ONKYO Integra K-701 (TA-2550) (1988)

 

The Integra K-701 from 1988 was a high-performance three-head cassette deck engineered by Onkyo for audiophiles who demand exceptional recording and playback quality. At the heart of the deck is a premium three-head configuration featuring a PCOCC (Pure Copper by Ohno Continuous Casting) recording/playback head. This advanced oxygen-free copper winding technology improves signal transmission efficiency, reducing losses and preserving musical detail across the entire frequency spectrum. Each head assembly undergoes comprehensive performance testing to ensure precise recording and playback characteristics, while a rigid zinc die-cast mounting structure maintains optimal tape alignment for maximum accuracy and reliability. The amplifier section reflects Integra's commitment to high-fidelity audio design. A newly developed ultra-low-impedance Super Linear power supply provides exceptional stability and transparency, improving low-frequency resolution, dynamic range, and high-frequency clarity. Independent power supplies for the audio circuits, fluorescent display system, and transport mechanism minimize interference and noise. To enhance recording performance, the K-701 incorporates a dedicated low-impedance recording amplifier with a specially developed buffer stage. This design improves channel separation while isolating the audio path from motor and display-related noise, resulting in cleaner recordings with greater detail, depth, and realism. The transport mechanism is equally sophisticated, utilizing separate motors for capstan drive, reel drive, and mechanical operations. A large-diameter precision-balanced flywheel, precision-finished capstan shaft, and high-torque low-ripple motors ensure stable tape movement and low wow and flutter performance. The silent transport mechanism contributes to smooth operation and highly accurate music reproduction. The Integra K-701 is also equipped with Dolby HX Pro, an advanced recording system that dynamically optimizes bias levels during recording. This technology significantly improves high-frequency headroom and dynamic range, allowing the deck to capture demanding musical passages with greater accuracy and reduced distortion. Dolby B and Dolby C noise reduction systems are also included to minimize tape hiss and enhance overall listening quality. A sophisticated real-time counter displays elapsed and remaining tape time in minutes and seconds, improving editing accuracy and tape management. The system automatically calculates tape position and remaining recording time while supporting multiple cassette lengths, including C-46, C-54, C-60, C-80, C-90, and C-120 formats. The deck also features advanced locating functions for precise cueing and editing. To optimize performance with different tape formulations, the K-701 includes AccuBias Control, allowing precise bias adjustment for maximum recording quality. Additional features include a 16-segment peak-hold level meter, automatic tape monitor switching, full and block repeat playback modes, timer standby operation, MPX filter, automatic tape slack removal, vibration-damping cork-insulated feet, and a polarity-indicated power cord. Finished in elegant black (only), the Integra K-701 represents one of the most advanced cassette deck designs of its era, combining premium PCOCC head technology, Dolby HX Pro recording enhancement, precision three-motor transport engineering, and sophisticated low-noise circuitry to deliver outstanding analog audio performance. 

Specifications: Heads: 3 - PCOCC record/playback head, erase head | Wow & Flutter: 0.038% WRMS, ±0.07% W Peak | Frequency Response: Metal Tape: 30Hz–19kHz ±3dB Chrome Tape: 30Hz–18kHz ±3dB Normal Tape: 30Hz–17kHz ±3dB | Signal-to-Noise Ratio:

60dB (Metal Tape, 3% THD) 70dB (Dolby B NR) 80dB (Dolby C NR) | Motors: DC Servo Capstan Motor, DC Reel Drive Motor, DC Mechanism Drive Motor | Dimensions: 435 × 131 × 366 mm | Weight: 5.8 kg | Onkyo Integra K-701 (Original sale price in Japan: 69.800 yen) | International market model available in black and silver, Onkyo TA-2550 (Original sale price in Germany 850 DM)

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