YAMAHA KX-1000 (1988)

Technically, sonically, and in terms of feel this is a superb deck that achieves maximum quality. Featuring Dolby B/C NR, HX-PRO, and dbx NR, this 3-head deck brings together cutting-edge technology. The Yamaha KX-1000 stands out as a masterpiece of late-1980s audio engineering.

Yamaha KX-1000 Core Specifications

Configuration: Closed-loop dual capstan

Heads: 12-layer Amorphous (recording & playback), Double-gap ferrite (erasure).

Bias Adjustment: Dolby HX-PRO (dynamic) and Yamaha ORBiT (static).

Wow & Flutter: ±0.06% or less (W.Peak), 0.03% or less (W.RMS).

Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz (Normal), 20Hz–22kHz (Chrome), 20Hz–24kHz (Metal).

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 57dB (NR Off), 65dB (Dolby B), 73dB (Dolby C), 95dB (dbx).

Dimensions: 435W × 141H × 379D mm, 

Weight 8.4 kg.

Original Retail Price: ¥89,800 (Japan).

Remote control standard equipment

A closed-loop dual-capstan system prevents modulation noise caused by tape vibration. If the tape tension is not uniform, the tape vibrates slightly with each recording/playback, generating modulation noise that distorts the input and output signals. The KX-1000 employs a closed-loop dual-capstan system with capstans in two locations: on the supply side and the take-up side. This keeps the tape at a constant tension, allowing for accurate recording and playback without unwanted vibrations. Dolby HX-PRO is built-in to enable smooth tape recording with excellent high-frequency response. Even when music has strong harmonic components, it prevents high-frequency attenuation due to excessive bias, and significantly improves the dynamic range. High-quality recording is possible regardless of tape type or whether noise reduction is on or off. A 210kHz high bias to prevent beat distortion and intermodulation noise. The bias frequency is double the conventional 105 kHz, employing a high bias of 210 kHz. This ensures sufficient distance between the audio signal and the bias, reducing beat distortion and intermodulation noise caused by signal interference, resulting in high-quality recording. Furthermore, the recording amplifier employs a constant current drive system, enabling ideal head drive that is independent of changes in head impedance. The noise reduction system incorporates Dolby B and C NR, as well as professional-grade dbx NR, to enable recording and playback with a high signal-to-noise ratio. By compressing and expanding across the entire audio frequency range, it not only reduces unpleasant high-frequency noise but also significantly improves the signal-to-noise ratio in the mid-to-low frequencies. Even CDs with a wide dynamic range can be recorded with virtually no loss of fidelity to the original sound. High-quality sound design achieved through OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper) construction of the entire signal system. Amorphous 12-layer laminated head. It employs a combination recording and playback head made of 12 layers of amorphous laminate. By using LC-OFC for the head windings, LC-OFC for the signal path wiring, and OFC for the printed circuit board, the entire signal path from input to output is made of OFC. This minimizes transmission distortion and enhances sound quality. In addition, as befits a high-end model, it features a playback amplifier with a dual FET DC amplifier configuration and incorporates audio-grade quality parts, demonstrating a high-quality sound design in every detail. Set the optimal bias value to match the tape. Equipped with Yamaha's unique ORBIT system. Equipped with Yamaha's unique ORBIT system, it ensures optimal recording characteristics regardless of the tape brand. By automatically recording and playing back a test signal, it displays whether the bias level is over or under. You can then adjust the bias volume to the optimal value. Independent power supply for the mechanical display and amplifier. The power supply features a large, massive 3-winding power transformer with separate windings for the mechanical/display system and the amplifier system. By eliminating magnetic loops that can muddy the sound, a clean sound is achieved. Equipped with a 28-key remote control that allows you to enjoy intro scan and program playback.

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Telefunken HC 990 (1989) | 3-Head HX-Pro

A Late-1980s 3-Head Approach. The HC 990 is best viewed in the context of the end of the cassette era's development. By 1989, cassette decks had already reached a high level of maturity. The HC 990 therefore does not need to be presented as a revolutionary or exceptionally sophisticated machine. Instead, its interest lies in how Telefunken distilled the important features of a 3-head recording deck into a relatively focused package.

Telefunken HC 990 Main Specifications

Type: 3-head recording/playback/erase system.

Transport: 2 electronically controlled DC motors

Tape Types: Fe, Cr and metal. 

Frequency response Metal tape 20-18.000Hz

Electronic tape-type detection with adjustable bias fine control.

Noise Reduction: Dolby B/C NR and Dolby HX Pro.

Search & Control: Microprocessor-controlled Music Search System (MSS)

Digital counter, zero-stop memory, repeat function and record mute.

Display: Multifunction fluorescent display with digital indicators and real-time recording-level peak meter.

Dimensions (W/H/D) 440x116x290mm

Weight: 3,8kg

System remote control - RC90

The result is a deck aimed at users who wanted the benefits of proper tape monitoring and recording adjustment without necessarily moving into the much more elaborate territory occupied by some of the era's premium cassette decks. Telefunken HC 990: A Focus on the Essentials. The three-head configuration is the defining feature of the HC 990. Separate record, playback and erase heads allow the deck to monitor the actual signal being recorded on tape, rather than simply monitoring the source signal. This makes the HC 990 particularly relevant to users interested in making and evaluating their own recordings. At the same time, Telefunken avoided making the deck unnecessarily complicated. The feature set is focused on functions that are genuinely useful when recording and playing cassettes. Practical Recording Features. Bias fine control provides adjustment for different tape characteristics, while electronic detection selects the appropriate setting for Fe, Cr or metal tapes. Dolby B/C noise reduction is provided alongside Dolby HX Pro, which continuously monitors the frequency spectrum during recording and adjusts the bias to improve high-frequency output and reduce distortion. Electronic Control Without Excess. Logic Control operates the transport through electronic pushbuttons, while the digital counter, fluorescent display, memory function and Music Search System add practical convenience. The HC 990 also includes record mute, repeat and timer functions, but the overall specification remains centered around its core cassette-recording capabilities. Original sale price in Germany: 799 DM 

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PIONEER CT-939 (1988) | The Reference Master Cassette Deck

What if you inserted a conventional compact cassette, pressed Play, and suddenly wondered if you were listening to digital audio? The answer is the Pioneer CT-939, a three-head flagship cassette deck engineered around extremely stable tape transport, short signal paths, low vibration, and precision recording and playback circuitry.

Pioneer CT-939 Main Specifications

Type: 4-Super/2-Channel Recording and Playback Stereo Cassette Deck

Head configuration: Three-head design

“Laser Amorphous” playback head × 1

Hard Permalloy recording head × 1 (combined)

Dual-Gap Ferrite erase head × 1

Motors:

DC servo motor for capstan drive × 1

DC motor for reel drive × 1

DC auxiliary motor × 1

Wow and flutter: 0.024% WRMS; ±0.06% DIN

Rewind time: 80 seconds with C-60 tape

Frequency response:

Normal tape: 20–21,000 Hz (-20 dB)

Chrome tape: 20–21,000 Hz (-20 dB)

Metal tape: 20–22,000 Hz (-20 dB)

Signal-to-noise ratio: 60 dB, Dolby off

Distortion: 0.6% at 0 dB

Inputs: MIC, 67 mV / 50 kΩ; LINE

Power supply: 220 V or 240 V, 50–60 Hz

Dimensions: 420 × 133.5 × 372 mm

Weight: 9.6 kg

The Pioneer CT-939 “Reference Master” Technology. The tape transport is at the heart of the CT-939. Pioneer designed the mechanism around a dual-capstan drive intended to optimize tape contact with the playback head. Two differently sized capstans, together with the guide rollers, help reduce resonances generated by moving parts. The enclosed tape path further contributes to the highly stable transport associated with the “Reference Master” drive. Precision playback starts at the head. The CT-939 uses a precision-machined amorphous playback head, while the three-head configuration separates the recording, playback, and erase functions. A cassette stabilizer holds the cassette securely in position while helping damp vibrations that could affect sound purity. Short Signal Paths. Pioneer also concentrated heavily on the signal circuitry. Signal paths between the input and recording head, and between the playback head and output, were kept extremely short. The recording and playback circuits for the two channels are completely separated to minimize interference and distortion. The playback amplifier uses non-inductive circuitry with direct head connection, designed to reduce magnetic distortion while improving linearity. Vibration Control and Chassis Construction. Mechanical stability extends beyond the tape transport. The CT-939 uses a robust copper-plated chassis, honeycomb-reinforced construction, cassette damping, honeycomb-structured dampers, and a cast-encased transformer. The specially damped transformer is made from solid cast iron and incorporates three separate OFC windings intended to prevent interference. The power supply is a low-impedance, servo-controlled, high-speed design, with separate supplies for the amplifier, control, and display stages. Recording and Noise-Reduction Features. The CT-939 combines its transport and circuit design with extensive recording controls. Dolby HX Pro extends dynamic range in the high frequencies, while Dolby B and C noise reduction provide additional noise reduction. The deck also includes fine adjustment of recording bias current, allowing the bias to be adjusted for the tape being used. An automatic tape-type selection system simplifies operation with different cassette formulations. Pioneer CT-939 User Features. Despite its ambitious engineering, the CT-939 was designed for straightforward operation: Automatic monitor switches from Source to Tape when recording begins, Switchable fluorescent level meter with peak hold, Narrower meter range for increased resolution, One-button recording start, Mute recording with automatic blank-space correction, Electronic tape counter with three display modes, Motorized cassette ejection, Headphone output with level control, Timer capability for recording and playback, MPX filter, Skip function for direct access to the beginning of the 15th track in either tape direction. The CT-939 was a AC220V, 240V model while the CT-800 was the AC120V model. Original sale price in Germany: 1200 DM.

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B-I-C T-4M (1979) | 2-Speed 3-Head

The B-I-C T-4M was no ordinary cassette deck. With two tape speeds, full metal-tape capability, and B-I-C's exclusive Broadband Electronics, it pushed the compact cassette format remarkably close to open-reel performance.

B-I-C T-4M Main Specifications

Tape speeds: 4.75 cm/s and 9.50 cm/s

Frequency response at 4.75 cm/s: 20 Hz–21 kHz ±3 dB

Frequency response at 9.50 cm/s: 20 Hz–23 kHz ±3 dB

Wow and flutter at 4.75 cm/s: 0.05% WRMS / 0.09% DIN

Wow and flutter at 9.50 cm/s: 0.03% WRMS / 0.07% DIN

Total harmonic distortion: 1.3% at 4.75 cm/s

Fast-forward/rewind: approximately 48 seconds with a C-60 cassette

Level meters: Peak-indicating LED bar graph, –36 to +9 dB

Drive system: Two-speed tachometer-feedback DC servo motor

Transport: Dual-capstan design

Spooling: DC spooling motor

Dimensions (W/H/D): 440x164x257mm

Weight: 8,4kg

Broadband Electronics was the heart of the T-4M's design. B-I-C developed this circuitry to take advantage of the increased performance available from higher tape speed while maintaining an unusually wide response at the standard 4.75 cm/s cassette speed. At 4.75 cm/s, the T-4M was specified to reach 20 Hz to 21 kHz ±3 dB. Increase the tape speed to 9.50 cm/s and the specification extended to 20 Hz to 23 kHz ±3 dB. That second speed was the real attraction. Running cassette tape at 9.50 cm/s offered substantially more bandwidth and lower wow and flutter, allowing B-I-C to position the T-4M as a cassette deck capable of challenging open-reel machines. Metal tape capability added another advantage. Combined with the higher tape speed and Broadband Electronics, it gave the T-4M the technical foundation for its unusually ambitious performance claims. The transport was equally important. A dual-capstan mechanism and tachometer-feedback DC servo motor were employed to maintain precise tape movement, while a separate DC spooling motor handled fast winding operations. Dolby NR and Signal-to-Noise Performance. Noise reduction was an important part of the T-4M's specification. At 4.75 cm/s, the quoted signal-to-noise ratio was 57 dB, increasing to 65 dB with Dolby NR. At 9.50 cm/s, the figure rose to 61 dB, while B-I-C specified 68 dB with Dolby NR and metal tape. For a cassette deck of its era, these figures demonstrate just how seriously B-I-C approached high-performance recording. The 9.50 cm/s Advantage. Why the higher speed mattered? Tape speed has a direct influence on cassette performance. Increasing the speed from 4.75 cm/s to 9.50 cm/s allowed the T-4M to achieve its widest specified frequency response while also reducing measured wow and flutter. At 9.50 cm/s, wow and flutter was rated at just 0.03% WRMS, compared with 0.05% at the standard speed. The same time you might ask yourself about compatibility with other devices. B-I-C solved this problem by adding a 2-speed car audio cassette deck for all your double speed recordings.

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LUXMAN KX-102 (1983) | The DUO BETA Masterpiece

The Luxman KX-102 represents everything enthusiasts love about early 1980s premium cassette decks. Combining three-head monitoring, automatic tape calibration, proprietary DUO BETA amplifier technology, and both Dolby B and dbx noise reduction, the KX-102 was engineered to rival open-reel performance. Designed as the perfect companion to Luxman's Contemporary Series, the Luxman KX-102 remains an impressive choice for collectors seeking exceptional recording quality and sophisticated engineering.

Specifications

Type: 3-head stereo cassette deck

Series: Luxman Contemporary Series

Tape Compatibility: Normal (Type I), Chrome (Type II), Metal (Type IV)

Noise Reduction: Dolby B and dbx

Head Configuration: Sendust Record/Erase Head, Hexalam Playback Head

Tape Monitoring: Yes

Automatic Tape Calibration: Fully automatic computer-controlled calibration

Bias Adjustment: Automatic

Equalization Adjustment: Automatic

Tape Sensitivity Adjustment: Automatic

Digital Tape Counter: Programmable

Controls: Electronic touch-button operation

Microphone Inputs: Yes

Output Level Control: Yes

Automatic Tape Transport: Yes

Remote Control: Compatible with Luxman RX-103 receiver and RC-103 remote

Special Feature: Servo Face motorized front panel

Wow & Flutter: < 0.04% WRMS

Frequency Response

Metal: 20 Hz – 22 kHz

Chrome: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

Normal: 20 Hz – 18 kHz

Signal-to-Noise Ratio:

Metal Tape 94 dB (dbx), 68 dB (Dolby B)

Chrome Tape 92 dB (dbx) 67 dB (Dolby B)

Normal Tape 90 dB (dbx) 67 dB (Dolby B)

Dimensions: 453 × 365 × 147 mm

Weight: 9.5 kg

Original sale price in germany: 2.400 DM

DUO BETA Technology and Advanced Recording Features. DUO BETA amplifier technology sets the KX-102 apart from most cassette decks of its era. While negative feedback was traditionally reserved for preamplifiers and power amplifiers, Luxman applied its extensive amplifier expertise directly to the cassette deck's audio circuitry. Instead of using a single feedback loop, DUO BETA optimizes negative feedback independently across different frequency ranges. The result is exceptionally smooth treble, transparent midrange reproduction, and tight, controlled bass with remarkably low distortion. Automatic Calibration Computer makes recording almost effortless. With a single button press, the KX-102 automatically measures the installed cassette and optimizes: Bias, Equalization, Tape sensitivity. This eliminates manual adjustments while ensuring every tape formulation performs at its best. Three-head design enables real-time monitoring. Separate record and playback heads allow users to monitor the recording directly from the tape as it is being made, making precise recording adjustments possible. dbx noise reduction delivers near open-reel dynamics. The built-in dbx system dramatically increases dynamic range while reducing tape hiss to extremely low levels. Recordings gain impressive clarity and impact, approaching the performance traditionally associated with reel-to-reel machines. An additional advantage is compatibility with commercially released dbx-encoded LP records, eliminating the need for an external decoder. Servo Face front panel adds a unique touch of luxury. Like other components in Luxman's Contemporary Series, the front panel automatically slides open when powered on, revealing the controls before smoothly closing again when switched off. It remains one of the most distinctive industrial designs of the early 1980s. System Integration was ahead of its time. When paired with the Luxman RX-103 receiver, the deck could be operated remotely using the RC-103 infrared controller. Connected to the PX-101 tangential turntable, the KX-102 automatically entered pause mode when the record finished playing, an advanced level of automation for the period.

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Lo-D D-707HX (1987)

 

Introduced in 1987 the D-707HX was the last update of the D-707 series from Lo-D (Hitachi). This version features added Dolby HX-PRO. Other features of this 3-head dual-capstan deck are: Recording/Playback Head: New shape LC-OFC wired R&P combination head with titanium thermal spray coating | Erase Head: Multi-gap Sendust-covered erase head x 1 | Motor: Electronically controlled DC motor x 2 | Wow and Flutter: 0.028% (WRMS) / ±0.045% (W.Peak) | Frequency Response (Metal Tape): 25~20,000 Hz ±3dB (EIAJ) | S/N Ratio (Metal Tape 3% Distortion): 75dB (Dolby C NR ON) | Power Consumption: 24W | External Dimensions: Width 435 x Height 125 x Depth 279 mm Weight: 5.5 kg | Original sale price in Japan 89,800 Yen | Wired remote control unit (RB-100 standard price 6,000 yen sold separately)

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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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Sansui D-X301i (1988)

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SONY TC-KA7ES (1994)

 

Released in 1994, the Sony TC-KA7ES was the flagship model of Sony's final ES Series cassette deck lineup and the company's last true high-end cassette deck. Designed as a no-compromise audiophile recorder, it combined an advanced closed-loop dual-capstan, quartz-locked direct-drive transport with a 3-phase brushless slotless (BSL) motor, oversized precision capstans, and sapphire-supported Lapis bearings to achieve exceptionally stable tape handling and an ultra-low wow and flutter figure of just 0.022%. Its three-head configuration featured Sony's renowned laser-formed amorphous recording/playback head, wound with ultra-pure 6N oxygen-free copper wire and enhanced by a pad pressure reduction mechanism that minimized tape modulation while improving contact accuracy. The carefully engineered midship drive layout isolated the transport, power supply, audio circuitry, and control sections to reduce interference, while separate recording and playback amplifier boards, a 210 kHz Super Bias system, low-impedance output stage, and premium single-crystal ESC-OCC copper wiring ensured outstanding signal purity. Mechanical construction was equally impressive, with a copper-plated FB chassis, vibration-damping eccentric insulators, dual R-core transformers housed in shielded resin cases, a rigid ceramic composite cassette holder, aluminum cassette door, Sorbothane stabilizer, and delayed-action tape clamping system all working together to suppress resonance and maintain precise tape alignment. The TC-KA7ES also featured comprehensive recording tools, including Dolby B, Dolby C, Dolby S, Dolby HX Pro, and an advanced 3-point recording calibration system for optimizing bias, sensitivity, and equalization to suit virtually any cassette formulation. A fluorescent peak level meter, linear time counter with time remain function, and the supplied RM-J701 wireless remote completed the package. Widely regarded as Sony's ultimate cassette deck, the TC-KA7ES delivered the powerful, refined sound that defined the ES Series while showcasing the company's most advanced analog recording technologies. Production ended in 2001, marking the end of Sony's high-end three-head cassette deck era. Specifications: 3-head Laser Amorphous |  Motor: Linear Torque BSL DD Motor:1 DC Motor:2 | Signal to noise: 57dB (EIAJ, Dolby NR off, metal tape) 80dB (Dolby NR S, peak level, metal tape, auditory correction) | Frequency response 15Hz–22kHz ±3dB (EIAJ, -20dB recording, metal tape) 15Hz–16kHz ±3dB (-4dB recording, metal tape) | Wow and flutter (EIAJ) ±0.04%Wpeak 0.022%WRMS | Dimensions: Width 430 x Height 135 x Depth 380 mm | Weight 12kg | Original sale price in Japan ¥120,000

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SONY TC-K555ESR (1988) | High BIAS

 

Building upon its predecessor, which set a new standard for decks in the digital age with an innovative approach that re-examined the fundamentals, this new model (555ESR) further refines sound quality, including improved high-frequency resolution. In addition, it features side wood panels, giving it an even more premium design. It features a midship drive system that pursues the ideal weight balance and rigid structure. To increase the rigidity of the deck and thoroughly eliminate unwanted vibrations that degrade sound quality, weight balance is a crucial point—and this new perspective led to the development of the Midship Drive System. The mechanical deck and power supply are positioned in the center of the chassis, while the control system and audio circuits are separated to the left and right sides. This achieves excellent weight balance, with the weight distributed almost evenly across the four legs. Furthermore, the inside of the chassis is divided into approximately three equal parts by a U-shaped inner chassis, further increasing overall rigidity. This results in an extremely vibration-resistant rigid structure, while also eliminating electromagnetic interference between each block and suppressing sound quality degradation. | Quartz-locked D.D. for stable tape transport & Closed-loop dual-capstan system. Sony was one of the first to apply open-reel deck technology to cassette decks with its closed-loop dual-capstan system. This system stabilizes tape transport, improving wow and flutter characteristics, reducing modulation noise, and ensuring stable head contact, among other benefits. Moreover, the capstan drive uses a new 3-phase linear motor system with extremely low rotational fluctuations. Direct drive powered by a BSL motor. Furthermore, a quartz-locked servo provides excellent wow and flutter characteristics of 0.025% WRMS and precise tape speed. | Super bias. The bias frequency has been significantly shifted up - 210kHz. This expands the frequency difference with the music signal, reducing beat noise and intermodulation distortion, while greatly improving high-frequency resolution. It makes a difference in the ability to reproduce subtle nuances. | LC-OFC wound laser amorphous head. The 555ESR features a discrete 3-head system. Sony's unique discrete three-head system ensures precise azimuth accuracy for each recording and playback head, while also providing uniform head contact. It fully utilizes the capabilities of the laser amorphous head, which employs LC-OFC windings for minimal signal transmission loss, vividly capturing the quality of digital sources. The recording and playback amplifiers are placed on separate circuit boards and arranged in two tiers, one above the other, with sufficient distance between them. This more precisely suppresses interference between the recording and playback amplifiers, and the entire system uses L/R twin mono DC amplifiers. The design also eliminates interference between channels. This is meticulous attention to protecting the purity of the sound. | Equipped with a calibration function that allows for precise adjustment of recording bias/recording level using a built-in oscillator. The meter also switches to adjustment mode. | Wireless remote control allows tape operation from the listening position. Other features include: Wireless remote control RM-99 for K555ESR. Three-stage switchable high-frequency characteristics for the recording equalizer; simultaneous display of peak hold and real-time peak values; wide-range peak program meter for enhanced readability; linear electronic counter with remaining time function; Dolby NR B-C type; memory stop/play function; TYPE I/II/IV auto tape selector; REC MUTE with auto space; tape slack prevention mechanism during cassette loading; continuous unattended recording/playback with optional timer; gold-plated headphone jack (with volume control); side wood trim included; soft eject. Main Specifications - Heads: Erase 1, Record 1, Playback 1 | Motor: Linear Torque BSL D.D. Motor 1, DC Motor 1 | S/N Ratio: 56dB (Dolby OFF, METAL-S Cassette), 73dB (Dolby NR Type C, Peak Level, METAL-S Cassette) | Frequency Response: 20~20,000Hz±3dB (METAL-S Cassette) | Frequency Range: 15-22,000Hz (METAL-S Cassette) | Wow and Flutter: ±0.04% Wpeak, 0.025% WRMS | Distortion: 0.5% (METAL-S Cassette) | Dimensions: 470 (W) × 125 (H) × 350 (D) mm | Side wood removable (Width 430mm when removed) | Weight: 10.5kg | Original sale price in Japan 105,000 yen (RM-99 with included remote control)

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