26 April 2019

HITACHI D-5500 (1979) - The Deck with "Brain"

cassette deck

The HITACHI D-5500 was introduced in 1979 and it was one of those Super decks that was competing for supremacy. It was a sophisticated 2 motor deck featuring Hitachi's own Unitorque Direct Drive motor (0.028% WRMS wow and flutter) and their own "Close Gap" R&P heads in a 3 head configuration. The highlight of this deck was the ATRS (Automatic Tape Response System). The ATRS brain is a sophisticated microcomputer that's built into the Hitachi D-5500 Cassette Deck. Because there were hundreds of different tapes on the market, ATRS was designed to match bias and EQ settings to the precise characteristics of each one you use. Press the Test button while in record and in 20 seconds ATRS carries out six calibration functions. It also has three individual memories for the test results of the three tapes you use most frequently. For the ultimate in user comfort interface the Hitachi D-5500 features a full IC logic detachable control block that doubles as a wireless infrared remote unit. Soon after the release of the D-5500 it was introduced the D-5500M that added Metal tape compatibility. Both models were available in silver and black, the worldwide model was sold as HITACHI while the Japan domestic model was sold as Lo-D.


cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck




19 April 2019

SAE C101 - Computer Direct-Line Cassette Deck

cassette deck

The Computer Direct-Line circuitry developed by SAE allows for a most efficient processing of the audio signal from input to output stages and isolates the audio information from the front panel controls. The elimination of front panel control contact with the audio signals negates the necessity for using potentially noisy and conventional rotary knob methods of switching. A microprocessor-controlled logic network replaces the conventional componentry mechanics to relay the appropriate commands from the front panel to the audio circuits. The C101 is a full-logic, 3-head (Sendust), 2-motor cassette deck. Soft-touch tactile feedback switches control all functions of tape transport, EQ and Bias selection, Dolby B-C Noise Reduction and programmable memory operations. Alpha-numeric LED displays indicate the status of elapsed and remaining time, tape lenght and tape use. An elaborate LED level display monitors the recorded level in both peak hold and average response modes. Linear slide controls regulate recording levels for increased gain without sacrificing critical signal-to-noise ration. This series of SAE (Scientific Audio Electronics) components were actually manufactured in Korea by Inkel, some of the components being even labelled as Inkel/SAE. 


cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck



13 April 2019

YAMAHA B-6 (1980) - Secrets of The Pyramid

power amplifier

Rare (truncated) pyramid shaped stereo power amplifier from Yamaha. At the heart of the Yamaha B-6 from 1980 is the so called "X-Amp" scheme. Initially known as "X-Power", this power scheme was first used in the Benytone X-Calibre lineup and the Carver lineup they were building at this time. It seems that Yamaha, as a later adopter, for some reason didn't implemented fully the Benytone/Carver technology so it was renamed "X-Amp". Basically this system is using a TRIAC which switches between high or low power supplies according to the input signal and output needs. This results in increased output power capacity, but some say that it is not necessarily a good sound too. (200 W/ch 8Ohm, THD: 0,003%, 10-100.000 Hz, 29 x 17,65 x 29 cm, 9,2 kg)


power amplifier

power amplifier

power amplifier

power amplifier




04 April 2019

AKAI GX-F91 - Total Advance Deck

cassette deck

No knobs. No keys. And no clutter. AKAI GX-F91, a polite presetation of just the basics. But press the "door" button and, almost by magic, the faceplate automatically lowers (motor powered) to reveal the main control panel. Now,insert a cassette. Two microcumputers take charge, first automatically setting the bias. Then, executing a 64-step "tape-tuning" analysis that makes sure the GX-F91 gets the maximum from any tape. For superior frequency response and dynamic range, the GX-F91 is also endowed with a 3-head design, AKAI Super GX Heads and Dolby B & C systems. Plus operational features like auto-fade, auto-mute and auto-record-cancel that virtually guarantee professional quality recordings. AKAI's original Auto Monitor system is a "Can't Miss" feature that automatically goes into source monitoring during REC standby and into off-the-tape monitoring during REC, to eliminate monitor switch errors. Tape drive has been given added precision with Quartz-lock PLL servo DD motor, adding stability and accuracy so essential to tape travel.The Q&Q (Quick & Quiet) mechanism incorporated into the GX-F91/71/51/31 models provides direct lead-in and power eject for easier operation + ....Many More Akai Features.


cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck

cassette deck