Lo-D (Hitachi brand name in Japan) was at the forefront of cassette deck development. As a consequence, they were among the first manufacturer (along with Nakamichi, Sony and Technics) to introduce a 3-head deck to the market. In contrast with the discrete head arrangement adopted by the other manufacturers, the Lo-D D-4500 was the first deck to employ the "combination/sandwich head" that was later adopted by other manufacturers and it became a de facto standard for 3-head cassette deck. The Lo-D D-4500 model was a Japanese market only model and it was only made to order. The Lo-D D-4500 had a 3-motor dual capstan configuration (1 capstan motor, 2 independent motors for fast winding), solenoid operated mechanism that achieved an extremely low 0.045% wow and flutter figure. The deck was equipped with Dolby noise reduction circuit as well as DCCS (Dolby Calibration Control System) based on a test one to help match tape sensitivity. One of its most striking visual elements was the VU meter bridge, inspired by studio recorders of the time. The RB-1000 wired remote control was available as an accessory. Technical data: Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz Chrome tape, 20-18,000 maxell UD tape, 20-15,000 Hz normal tape | Signal to noise: 63dB Dolby On | Dimensions: 441x222x312 mm | Weight: 12kg
