ONKYO Radian C70 (1989)

 

The Onkyo Radian C70 is a "Real-Time CD multi program compo" from 1989. This top-of-the range midi hi-fi system featured a wide variety of comfort functions such as: Real-time super dubbing/recording - Simply insert the CD and tape, then press the switch once. It fully automates advanced editing operations, from peak level searching and tape cueing to real-time time-end editing based on the remaining tape time, and fade-outs. This ensures high-quality CD recording. | CD Multi-file / Up to 227 discs on one disc. Each unit stores four personal menus. Contents such as character selection, memory selection, graphic pattern, and digital peak search are filed away. It offers a new way to enjoy CD playback. | CD PLAYER - High-performance model employing optical digital transmission: Optical digital transmission sends music via optical fiber all the way to the D/A converter built into the amplifier. This advanced technology achieves high-purity sound. | CASSETTE DECK - Equipped with high-quality Dolby HX-PRO sound. You can automatically record side A to side A and side B to side B. Twin real-time counter. Real-time counters that digitally display the elapsed/remaining time of the tape in minutes and seconds are independently equipped on Tape 1 and Tape 2. This is highly effective for advanced editing tasks. | Other Features - Dolby B/C NR REC Level Volume, Double reverse mechanism, 5-segment level indicator, Fully automatic tape selector | AMPLIFIER - Digital amplifier with built-in high-precision D/A converter. It features a built-in D/A converter that converts digital signals into music. In addition to optical digital signals from CD players, it also widely supports digital inputs from DAT decks and BS tuners. AV amplifier with a wide range of video input and output options. It features three video inputs and two video outputs. In addition, it has two S-video input and output terminals. Other Features: Dynamic Presence Circuit for powerful bass, Dynamic Surround Circuit with 80 W + 80 W (EIAJ) power, Source Direct, REC function for recording a source different from the music you are listening to. Other features: FM/AM/TV audio multiplex digital tuner; 10 stations per band, 30 stations total preset memory; 4-system timer selector: Sleep/Play/Record 1 & 2. | 3WAY SPEAKER SYSTEM - Pure Cross Carbon 27cm Woofer. A large-diameter pure cross-carbon woofer directly reproduces the powerful bass contained in digital sources. Furthermore, high-quality units are also used for the midrange and treble frequencies. The magnetic shielding design reduces interference with cathode ray tubes and other components. Furthermore, the round baffle design prevents sound wave diffraction, resulting in richer musical expression. | GRAPHIC EQUALIZER (sold separately) Ultra-comfortable 4-spectrum analyzer/electronic graphic equalizer. A remote-controlled 4-spectrum equalizer with independent left and right control. Because it has 4 spectrum analyzers, you can simultaneously view spectrum analyzer operation and equalizer patterns, or display rear-level patterns. | SUPER WOOFER (sold separately) This super woofer adds even more appeal to Radian's superb sound with its ultra-low frequencies. Another combination was the so called "Center System" (cover photo). This system replaces the loudspeaker system presented above with a more compact (but high quality) bookshelf speaker. Also this version does not contain the turntable.

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ONKYO M-5890/P-3890 (1992) | Integra High-Fidelity

The Onkyo M-5890 (M-588) from 1992 delivers an exceptionally clean and authoritative audio performance by leveraging its twin-mono construction to virtually eliminate crosstalk, resulting in a wide, pinpoint-accurate stereo image. Its high-current 3-parallel push-pull output stage provides the muscularity needed to grip demanding speakers, ensuring deep, controlled bass and effortless transients even during complex musical passages. The integration of the Super Balance Circuit and Double Super Servo minimizes distortion and noise floor, allowing micro-details and subtle textures to emerge with lifelike clarity. Thanks to the LASER transformer’s shielding, magnetic interference is neutralized, preserving the purity of the signal for a warm, musical character that remains transparent across the entire frequency spectrum. The Onkyo M-5890 delivers a continuous power output of 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms, with dynamic power reaching an impressive 750 watts at 2 ohms to accommodate low-impedance loads. Precision is further refined by a 70μm thick copper foil circuit board and a custom-made detent volume control featuring gold-plated sliders and a high-internal-loss brass shaft to eliminate micro-distortions across the entire frequency range. Size (W/H/D) 455x190x426mm | Weight 29,6kg | Original sale price in Germany 3500 DM

The Onkyo P-3890 (P-388) preamplifier is the critical counterpart to the M-5890, designed to establish a totally balanced configuration from source to output. It mirrors the amplifier’s high-end architecture with its own dual-mono structure and "Super Balance" circuitry, featuring a double-differential input and double-servo design that eliminates noise induced during transmission. By utilizing two dedicated AEI LASER transformers—one specifically for line sources and another for phono stages—the P-388 ensures that delicate signals remain unpolluted by power supply fluctuations. For vinyl enthusiasts, the P-3890 offers a sophisticated phono section with independent MM and MC circuits, built using discrete components rather than integrated circuits to preserve a pure, analog warmth. Its design philosophy of "simple is best" omits standard tone controls in favor of a direct signal path, which results in stunning dynamic contrasts and authentic detail. When paired with the M-5890 via XLR balanced connectors, this duo functions as a singular, cohesive system that delivers superior bass slam, cleaner midrange, and a more expansive soundstage than previous Integra models. Size (W/H/D) 466x90x418mm | Weight 8,9kg

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AKAI VS-X10 (1984) | VHS Hi-Fi

 

The AKAI VS-X10 Hi-Fi VCR was a flagship audiophile VHS deck from 1984 combining advanced 4-head video performance with a dedicated set of Hi-Fi audio head and over 80dB dynamic range for near-digital sound quality. It delivers a full 20Hz–20kHz frequency response, ultra-low wow & flutter (<0.005%), and interference-free FM Hi-Fi audio recording for clear, balanced playback. Designed for convenience, it offers up to 8-hour long-play recording, a 4-week/8-program timer with on-screen scheduling, index recording, auto/manual recording levels, and Tape View monitoring. Precision engineering includes a quartz direct-drive motor, stable 4-head playback for sharp still images, and high-grade components such as low-noise transistors, OFC wiring, and gold-plated terminals. The X10 represents AKAI’s peak VHS Hi-Fi innovation, blending superior sound quality, reliable video performance, and user-friendly AV features. Original sale price in Japan ¥228,000

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Legendary Loudspeakers

 

Discover a great selection of iconic and legendary loudspeakers from the most famous manufacturers. Just follow this link: LEGENDARY 

AIWA M-501 (1980) | Full Performance...

 

FULL PERFORMANCE...STUDIO SOUND. This is how Aiwa advertised it's M-501 mini-hifi components. Every unit a technological gem designed to provide total performance in a space no more than thirteen inches high and nine inches wide. SA-C50U Stereo Preamplifier - Full featured control unit, including MC cartridge, bass and treble controls, 20dB muting, cross-dubbing and all input/output facilities. SA-P50U DC Stereo Power Amplifier - 50 watts per channel, minimum RMS at 8 ohms, both channels driven from 20-20,000 Hz with no more than 0.02% THD. 9-point peak power indicators. ST-R50U Quartz Synthesized Tuner - Precise, automatic or manual tuning with a 12-station programmable memory; six each for AM and FM. SD-L50U Metal Compatible Stereo Cassette Deck - Professional-type IC logic controls, 3-color peak level bar graph indicators, Dolby* NR. Equally exciting is Aiwa's M-502, a complete system in two components AX-S50U AM/FM Stereo Quartz Synthesized Auto Tuning Receiver (20 watts per channel, minimum RMS at 8 ohms, both channels driven from 20-20,000 Hz with no more than 0.1% THD)... and the SD-L50U described above. Because full performance means convenience and versatility too. Aiwa has even more systems, components and options, including some you can't get from anyone else: AP-D50U, unique, front loading DD fully automatic turntable; HR-50H High-Com NR system with 25dB improvement over Dolby; RC-R300U infrared wireless remote, full-function control; MT-50U programmable, ultra-slim quartz timer for unattended operation and SC-E50Υ 3-way bass reflex speaker system with bass and treble tone controls.

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KENWOOD KR-7050 (1979) | Hi-Speed High Fidelity

 

The KR-7050 from 1979 was in no way inferior to its larger siblings in terms of sound quality and offered more than sufficient 2 x 80 watts RMS power at 8 ohms between 20 and 20,000 Hz with simultaneous drive of both channels. The Kenwood-developed, direct-coupled DC high-speed amplifier section of this receiver does without phase-shifting coupling capacitors, which significantly improves sound quality. It offers interference-free record playback thanks to the innovative equalizer with a signal-to-noise ratio of 84 dB. Switchable IF bandwidth, i.e., either optimal selectivity for receiving weak stations in the crowded FM band or maximum transmission range with minimal distortion for receiving strong local or regional stations. Versatile sound nuance options thanks to the tone control network with bass, midrange, and treble controls, as well as additional 5-position crossover switches for the low and high frequencies. Microphone input jack. Specifications: 80W + 80w 8 ohms from 20Hz to 20.000Hz with no more than 0,02% total harmonic distortion | Damping factor 100 | Dimensions (W/H/D) 546x172x411mm | Weight 17,2kg | Original sale price in Germany 1600 DM.

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Technics Cassette Deck RS-G700 | Not AI

 

Today's most important news, This is Not a Drill... and Not AI. The specifications so far are: Amorphous 3-head system / Digital servo quartz direct drive / Dual capstan-closed loop system / Horizontal power loading / Virtual battery operation system / Hi-res phase compensation circuitry / Play direct function / Dual range peak hold OLED meters / Digital noise reduction system / DTC - Digital tape calibration system / 24bit Hires digital analog converter / Digital optical output.

(Originally created by Marek Gwozdz - Technics Fan from Poland)

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National NV-850 (1983) | First National Hi-Fi VHS

 

The National NV-850 marked a significant transition from VCRs being utility video players to high-end audio-visual components. The National NV-850 (often identified as the NV-850A or NV-850-B) was released in 1983 as National/Panasonic’s first major foray into the VHS Hi-Fi market. It was designed to compete with the high-fidelity sound of Betamax and was marketed as a "professional-grade" machine for home consumers, often used in university video labs and production environments. The core feature of the NV-850 was its FM-modulated depth-multiplexed audio. It achieved sound quality near FM stereo or CD levels, with a dynamic range of approximately 80dB. The front panel featured prominent multi-color LED audio level meters, which were essential for manual recording level adjustment. Users could switch between Left channel only, Right channel only, or standard linear mono tracks. The NV-850 is remembered for its "classic" early-80s styling before the industry moved toward cheaper, plastic designs. Metal Construction: Unlike later models, the NV-850 featured a heavy metal chassis and a flip-down door that concealed secondary controls for the timer and Hi-Fi settings. Reflecting its professional leanings, many versions came with BNC video jacks rather than the standard RCA, requiring adapters for home use. It used a complex belt-driven system (specifically the VBK46 belt kit) and a tracking dial that was highly regarded for its precision compared to later auto-tracking systems. Longevity & Maintenance Issues: Power Supply Heat - A known issue with the NV-850 was insufficient ventilation, which could lead to early failure of the power supply capacitors. Backup Power - The machine utilized three "Gold Cap" capacitors to maintain clock and timer settings during power outages; these are often found oxidized or leaking in vintage units today. The idler wheel and pinch rollers are the most frequent points of failure today, often requiring replacement to restore fast-forward or rewind functions.

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SANYO PH-WCD800 (1988)

 

The Sanyo PH-WCD800 portable CD component system delivers an immersive "sound and light" experience. This is a 3-piece portable CD component system from 1988 with a flexible layout. Great sound isn't something you hear with your ears, but something you hear with your body. Yes, something you feel with your whole being. For that, resonant bass, a spectrum analyzer that dances in time with the sound, and surround sound that expands the audio are essential. And that's where the PH-WCD800 comes in. A layout-free 3-piece type that lets you create the stylish soundscape of a city in your own room. A great feature is the spectrum analyzer, and the LCD centralized display. The first thing that catches your eye...Read More Here

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Aurex V50 (1984) | Midi Hi-Fi CD-AV

 

The Aurex V50 Midi Hi-Fi from 1984 was an advanced new system that lets you enjoy the next era of CD sound with comfortable operation. Experience an overwhelming sense of realism through the interplay of sound and visuals. The Aurex V50's AV compatibility expands your horizons and combines superior sound quality, functionality, and ease of use with expandability. Main features include: ● Direct operation system that allows recording and playback of each source with a single touch. ●Double reverse mechanism for full enjoyment of long continuous recording and playback. ●One-touch double Fast copying makes tape editing easy and quick. ● New MQJS with a variety of automatic track selection functions. Equipped with B-C. ● 70W + 70W high power amplifier ●6 FM/AM stations each, 12 stations total can be preset. ●One-touch recording to tape with the duplicate button. ●Simple operation full audio ●Excellent magnetic shielding design of the loudspeakers prevents color shift and unevenness even when placed next to a TV. Full list of components for the V50 system: Integrated Amplifier SB-V51 | FM/AM tuner ST-V51 | Turntable SR-V51R | Speaker system SS-V51W | Cassette deck PC-V51 WR | CD player XR-Z61 | Graphic Equalizer EQ-V51 | AV System Selector SD-V3AV | Alarm clock AT-V5 | Remote switcher AT-V5S | TV 21K692 | Hi-Fi Video V-L70S | Video Disc Player VDP-880D | TV stand STR-40G | Audio rack AR-V45 | Speaker stand AA-V10.

The advertising campaign of Aurex by Toshiba featured Japanese actress and singer Tomoyo Harada, who was the model for the brand at that time. The model, Tomoyo Harada, is a well-known figure from the 1980s Japanese "idol" era, famous for her lead role in the 1983 film The Little Girl Who Conquered Time. Using such high-profile talent helped position Aurex (Toshiba's high-end audio brand) as a desirable lifestyle choice for young consumers in Japan.

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AKAI GX-F90 (1979) | 3-Head Super GX

 

Introduced the the German market in November 1979, the Akai GX-F90 cassette deck stands as a landmark in high-end analog audio engineering, showcasing Akai’s long-standing expertise in tape technology—from open-reel machines to advanced cassette systems. Designed as a flagship 3-head deck, the GX-F90 featured the brand’s proprietary Super GX (Glass & X’tal Ferrite) heads, a breakthrough that used precision-grown single-crystal ferrite encased in ultra-hard glass to deliver exceptional durability, ultra-low noise, and extended high-frequency response. Unlike competing designs moving toward Sendust alloy heads, Akai refined ferrite to achieve superior magnetic performance, with a 4-micron recording head gap and an ultra-precise 1-micron playback head gap for optimal fidelity. The deck’s robust two-motor transport system combined a direct-drive, brushless FG servo capstan motor with Hall-effect control for outstanding speed stability, minimizing wow and flutter while ensuring accurate tape handling. Advanced IC logic enabled feather-touch controls and smooth function switching, complemented by a visually intuitive illuminated interface and a 24-segment digital peak/VU level meter. Additional features such as the IPLS (Instant Program Locating System) for automatic track cueing, repeat and memory playback functions, and a one-touch recording cancel mechanism enhanced usability. The GX-F90 supported all major tape types (LN, LH, CrO₂, and Metal), incorporated Dolby B noise reduction, and offered precise recording calibration via an internal 400 Hz oscillator. Akai’s proprietary ADR (Automatic Distortion Reduction) further optimized recording by dynamically adjusting equalization to reduce high-frequency distortion. With its combination of precision engineering, innovative head technology, and sophisticated control systems, the GX-F90 delivered a characteristically clean, detailed sound while setting the stage for its successor, the GX-F95, cementing its reputation as one of the most advanced cassette decks of its era. Specifications: Wow and Flutter: 0,03% WRMS | Frequency Response 25-21.000Hz Metal | Dimensions (W/H/D) 440x105x370 mm | Weight 9,8kg | Color: silver and black | Original sale price in Germany 1498 DM.

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SONY CFD-900 (1990) | DoDeCa HORN CD

 

The Dodecahorn XL system from Sony achieves advanced sound quality performance comparable to home audio. Furthermore, it incorporates Sony's pioneering digital technology, born from its experience in CD development. A remarkably intelligent sound machine has arrived in 1990. The sheer power of the Dodeca Horn resonator produces a robust, deep bass sound. The new resonator (resonant tube) further refines the deep bass of the Dodeca Horn. Thus frequency peaks that disrupt the sound balance are ... Discover More on BOOMBOXCITY here.

AKAI GX COMPO 930 (1988) | DOISYS Interface

The AKAI GX COMPO 930. A luxurious system meticulously crafted down to the smallest detail, designed to create an ideal sonic paradise. The GX COMPO's top-of-the-line MU-930 is a luxurious collection of components, each boasting a high level of perfection. The speakers, in particular, feature an unparalleled design of resonance-free and high rigidity. The side wood used in all components not only adds elegance and sophistication befitting a high-end system, but also serves as part of the highly rigid construction aimed at even more effective vibration dispersion. But perhaps the most luxurious feature is the inclusion of a digital and optical interface system. Beyond the crystal-clear digital sound reproduced by a transmission method that eliminates any sound degradation, one can almost hear the exhilaration of the performers' spirits. The ideal transmission method for preserving the purity of digital signals: Digital & Optical Interface System. Conventional analog transmission methods inevitably suffer from sound quality degradation due to distortion caused by cable materials and connected devices, and deterioration of phase characteristics due to capacitors. Therefore, digital transmission, which converts signals into a simple combination of 1s and 0s, emerged. However, as long as coaxial cables are used, the problems of unwanted radiation and external noise induction remain unresolved. Furthermore, in simultaneous analog/digital connection methods, complete electrical isolation is not achieved due to coexistence with analog circuits, and signal influence via ground lines, etc., remains a problem. The digital & optical interface system (DOISYS) adopted by GX COMPO is an ideal signal transmission method that takes digital transmission a step further. Because it converts digital signals into light and transmits them via fiber optic cables, sufficient electrical isolation between connected devices is achieved, and theoretically, sound quality degradation due to cable materials is impossible, allowing high-purity digital sources to be extracted with their original quality. This connection is used to connect the CD player and DAT recorder to the system amplifier. The shown components of the GX COMPO 930 System are: AT-M730L Quartz Synthesizer FM-Stereo tuner, CD-M930 CD player, AM-M930 Digital Stereo Integrated amplifier, AD-M930 Digital Audio Tape deck and GX-M950W Stereo Double Cassette Deck featuring GX heads and CRLP (Computer Recording Level Processing System).

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