Nakamichi CR-30 (1988) | Discrete Head

 

The Nakamichi CR-30 was created at the pinnacle of analog tape engineering of the brand. Combining legendary Nakamichi innovation with meticulous hand-tuned precision for exceptional sound reproduction. At the heart of the deck is Nakamichi’s renowned discrete 3-head system, featuring completely independent recording, playback, and erase heads. Unlike conventional combination head designs, this architecture eliminates high-frequency degradation caused by azimuth misalignment during recording, ensuring superior accuracy, clarity, and detail retrieval. The precision-engineered heads are constructed from durable Crystalloy material and utilize a proprietary head contour design that maintains an optimally polished surface throughout extended use. This advanced construction minimizes uneven wear and preserves near-new performance for over 10,000 hours of operation according to Nakamichi testing standards. For outstanding tape stability and reduced modulation noise, the transport mechanism uses a closed-loop dual-capstan system. By carefully controlling the rotational speed differential between the capstans, the system maintains ideal tape tension and consistent head contact without relying on pressure pads or tape guides. The sophisticated multi-regulated power supply isolates individual circuits to eliminate electrical interference and maximize performance consistency. High-speed discrete voltage regulators deliver exceptional response speed and stability through a design philosophy comparable to high-end separate audio components. Additional refinements include a silent transport mechanism, reference-grade DC amplifier circuitry, and a dual-mono amplifier configuration for superior channel separation and imaging accuracy. Acoustic isolation insulators further reduce the effects of external vibration, preserving low-level detail and sonic purity. The deck incorporates advanced Dolby B and Dolby C noise reduction systems for cleaner recordings with reduced tape hiss. Independent equalizer switching provides optimized playback compatibility across multiple tape formulations, while a tape slack prevention system enhances transport reliability. Convenience and connectivity features include adjustable output level control, headphone output, system remote terminals, and premium gold-plated input/output connectors for improved signal integrity. Each Nakamichi CR Series deck undergoes an extraordinary level of factory calibration and quality control. Approximately 30 internal adjustment points are meticulously optimized during production to minimize unit-to-unit variation and achieve reference-level performance. Unlike conventional cassette decks that offer limited bias calibration, the CR Series features six precision bias adjustment potentiometers for accurate optimization across all tape types and operating positions. To ensure uncompromising quality, every fully calibrated unit is subjected to 56 separate performance measurements before shipment. Only decks that meet Nakamichi’s exacting specifications are approved for release, delivering the exceptional analog fidelity and reliability that define the Nakamichi legacy. Specifications: 3-head system | 2+1 DC motor | Wow and Flutter 0,035% RMS | Frequency response 20-20.000Hz Metal tape -20db | Dimensions (W/H/D) 430x100x265mm | Weight 5,8kg | Various Market versions are: CR-3, CR-3A, CR-3E, CR-30

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Nakamichi CD-Player-2 (1991) | MusicBank System

 

This high-end CD player features a unique Music Bank system that allows continuous playback of up to 7 CDs (6 stored internally plus 1 on the tray), combining the convenience of a multi-disc changer with the smooth operation and low noise of a single CD player. Unlike traditional magazine systems, it eliminates mechanical noise and awkward disc handling. Designed for audiophile sound quality, it uses a magnetic disc stabilizer to reduce vibration, an 8× oversampling digital filter, and a linear-phase Bessel analog filter. The advanced EL 20-bit D/A converter dramatically improves low-level signal accuracy, delivering greater detail, clarity, and musical realism. A high-stability servo system ensures reliable playback even with scratched discs, while a shortened signal path and isolated digital/analog power supplies minimize noise and distortion. Additional features include full random and repeat modes, delete play, CD-sync recording compatibility with Nakamichi decks, digital output, motorized volume control for line and headphone outputs, 8 cm CD support, and a wireless remote control. Later when Akai, Nakamichi and Sansui became part of the Grande Holding company this music bank system was adopted for other models as well such as the AKAI CD-M1200 that can be seen here and here. Technical Data: Capacity: 6+1 CDs | Converter: 2x 20 Bit 8-fold oversampling | Converter: 2 x PCM1700P - SM5840CP | Transport: KSS-150A / KSS-210A | Frequency response: 5 - 20,000 Hz | Dynamic range: > 100 dB | Signal-to-noise ratio: > 105 dB | Distortion factor: 0,0035% | Dimensions: 430 x 100 x 375 mm (WxHxD) | Weight: 8 kg | Original sale price in Germany: 1998 DM

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Nakamichi Dragon CT (1983) | Computing Turntable

 

The Nakamichi DRAGON-CT turntable was designed to conquer one of vinyl’s most overlooked flaws — record eccentricity. Using its unique Absolute Center Search system, it detects even the slightest misalignment between a record’s center hole and groove and then automatically adjusts the platter to achieve perfect centering. This results in dramatically improved stereo imaging, phase accuracy, and soundstage stability. Powered by Nakamichi’s Super Linear Torque Direct Drive motor, the DRAGON-CT delivers smooth, cog-free rotation with quartz-locked precision. The lightweight aluminum and glass platter assembly minimizes vibration, while the oil-damped straight tonearm ensures ideal tracking for high-compliance cartridges. A dual-layer cabinet with spring and rubber suspension isolates the system from external vibrations, preserving the purity of playback. The DRAGON-CT is a masterclass in engineering — combining innovation, elegance, and absolute precision for the true analog perfectionist. Designed by Junichi Okumura and built by Fujiya Audio. Dimensions: 546 x 230 x 421 mm (WxHxD) | Weight: 20 kg | Original sale price in Germany: 4500 DM.

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Nakamichi 730 Receiver (1978)

 

There's music in the air everywhere. Imagine having it all at your fingertips. Imagine encountering a stereo receiver (...in 1978) light-years ahead in styling, operation and performance. You've never seen anything quite like it before- its timeless elegance immediately commands your attention. You extend your hand. An effortless touch brings the entire system to life. There are no buttons to push, levers to flip, nor knobs to turn. The receiver, instead, responds to your every command at the briefest touch of its fingertip sensors. Its awesome performance, finally, leads you to conclude that it is the product of an infinitely advanced intelligence. You'd be surprised, then, to learn that the 730 Receiver is available on earth at a Nakamichi dealer. It can even be remote controlled with the additional RM-730 remote control set. Power output: 105 Watts per channel at 8 ohms. Dimensions (WxHxD) 500x90x370mm. Weight 17,2kg.

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Nakamichi 550 (1974) - Two Head Portable Cassette System

With the Model 550 Dual-Tracer cassette system, Nakamichi extended their revolution in cassette technology to in-the-field recording. The 550 employs Nakamichi's exclusive Focused-Gap head for extended high frequency response and extremely low distortion. Complete with its own self-contained battery power supply, the Nakamichi 550 may also be operated from a car battery or from a standard AC line (with adaptors supplied). Professional 45dB range, peak level meters attest to the unit's extended dynamic range and are especially useful during live recording sessions. Speed control is absolute. A built-in Super Stabilizer prevents power supply voltage fluctuations and a pulse-controlled DC servomotor maintains absolute speed stability. No matter where you are, under the most rigorous field conditions or in the comfort of your living room, the Nakamichi 550 is the perfect companion. The right channel meter of the 550 can be switched to indicate battery condition, while the left channel meter also indicates elapsed tape time during recording and playback. Despite the unusually wide dynamic range of the Nakamichi 550, there are those occasions, especially during live recording, when tape overload may occur. In such instances, you can switch on the built-in peak limiter. It acts, almost instantaneously, to reduce possible distortion. Its action is so subtle that the resulting signal compression is virtually undetectable. 

The 550 in addition to the standard (L&R) mic inputs, a third blend mic is provided. Each input has its own level control, thus permitting professional quality mixing. The blend mic is particularly helpful in high lighting solo instruments and voices. A built-in extra-power headphone amplifier furnishes more than enough power to drive a pair of 8 ohm headphones, enabling the user to monitor the program being recorded. It is completely independent of the rear panel output controls which are used when the 550 is installed in a home music system. The Nakamichi 550 can be programmed to operate for a predetermined period of time by setting a built-in timing mechanism. At the conclusion of the time period, a front panel light (LED) flashes to alert the operator. Specifications: Frequency Response: 40Hz to 17kHz  (Cr02 tape) | Signal to Noise Ratio: 65dB  (dolby B) | Wow and Flutter: 0.13% | Dimensions: 311 x 89 x 350mm | Weight: 5.1kg | Carry bag HC-550 optional | Original sale price: 1380 DM in Germany.

FIDELA by Nakamichi - The Origin of Nakamichi

 

Nakamichi was founded by Etsuro Nakamichi in 1948 as Daiichi Onkyo Co. Ltd. which in 1958 became Nakamichi Research Corporation Ltd. and it was later headed by the founder's younger brother Niro Nakamichi. The company specialised in manufacturing portable radios, tonearms, speakers, microphones (Primo Dynamic) and communications equipment but it was only after 1972 that they started using the Nakamichi brand name. 

In 1951 they have developed one of the first open reel tape recorders in Japan under the Magic Tone brand, these were initially sold as a kit. In 1957 they developed and manufactured proprietary magnetic tape heads and started manufacturing reel to reel recorders, for US distribution as OKI 555 (1962), and under the FIDELA brand name. In 1965 they have launched the Fidela 807 3-head Open Reel Stereo Tape Deck, also rebadged as harman/kardon TD-3 and KLH Model 41. They also made one of their first cassette recorders as Fidela NR-11 in 1967. Because of its experience in manufacturing magnetic tape heads and equipment, in 1967 the company started making tape decks for a number of foreign manufacturers including Harman Kardon, KLH, Advent, Fisher, ELAC, Sylvania, Concord, Ampex and Motorola. (Fidela model range: 11, 22, 33, 55, Studio 77, Studio 77D, 300D, 300DS, 720, 780, 807, 860, 920, 960)

Magic Tone (1951) 2-Head | 4.5kg

Fidela 11 2-Head | 40Hz-15Khz | 6w mono

Fidela 33 (1964) 2-Head | wow&flutter 0.12% | 30Hz-18kHz | s/n 50dB | 2x3W

OKI 555 / Fidela 55 (1964) 2-Head | wow&flutter 0.12% | 30Hz-18kHz | s/n 50dB | 2x7W

Fidela Studio 77 (1964) 2-Head | wow&flutter 0.12% | 20Hz-22kHz | s/n 50dB | 2x6W

Fidela Studio 300D (1960) 2-Head | wow&flutter 0.15% | 50Hz-15kHz | s/n 50dB

Fidela 720 (1966) 2-Head | wow&flutter 0.15% | 40Hz-18kHz | s/n 50dB

Fidela GemSonic 807 (1965) 3-Head | 3-speed | 30Hz-20kHz | wow&flutter 0.15% | s/n 50dB | 300x150x210 mm | 7kg

Fidela 920 (1967) 4-Head | wow&flutter 0.15% | 40Hz-18kHz | s/n 50dB

Fidela NR-11 (1967)

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Nakamichi 1000 Tri-Tracer (1973) - World's First 3-head deck.

 

According to the Nakamichi literature, the 1000 Tri-Tracer introduced in 1973 was the World First 3-head cassette deck. On the other hand the SONY TC-177SD was also the World First 3-head cassette deck, so it's up to you to decide which was "The First"... One thing is for sure, the 1000 Tri-Tracer was a technological tour de force. Tri-Tracer is the designation employed by Nakamichi Research Inc. to describe a new generation of cassette recorders. Three completely separate heads - erase, record, playback - afford off-the-tape monitoring, but more importantly, extend flat frequency response to beyond 20,000 Hz. The record head is of Hi-Mu ferrite with five micron gap to insure optimum tape saturation. The playback head has a special Hi-Mu hard permalloy core with titanium film laminations permitting a gap width of only 0.7 microns, thus extending high frequency response. Also, proper head azimuth alignment is crucial to extend high frequency response. Nakamichi provides a foolproof means for achieving precise alignment everytime. Two small LED's on the panel flash alternately when the head alignment is properly set. A 400 Hz test tone oscillator is incorporated as an aid in adjusting the azimuth of the recording head and as a reference tone for adjusting the record/playback level of different tape formulations. 

Tape is driven through a closed-loop, dual capstan system by a pulse-controlled D.C. servo motor which maintains consstant speed over a wide range of line voltage and frequency variations. Two large staggered flywheels smooth out any residual speed irregularities and insure extremely low wow and flutter. In addition to the standard mic inputs, a third blend mic input is provided. Each input has its own level control thus permitting professional quality mixing. The blend mic is particularly helpful in highlighting solo instruments and voices. Technical data: Wow and Flutter less than 0.1% (DIN 45507 Weighted Peak) | Frequency response: 35-20,000 Hz (+/-3 dB Chrome) | Dimensions 515x305x240 mm | Weight 17,7 kg. Optional accesory: RM10 wired remote control, flightcase. Original sale price: 2798 DM, 1100 USD.

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Nakamichi CR-7 (1986) - Performance From Every Tape

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Nakamichi was at the vanguard of high-class cassette decks, providing the highest possible performance quality from every cassette while at the same time simplifying deck operation to make that performance available to everyone. The Nakamichi CR-7 and CR-5 Discrete-Head Cassette Decks embody both the vital aspects of this trend, offering fully discrete three-head designs, direct-drive closed-loop dual-capstan transports, low-distortion/low noise amplifiers and a host of other features. The Nakamichi CR-7 features the unique Nakamichi Auto Calibration System and the Playback-Head Azimuth Fine Tuning Control. While both decks offer superb value and can easily be integrated with the components of even the finest audio system in any home, they have been specifically designed to match the Nakamichi Home Audio Electronics Systems "7" and "5", for outstanding performance with the added convenience of total System Remote Control. Other features included are: real-time tape counter for C-90/60/46 tape - even if the tape is not fully wound to its begining when mounted, Dual-Speed Master Fader Control with Auto Fade function (tape end auto fade out), Wireless Remote Control (CR-7), Output Level Control, Headphone Terminal.

These cassette deck were built between 1986-1993 in three versions CR-70/CR-7A/CR-7E.