Dolby B NR
58dB NO NR
Bias Frequency: 85kHz
Mic Input: 0.25mV & 100K Ohms
Line Input: 60mV & 47K Ohms
Line Output: 420mV & 2.5k Ohms
Headphones Output: 125mV @ 8 Ohms
Fast Wind Time: C-60 tape ~85 secs
   
Again, we have completely cleaned, prepped and tested this deck with an investment of approx 10 hours of tech time. Great for project studio or home use especially since it has dbx NR. Also great for transferring your tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3. Works and sounds great! Performs flawlessly. Probably better than when new (I know that at least the speed is adjusted more accurately evidenced by the adjustments and test results mentioned above). Cosmetically it's in great condition, with about the only issue being wear to the silk screening around the Power and Eject buttons, NR selector and around the Input Level controls (looks like someone may have cleaned it too aggressively at some point). If you get the light just right, there's some discoloration / wear to the top sheet metal in one area (see photos above). The transport controls on the 270 are about the best 'feeling' of any deck I ever sold. Goes from Play to Rew to FF and back to Play flawlessly and without hesitation (just like mine always has).
The Technics RS-M270X is one of the most solidly built decks we've ever come across. Again, I purchased one new from the Technics dealer I worked for back in the early 80's after it had been discontinued and was the last one available and this is the first I've seen other than my personal one. This deck weighs more than many receivers / amplifiers.
Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf of the TECHNICS RS-M270X owners manual and sales brochure. Measures 17" wide x 14.75" deep x 4" tall and weighs 16 lbs unpacked. Comes with our 30 day limited warranty.
TECHNICS RS-M270X
Cond. 8.5+

SOLD 4/1/2024
SHIPPING TO ALAN IN KENTUCKY

(tape shown in photos not included. We do ship our decks with a  a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback, made on this 'specific' deck, and a tape to 'practice record' on.) 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

- NOTES ON PURCHASING A VINTAGE CASSETTE DECK -

I own and have owned ‘hundreds’ of cassette decks. I started selling them ‘new’ in the early 1980’s.
Very few of the decks that we have on our ‘incoming’ shelves will function to any degree of ‘practical usability’, if at all, in their ‘as found’ condition. So it amazes me at all the articles out there on “How to Buy a Used / Vintage Cassette Deck”, and no one seems to mention how the ‘clock needs to be rolled back’ 30-40 years on one to get to a level of ‘practical usefulness’. They all want to mention to make sure it’s got the right ‘features’ for what you need,  that it’s in “good condition” (typically referring to its often purported, “minty” looks),  that the SHIPPED is “reasonable”,  the methods of payment work for you,  and that the ‘sellers feedback rating’ is adequate….
WHAT ABOUT IT’S INTERNAL CONDITION????? IT’S GOT 20-40 YEARS UNDER THE HOOD!!!
      There’s lots of ‘rubber’ and ‘lubricated parts’ inside a cassette deck. ‘Time’ is NOT a friend to either. Rubber can do a few things. It can crack, stretch, break, glaze over (think about how a ‘pencil eraser’ gets after about a year in a drawer), or turn back to its original form, which is a ‘gooey / tar’ substance. Oil and grease ‘gel up’ and stop being lubes, and start becoming ‘glues’ (think the grease caked under an old / vintage car / tractor. It has to be ‘chipped’ away with a putty knife).  Both of those aspects and others affect a tape deck’s (or turntable, or VCR or camcorder, or CD / DVD player, or film projector, or just about anything that is powered by electricity and has moving parts (AND THERE’S A LOT OF MOVING PARTS IN A CASSETTE DECK) performance. Most folks assume that if you simply 'change the belt(s), then the deck is 'good to go'. "Not even close". Most cassette decks also utilize an 'idler tire' to drive the tape reels, not only for 'Fast Wind' functions, but also for 'Take-up' reel function. This tire becomes 'glazed', cracked, deformed and / or disintegrated, and a deck WILL NOT function correctly with 'tire' issues. The 'kicker' is that the 'idler tire' is almost always 'buried' deep within the transport mechanism which typically requires a near complete disassembly of the entire tape transport to even asses if a replacement tire can be found, an available one modified, or if one can be fabricated.
Thus following is a list of questions to ask about any tape deck…

          How is its overall ‘Speed’? Inaccurate speed is one of the first ‘tell-tale’ sign of a decks overall heath. You won’t likely be able to tell without an accurate ‘speed / test tone / calibration’ tape and a frequency counter. If you’re not a musician, not ‘musically inclined’, or are ‘tone deaf’ maybe you won’t notice, but most folks will notice ‘something is not quite right’ when listening to a slow (or occasionally fast) running tape. Just throwing on a new belt, doesn’t address speed accuracy. Most mechanisms will need to be disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed before any speed adjustments can be attempted.

          How ‘Steady’ is the speed? This refers to ‘WOW & Flutter’. This generally won’t be noticed until you put on a tape with a ‘steady tone’ or a musical piece with sustained piano notes. Then ‘Flutter’ issues will drive you nuts. Also can be noticed with sustained string instruments. Just wait till there’s violin with vibrato, then added on top is ‘out of time’ vibrato caused from excessive ‘Flutter’ of the tape transport. If someone just throws any selection of music in, or a 'spoken word' tape, they'll likely not notice the 'Flutter' issue.  ‘WOW’ is less of an issue in cassette decks, but can occasionally be caused by ill-fitting / wrong belts being installed.

          Does the deck ‘fast wind’ at ANY AND ALL positions on the tape, and will fast wind, BOTH WAYS throughout an entire tape,...repeatedly...Every time? While playing does the ‘take up’ pulley / reel run correctly, or is it ‘jerky’. Is ‘fast wind’ (in either or both directions) smooth, or jerky. It will typically be jerky and intermittent if it functions at all. If it doesn't turn correctly / sufficiently in 'Playback' mode, that will cause the deck to 'eat tapes'!
This is caused by a ‘glazed’ / cracked ‘idler tire’, and about 99.999999% of decks are going to have a glazed or cracked or otherwise deteriorated idler tire’. It's 'decades' old rubber.  It almost HAS to be compromised.  You usually can't 'dodge physics'.  AND those things are not easy to address. The idler tire will almost always be ‘buried’ a few layer inside the transport. Then once you get there you go on the hunt for a replacement, only to find that there were dozens or hundreds of rubber, idler tires made, only a few of which are still available, and none of which will fit correctly. So now you have to make the choice (at least of you want to move forward with a decks restoration) as to whether you substitute an ‘O-ring’ (often works as a sub) or you take a tire that is close to fitting, and modify it to function correctly.

     How is the condition of the heads, regarding 'head wear'? It takes and 'experienced eye' to 'visually' estimate the condition of tape heads. Excessively worn heads, will never sound the way they should, with any amount of adjustment, and you can't just go into your local 7-11 and pick up a new set. Replacement heads for a specific deck, will likely need to come from another of the same (or darn close) specific deck. Having the heads 'lapped' was once a sometimes viable possibility, but that is, for the most part, a 'long, lost art'.  Even if you manage to acquire replacement heads, they have to be installed correctly. That will require alignment tapes and test gear (O-scope and / or milli-Volt meters) and a lot of patience.

     If the deck is ‘auto-reverse’, how’s the condition of the gear in the mechanism that ‘spins the head’? They are commonly, slightly ‘cracked’. There is note a practical fix for that. The head will go part way and ‘lock up’. If you can get it to go ‘back’ to its original position, just leave it, and accept that the deck is not ‘auto-reverse’.

     When the tape gets to the end of it's travel in play and fast wind modes, does the decks 'auto-stop' mechanism work? Every time?

     Does the tape counter work, and spin smoothly throughout the entire length of the tape? Every time?

        How’s the ‘azimuth’. Yes, I know it’s not a word that you use every day, but it’s vitally important on a tape deck. When the azimuth is out of alignment, a tape will sound ‘muffled’ (loss of treble) and / or ‘out of phase’ (not much bass). While you can use a ‘pre-recorded’ tape and get it close, it’s really only adjusted correctly and COMPLETELY by utilizing a ‘calibrated alignment’ tape and an O’Scope or at least a ‘milli-Volt’ meter.

          How many ‘dB’ down does the deck playback from its recording level? If you record a signal at “0dB”, how far does playback deviate from that? You should usually expect 3-6dB if the deck is in ‘reasonable’ condition. If it’s down 10 or 12dB (or more) you’re not likely going to be very happy with its recording quality. Unless it’s simply due to dirty heads, addressing this is fairly complicated for all but the technically qualified.

           Is playback even out of both channels and via both meters? You can’t just put on your favorite tape of ‘Death-Polka Favorites’ (or some other 'recorded program material' and listen to it to make an accurate determination. You would need a calibrated test tape (with 'constant' test tones), and an O’scope, or at least a millivolt meter to first make sure the playback head is in alignment, then the internal playback amplifiers are producing an ‘even amplitude’ and then that the meters are both ‘mechanically’ adjusted correctly and that their ‘voltage feed’ is evenly adjusted. Don’t know what any of that means? Then I wouldn’t be ‘messing with it’.

Do you hear any 'crinkling / scrunching' noises with your ear right up next to the transport, and / or when you pull out a tape that has been played on it, is there evidence of 'crinkling / wrinkles / creasing' on the tape section that just went past the pinch roller?

          Is there a loud, obnoxious ‘motor boating’ sound that and or your meter(s) are cyclically ‘pegging’? No. How about after the third time of putting the deck into record mode? Or the 6^th time or the 20^th time? Then the there’s a problem with the internal record switch (or it needs to be flooded / cleaned). (this issue is usually only a potential problem on a deck with a ‘mechanical internal record switch’, and not more ‘modern decks’ that use ‘electronics’ to switch the deck in and out of record)
  
    Does the deck make any extraneous noises when in play / record, such as squeaks, growls, scrapes, grinds etc? if not immediately, how about after 15 minutes, a half hour, an hour or a day? In all modes?

    Are the ‘Recording Level’ control pots ‘quiet’ or do they need to be cleaned?

    Do the “Source / Monitor” or “Tape EQ” switches quiet or do they make noise and need to be cleaned?

    If the deck has ‘Auto-Tape-Type’ sensing, is it triggering correctly? If not, that could mean an issue with the mechanism trigger tab, or a dirty / compromised micro switch.

    If the deck is equipped with any type of noise reduction ie; Dolby B, C, dbx etc, is if functioning properly? We don’t see issues with that often, but it does happen.

       Is the deck quiet when playing back a ‘blank tape’ or better yet, a cassette ‘shell’ with no tape in it? (some decks will not allow this test easily, as it’s ‘auto-stop’ mechanism is triggered by the tape counter, which is typically tied to the ‘supply’ reel and if that reel is not moving then the deck will go into ‘auto-stop’ mode.) This is ‘floor noise’ and is not to be confused simply with ‘tape hiss’, which is why we want to hear the transport moving without tape passing the playback head.

     How is the 'quality' of the recording and playback? Bad, distorted recordings can also be due to Bias issues (besides the above mentioned "worn heads", azimuth alignment errors and dirty controls and switches.

    Are all of the indicators and lights working? These aren’t typically ‘functional deal breakers’, but can definitely increase or decrease ‘curb appeal’.

If 'analog', do the meters settle at their left most index line? Do they both respond quickly? Do they 'stick' at any point in their travel? If 'really pegged' do the get stuck at the top?

    Does the ‘well door’ close and latch, EVERY TIME and correctly, REPEATEDLY?

Those would be most of the ‘high points’ regarding the functionality of a tape deck.   Once you, or someone technically qualified has addressed AT LEAST ALL of the above, then we can talk about how ‘minty-fresh’ it’s cosmetics are.

      I get the question of, “what’s the best brand / model” of tape deck out there. Well, 25-50 years ago, when you could go to a few ‘real audio shops’ and take your pick of a dozen or two NEW tape decks, that question held much validity. Now my opinion of the "which is the best deck", is the “one that has been properly refurbished / restored / fully service to a level of ‘proper utility’, recently, by someone qualified to do so”.

A QUESTION:
    Most folks know the difference, without too much thought, between a Chevrolet ‘Corvette’ and a Chevrolet ‘Chevette’. If I ask "which is a better car, a ‘Corvette’ or a ‘Chevette’", most folks will answer "the Corvette” (barring all the arguments based on other personal opinions)…Now, I’ll give you the rest of the story. The Corvette has been sitting in a barn for the past 25 years, and hasn’t been started since it was parked there originally. Or it was in a flood. Or it’s had a dog living it, or a rat has built a home in the dashboard, or the engine was blown by the 'now deceased owner’s son', or, or, or…
     Now the Chevette has just been thru a qualified auto repair shop, and had the engine compression checked (and was within spec), new plugs / wires / dist cap, timing adjusted, new starter, alternator checked for charging, new battery, the coolant flushed, the clutch replaced, the brake system flushed, new calipers, drums and shoes, new belts, carb rebuilt and properly jetted, vacuum lines checked for leaks and replaced, air conditioner serviced, new seat covers, new tires, new wiper blades, windshield cleaner system replaced, cracked windshield replaced, all lights tested / replaced, horn checked, wiper motor / mechanism checked / lubed, and thoroughly test driven around town, starting and stopping, on the highway at all speeds. It was started in the cold weather, and once warm, started again. Repeatedly. It is pretty much doing what it did when new.  And you need to take a trip across the country tomorrow.  Now I ask again,  "which is the better car?"

UPDATED LIST 12/22/2023
Cassette Tape Decks Coming Soon
(or at least as the units cooperate and time allows):

Nakamichi ZX-7 (In process on bench)
TEAC V-95RX x3 (Tech has finished all three. 1 just posted, 2 awaiting final inspection / testing / sign-off / photos / text)


(While we have a few dozen more decks in stock (by Akai, Denon, Marantz, Nakamichi, Onkyo, Pioneer, Sansui, Sharp, Sony, TEAC, Yamaha etc), awaiting bench / tech time, but MANY WON'T MAKE IT thru our stringent process)
 

 

Click here to see what we do to our cassette decks to make sure you get a
"usable" deck that should be good for years of trouble free service.

 

        

 

NEW LISTING 1/6/2024
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos) 
warranty
BENCH / SHOP TESTED
  PORTABLE SOUND SYSTEM / BUSKING / GUITAR AMP / PA SYSTEM / KARAOKE* DUAL 'HI-SPEED' CASSETTE TAPE DECK
"MUSIC MAESTRO SING ALONG AND RECORDING SYSTEM"
XL-100
#...0664
MADE IN KOREA (NOT China)
SOLD

Portable sound system / dual cassette tape deck / general purpose amp / speaker system / Busking / karaoke (*could be used as a "karaoke" machine, as long as you don't need 'video outs' for lyrics) all in one. This really is a ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of gear. We've used it for years as a keyboard / vocal / iPhone playback practice system (buy just graduated to something with a mixer for multiple keyboards). This thing is loaded!

Music Maestro Music System XL-100 Features:
- Dual cassette tape deck with ‘High Speed’ Dubbing (that actually does a great job)
- portable PA / sound system with built-in 25W+25W amplifiers
- Dual 5.75", full-range speakers with whizzer cones for extended top and
- Inputs for 1 or 2 microphones via 1/4" jacks
- Stereo AUX Input for guitar / keyboard / accordion, and with an small, cheap adaptor, most smart phones including an iPhone (that’s one thing I used it for).
- Rear located "Guitar" Input for guitar / keyboard / accordion etc.
Frankly, you could connect a mixer to the AUX, then connect even more things. The rear panel has Line In for another pre-amp or mixer and Line Output to go to another sound system, your computer to convert tapes to digital or to your stereo system to add cassette / keyboards / guitar / or microphones (be careful with your stereo speakers if you're going to do that).
- Rear located connectors for another, larger set of speakers on the rear panel (25 Watts x 2 and for either 4 or 8 Ohm speakers!).
- Built in “ECHO” effect for the microphones.
-  +- 12% 'Pitch Control' applicable to both decks
- 'Hi-Speed' applicable to both decks (Allows double speed playback, hi-speed recording and hi-speed fast wind)
- Tape type selectors
- AMS (Automatic Music Search) fast wind thru up to 9 selections to find songs (must have at least 3 seconds of silence between songs for this to work properly)

EVERYTHING works!!! We've tested it all. Controls are still clean. NO broken or missing knobs. Both deck wells open and close. All tape transport functions work on both decks. NO dragging, sluggishness or eating tapes.
 Both cassette decks actually sound very good (even compared to another deck (‘mid-end’ Technics) I have that was recently restored). Again, the ‘Hi-Speed dubbing’ button also does two other things. For either deck, it kicks the fast wind into “high speed”. It also works in ‘Record’ mode so you can record at double tape speed to increase quality (plus you also have the ‘Pitch Control’ to add an additional 12% if desired). It also can double ‘Playback Speed’ so if you use the deck to transfer your cassettes to computer / digital files, you can cut your time in half. Measures 18" tall x 14" wide x 10.5" deep and weighs 26 lbs unpacked.
Made in Korea (not china).
$249.
SOLD

    

           NEW LISTING 2/26/2020
VINTAGE PIONEER CT-F750 CASSETTE TAPE DECK
AUTO-REVERSE
#...6706
CIRCA 1979
MIJ
RESTORATION PROJECT / REFURB CANDIDATE / AS-IS
for sale

Fixer-Upper Pioneer CT-F750 stereo cassette tape deck / player / recorder.
Another one we are clearing out in 'as-found' condition. We just simply aren't going to have time to restore them all so it's for sale 'as-is'.
What we know:
- Powers-Up
- Motor Runs
- Has some Fast Forward and Re-Wind function
- Both capstans turn
- Pinch roller did not engage so no Play function observed (likely varnished lubes impeding movement)
- All LED's, cassette well illumination, Direction indicators, Reverse mode indicators and Blue-Fluorescent meters / display work
- Pinch rollers appear serviceable
- Heads appear to be in great condition (at least cosmetically)
- Clean cosmetics (may be dusty / dirty etc.)
-

Pioneer CT-F750 Features:
- Auto-Reverse
- Variable Output Level control (one of the most important features on a deck in our opinion. Allows you to match volume level of other sources, allows adjustment for 'best' pre-amp input to avoid distortion, allows you to change the volume of the deck if you have it located remotely from the pre-amp / receiver as I do, and many other applications)
- Dolby
- Piano Key operation
- Blue Fluorescent Meters with 'Peak' or 'Avg'
- Tape Type Selection
- Record Mute
 

Missing Power toggle cap
Great restoration projects if you have the skill sets or are versed in restoring Pioneer CT-F tape transports.
$149. As-Is, entire Unit*
 

~$1299. If Restored to our normal level depending on record quality and tech time (theoretical only, as we're not restoring it due to current tech time resource constraints).

 

 

    

    

          NEW LISTING 2/26/2020
EXTENSIVE REFURBISH / SERVICE***
VINTAGE MARANTZ CASSETTE TAPE DECK
MARANTZ SD-3510
THE ONE WITH THE "DRAWER TRANSPORT"
SO IT'S LOW PROFILE
GOLD / CHAMPAIGN FINISH
CIRCA 1981-84
MIJ
"WORLD AC POWER" ™
SOLD 2/18/2023
SHIPPED TO MATT IN FLORIDA

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves total disassembly of the transport, cleaning inside and out, COMPLETELY DISASSEMBLING, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below (incredibly difficult on this deck!!!).



ü Heads inspected for excessive wear (obviously we do this 'early on' as 'excessive' wear will usually negate any further restoration work).

ü Main Capstan / Flywheel belts replaced w/ #42-450 & #42-980.

ü Counter belts replaced w/ #42-260 & #42-1060.

ü Rubber pinch roller mechanism bushings & axles cleaned of old lube, reconditioned and re-lubed.

ü Capstans motor had it's bronze bushings lubed w/ 30wt

ü Capstans cleaned / burnished

ü All internal trim pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü All meter lamps and LED indicators working fine.

ü Both hub spindles in perfect alignment.

ü "FF, REW, & Play transport functions all test and controls tested for 'positive / accurate' responsive" is what we normally like to say, but due to the internal design of this one, we were not able to get it to perform 100%, EVERY time. Occasionally the 'STOP' button will have to be pressed a time or two, or another button will need to be pressed to then be able to engage 'STOP'. Other buttons sometimes 'hang up' temporarily, but usually selecting another transport function will 're-set' them as they're 'self cancelling / mechanical' with an internal mechanism that was unusually difficult to service and get to the current 'usable' state.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and 10kHz adjusted for BOTH directions for 'peak performance' with O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output for PLAYBACK..

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output for PLAYBACK..

ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output for PLAYBACK.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources', however we were not able to get great recordings. The left channel is often 'low / and distorted' on 'Recording' (sounds fine as a 'PLAYBACK' deck).

ü Pinch roller and heads all in GREAT condition!!!

ü Speed adjusted to 100% accuracy BOTH directions, with with TEAC MTT-257H 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1000Hz +/- 1 Hz)

ü Pinch roller re-surfaced, and in GREAT condition!!!

ü Tape Counter works well

ü Speed adjusted internally to 100% accuracy with 1kHz factory test tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1000Hz +/- 1Hz) (utilized TEAC MTT-257H)

ü Floor noise measured at -60dBm

So again, this deck was ultimately passed as a 'Playback' deck.

Total technician time to restore ~22++ HOURS! (YES, OUCH!)
  ____________________________
  
This deck is the commensurate deck for other Marantz components such as the Marantz Escotec SC-7, SC-8, SC-9, SC-500 SC-2000 Pre-Amps, the SM-8, SM-500DC, SM-2000 Power Amps, EQ-20 Graphic Equalizer, PM-8, PM-450 or PM-730 Integrated amps, ST-500 Tuner and many others. I sold all of those components when they were new for a Marantz dealer. If you're building that system (or already have most of that system) and need the matching cassette deck (for Playback), then here you go. This one is probably as good as it's going to get, as I don't know of any tech's who would be willing to bring one any further to completion

Marantz SD-3510 Features include:
  
- Retractable, Drawer Tape transport
- Adjustable Fine Bias Control for Recording***
- 'Soft Touch', mechanical transport
- Dolby-B noise reduction built-in for recording*** and playback
- Beautiful, Back-Lit VU signal level Indicators
- Manual Record Level with Separate L&R control
- Record 'Mute' function
- Front mounted, 1/4" Stereo Headphone jack
- Dual, Front mounted, 1/4" Microphone jacks
- 4-Position, Tape Type Selector for Normal, CrO2, Ferro-Chrome & Metal tape
- Tape Counter
  - True “WORLD AC POWER"™
   as it will work on both 50 or 60 Hz AC and voltages from 110-240 Volts AC
*** again, at this point a moot point as its best for Playback purposes

Marantz SD-3510 Specifications:

Style: Slim / Top Load
Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Motor: DC Servo
Heads: Super-Hard, Alloy Play / Record head & Double-Gap, Ferrite Erase head
Freq Response w/ Dolby OFF: w/ Metal; 30-17,500 Hz +/- 3dB
w/ Chrome / CrO2; 30-16,000 Hz +/- 3dB @
w/ 'Normal'; 35-15,000 Hz +/- 3dB
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): 0.10% WRMS
S/N:
>65dB w/ Dolby B
>56dB w/ Dolby Off
Line Input Sensitivity: 50mV +/- 3dB
Output Level / Impedance for 'Normal' levels: 500mV +/- 3dB & 8.5k Ohms
Headphone Output Level / Impedance for 'Normal' levels: 50mV +/- 3dB & 60 Ohms
Fast Wind time (C-60): 90 sec.

Again, we have service and thoroughly tested this deck and offering it for 'PLAYBACK' purposes.
Cosmetically, it's in decent condition with a scratch on the right side of the face & some scuffs on the top of the face panel (see photos above).
Great deck for just about any system. Also great for transferring your tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3 for just playing your tapes. Includes an 'e-copy / pdf download' of the Marantz SD-3510 owners manual.
Measures 17.3" wide x 12" deep x 4.5" tall and weighs a ~12 lbs unpacked.
REFURBISHED / SERVICED for PLAYBACK MARANTZ SD-3510
Cond. 8
as-is for Playback only
with one of our mini, GOLD R2R tapes shown in the photos included

SOLD 2/18/2023
SHIPPED TO MATT IN FLORIDA

(tape shown in photos not included. We do ship our decks with a  a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback, made on this 'specific' deck, and a tape to 'practice record' on.) 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

     *Ok, so here's the deal on our 'As-Is' / 'As-Found' / 'For Restoration' units. The prices are firm and are more based from their 'pre-processed parts value'.  We are offering these “As-Is” units simply because they’re below our threshold of time-vs-effort-ROI at the time of posting. Any less than our published price and we'll go ahead and process them as "parts" and remove from sale or re-slate for future restoration by us as time allows.  At these values / prices, no more photos or testing will be done by us.

     Most or all of the following applies to us as well, EVERYTIME we start the refurb / service process on a unit. While we may sometimes (usually) state what functions / condition we observed at the time of testing, it is in no way a declaration of warranty (meaning; “we may have missed some $%#*”).  The existing condition we observed and documented is also no guarantee of ultimate viability following further service efforts.  It is only offered 'As-Is', without our normal *warranty and we won't have the time resources to 'improve' it in anyway.  The existing condition we observed and documented is also not necessarily indicative of the entire cosmetic / operational condition associated with a unit (there’s probably issues we didn’t or couldn’t see at the time).

     Restoring / refurbishing 'vintage / used' units properly is typically not an 'easy' process and if you are 'not' a technician or will be disappointed if a unit does not come all the way through to fruition, then you should probably purchase a unit that has already been restored to 'working' condition.  If you are not a technician and do not understand the potential dangers of working with electronic / electrical units, then DO NOT ATTEMPT repair / restoration / further service or even open a unit up. The voltages inside these unit can kill you and it will hurt the entire time you are dying!!!  Units should probably not be ‘powered up’ or used until, at least, a cursory check by qualified personnel has been done.

     Parts to restore / refurbish / service or 'further improve' the unit may or may not be readily available (most parts can be sourced).  Parts / units may or may not respond positively to further repairs (you might blow something up). Units may or may not have original parts. They may have missing, damaged, modified, dangerous / outdated parts etc. (most will not). Units may have evidence of past ‘non-factory’, incorrect, uncompleted, shoddy or dangerous repairs (most will not).

     These units are NOT intended for someone looking for a 'working' unit or thinks you can simply 'install a new belt', spray in some contact cleaner or change a light bulb and have a working component.  It typically requires 4-18 hours to bring most units / vintage components back to a decent level of function and utility for the 'long haul'.

     The pack / ship will be the same as for our 'fully restored' components so the reduced price of the "As-Is" unit has NO BEARING on the cost to pack and ship (which is typically somewhere between $45-$85 but can vary up or down from that range). shipped to most of the lower 48 states. Extreme Southern, North Eastern, or North Western locales will be slightly more.

     Bottom line; If you’re not up for the challenge either due to ‘lacking skill sets’ or ‘lacking funds’ to hire the work done, and need a unit to be more than a ‘shelf display’, then I would pursue a unit / component that has already been PROPERLY restored / refurbished / service with a ‘clean bill of health’. This goes for most of the units that are for sale on on-line Auctions and Classified ads. Occasionally there will be a unit ‘up for auction’ or on a classified ad that really has been service properly, but they’re generally a ‘single digit percentage’ of what’s out there available for sale.
 

          

              NEW LISTING 4/16/2022
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
VINTAGE, REFURBISHED, FULLY SERVICED
TECHNICS CASSETTE TAPE DECK
TECHNICS RS-B78R
GEAR DRIVEN HUBS!!!!!!!!!
AUTO-REVERSE
With DOLBY B, C & dbx NR
#...C082
Circa early 1984-86
Made in Japan
"*WORLD AC POWER" ™
SOLD 1/3/2024
SHIPPING TO ROGER IN IL.

Initial 'pre-test' conditions; Fast Wind typically sluggish / intermittent (almost always due to idler tire issues). Play and Record actually seem to have basic function and perform decently, but did exhibit some flutter. Crack in Level meter plexi window (we sat on this deck for about 6 years, before starting on it, waiting to come across another to pull the window from and it never happened. I sold model deck when new, and due to it's relatively higher price, not many were sold, so not many are out there on the secondary market for parts. Thus finally, we decided to go ahead and restore it with the window crack as it's such an amazing deck both considering features and performance.
Addendum; following initial restoration, we found that when monitoring playback for hours, that occasionally the speed would slow down for a few moments randomly throughout the day. We had a Technics RS-68R that had just come in that had head issues, so we pulled the transports and swapped them, and discovered that the issue followed the transport (yes, we checked the power supply, monitoring it when the motor slowed, but observed no variation in the power supply Voltage or current). We then pulled the motor and determined that it had too much drag at certain points through it's rotation. We swapped the motor and that finally solved the speed issue.

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves removal / disassembly of the transport (not an easy task on this table), cleaning inside and out, DISASSEMBLING, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below.



ü Both capstan flywheels removed.



 ü Capstan's cleaned, burnished and re-lubed prior to re-install (also had their belt surfaces cleaned and burnished as mentioned further on. Both rubber pinch rollers removed from arms and have been resurfaced on drill press and chemically reconditioned.



 During that process, we discovered that both pinch roller arms had cracks in their axle mounts.


 ü While those may have been fine left alone, we went a head and changed them out from the other transport which had 'crack free' arms.

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Power supply tested for correct Voltage and current to the motor. While the motor issues likely caused some of the flutter issue, we also found a random build-up of rubber debris on the drive pulley and the capstan flywheels, that would contribute to that as well.



ü Main capstan / flywheel belt replaced with modified #FR10.0. New counter belt installed. Following initial rerfurb, Main / Cap motor replaced with another original / OEM motor due to faulty bearings in one originally installed.

ü All internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Floor noise tested to -74dB.

ü All fluorescent displays and LED's working fine.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment.

ü FF, REW, & Play transport functions all test perfectly and controls positively responsive.

ü Eject door mechanism operates smoothly.

ü Heads in good shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Speed adjusted to 99.70% accuracy with 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1003Hz +/- 1Hz (the service manual spec states +/- 15Hz @ 3k is acceptable BTW, which is close and pretty good but,... not acceptable to us as musicians. We really want them running accurately) 

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and factory 10kHz, Sony alignment tape and O-scope for peak performance (this adjustment alone gained ~6-9dB output amplitude!) in BOTH directions with Oscilloscope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.



ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources'. Both channels now even output. Azimuth verified for BOTH directions and remained consistent. Playback meters zero with factory test tone tape.

ü Plays perfectly and after adjustment, records AMAZINGLY well with 1kHz @ 0 dB = 0dB! on High bias type tapes. (Following the extensive restoration, we did 'test recordings' of a 'ddd' CD on Maxell 'XL-II' High Bias with the following results;
w/ no NR; 1kHz @ 0dB; L=0dB & R=0dB
w/ Dolby B; 1kHz @ 0dB; L=0dB & R=0dB
w/ Dolby C; 1kHz @ 0dB; L=0dB & R=0dB
w/ dbx; 1kHz @ 0dB; L=+2dB & R=0dB
DDD Pre-Recorded CD material sounded fabulous on Maxell UDXL-II and dbx engaged. (we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy). Following all of the above, deck now performs VERY WELL!
    ____________________________
    
The Technics RS-B78R with Auto-Reverse, Dolby B / C & dbx NR. Great deck for "all around use" home or project studio. And since it utilizes DBX NR, it can squeeze up to 110 dB of dynamic range onto a cassette tape (normally the best recorders might do up to 72 dB with Dolby engaged. Another great feature of this model is that the fast wind mechanism is completely gear driven and does not us a rubber tire. Deteriorated / glazed rubber fast wind idler tires are THE COMMON issue with decks not fast forwarding, rewinding and / or eating tapes. That will never be an issue on this particular model and many Technics decks w/ 'gear driven' reel spindles.

Technics RS-B78R Features include:
    
- IC Logic "touch-control" transport
- Full "Auto-Stop" or Dual Mode Auto-Reverse
- 100% Gear Driven Reel Spindles



- Dual, Asymmetrical Flywheels and capstans
- dbx noise reduction built-in for recording and playback for playing back all those dbx encoded tapes you have 
- dbx Disc Decoder (for any dbx encoded vinyl you might have)
- Dolby B & C NR built-in as well as the dbx
- 3 Motors
- Auto Tape Type selector for Normal, CrO2 & Metal
- Super hard, "Amorphous" Head
- Auto Record Mute for 5 second song spacing
- "Cue & Review" function for fast winding tape while temporarily listening (very handy). Also doubles as "Music Select" feature (song search)
- Direct Access song skip feature for up to 12 selections
- "Blank Skip" feature
- Dual function, digital tape counter
- Dual Fluorescent VU signal level meters with Peak Hold
- Manual Record Level and Balance controls
- Variable Output level control
- Front mounted Stereo Headphone jack
- Dual, rear mounted, 1/4" mic jacks
- Timer Play / Record function.
- *Semi "WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC (would require a transformer to operated on European / Asian AC volts). Currently set up for US / North American AC power.
   
Technics RS-B78R Specs:
   
Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Capstan Drive: Dual, asymmetrical flywheel / capstan, closed loop
Heads: 1x AX head for Rec/PB and 2x Double-gap, Ferrite head for erasure
   Motors: 3
Freq Response: w/ Metal tape; 20-20,000 Hz -20dB (30-18,000 Hz +/- 3dB @ -20dB)
w/ CrO2 tape; 20-19,000 Hz -20dB (40-17,000 Hz +/- 3dB @ -20dB)
w/ Normal / LN tape; 20-18,000 Hz -20dB (40-16,000 Hz +/- 3dB @ -20dB)
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): 0.45%
S/N ratio: 92db DBX on (A weighted)
74dB Dolby C NR (CCIR)
66dB Dolby B NR (CCIR)
56dB No NR (A weighted)
Dynamic Range: 110db @ 1kHz DBX on (A weighted)
Bias Frequency: 80kHz
Line Input: 60mV & 47K Ohms
Line Output: 700mV & 0.8k Ohms
Headphones Output: 125mV @ 8 Ohms
Fast Wind Time: C-60 tape ~90 secs
   
    Again, we have completely cleaned, EXTENSIVELY prepped and tested this deck with an investment of approx 9 hours of tech time. Great for project studio or home use especially since it has dbx NR. Great for simply 'listening' as it has 'auto-reverse'. Also great for transferring your tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3. Obviously it's main 'black-eye' is the crack in the meter window (again, we searched for probably 6 years for a replacement that was economically practical to no avail). Works and sounds great! Performs probably better than when new (I know that at least the speed is adjusted more accurately evidenced by the adjustments and test results mentioned above). Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf of the Technics RS-B78R owners / user manual and service manual if purchaser desires. Measures 17" wide x 11" deep x 4" tall and weighs 11 lbs unpacked. Comes with our 30 day limited warranty.
TECHNICS RS-B78R
    Cond. 8 (due to to the display window crack. Rest of the deck looks near NEW @ cond. 8.5+++)
SOLD 1/3/2024
SHIPPING TO ROGER IN IL.

(tape shown in photos not included. We do ship our decks with a  a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback, made on this 'specific' deck, and a tape to 'practice record' on.) 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

         

          NEW LISTING 3/15/2023
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos) 
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
  YAMAHA CASSETTE TAPE DECK
YAMAHA KX-R700
#...59ZP
4-MOTORS
GEAR DRIVE HUBS
With HX-PRO (extended headroom)
& DOLBY B, C & dbx NR
Circa 1988-98 (a testament to how successful this deck was that it was in the lineup for a decade!)
MIJ
SOLD 1/11/2024
SHIPPING TO KEN IN PENNSYLVANIA

Initial 'pre-test' conditions; For some reason, this 30+ year old cassette deck pretty much 'worked' across the board. Doesn't often happen (we still went thru it). Tape speed was slightly fast at 1.019kHz.

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves disassembly of the transport, cleaning inside and out, removal / disassembly of the transport, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below.

ü Heads inspected for excessive wear (obviously we do this 'early on' as 'excessive' wear will usually negate any further restoration work).

ü As this is an 'Auto Reverse' deck, the gear that rotates the PB/REC head was inspected for separations (obviously we do this 'early on' as 'excessive' wear will usually negate any further restoration work). This is one of the first things to check for when we start on an Auto-Reverse deck (unless it has a 4-pole piece, fixed position head)

ü Checked outputs of internal power supply for correct Voltages

ü Counter belt - NO counter belt. It's *GEAR DRIVEN!!! (means no counter belt and MOST importantly, NO idler tire(s) to worry about. That's a BIG deal!) 

ü New eject belt installed as the original had perished, however, while the 'Motor-Assist-Eject' works with the push of a button, you need to manually push the door to close it (like pretty much every other deck).

ü Capstans cleaned / burnished

ü Main Capstan / Flywheel belt replaced originally with #FRY10.0

ü All internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü All Fluorescent displays and LED's working fine.

ü Both hub spindles in perfect alignment

ü FF, REW, & Play transport functions all test perfectly and controls tested for 'positive / accurate' responsive.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and 10kHz checked for 'peak performance' with O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels have even output.

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels have even output.

ü Meters checked to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels have even output.

ü Record bias already great for Maxell UD-XLII. We did also test with TDK "SA" & Maxell UD-XLII and both did very well. We did feel that Maxell UD-XLII had the edge with 'real world' material.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels checked with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources'. Both channels have even output.

ü Speed adjusted (via rear motor adjustment) to 100% accuracy BOTH directions, with with TEAC MTT-257H 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1000Hz +/- 1 Hz. The service manual allows for an error range of +/- 23Hz! Yuck!!!)

ü Playback meters zero with factory test tone tape.

ü Tape Counter and 'Memory' Function tested

ü Floor noise measured at -74dB

Following service / fine tuning;

ü Recording tests performed with TDK SA & Maxell High-Bias UDXL-II (Gold / Black) Tapes.
Here’s the results;

ü Maxell UDXL-II: 1KhZ with No NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash
TDK SA: 1KhZ with No NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash

ü Maxell UDXL-II: 1KhZ with Dolby B NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash
TDK SA: 1KhZ with Dolby B NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash

ü Maxell UDXL-II: 1KhZ with Dolby C NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash
TDK SA: 1KhZ with Dolby C @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash

ü Maxell UDXL-II: 1KhZ with dbx NR @ 0dB; L= -2dB & R= -0.5dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash
TDK SA: 1KhZ with dbx @ 0dB; L= -2dB & R= -0.5dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash

ü Maxell UDXL-II: 1KhZ with dbx NR @ +10dB; L= -3dB & R= -3dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash
TDK SA: 1KhZ with dbx @ +10dB; L= -3dB & R= -3dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash

Recorded program from "ddd" source sounds great as well. (we did feel that Maxell UD-XLII was slightly better with 'real world' CD recordings)
Tech also 'erase tested' deck to ensure that it was properly erasing strong, pre-recorded signals from all three tape types (yes, NOT "erasing" properly or 'at all' is a thing).
It's nice recording on a deck that's 'dialed in' properly!

Total technician time to restore ~4.5 HOURS.
  ____________________________
  
Great performing deck. The Yamaha KX-R700. It's recording quality is very SOLID! Great for utility playback or recording or if you need to burn some tapes to CD. Deck works and runs great! Give you ALL THREE of the most popular noise reduction options.

Yamaha KX-R700 'Build-Quality' standouts:

- Made in Japan
- Gear-Drive hubs (no, typical, rubber idler tire which means that the main reason for tapes to be 'eaten' is eliminated AND there won't be any hesitation in 'take-up' hub function or 'Fast Wind' functions.


- Power supply transformer is physically separated from main 'audio' board    

- 4x Motors  


- Circuit board 'top labeled' and 'section borders' are marked for easier service  


Yamaha KX-R700 Features:

- Gear drive Hubs!!! (probably one of the top features to look for in a cassette deck for the long run, as there's no idler tire(s) to have to worry about).
- IC Logic Touch Tape Transport controls
- HX PRO - Extended Headroom recording. The lack of this is what makes most cassette tapes sound "Meh". Tapes made with HX-Pro will sound fairly close to CD quality. I have hundreds of both and it's EASY to tell the difference. Don't believe me. Go thru your cassettes, find any that are labeled "HX Pro" and compare them to most other tapes, NOT recorded in HX-Pro (assuming you have a cassette deck that still functions....which is a reach for most). You should hear a 'night and day' difference.

- Dolby B, C & dbx Noise Reduction 

- 4-Motor transport
- 2-Speed Fast Wind (normal and TURBO if you hold down the REW or FF buttons)
- Bi-Directional recording (not just 'Playback')
- Full fluorescent display / readout
- Super Hard "Amorphous" PB / REC head
- Auto tape type selector for Normal / Chrome & Metal tapes
- Built-in MPX filter for killing the 19kHz pilot tone in FM transmissions
- Full Fluorescent Status Screen readout
- Front-mounted 1/4" stereo headphone jack
- Full "Auto-Stop" function
- Multi-Function, Digital Tape counter for Real Time, Counter or Remaining Time
- Music Search feature looks for spaces of 4 seconds or longer between selections
- Music 'Fader' for use when recording to fade out recorded signals, instead of changing your record level
 - Record Mute
 - "Repeat" allows entire tape to be rewound and replayed when not in Auto-Reverse mode
- Time Play / Record Function
- Remote Control with optional RS-KR7 wireless remote unit (not included nor available from us)
 
Yamaha KX-R700 Specs:

Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Heads: PB / REC is "Amorphous", 12-Layer Laminated. Double-gap, Ferrite erase head
Motors: 4x: DC Servo for capstan, 'Flat Torque' DC for Reel, DC for Transport Assist and DC for Tape eject / well opening
Freq Response:
W/ Metal tape; 20-20,000 Hz +/- 3db,
W/ Chrome tape; 20-19,000 Hz +/- 3db,
W/ Normal tape; 20-17,000 Hz +/- 3db,
THD:  <0.8% All tape types
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): 0.05%
S/N ratio: >90dB w/ built-in dbx compression / expansion NR.
76dB Dolby C NR (CCIR)
                  68dB Dolby C NR (CCIR)
                   60dB No NR (A weighted)
Channel Separation: 40dB @ 3150Hz
Channel Crosstalk: 55dB @ 125Hz
Line Input Sensitivity / Impedance: 50mV / 30Kohms
Line Output level: 360mV / 1.2Kohms
Fast Wind Time (C60): ~70 sec or 45 sec on 'Extra High Speed'
   
Great deck for project studio or home use. Also great for transferring your tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3. Looks NEW and sounds great! Since it also has "dbx NR", you can now revisit your older dbx encoded tapes if you have any.
Designed and built, very well! (check the frequency response) Probably the best things about this deck is that it has 'gear drive' hubs AND how "tech friendly" the circuit boards are on the inside. Cosmetically there just some light scratches on the starboard side of the case and a few very, minor tics around the front edges. As mentioned earlier, the 'motor assist' function of the door close does not function completely, so you simply need to manually push to close it. Again, following the above discussed tech work, the deck plays and Records extremely well. Measures 17.2" w X 11.75" d X 4.5" h and unpacked weight is 13 lbs. Comes with our 30 day limited warranty.
YAMAHA KX-R700
Cond. 8.5+
SOLD 1/11/2024
SHIPPING TO KEN IN PENNSYLVANIA
 

(Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

         

          NEW LISTING 3/11/2023
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos) 
warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
  YAMAHA CASSETTE TAPE DECK
YAMAHA KX-500U
 #...08ZP
   3-MOTOR
GEAR DRIVE HUBS
  With DOLBY B, C & HX-PRO
   Circa 1988-98 (a testament to how successful this deck was that it was in the lineup for a decade!)
"WORLD AC POWER" ™
MIJ
SOLD 11/30/2023
SHIPPED TO UTAH

Initial 'pre-test' conditions; Sheet metal cover scuffed mostly in rear, left corner. Cap Motor a bit noisy. Capstan built up with loads of tape oxide. Cap Belt has lost most of elasticity. Pinch roller VERY glazed. Master fader binding (every Yamaha KX-500 we've serviced has this issue). Output pot noisy (dirty).

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves disassembly of the transport, cleaning inside and out, removal / disassembly of the transport, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below.

ü Heads inspected for excessive wear (obviously we do this 'early on' as 'excessive' wear will usually negate any further restoration work).

ü Checked outputs of internal power supply for correct Voltages

ü Counter belt - NO counter belt. It's *GEAR DRIVEN!!! (means no counter belt and MOST importantly, NO idler tire(s) to worry about. That's a BIG deal!) 

ü Capstans cleaned / burnished

ü Removed Main Capstan drive motor and lubed bushings

ü Main Capstan / Flywheel belt replaced originally with #FRZ 9.7

ü Main pulley end bushing lubed.

ü Rubber pinch roller mechanism bushings & axles cleaned of old, stiff lube, reconditioned and re-lubed.

ü Rubber pinch roller resurfaced on drill press

ü Master fader slide mechanism cleaned of old lube and re-lubed

ü All internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü All Fluorescent displays and LED's working fine.

ü Both hub spindles in perfect alignment

ü FF, REW, & Play transport functions all test perfectly and controls tested for 'positive / accurate' responsive.

ü "CPS" (programmable song search) tested and working

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and 10kHz checked for 'peak performance' with O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels have even output.

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels have even output.

ü Meters checked to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels have even output.

ü Record bias already great for Maxell UD-XLII. We did also test with TDK "SA", but Maxell UD-XLII essentially had NO loss in dB on record, AND the UD-XLII exhibited VERY stable levels as opposed to the TDK which were quite inconsistent.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels checked with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources'. Both channels have even output.

ü Speed adjusted (via rear motor adjustment) to 99.99% accuracy BOTH directions, with with TEAC MTT-257H 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1001Hz +/- 1 Hz. The service manual allows for an error range of +/- 23Hz! Yuck!!!)

ü Playback meters zero with factory test tone tape.

ü Tape Counter and 'Memory' Function tested

ü Floor noise measured at -74dB

Following service / fine tuning;

ü Recording tests performed with TDK SA & Maxell High-Bias UDXL-II (Gold / Black) Tapes.
Here’s the results;

Maxell UDXL-II: 1KhZ with No NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash
TDK SA: 1KhZ with No NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with very minor artifacts / hash

Maxell UDXL-II: 1KhZ with Dolby B NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash
TDK SA: 1KhZ with Dolby B NR @ 0dB; L= -1dB & R= -0dB R with very minor artifacts / hash

Maxell UDXL-II: 1KhZ with Dolby C NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= 0dB R with virtually no artifacts / hash
TDK SA: 1KhZ with Dolby C NR @ 0dB; L= 0dB & R= -2dB R with very minor artifacts / hash

Recorded program from "ddd" source sounds great as well.
ü Tech also 'erase tested' deck to ensure that it was properly erasing strong, pre-recorded signals from all three tape types (yes, NOT "erasing" properly or 'at all' is a thing).
It's nice recording on a deck that's 'dialed in' properly!

Total technician time to restore ~6.5 HOURS.
  ____________________________
  
Great performing deck. The Yamaha KX-500U. It's recording quality is very SOLID! Great for utility playback or recording or if you need to burn some tapes to CD. Cosmetically, the issue most worth mentioning is that the sheet metal bonnet / cover has a significant amount of scuffs / scratching near the left and rear quadrant (not visible from the front of deck. See photos above). Deck works and runs great! 

Yamaha KX-500 'Build-Quality' standouts:

- Made in Japan
- Gear-Drive hubs (no, typical, rubber idler tire which means that the main reason for tapes to be 'eaten' is eliminated AND there won't be any hesitation in 'take-up' hub function or 'Fast Wind' functions.
- Power supply board is physically separated from main 'audio' board


- 3- Motors
- Circuit board 'top labeled' and 'section borders' are marked for easier service




Yamaha KX-500 Features:

- Gear drive Hubs!!! (probably one of the top features to look for in a cassette deck for the long run, as there's no idler tire(s) to have to worry about).
- IC Logic Touch Tape Transport controls
- 3-Motor transport
- 2-Speed Fast Wind (normal and TURBO if you hold down the REW or FF buttons)
- HX-PRO for extended headroom (One of the most important aspects if you're recording)
- Dolby B & C Noise Reduction
- Manual Bias Adjustment (Very important feature if you're planning on recording new tapes)
- Play Trim adjustment for returning some of the top-end eliminated by the Dolby circuits and
 to increase the compatibility of tapes played on this deck, but recorded on another deck.
- Full fluorescent display / readout
- Super Hard "Amorphous" PB / REC head
- Auto tape type selector for Normal / Chrome & Metal tapes
- Built-in MPX filter for killing the 19kHz pilot tone in FM transmissions
- Full Fluorescent Status Screen readout
- Front-mounted 1/4" stereo headphone jack
- Full "Auto-Stop" function
- Variable Output Level control for Line Output and headphone volume
- Multi-Function, Digital Tape counter for Real Time, Counter or Remaining Time
- "Intro-Scan" Music search feature
- Music Search feature looks for spaces of 4 seconds or longer between selections
 - Record Mute
 - "Repeat" allows entire tape to be rewound and replayed or any section selected by the tape counter from 0.00 to selected point
- Separate L & R input level controls with a "Master Fader"
- Time Play / Record Function
- Remote Control with optional RS-K5 remote unit (not included nor available from us)
- "WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC and 100-240V. Currently set up for US / North American AC power.
 
Yamaha KX-500 Specs:

Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Heads: PB / REC is "Amorphous", 12-Layer Laminated
Motors: 3; Capstan-DC Servo, Reel and Transport Assist - DC
Freq Response:
W/ Metal tape; 20-20,000 Hz +/- 3db,
W/ Chrome tape; 20-19,000 Hz +/- 3db,
W/ Normal tape; 20-17,000 Hz +/- 3db,
THD:  <0.1% All tape types
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): 0.05%
S/N ratio: 76dB Dolby C NR (CCIR)
                  68dB Dolby C NR (CCIR)
                   60dB No NR (A weighted)
Channel Separation: 40dB
Channel Crosstalk: 55dB @ 125Hz
Line Input Sensitivity / Impedance: 50mV / 50Kohms
Line Output level: 360mV / 1Kohms
Fast Wind Time (C90): 105 sec
   
Great deck for project studio or home use. Also great for transferring your tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3. Looks NEW and sounds great!  Again, the sheet metal cover does have the scuffs / scratches mentioned earlier.
Designed and built, very well! (check the frequency response) Probably the best things about this deck is that it has 'gear drive' hubs AND how "tech friendly" the circuit boards are on the inside. Test plays and Records extremely well. Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf of the Yamaha KX-500 owners / user manual and service manual if purchaser desires. Measures 17" w X 11" d X 5" h and unpacked weight is 10 lbs. Comes with our 90 day limited warranty.
YAMAHA KX-500U
Cond. 8 (only due to sheet metal bonnet issues)
SOLD 11/30/2023
SHIPPED TO UTAH

(Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

                   

         
     
           NEW LISTING 3/20/2023
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos) 
warranty
FULLY SERVICED / REFURBISHED / RESTORED W/ WARRANTY
36 HOURS RESTORATION TECH TIME!
SONY PORTABLE CASSETTE TAPE DECK
SONY TC-D5M
PROFESSIONAL, STEREO FIELD RECORDER
#...13704
Circa early 1978-84
Made in Japan
SOLD 5/17/2023
SHIPPED TO ANDRU IN TEXAS

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves removal / disassembly of the transport, cleaning inside and out, removal / disassembly of the transport, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below.

ü Heads inspected for excessive wear (obviously we do this 'early on' as 'excessive' wear will usually negate any further restoration work).

ü Removed motor, capstan flywheel, all tires and all belts (pretty much requires disassembling entire transport)    

ü Capstan flywheel had it's rubber top coating re-conditioned

ü 3 internal belts replaced including the Counter belt and all three internal idler tires reconditioned   

ü Capstans cleaned / burnished

ü Main Capstan / Flywheel belt - There's no belt for this as it's 'rim drive' essentially from the motor to the flywheel  

ü Rubber pinch roller mechanism cleaned of old, stiff lube, pinch roller replaced with NEW and arm mechanism re-lubed. 

ü All internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü All Fluorescent displays and LED's working fine.

ü Both hub spindles in perfect alignment

ü Once finished, we discovered excessive 'Flutter' which was tracked to the pinch roller that was breaking down (chemically). We had already resurfaced and re-conditioned it, as we do of them, but it was actually too soft so we replaced it with a new rubber pinch roller. Flutter now not detectable. (this operation added a few more hours to this unit)

ü FF, REW, & Play transport functions all test perfectly and controls tested for 'positive / accurate' responsive.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and 10kHz adjusted for BOTH directions for 'peak performance' with O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output (400Hz test tone plays @ 0dB).

ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources'. Both channels now even output.

ü Pinch roller NEW and heads all in GREAT condition!!!

ü Speed adjusted to 99.99% accuracy BOTH directions, with with TEAC MTT-257H 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 999Hz ± 1 Hz. Service manuals generally allow for an error range of ± 20-50Hz! Yuck!!!)

ü Playback meters zero with factory test tone tape.

ü Tape Counter tested

ü Floor noise measured at -73.68dBm

Following service / fine tuning;

ü Recording tests performed with Maxell High-Bias UDXL-II (Gold / Black) Tapes w/ output set to ~2:00 PM.
Here’s the results;
Maxell UDXL-II:  1KhZ with No NR @ 0dB; L= -1.5dB & R= -1.5dB R
Maxell UDXL-II: W/N with No NR @ 0dB; L= -1.5dB & R= -1.5dB R
It's nice recording on a deck that's 'dialed in' properly!

Total technician time to restore ~36 HOURS! (OUCH!!!)
  ____________________________
  
The Sony TC-5DM, Professional, Portable field recorder. This was essentially a 'Walkman' on steroids. Made for the professional users (think field reporter, interviews, recording 'Dead Shows', Live Band Demos, bar bands, music events etc). Following the above mentioned, and EXTENSIVE work, it works beautifully.

SONY TC-5DM Features include:
  
- Super Hard, Sendust & Ferrite ' PB / REC heads
- Belt-Free, Capstan drive (motor directly drives large, rubber and brass flywheel)
- Auto-Stop for Playback and Record modes (not applicable to Fast Wind modes)
- Auto Shut-Off (when using batteries, the unit will automatically shut the main power (not just stopping transport) off when the end of tape is reached in playback or Record modes)
- Dolby-B noise reduction built-in for recording and playback
- Manual Tape Type / EQ selector for Normal, CrO2, FerroChrome & Metal tape
- Dual Analog VU meters for monitoring record levels w/ recommended Dolby level indicated
- LED Record indicator
- LED peak level Indicator
- Switch able, Level Limiter (field recording can surprise you with excessive peaks and once they happen, they're 'on the tape'. The "Limit" circuit suppresses these peaks to eliminate tape overload and distortion.
- REAL Separate Record Level controls (no 'Single Balance' control)
- 3-Digit, Analog tape counter
- Front mounted 1/4", Recessed, Stereo Headphone jack
- Headphone volume control for controlling the level, not only of the headphones, but of the speaker as well
- Dual 1/4" microphone input jacks
- Gold plated, RCA I/O jacks
- All metal construction (as far as housing / case)
- AC power port for 'wall wart' type power adaptor (we are including one that has been modified for this unit. Not an original, but works as it should)

SONY TC-5DM Specifications:

Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Heads: Super-hard S&F (Sendust & Ferrite) for maximum durability when using metal tapes
Motors: 1x coreless, servo-controlled
Freq Response w/ Dolby OFF: w/ Metal tape; 20-19,000 Hz, or 30-17kHz ± 3dB @ -20dB
w/ CrO2 tape; 20-18,000 Hz, or 30-15kHz ± 3dB @ -20dB
w/ Normal / LN tape; 20-17,000 Hz, or 30-14kHz ± 3dB @ -20dB
THD: 1.0% w/ Type III or IV tape
Wow & Flutter (WRMS / NAB): ± 1%
Tape Speed Deviation: 0.06%
S/N ratio w/Metal tape: >58dB
S/N ratio w/ CrO2: >56dB
S/N ratio w/ Normal tape: >53dB
Dolby B NR: improves above 5-10dB depending on frequency from 1kHz-10kHz
Bias Frequency:  85kHz
Power output to internal speaker: 200mW @ 10% THD on DC operation (really not for critical listening, but simply to verify information capture)
Internal speaker: ~5cm
Headphone output: max 20mW @ 8 Ohms
Battery requirement for DC operation: 2x "D-Cells" (will give approx 1.5-5.5 hours depending on battery quality and function being used, ie; playback or recording and at what levels and at what operating temperature)
AC / Wall power operation: 6VDC & 'Neg-pin"
Fast Wind time (C-60): ~150 sec.
Operating Temperature: 0°C-40°C (32°F-104°F)

Again, we have completely refurbished and thoroughly tested this deck. These take a tech with vast experience, a steady hand and a lot of patience to restore. They are not a task for the average tech.
Cosmetically, it's in fabulous condition with.
Again, this deck plays and records VERY WELL! Great for capturing your band in 'Lo-Fi' / "The Old Skooool Way"! I'll actually be doing that with it before it sells myself. Also great for transferring your tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3. Includes original Sony Strap, Sony carry case (has moderate cosmetic wear, but all functions. see photos above), functioning replacement AC power Adaptor and owners manual. Also includes a load of NOS, sealed cassette tapes as well as the Gold, 'mini-R3R' tape shown in photos.



Measures 9.3" wide x 6.7" deep x 1.8" tall and weighs ~3.2 lbs if loaded with 2x D-Cells, unpacked.
Comes with a 30 day limited warranty.
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / SERVICED SONY TC-5DM
Cond. 8.5++
$2199.
SOLD 5/17/2023
SHIPPED TO ANDRU IN TEXAS

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

         

           NEW LISTING 4/16/2022
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
PRE-OWNED / REFURBISHED
NAKAMICHI CASSETTE TAPE DECK
NAKAMICHI 481
#...1719
With DOLBY B NR
MADE IN JAPAN!
Circa early 1979-81
"*WORLD AC POWER" ™
SOLD 7/25/2022
SHIPPED TO ALEX IN ONTARIO CANADA

Initial 'pre-test' conditions; Fast Wind typically sluggish / intermittent / eats tapes (almost always due to rubber, idler tire issues). Play 'tries' to engage, but immediately disengages. Won't go into 'Record' mode (likely due to broken actuator cable mount which is typical of Nakamichi decks that use this transport), Eject 'iffy' (likely due to broken actuator cable mount which is typical of Nakamichi decks that use this transport). 'Left Channel' level fader lever broken off. Missing that knob / cap.

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves complete disassembly of the transport (not an easy task on this table), cleaning inside and out, DISASSEMBLING, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below.

ü Internal power supply tested to 11.89VDC

ü Record actuator cable mount repaired (this is pretty much required on any Nak utilizing this style transport, which would be most from this era and not a matter of "if", but "when" it will fail)

ü Eject actuator cable mount repaired (this is pretty much required on any Nak utilizing this style transport, which would be most from this era and not a matter of "if", but "when" it will fail)

ü Inspected entire transport nylon assemblies and repaired where necessary (quite important and unique to Nakamichis that this be done)

ü New and proper idler tire 'pre-conditioned' and installed. 

ü Rubber pinch roller has been reconditioned

ü Capstan burnished / flywheel removed, cleaned, burnished and lubed

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Head alignments and azimuth checked and adjusted as necessary for 'peak performance' with O-Scope

ü All internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function. 

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment.

ü All new Counter belts installed for trouble-free service 4.74 & 9.0 PRB.

ü New 'Mode' belt installed for trouble-free service SQC4.8 PRB.

ü New 'Capstan' belt installed for trouble-free service FRM10.2 PRB. 

ü FF, REW, & Play transport functions all test perfectly and controls tested for 'positive / accurate' responsive. 

ü Eject door NOW operates smoothly following above mentioned operation.

ü Tape Counter Function tested

ü Dolby NR circuit tested 

ü 'Memory / Zero Return' function tested 

ü Heads are in 'AS-NEW' condition, with NO visible wear! 

ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input. 

ü Both pinch rollers and heads all in GREAT condition!!!

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and 10kHz adjusted for BOTH directions for 'peak performance' with Oscilloscope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources'. Both channels now even output.

ü Speed adjusted to 100% accuracy with 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1000Hz +/- 1Hz) 

ü Cosmetics are in great condition. Deck works, sounds and looks great! 

ü  Plays perfectly and after adjustment, records AMAZINGLY well with 1kHz @ 0 dB = 0dB! on High bias type tapes. (Following the extensive restoration, we did 'test recordings' of a 'ddd' CD on Maxell 'XL-II' High Bias with the following results;
1kHz @ 0dB; L=0dB & R=0dB
PN @ 0dB; L=-2dB & R=-1dB
WN @ 0dB;  L=-45dB & R=-4dB (again, that was when 'pushed' to 0dB @ record)
DDD Pre-Recorded CD material @ 0dB;  L=0 to -1dB & R=0 to -1dB
Bottom line is, it recorded amazingly well! While doing the test recording's, it became apparent that the recorded sound was fairly remarkable. Here's the deal. We sync'd up the recording we had just made, and the CD player and AB'd on our pre-amp between the CD and the Tape. Not only was there little to no 'level loss' (it's a cassette, there should have been!!!), but the tape actually had a bit more brilliance and 'natural' top end to it by a couple to 3 dB's!!!)
 Total technician time to restore ~19 HOURS!
  ____________________________

The Nakamichi 481, Closed-Loop / Dual Capstan, Stereo Cassette Tape Deck. Great deck for doing your tape transfers if your tapes were recorded with no NR or with Dolby B. Again, as stated above, records AMAZINGLY well!

Nakamichi 481 Features include:
  
- Asymmetrical Dual Flywheel capstan drive
Double-Capstan / Closed Loop tape transport for more consistent head contact
- Discrete PB & REC Heads means that there are two separate heads unlike the vast majority of decks that utilize the same head for both tasks (different than most "three head" decks in that there isn't a 'monitor' function)
- Super Hard, High-Performance, 'SENDUST' R/P head w/ EXTREMELY NARROW gap, allowing for 20-20,000Hz performance
- IC logic "touch-control" tape transport with motor driven 'cam control mechanism'
- Selector for Normal (EX / I), CrO2 (SX / II) & Metal (ZX / IV)Tape Type
- Tape Type EQ selector for 120 or 70 μsec tape
- Analog "VU" signal level meters w/ 47dB of range
- Analog tape counter
- Auto 'Slack Take-up' when tape is loaded
- MPX filter (for filtering the 19kHz pilot tone out of FM transmissions)
- Dolby B NR
- Separate L&R Record level controls
- Memory Stop
- Front mounted 1/4", Stereo Headphone jack
- DIN on rear panel for optional wired remote (remote not included)
- *Semi "WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC (would require a transformer to operated on European / Asian AC volts). Currently set up for US / North American AC power.

Nakamichi 481 Specifications:
 
Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Motors: 3
Freq Response; 20-20,000Hz +/- 3db w/ Metal Tape @ -20dB
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): 0.06% WTD RMS
Tape Speed: 1-7/8 ips +/-0.5% (but as stated above, we have adjusted to 0.1% accuracy!)
S/N ratio w/ CrO2 tape: >63db @400Hz (w/ Dolby engaged and High Bias Tapes)
The following specs based on the Nak 480;
Harmonic Distortion:  <1.0% @ 400Hz & 0dB (High Bias Tapes)
Bias Frequency: 105KHz
Erasure: >60dB below saturation level @ 1kHz
Separation: >36dB @ 1kHz, 0dB
Crosstalk: >60dB @ 1kHz, 0dB
Line Input: 50mV & 30K Ohms
Line Output: 600mV & 2.2K Ohms
Headphones Output: 10mW @ 8 Ohms
  
Again, we have completely cleaned, prepped and tested this Nakamichi 481 cassette tape deck.
Records and plays back VERY well as noted by test results mentioned earlier.
Cosmetically about the only thing worth mentioning is that there are some minor scuffs on the top edge surface of the front panel (probably from a CD player or EQ sitting on top at some point) that's only seen when viewed from above (See photos above.)
Great for transferring your no NR or Dolby NR encoded tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3. Built very well! Looks like new, works and sounds great. Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf of the Nakamichi 481 owners manual and original Nakamichi 481 Brochure. Measures 17.75" wide x 11.5" deep x 5.5" tall and weighs 16 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty. 
NAKAMICHI 481
Cond. 8.5+
SOLD 7/25/2022
SHIPPED TO ALEX IN ONTARIO CANADA

(tape shown in photos not included. We do ship our decks with a  a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback, made on this 'specific' deck, and a tape to 'practice record' on.) 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

    

    

NEW LISTING 7/4/2022
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
VINTAGE, FULLY SERVICED / REFURBISHED
NAKAMICHI CASSETTE TAPE DECK
NAKAMICHI 480
#...3284
With DOLBY B NR
MADE IN JAPAN!
Circa early 1979-81
"*WORLD AC POWER" ™
SOLD 8/9/2022
SHIPPED TO KEVIN IN PENNSYLVANIA

Original issues; No tape motion at any level. Internal power supply was producing correct +5VAC, +24VDC, but missing +12VDC.

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves complete disassembly of the transport (not an easy task on this table), cleaning inside and out, DISASSEMBLING, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below.

ü Replaced transistors; Q405 & Q406 to restore missing +12VDC on internal power supply. This restored the function of two of the motors.

ü Burnished contacts on reed switch of eject door which restored the function of third motor.

ü Record actuator cable mount repaired (this is pretty much required on any Nak utilizing this style transport, which would be most from this era and not a matter of "if", but "when" it will fail)

ü Eject actuator cable mount repaired (this is pretty much required on any Nak utilizing this style transport, which would be most from this era and not a matter of "if", but "when" it will fail)

ü Inspected entire transport nylon assemblies and repaired where necessary (quite important and unique to Nakamichis that this be done)

ü New and proper idler tire, ordered, 'pre-conditioned' and installed. 

ü Rubber pinch roller has been reconditioned

ü Both Capstan flywheels removed, cleaned, burnished and lubed

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Head alignments and azimuth checked and adjusted as necessary for 'peak performance' with O-Scope

ü All internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function. 

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment.

ü All new Counter belts installed for trouble-free service 4.74 & 9.0 PRB.

ü New 'Mode' belt installed for trouble-free service SQC4.8 PRB.

ü New 'Capstan' belt installed for trouble-free service FRM10.2 PRB.

ü FF, REW, & Play transport functions all test perfectly and controls tested for 'positive / accurate' responsive. 

ü Eject door NOW operates smoothly following above mentioned operation.

ü Tape Counter Function tested

ü Dolby NR circuit tested 

ü 'Memory / Zero Return' function tested 

ü Heads are in 'AS-NEW' condition, with NO visible wear! 

ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input. 

ü Both pinch rollers and heads all in GREAT condition!!!

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and 10kHz adjusted for BOTH directions for 'peak performance' with Oscilloscope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources'. Both channels now even output.

ü Speed adjusted to 100% accuracy with 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1000Hz +/- 2Hz) 

ü Cosmetics are in great condition. Deck works, sounds and looks great! 

ü  Plays perfectly and after adjustment, records AMAZINGLY well with 1kHz @ 0 dB = 0dB! on High bias type tapes. (Following the extensive restoration, we did 'test recordings' of a 'ddd' CD on Maxell 'XL-II' High Bias with the following results;
1kHz @ 0dB; L=0dB & R=0dB
PN @ 0dB; L=-2dB & R=-1dB
WN @ 0dB;  L=0dB & R=-1dB (again, that was when 'pushed' to 0dB @ record)
DDD Pre-Recorded CD material @ 0dB;  L=0 to -1dB & R=0 to -1dB
Bottom line is, it recorded amazingly well! While doing the test recording's, it became apparent that the recorded sound was fairly remarkable. Here's the deal. We sync'd up the recording we had just made, and the CD player and AB'd on our pre-amp between the CD and the Tape.
 Total technician time to restore ~22 HOURS! followed by 5 hours of playback and record testing in reference system.
  ____________________________

The Nakamichi 481, Closed-Loop / Dual Capstan, Stereo Cassette Tape Deck. Great deck for doing your tape transfers if your tapes were recorded with no NR or with Dolby B. Again, as stated above, records AMAZINGLY well!

Nakamichi 480 Features include:
  
- Asymmetrical Dual Flywheel capstan drive (virtually eliminates vibration, flutter and modulation noise emanating from tape transport mechanism)
Double-Capstan / Closed Loop tape transport for more consistent head contact
- Super Hard, High-Performance, 'SENDUST' R/P head w/ EXTREMELY NARROW gap, allowing for 20-20,000Hz performance
- IC logic "touch-control" tape transport with motor driven 'cam control mechanism'
- Selector for Normal (EX / I), CrO2 (SX / II) & Metal (ZX / IV)Tape Type
- Tape Type EQ selector for 120 or 70 μsec tape
- Analog "VU" signal level meters w/ 47dB of range
- Analog tape counter
- Auto 'Slack Take-up' when tape is loaded
- MPX filter (for filtering the 19kHz pilot tone out of FM transmissions)
- Dolby B NR
- Separate L&R Record level controls
- Memory Stop
- Front mounted 1/4", Stereo Headphone jack
- DIN on rear panel for optional wired remote (remote not included)
- *Semi "WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC (would require a transformer to operated on European / Asian AC volts). Currently set up for US / North American AC power.

Nakamichi 480 Specifications:
 
Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Motors: 3
Freq Response; 20-20,000Hz +/- 3db w/ Metal Tape @ -20dB
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): 0.06% WTD RMS
Tape Speed: 1-7/8 ips +/-0.5% (but as stated above, we have adjusted to >0.2% accuracy!)
S/N ratio w/ CrO2 tape: >62db @400Hz (w/ Dolby engaged and High Bias Tapes)
The following specs based on the Nak 480;
Harmonic Distortion:  <1.0% @ 400Hz & 0dB (High Bias Tapes)
Bias Frequency: 105KHz
Erasure: >60dB below saturation level @ 1kHz
Separation: >36dB @ 1kHz, 0dB
Crosstalk: >60dB @ 1kHz, 0dB
Line Input: 50mV & 30K Ohms
Line Output: 600mV / 400Hz & 2.2K Ohms
Headphones Output: 10mW / 400Hz @ 8 Ohms
  
Purchased from the original owner. Again, we have completely cleaned, prepped and tested this Nakamichi 480 cassette tape deck.
Records and plays back VERY well as noted by test results mentioned earlier.
Cosmetically about the only thing worth mentioning are some very small scratches near the power switch (See photos above.)
Great for transferring your no NR or Dolby NR encoded tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3. Built very well! Looks like new, works and sounds great. This one includes it's original Nakamichi 480 box and packing. Also comes with a of the Nakamichi 480 owners manual and "e-copy / pdf download" of the original Nakamichi 480 Brochure. Measures 17.75" wide x 11.5" deep x 5.5" tall and weighs 16 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty. 
NAKAMICHI 480
Cond. 8.5+++
SOLD 8/9/2022
SHIPPED TO KEVIN IN PENNSYLVANIA
(C)
B.F.

(tape shown in photos not included. We do ship our decks with a  a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback, made on this 'specific' deck, and a tape to 'practice record' on.) 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

         

          NEW LISTING 4/1/2022
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
warranty
VINTAGE, REFURBISHED, FULLY SERVICED
NAKAMICHI CASSETTE TAPE DECK
NAKAMICHI 600 PEWTER / SILVER
#...6510
With DOLBY B NR
THREE MOTORS, 'USER ADJUSTABLE' BIAS AND REC CALIBRATION
MADE IN JAPAN!
Circa early 1975-78
"WORLD AC POWER" ™
SOLD 6/3/2022
SHIPPED TO VLAD IN NEW YORK

Initial 'pre-test' conditions; Fast Wind typically sluggish / intermittent. Auto-Stop intermittent. Noisy controls esp when recording. 'Play' cap loose / gone. 2x pads missing. 'Sticky' buttons / controls.

ü Our technician has completely and EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit which involves complete disassembly of the transport, DISASSEMBLING, removing old / stiff lubes, cleaning inside and out, cleaning and re-lubricating all internal mechanisms and the balance of efforts listed below.

ü Both reel turntable 'drive' tires resurfaced / re-conditioned for trouble-free service.

ü Capstan Drive belt replaced with NEW for trouble-free service.

ü Essentially 'lifetime' Counter belt cleaned and re-conditioned.

ü Rubber pinch roller has been resurfaced and reconditioned

ü Flywheel removed and Capstan burnished. Bushings cleaned and lubed.

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü All internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Push button switches cleaned and not binding / sticking

ü Circuit board connectors, removed, burnished / cleaned.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment.

ü All motors had bushings lubricated

ü FF, REW, & Play transport functions all test perfectly and controls tested for 'positive / accurate' responsive.

ü Eject operates properly.

ü Tape Counter Function tested

ü Dolby NR circuit tested

ü 'Memory / Zero Return' function tested

ü Heads are in great condition, with virtually no visible wear!

ü Pinch roller and heads all in GREAT condition!!!

ü All adjustment pot cover plugs intact.

ü Both level meters playback even.

ü Head alignment and azimuth at 125Hz, 1kHz and 10kHz adjusted for BOTH directions for 'peak performance' with Oscilloscope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal playback amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Meters adjusted to even zero with symmetric input with Volt meter, O-Scope and w/ STL and TEAC MTT-257H calibration / alignment tapes. Both channels now even output.

ü Both Internal Record amplifier channels adjusted with Volt meter, O-Scope and sine-wave generators and 'pink / white noise sources'. Both channels now even output.

ü Pinch roller and heads all in GREAT condition!!!

ü Speed adjusted to 100% accuracy BOTH directions, with with TEAC MTT-257H 1kHz factory calibration tape (meaning 1kHz calibration tape plays back at 1000Hz +/- 1 Hz.)

ü 4 replacement feet / pads installed

ü Following initial mechanical restoration, we found that the 'fast wind' functions were still slow and intermittent. It was discovered that the reel tables on this deck utilize clutches sandwiched between their front and rear halves with adjustable tension. We removed the originals clutch pads, fabricated new ones, installed and re-adjusted the tension springs so now those functions perform properly (this operation took over 5 hours so resolve).

ü Cosmetics are in essentially NEW condition. Deck works, sounds and looks great! 

ü Plays perfectly and after adjustment, records AMAZINGLY well with 1kHz @ 0 dB = 0dB! on High bias type tapes. (Following the extensive restoration, we did 'test recordings' of a 'ddd' CD on Maxell 'XL-II' High Bias with the following results;
1kHz @ 0dB; L=0dB & R=0dB
PN @ 0dB; L=-1dB & R=-1dB
WN @ 0dB;  L=-4dB & R=-4dB
DDD Pre-Recorded CD material @ 0dB;  L=0 to -1dB & R=0 to -1dB
Bottom line is, it recorded amazingly well!
 Total technician time to restore ~14 HOURS!
  ____________________________

The Nakamichi 600 Stereo Cassette Tape Deck. Great deck for doing your tape transfers if your tapes were recorded with no NR or with Dolby B. It's just 'fun' to operate and gorgeous to look at. Nice, big, illuminated VU meters look great when playing. Again, as stated above, records AMAZINGLY well!

Nakamichi 600 Features include:
  
- 3 Motors (Capstan, Reel and 'Cam')
- User Adjustable Bias controls (under plugs on front panel)
- User Adjustable Record Calibration w/ built-in 400Hz function generator. (under plugs on front panel)
- Super Hard, High-Performance, ''Focused Field Crystal Permalloy Head' R/P head w/ EXTREMELY NARROW gap, allowing for 20-18,000Hz performance
- Piano-Key tape transport with motor driven 'cam control mechanism'
- Selector for Normal (EX / I) & CrO2 / Metal (SX / II) Tape Types
- Tape Type EQ selector for 120 or 70 μsec tape
- Analog "VU" signal level meters w/ 47dB of range
- Analog tape counter
- MPX filter (for filtering the 19kHz pilot tone out of FM transmissions)
- Dolby B NR
- Variable Output Level (one of our favorite features on a tape deck)
- Record level control with L & R balance
- Memory Stop / Repeat for counter
- RCA and DIN I/O's on rear panel
- "WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC and 100-240V. Currently set up for US / North American AC power.

Nakamichi 600 Specifications:
 
Track format: 4 track / 2 channel
Motors: 3
Freq Response; 40-18,000Hz +/- 3db w/ SX or EX Tapes @ -20dB
Wow & Flutter (WRMS): <0.12% WTD Peak
Tape Speed: 1-7/8 ips
Harmonic Distortion:  <1.5% @ 400Hz & 0dB
S/N ratio w/ CrO2 tape: >60dB @400Hz w/o Dolby. >68dB @400Hz w/o Dolby.w/ Dolby engaged and High Bias Tapes)
Bias Frequency: 105KHz
Erasure: >60dB below saturation level @ 1kHz
Separation: >35dB @ 1kHz, 0dB
Crosstalk: >60dB @ 1kHz, 0dB
Line Input: 60mV & 50K Ohms
Line Output: 580mV
  
Again, following the above stated bench work / testing, our technician has 'Certified' this deck and it is an great performer sonically and mechanically. It's been fully serviced / completely gone through cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing.

This is one of the most 'fun' and aesthetically pleasing decks I have ever crossed paths with (and I've had, owned and sold the best cassette decks ever made including Tascams 122mk III's, Nak Dragons, Nak CR-7's, Yamaha's, Denons, Onkyo's, Pioneer CT-F1250's and CT-F1000, and a few hundred more.)
Great for transferring your no NR or Dolby NR encoded tape collection to CD, Hard-drive or MP3. Built very well! Looks like new, works and sounds great. Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf of the Nakamichi 600 owners manual and Nakamichi 600 Brochure. Measures 15.75" wide x 9.5" deep x 6.75" tall and weighs 15 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty. 
NAKAMICHI 600 PEWTER
Cond. 8.5+++
SOLD 6/3/2022
SHIPPED TO VLAD IN NEW YORK

(tape shown in photos not included. We do ship our decks with a  a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback, made on this 'specific' deck, and a tape to 'practice record' on.) 

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

 

Did you know?
Technics; The name Technics was introduced as a brand name for premium loudspeakers marketed domestically by Matsushita in 1965. In 1969, they introduced the SP-10, the first direct-drive turntable model for the professional market, and in 1971 the SL-1100 for the consumer market. The SL-1200 has since it's inception been the 'standard' of the industry for DJ's around the world. Most of there turntables are of 'industry standard' quality, even on the 'low-end' of the price scale, for most of their model years.
Technics was the first to introduce 'auto-reverse' (1972) into cassette decks (some would say to the detriment of audio quality, but certainly 'handy' in many applications) and 3-heads in a cassette deck (1973).
      In the late 1970's, Technics introduced what are some of the currently most sought after reel to reel decks out there. The Technics 1500 and 1700 series. They are overall 'amazing'!
I am a HUGE fan of Technics gear, especially their cassette decks. I worked for a Technics dealer in the early 1980's and loved to sell Technics gear because, not only did I know it would perform splendidly for most applications, it rarely came back with an issue. In fact, I extend that opinion to today, now 30 years on, as if I have to place a 'blind bet' on an 'as-found' item either still functioning, or being not far from it, I will go with Technics almost every time. Yamaha would typically be my second choice followed by the other 'famous' manufacturers a ways down the list. That's not to say 'Technics can do no wrong', because like everyone, they built a few 'lemons', but overall they do MOSTLY right.

** "(actual as measured)" refers to original test results done by Hirsch-Houck Laboratories upon test release of product when new. Current "aged" specifications / performance may of course vary from that.