DUAL KA-380 (1979) | Compact Hi-Fi

The KA-380 is a compact Hi-Fi system made by Dual in Germany, 1979. This was the top model of the range and it features a modular construction. This means that the built-in cassette recorder is the same as the Dual 819 cassette deck featuring LED level indicators and separate level adjustment for microphone and source components. It can handle Normal, Chrome and FeCr tapes being factory optimised for BASF Super LH, BASF Chrom-Super and BASF Ferrochrom. The built-in turntable is the Dual 622. This is a fully automatic direct drive model with Dual's unique U.L.M. (Ultra Low Mass) tonearm and Ortofon 55E cartridge with elliptical needle. The tuner section is a Quartz-stabilized digital tuner with 4 wavebands and 7 FM memories with touch-sensor program selector. Power rating of the amplifier section is 2x40 Watt Sinus DIN. The recommended HiFi speakers were: Dual CL 720, CL 710 or CL 271. Dimensions: 650 x 205 x 400 mm (W x H x D). Original sale price without loudspeakers: 2.298 DM in Germany.

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Music Center

 

JVC R-S77 (1980) | Super-A & S.E.A.

 

Torn between Super-A, quartz tuning and graphic EQ? Why not get all three. Choosing a receiver can be a painful experience. Especially when the features you want most don't all happen to come in the same package. But there was the JVC R-S77. With the sound purity of Super-A amplification. The precision and beauty of quartz tuning. And the flexible control of JVC's 5-band S.E.A. graphic equalizer. By completely eliminating switching distortion, Super-A allows the subtle details of musical overtones to come through cleanly and naturally. Add a powerful 60 watts per channel into 8 ohms, from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, with no more than 0.005% total harmonic distortion and you have an amplifier that sounds convincingly live on all kinds of music, loud or soft, simple or complex. The quartz tuning system zeros in perfectly on every FM and AM station. So distortion and noise remain infinitesimally low. And with our pushbutton memory system, you can tune in any of six FM or six AM stations instantly. With the built-in S.E.A. graphic equalizer, you can give your system a thousand sound personalities. You can also fix speaker quirks and room acoustics. Beauty. Convenience. Control. And stunning sound quality. Now you don't have to choose which you want. Because you get them all in the JVC R-S77 receiver, with a total harmonic distortion of 0,001%. Size: 452x119x382mm (WxHxD) | Weight 10,6kg | Original sale price $560

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Classic Amplifiers & Receivers

Sansui D-550M/SC-D77 (1981) | Direct-O-Matic

 

More Music. Less Noise. More Machine. Sansui. Noise is a thief. It robs you of the quality of music you are entitled to hear from a fine cassette deck. Without the SDSF (Sansui Dyna-Scrape Filter) music sound gritty, whether the sound is loud or soft. The Dyna-Scrape Filter, reduces modulation noise by as much as 10dB! That represents a startling audible difference and a profound reduction in this most pervasive of tape noises. Until now, scrape filters were found only in professional reel to reel tape decks. Now Sansui has ingeniously engineered this valuable technology into a truly affordable cassette deck. The D-550M (SC-D77) is a 3-head machine with full IC logic control and an open cassette compartment called Direct-O-Matic. It has a frequency response from 25-21,000Hz (± 3dB, metal tape); user adjustable bias control; 2-motor Direct Drive mechanism that reduces wow and flutter to a miniscule 0.035% (WRMS); plus state-of-the-art heads and electronics that improves signal to noise ratio to 70dB (with Dolby-BTM). More music, less noise. More machine. Better value. That's what Sansui cassette decks are all about. There were two color variations, silver and black. The Japanese market model was named SC-D77 while the international market model was the D-550M. Remote control is possible by combining the optional remote control unit RS-7.

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AKAI GX-635D (1979)

 

This top-of-the-line open-reel features 6 heads (including 4 low noise, crystal ferrite GX heads) that are located symmetrical to the center capstan for top quality sound in both directions. A 3-motor Direct Drive system and new transport mechanism with tension arms ensure steady tape travel. With this 6-head transport system the GX-635D is capable of making two-way recording and playback. Each direction operates in 3-head system allowing real time monitoring. While the tape counter is only a simple mechanical counter it still displays min. and sec. while using 19cm/s tape speed. There were two versions of this model, the "D" and "DB". The GX-635DB version featured Dolby noise reduction. They were available with silver and black front. While the silver models are quite common the black versions are quite rare. The GX-635D is remote control capable with one of the additional remote controller, RC17, RC18, RC-70. The DC-635 dust cover could be purchased separately. Technical data: Tape speed 9,5 and 19cm/s | Frequency Response: 30-27.000Hz (19cm/s using Wide Range tape) | Signal to noise: better than 62dB | Dimensions (WxHxD) 440x483x256mm | Weight 21kg | Original sale price: 1898 DM in Germany.

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Classic Reel to Reel

SONY WM-20 (1983) | World's Smallest and Lightest

 

The WM-20 Walkman from Sony has the size of a cassette case, making it easy to carry around. It's small size and thinness are extremely satisfying for the user and it was available in four different colors (black, red, blue and silver). While miniaturizing the device, sound quality was also pursued. This means the electrical circuits were precision-built using a large number of ICs, and the motor uses a newly developed ultra-thin BSL motor. What's more, the power-saving design runs on a single AA battery, realizing space-saving power supplies. Of course, it's not just about making it smaller, Sony also taken an approach to sound quality. It's chock-full of features that produce great sound, such as a new type of headphone and built-in Dolby NR. The key to the miniaturization is the motor. With a conventional motor shape, it is impossible to fit it into a body the size of a cassette case. That's why Sony developed the ultra-flat BSL motor. This motor is hidden under the tape supply reel base, so it's not noticeable at first glance. The motor is brushless and slotless, so there is no cogging and it has a long life. The flat shape provides a large moment of inertia and excellent constant speed rotation performance. In addition, a full-fledged FG servo (frequency control) is used to further improve rotation accuracy. The included headphones, the MDR-W30L, are unique in both style and construction, and while they are ultra-lightweight at just 14g, they deliver clear, dynamic sound reproduction from low to high frequencies. Technical specifications: Frequency range: TYPE IV (metal position) = 40~15,000Hz (EIAJ) | Power source: Dry cell battery (one AA battery) 1.5V, battery case (sold separately EBP-10, uses two AA batteries), car battery adapter (sold separately DCC-70) | Body dimensions: Width 109.5 x Height 69.5 (81.3 when cassette is installed) x Depth 17.6 mm (excluding maximum protrusions) | Weight: 180g (including batteries) | Main accessories: Stereo headphones MDR-W30L, carrying holder, carrying strap, Sony dry battery SUM-3 (NS)

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TELEFUNKEN studio center 5030 hifi (1977)

 

In terms of sound quality and electronic ingenuity, Telefunken's Studio Center 5030 HiFi offers just about everything a critical listener could wish for. An output power of 2 x 50 Watt (music power). A frequency range of 20-20,000 Hertz. A distortion factor of at most 0.5%. The belt-drive record player, with 16-pole synchronous motor, is fully automatic. The cassette unit with IC Dolby processor and many interesting recording options can be operated at the touch of a button. The 5030 was advertised as The World's First totally modular construction system with hundreds of components and circuit elements combined in a few plug-in modules. Each of them forms a closed functional unit. The result: HiFi technology has never been so reliable, easy to service and future-proof. Display instruments feature new LED technology. The 7 FM preset stations can be selected via touch sensors. Size (WxHxD) 706x193x396mm. Original sale price: 1847 DM in Germany.

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Music Center

Technics SU-V7 (1981) | New Class A

 

Based on the new class A amplifier technology developed for the SU-V10, this integrated amplifier further reduces distortion by installing linear feedback that reduces the distortion to a  theoretical value of 0. In the SU-V7, the bandwidth of the independent feedback circuit is limited, and the feedback amount is gradually reduced as the frequency increases. With this configuration, a gain increase of about 20 dB is obtained at 100 kHz. Even in the ultra-high frequency range, the NFB is 10 times more stable than the conventional one, and the distortion is greatly reduced. The synchronous bias circuit developed by Technics, which is the foundation of New Class A, eliminates switching distortion caused by pause by supplying a constant bias current in synchronization with the pause cycle to output transistors that normally go into complete pause alternately in order to obtain high efficiency in class B and class AB, and keeping the output stage in the active state at all times. In addition, since the signal path and bias current path are independent, the output stage always keeps an appropriate operating point. Together with the function of a high-speed diode with dual characteristics, crossover distortion is eliminated. The power transformer is a resin-sealed power transformer with low vibration and low leakage flux and is equipped with a rush current prevention circuit to save peak current for a few seconds after power is turned on. The amplifier was available in both silver and black finish. The original sale price was 1.000 DM in Germany.

Technical Data:

Continuous power (at distortion factor)

8 Ohm: 2x 80 Watt (0.003 %)

4 Ohm: 2x 80 Watt (0.007 %)

Frequency response: 5 - 70,000 Hz (8 Ohm; 0.02 % THD)

Loudness: yes 50Hz +7dB

High Filter: 7 kHz -6 dB/oct.

Low Filter (Subsonic): 20 Hz -12 dB/oct.

Dimensions (WxHxD): 430 x 120 x 362 mm

Weight: 9.5 kg

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Classic Amplifiers

ASC AS-2000 (1985) | Hi-Fi Made in Germany

 

The ASC 2000 sees itself as the little brother of the AS 3001 and is almost identical to the AS 3001 in terms of mechanical, measurement and sound properties. In terms of price, the AS 2000 should be accessible to every serious music lover. The three motors single capstan Direct Drive system and the pressure arm with the magnetic (Sendust) heads are mounted on a torsion-free die-cast mechansim by PAPST. This guarantees an ideal and permanently stable functioning.

Technical specifications:

Heads: Erase head, double system Sendust head

Motors: 3 (single-capstan direct drive)

Wow & Flutter: ±0.12% (DIN 45507)

Tape types: Type I (Fe), Type II (CrO), Type III (FeCr), Type IV (Metal)

Frequency response: 20Hz to 22kHz for Metal band

Dolby B-C

Remote control: available as an option

Dimensions: 443 x 130 x 335 mm (WxHxD).

Weight: 12 kg

Original price: approx. 2'250 DM (1985)

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Cassette Deck Classics

The New Quad 33/303

 

Very few Hi-Fi components are as instantly recognisable as the QUAD 33 and 303, a classic British preamp and power amp combination from the late 1960s, winner of the Council of Industrail Design award for 1969. This new 33-303 combo from 2024 retains much of the ethos of the original model. QUAD’s decision to revisit the 33 and 303 was in no small part due to the continuing demand for these amps on the second-hand market some four decades after they were discontinued in the 1980s. This pre/power amp brings back the romance of the original but over 50 years of innovation and improvements, making it a joy to behold regardless of source; track after track, symphony after symphony, the 33 and 303 are thoroughly engaging the listener whether the volume is set low or high! The industrial design of the new QUAD 303 is instantly recognisable and is ‘true QUAD’. The anodised chassis CNC-routed heat sinks on either side offer enduring quality which the tank housing also provides a rugged structure that resists interference from external vibrations. Much like the original, the new QUAD 303 maintains its faithfulness to the original by employing the famous QUAD ‘symmetrical triples’. Employed to provide a completely symmetrical output stage, greatly reducing distortion and rendering the resting current independent of output transistor temperature. The QUAD 33 preserves the brand’s signature simplicity while incorporating modern upgrades like a backlit display, LED illumination, and remote control functionality. The control system of the QUAD 33 remains user-friendly, featuring logically arranged functions, a backlit LCD screen for clear settings, and motorised volume controls that allow remote adjustments. It includes bass, tilt, and balance controls for precise sound customisation, with the unique Tilt control developed by QUAD’s founder enabling tonal adjustments. The new 303 model features a fully complementary output stage for superior linearity and stability, enhancing sound quality even under challenging conditions. With a custom low-noise toroidal transformer, advanced feedback topology, and a power rating of 50W @ 8 ohms, the new QUAD 303 meets modern audiophile demands while maintaining its iconic design and robust construction. Price £1199 each.

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Classic Amplifiers

YAMAHA MS-8 (1979) | All in One

All in one? Okay! But it has to be perfect, thought Yamaha, and developed a revolutionary music centre. The Yamaha MS-8 music centre consist of a cassette deck, turntable and tuner/amplifier. All in one. Can be used independently, but also in combination with each other. Let's review the key features of this combination. The Cassette deck: Masterful recording in an easy way. You can record radio programs and your favorite LPs directly. Without complicated tricks. A push of a button is enough. You just have to pay attention to the type of cassette you are using. Because for that you have to push a separate button. Not to make it complicated but to get the best possible recording. The Record player: Fully automatic. A four-pole synchronized motor drives the aluminum platter and ensures a consistently correct speed. The Tuner: The use of advanced electronics provides an amazing reception. There is provision for quick and easy tuning to the usual FM stations by means of a push-button. The Amplifier: The MS-8 delivers 28 watts/ch (40W/ch DIN 4ohm) with a harmonic distortion of only 0.1%. Original sale price was 2398 DM in Germany.

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Classic Music Centre

 

 

Technics RS-1060U (1974) | Hot Pressed Ferrite

 

The RS-1060U is a 2-track, 38cm/s  a high quality reel to reel recorder with direct drive capstan in a luxurious configuration. For the capstan motor (a brushless low-speed motor) a capstan with a diameter of 12 mm is used to further enhance the high performance of D. D. Electronic control system is adopted for all 3 motors. A 6-pole eddy current type inner rotor motor is used for the reel motor, and the tension can be switched according to reel size. Since the operation of the mechanism is performed by an electromagnetic plunger and relay, all operations can be performed by the touch of a micro switch. Speed adjustment of ± 2% is possible at each of 2 speeds of 19cm/s and 38cm/s. The electrical circuit section is designed with an emphasis on linearity with the aim of recording live sound with a wide dynamic range. Carefully selected low-noise type transistors are used. The microphone input and line input are equipped with independent level controllers to enable mixing recording. In addition, the impedance switch for the microphone is provided so that the best matching can be obtained for all types from low impedance type to high impedance type. The head has a structure in which four heads are mounted on a die-cast head mount. These are for 2-track erasing, 2-track recording, 2-track playback, and 4-track playback. Except for the erasing head, all are HPF heads. Features of this head include high gap accuracy, long life, and excellent high-frequency characteristics due to low overcurrent loss.

Specifications:

Type: 38cm/s 2-track Direct Drive 3-Motor

Track system: 2-track 2-ch recording / playback, 4-track 2-ch playback

Tape speed: 38cm/s, 19cm/s, ± 2% variable

Heads: 

Recording : HPFx1

       Playback : HPF (1 each for 4-track and 2-track)

       Erase : 1 ferrite

Motors: 

For Capstan : DC Direct Drive Motor x1

For Reel : 2 x 6 Pole Eddy Current Motors

Frequency response: 

38cm/s : 30 Hz to 27000 Hz, ± 3 dB

19cm/s : 25 Hz to 24000 Hz, ± 3 dB

Wow flutter

38cm/s:0.04%

19cm/s:0.07%

External dimensions

Width 425x Height 568x Depth 270 mm

Weight

Approx. 33 kg

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Reel to Reel Classics