Technics RS-AZ7 (1996) | Amorphous-Z

 

The Technics RS-AZ7 is one of the most innovative cassette decks ever produced, distinguished by its groundbreaking Amorphous-Z playback head. Developed from Digital Compact Cassette (DCC) technology, this world-first analog thin-film MR (magnetoresistive) head replaced the conventional coil design with an advanced magnetic sensing element, delivering exceptional signal-to-noise ratio, ultra-wide frequency response, outstanding channel separation, and remarkably low distortion. Its precision-engineered 0.5 μm head gap and thin-film construction significantly improve high-frequency detail while eliminating many of the low-frequency limitations and contour effects associated with traditional playback heads. The compact detection structure also minimizes crosstalk, reduces monitoring interference, and improves compatibility with pre-recorded tapes, resulting in exceptionally accurate and natural sound reproduction. To maximize playback quality, the RS-AZ7 includes a Play Direct mode that routes the playback head output directly to the amplifier, providing an even cleaner signal path when Dolby noise reduction is disabled. Recording performance is equally impressive thanks to a permalloy recording head, a double-gap ferrite erase head, and Technics' advanced Linear Magnet Field Class AA recording amplifier, which combines voltage and current amplification for greater magnetic field accuracy and faithful signal transfer. A high 210 kHz bias frequency, Virtual Battery Operation Circuit, and Dolby HX Pro further enhance recording precision by reducing noise and extending high-frequency performance. The deck also features Automatic Tape Calibration (ATC), which analyzes tape characteristics at 400 Hz, 3 kHz, 10 kHz, and 15 kHz before automatically optimizing bias, recording sensitivity, equalization, and level settings for each cassette. Additional features include Dolby B and Dolby C noise reduction, ultra-fast 70x FF/REW capable of winding a C-60 cassette in approximately 35 seconds, power-assisted cassette loading, MPX filter, memory stop, wireless remote control, and the vibration-resistant THCB (Technics Hybrid Construction Base) chassis with a high-density hybrid front panel. Combining pioneering head technology with sophisticated electronics and premium mechanical construction, the Technics RS-AZ7 remains one of the most technically advanced and highly regarded cassette decks, delivering audiophile-grade playback and recording performance that continues to impress enthusiasts and collectors alike. Specifications: Heads:  Recording head (Permalloy) x1, Playback head (AZ Thin-Film) x1, Double-gap ferrite erase head x1 | Motors: DC capstan motor (belt drive), DC motor reel | Wow and Flutter 0.07% (WRMS) | Frequency response: 20-17.000Hz Type I, 20-18.000Hz Type II, 20-23.000Hz Type IV | Dimensions (W/H/D) 430x125x290mm | Weight 4,2kg | Original sale price: ¥59,800 Japan, 700 DM Germany 

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