TEAC V-970X (1988) | 3 head cassette deck

 

The V-970X is one of the finest examples of TEAC's leading position in tape recording technology. The three-motor drive uses IC logic control, resulting in quiet operation. The highly precise dual-capstan configuration reduces modulation noise and wow and flutter. The precision three-head playback system adds nothing to the original. The TEAC Servo Control System (HTSC) monitors smooth operation and tape tension. Hysteresis tape tension control system developed for the first time worldwide by TEAC engineers. While automatically controlled tape tension systems are widely used in professional recorders and high-end reel-to-reel tape recorders due to their precision and reliability, it took TEAC's foresight and technical expertise to apply this development to cassette recorders. Other distinctive TEAC cassette recorder features include bipolar power supplies to ensure absolute accuracy in signal transmission, bias calibration controls, and the use of amorphous cobalt alloys in the recording and playback heads—another technology first developed for professional use. For greater ease of use, TEAC offered a selection of proven noise reduction systems — Dolby B, Dolby C, and dbx but also Dolby HX Pro for further signal enhancement and increased headroom. The amorphous cobalt three-head system enables optimal recording and playback heads and allows real-time monitoring during recording. Specifications: 3-head system, LC-OFC cobalt amorphous recording and playback head, double-gap ferrite erase head | 2+1 motor system, 1-DC capstan, 1-DC reel, 1-DC servo | Wow and Flutter 0,025% (WRMS) | Frequency response 20-21.000Hz Metal, 20-20.000Hz chrome, 20-18.000Hz normal | Dimensions (W/H/D) 471x124x280mm | Weight 6,6kg | Wireless remote control RC-311 | Original sale price in Germany 1450 DM

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MITSUBISHI HV-V5000 (1989)

 

As a response to increased demand for High-quality image, high-quality sound, and multi-digital picture processing for big screen TVs Mitsubishi introduced the top-of-the-range HV-V5000 in 1989. This offers a S-VHS format with horizontal resolution of over 400 lines with DYNAMIC COMB FILTER to suppresses color bleeding and dot interference, achieving beautiful images. With a unique digital tracking it brings out the best image and sound quality from tape. The V5000 is also equipped with DRI and ADI circuits for further refinement of the ultra-high density Hi-Fi audio recording method. There is also a power cord with polarity indicator. Mitsubishi's unique Digital Fine technology automates tracking adjustment during play still and slow motion. It also significantly reduces frame skipping when switching back to normal playback. Multi-digital (49-64-81/100 screens). Enjoy digital video play in 8 levels (9, 16, 25, 36). ● Multi-channel ● Multi-strobe ● Multi-still ● Multi-time search: Plays back every 5 minutes (or 10 minutes) of footage from the recorded tape for a few seconds, and displays the last scene of each as a still image along with the time. ● Multi-address search: Plays back the first few seconds of the VASS signal for a few seconds, and displays the last scene of each as a still image along with the address number. If you record an insert at the beginning of the tape, it will serve as a table of contents, which is very convenient. Jog/Shuttle for easy and precise editing. An editing window that displays the footage from the editing and recording tape (when paused) and the footage from the broadcast program or dubbing material on a parent-child screen. Multi-editing is convenient for setting the start point of multi-insert recording. By projecting the image on the screen with the multi-strobe, you can easily search for the desired cut scene with the jog dial while viewing the previous and next scenes. Connect to the optional editing controller (EC-1000 type) terminal to enjoy full-scale editing.  Regardless of the position you start playback from, the cumulative time (hours, minutes, seconds) from the beginning of the tape is displayed on the screen, allowing you to accurately check the remaining tape time. You can also enjoy time counter search (time counter search) (3x mode: approx. 140x speed, standard mode: approx. 46x speed). Also the FE (Flying Erase) head is a unique editing mechanism based on the concept of high image quality. It accurately traces and erases each frame of previously recorded footage, then records new footage. There is virtually no color noise or color bleeding at the joins between frames, as with conventional methods, allowing for smooth, beautiful, and highly accurate splicing.

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SONY WM-W800 (1985) | Double Cassette Walkman

 

The Sony WM-W800 Walkman is one of the most distinctive portable cassette players ever produced during the golden age of personal audio. Introduced by Sony in 1985, the WM-W800 stands out for its unique dual-cassette design, allowing users to carry and play two tapes simultaneously in a single compact device. Visually, the WM-W800 reflects the bold industrial design language that defined Sony’s premium Walkman lineup. Its symmetrical twin cassette doors, solid construction, and distinctive styling give the player a futuristic look. Unlike standard cassette players of the period, the WM-W800 emphasizes convenience and novelty while maintaining the high engineering standards associated with classic Sony portable audio equipment. From a technical perspective, the WM-W800 delivers the clear, dynamic cassette playback quality expected from late-generation Walkman models. The transport mechanism is carefully engineered for stable tape handling, helping preserve sound quality while minimizing wow and flutter during portable use. While the WM-W800 was constructed fairly simply (by mounting two WM-10 type mechanisms back to back) it also offered tape to tape copy...on the go if you wish... As well as being able to copy tapes, the WM-W800 could also make “live” recording using the miniature stereo microphone capsule that was included with each machine. The microphone socket included a “plug in power” connection for amplified type microphones...then there was also a FM tuner module that can be inserted in the cassette compartiment for FM Stereo radio broadcasts. Specifications: Frequency response 40-15.000Hz (Metal tape) | Size 116x88,7x38,2mm | Wight 360g

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