AKAI GX-R99 and GX-R88. Two Super Machines that redifine the state of the recording art. Four features mark these decks as significantly new and different (in 1985): (1) Super GX 3-Head Quick Reverse; (2) Closed Loop Double Capstan by Twin Direct Drive; (3) CRLP (Computer Recording Level Processing - GX-R99 only); and (4) High Tuned DC Amplifier Circuitry. Akai's unique Super GX head (Rotary 3-Head design) is made of crystal ferrite in extra hard, mirror polished glass. The superiority of the Super GX head is overwhelming in the critical high frequencies, the playback output level being as much as 7.8dB better than sendust at 10kHz. The finish is so smooth that practically no friction noise is generated and dust particles cannot easily adhere. Both the GX-R99 and GX-R88 are three-head decks with separate Super GX heads using a 4-micron gap for high levl recording and a 1-micron gap for high frequency playback performance.
The double capstan system is driven by one DD motor for forward, and another DD motor for reverse tape transport. Each DD motor has a heavy flywheel to smooth irregularities. Brushless, corelss and slotless FG servo motor construction assures excellent speed accuracy. CRLP (Computer Recording Level Processing - GX-R99 only) handles everything that contributes to the sound quality of a recorded tape. First "Quick Auto Tuning" sets the optimum bias and recording equalization for the tape to be used. Second it detects MOL (maximum output level). Third it analyzes the energy spectrum of the input signal, compares it with MOL and sets recording level to bring out the tape's full potential while avoiding overload distortion. Akai's 3-way 2-color 24-segment fluorescent (FL) display indicates recording level in VU and peak modes, it shows the enrgy spectrum of the music signal, and it includes a 3-way 4-digit electronic tape counter (elapsed time, remaining time, and normal tape counter), auto monitor position, IPLS operation, Dolby NR, MPX filter, reverse mode, and more.