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.

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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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