Categories

Home
Hi-Fi / Stereo Gear
Speakers
Receivers
Tuners
Amps / Pre-Amps
EQs / Signal Procs
Cassette Decks
Reel - Reel Decks
Turntables
Cartridges
8 Track Players
Headphones
Speaker Parts
Stereo Parts
HI-Fi Accessories

Customer Care

Contact Us
Repair Resources
Restoration Steps
 

Purveyors of Electronic, Musical and Vintage goods from then, now and in between. 
Since 1982.

FULLY SERVICED & CALIBRATED
BACKED BY WARRANTY

STEREO REEL-TO-REEL TAPE
RECORDERS / DECKS / PLAYERS
  VINTAGE AND USED FOR SALE

 

 

Reel to reel tape decks / recorders: Fully Serviced / Refurbished-Restored w/ Warranty, Used Open Reel-to-Reels / R2R pre-owned, vintage stereo, open reel decks / tape recorders & players for sale. Great for media transfer to CD ROM or Hard Drive. Our selection varies from standard, quarter track / 2-channel, to half-track 2-channel, to 4-track / 4- channel and combinations of those. Typically quarter inch tape decks, but occasionally half-inch tape units. Tape decks such as Akai 1710, Pioneer RT-707, Sony TC, for sale, 4 track and other reel-reel decks & tape recorders for sale.

 


SOME SCARY THINGS TO BE AWARE OF AND WATCH OUT FOR
WHEN CONSIDERING A REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK . . .


                      

                   (
Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)

        SONY                                                                   SONY
          TC-366                                                                TC-3
55


These are a couple decks that we purchased from people who said it "works fine". They did actually FF, REW and move in Play mode, but that's where it ended. We knew they would need work, as inevitably all 20 to 50+ year old tape decks do have a number of things that need to be taken care of prior to being usable (typically 12-18 hours of tech time (sometimes as much as 24 and once we had one require 40 hours to do it justice) + parts), but we don't see too many in as bad a shape as these were (click above photos for details). Again these are decks that came from someone who said they "work fine"! Be careful out there when you're getting excited about bidding on that "good deal" on line @ eb_y, cra_gs_ist or other auction that say's "all functions test fine and deck works as it should". Yeah, right. Just FYI.

Email we received from a guy that tried some 'on-line-auction seller' decks, "I am looking to resurrect my vintage SONY Reel To Reel Tapecorder,
MODEL TC-353D. It was in storage since about 1987 when a 'friend' borrowed it, tried to switch speeds while in PLAY mode and jammed everything up. Last few years I've been buying some (4-5) models from ebay sellers with most being listed as
'works' but, upon receipt, I found none have performed. Most of the others I have purchased all seem to have same problem...Can you help? I want to record in analog just like the old days. - T. Daley"
{as another example, not long ago I had a guy call with a similar story, except he stated he was on his "NINTH" reel to reel from that popular on line auction site. I thought he was surely exaggerating and I asked, "you mean a couple or three" and he assured me it was "9!". Essentially same story as above. (sorry, but at this point I don't remember his name, nor which deck he purchased from us, but if I do, I'll post that info.)}
________________________________________________________________________

An email we recently received: "Jerry, Although it has been a several months since we spoke, I wanted to let you know how much I have enjoyed the R/R tape player (Sony TC-530) I purchased. I found that my 50-year-old tapes were indeed still in good condition, and I have spent many hours listening to the music that had once been only a memory of my early years. The joy it has brought me was worth every penny. I especially appreciate the time you spent speaking to me on the phone to ensure that this was indeed the right purchase for my needs. It was as if you had restored the machine just for me. Please accept my thanks for helping me recover memories I had feared were lost forever. Sincerely, David in West Virginia"
________________________________________________________________________
 
 

 
Above photo is of a Teac A-4010S having typical Main Capstan Belt change and Pinch Roller Arm re-lube operation.
Just FYI as typical of some of the work that is required to bring any 20+ year old Reel to Reel tape deck back to life, regardless of how well a person selling an old deck, that has not been recently serviced, may say it works! In fact the worst decks are commonly the units that are stated as having low hours, have been little or never used, or the worst offender "is NIB (New In Box)". While that may seem like a good thing, experience tells us that those are the "scariest" to purchase. They generally require the most work to bring back to a practical level of operation. Just like a car that has sat for many years not being used, similar "atrophy" happens to most electro-mechanical devices, ie; Turntables, Cassette Decks, 8-Tracks, VCR's, R2R's etc. Just FYI.


 

(*UNLESS OTHERWISE LISTED)
 



NOW OUR REEL TO REELTAPE DECKS / PLAYERS / RECORDERS:

 




 

    

    
    

            NEW LISTING 11/17/2022
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)

CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes)  warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
TEAC REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
TEAC X-2000RBK-EE 'BLACK'
3-HEAD / 3-MOTOR
dbx NR, EE (Extended Efficiency), Cobalt Heads
AUTO-REVERSE w/ BI-DIRECTIONAL RECORDING
REEL TO REEL 
10.5" x 1/4" TAPE DECK
"WORLD AC POWER"
MIJ
SOLD 3/1/2024
SHIPPING TO RICHARD IN VIRGINIA


Original observations / conditions:
"Clean. Powers up. No capstan motion (drive belt melted). Original owner stated that it had stopped recording sometime ago and now only played, but couldn't get it to run at all anymore. Tape lifter mechanism VERY stiff. Flat spots on tape guides. Pinch roller arm cushions / bumpers hardened / deteriorated. Counter / Memory LED's look 'odd'. PR arm mechanism impeded by stiff lube.
Following partial restoration procedures we further found; tape skews off PR in Rev PB. Record levels low relative to what they should be. Tape PB azimuth incorrect. Tape speed incorrect. Levels randomly incorrect for PB or REC or Metering.
"


ü Our technician has EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü AC mains selector and fuses checked and corrected as necessary

ü Internal fuses checked for continuity and correct values. No issues found, fortunately. We don't like seeing incorrect fuses having been installed in a unit as that could mean it had prior issues, or if a fuse value was 'increased' it could have allowed too much current through an 'ailing' circuit causing un-due / un-necessary damage.

ü pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Controls were 'flooded' w/ 'De-OxId' and are quiet

ü Entire transport was cleaned and re-lubed

ü Entire transport and tape path de-magnetized

ü Both capstan / flywheel assemblies removed, cleaned and re-lubed

ü New rubber PR arm cushions / bumpers installed

ü Both Rubber pinch rollers have been, lathe re-surfaced, cleaned and re-conditioned w/ our shop standard, MG Chemicals Rubber Re-conditioner.

ü Adjusted PR pressure / stroke

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brand new and CORRECT, main drive belt sourced and installed (was not easy to deduce as most of the ones spec'd for this unit are NOT correct)

ü Braking adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü Back tension adjusted on both reel motors.

ü All three motors test perfectly. Following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" and 10.5" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Repaired / re-attach counter and memory LED's

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment (no bent / tweaked spindles or compromised tridents).

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Both internal speed pots adjusted to 100% accuracy on either speed independently in forward / -> direction. Reverse / <- direction is accurate to 99.4% (1000Hz=1006Hz) (with pitch control zero'd) (meaning that our 'verified' 1000Hz test tape now plays back at 1000Hz).

>>The following operations took MANY hours (17-19hrs) to fine tune and complete, one because this is a complicated deck to get correct, AND two, it's capable of 'Bi-Directional' recording, so everything has to be duplicated for Reverse Recording...<<

ü BOTH direction Playback and Record Head alignment / azimuth was adjusted for peak performance (max levels) with factory test tone tape and oscilloscope before electrical adjustments.

ü We adjusted the VU meters mechanically and electronically w/ factory test tone tapes, as well as the internal playback levels for both directions independently and record levels.

ü Deck has been fully calibrated to factory manual specs adjusting PB levels, Meter adjustments, Bias / Frequency adjustments (VC1& VC2), and internal record levels, tested, with Nortronics, Panasonic, Sony, Soundcraft, STL, TEAC and BRL alignment / test tapes (see resulting record level listed below). Biased best for Ampex GM456 / ATR Reference tape and records on Maxell UD also very well.



ü Record bias adjusted for both directions, both channels and both types of tapes

ü Bias traps adjusted proper levels per service manual

ü Following the above work and calibration, Recording tests performed with Ampex GM 456 / ATR MASTER Tapes (using output to adjust PB typically from .775 to 1V).
Here’s the results;
Ampex GM 456 @ 7.5ips. Norm position, no NR, w/ 1kHz @ 0dB; L= +1dB L & R = 0dB


Ampex GM 456 @ 7.5ips. Norm position, w/ dbx, w/ 1kHz @ 0dB; L= +1.0dB L & R = +0.5dB

Ampex GM 456 @ 7.5ips. EE position, no NR, w/ 1kHz @ 0dB; L= +1.5dB L & R = +0.5dB

Ampex GM 456 @ 7.5ips. EE position, w/ dbx, w/ 1kHz @ 0dB; L= +2.5dB L & R = +0.5dB

Recorded DDD CD material averaged -4 to -5dB L&R when pushed EE, No NR and no output compensation.

ü Floor noise measured at >-74dBu following above procedures

ü This Teac X-2000RBK-EE functions, plays, and records perfectly (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  (Total time investment in refurb / testing 34+! hours).

Face is made of beautiful Black anodized, brushed aluminum and case is in great condition. Deck looks NEW and NOW works great! 

This is one of my personal favorites! The TEAC X-2000RBK Stereo Reel to Reel tape deck. Ready to GO! This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through with flying colors.

This deck comes from a culmination of decades of experience by TEAC of building tape transports (they make the transport in the "little black boxes" on aircraft BTW), and one thing the TEAC X-2000R is known for is 'gentle tape handling'. From the original OM, "To maintain very stable tape motion with optimum tape tension, it uses a full tension, servo control system in which a photo-interrupter senses the position of the tension arm so that the servo mechanism can adjust the torque of the reel motor"...means that it virtually eliminates the likely-hood of tape stretch or breakage.

The deck tests great! Looks and sounds great too! We have completely gone through it. Will play 3", 5", 7" & 10.5" reels (10.5" reels require optional NAB hub adaptors that we generally have available at their additional cost).

TEAC X-2000RBK-EE Features include:

 - Super hard, 'Cobalt Amorphous' (CA) heads
- 6 Heads (3 for each direction) for instant monitoring of tape levels while recording
- 3-Motors for trouble free performance (has a lot to do with it still being a viable piece of gear due to less rubber parts)
- EE (Extra Efficiency) recording capability
- dbx PROFESSIONAL noise reduction
- Tri-mode Auto-Reverse w/ Bi-Directional Recording (Auto-Reverse requires correct installation of 'Sensing' tape on your audio tapes)
- Dual Capstan Drive
- LSI Full-Logic tape transport for "Touch" control
- Dual Capstan / Closed Loop Tape transport
- De-featable ±6% Pitch control
- Electronically Assisted brakes for much easier handling of tape (reduces or eliminates tape stretch and / or breakage)
- Dual front mounted 1/4" Microphone inputs
- Digital tape counter for "real time" or inches and also with Program and CUE, Repeat, "Rapid Search" functions, STC & STZ features 
- Timer Play
- Auto-Spacer for record mode
- 12-Pin optional wired remote port on rear panel (remote not included)
- 5-pin DIN "Dupli Sync" port on rear for "daisy chaining" units together
- Dual speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms and 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms
- Separate dual mic and line level controls
- Dual 1/4" front mounted mic inputs
- Source / Monitor selector
- Output level control
- Dual analog VU level meters
- Dual position tape type selector
- Spring loaded tape hub spindles (no need for rubber reel retainers)
- Tape lifter lever for momentary monitoring during fast wind
- True
“WORLD AC POWER"™ as it will work on both 50 or 60 Hz AC and voltages from 110-240 volts AC


TEAC X-2000RBK-EE Specs from the owners manual as follows:

Head / Head-stack Format: Cobalt Amorphous composition. 6 heads (Forward Erase, Forward Record, Forward Playback, Reverse Erase, Reverse Record & Reverse Playback) 4 track, 2 channel Stereo / Mono
Motors: FG Servo DC Capstan Motor & 2 DC slot-less Reel Motors
Wow and Flutter (playback): 0.03% WRMS @ 7.5 ips & 0.04% WRMS @ 3.75 ips (per original OM)
Frequency Response: 30-40,000 Hz, +/- 3 dB @ 7.5 ips
30-24,000 Hz, +/- 3 dB @ 3.75 ips
S/N ratio: 65 dB w/ DBX out
100 dB w/ DBX In
Dynamic Range: 115 Db with DBX in
THD: 0.8% @ 1kHz & 185 nWb/m level (we try and use tape that is capable of a way better "nWb/m" level, such as Ampex GM 456 or ATR)
Stereo Channel Separation: 50 dB @ 1k
Bias Frequency: 150kHz
Fast Wind Time: ~ 100 secs. for 1800'
Output level (line): 0.45 V with a load impedance of = / > 10K ohms
Headphones level out: 100 mW max using 8 ohm cans

As stated earlier we have spent 34+ hours completely going through it cleaning heads and all else, lubing, adjusting, reconditioning pinch rollers and other rubber parts, demagnetizing heads and entire transport and testing everything. Tape speed in both Hi and Lo speed positions have been 'internally' adjusted to 100% Fwd and 99.6% Rev accuracy using a 1000 Hz test tape for the pitch control in it's 'centered' position. Plays and records Exceptionally well (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed CD material and CD test tones looking for correct head Azimuth, tape speed accuracy and making test recordings). Pinch rollers and heads all in GREAT condition!!! Face is made of beautiful, black anodized, brushed Aluminum and looks very nice. Very clean and looks near new. Unit looks GREAT! 

Measures 18.3" wide x 19.2" tall x 10.75" (from tip of back feet-tip of hubs) deep and weighs 56 lbs unpacked. Already installed in originally, optional wood case. Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf download of the TEAC X-2000RBK-EE owners / operations / users manual and service manual if purchaser desires. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
TEAC X-2000RBK-EE 'Black'
Cond. 8.5++++


SOLD 3/1/2024
SHIPPING TO RICHARD IN VIRGINIA

(C) M.S.


(Reels and NAB hubs shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.)
However, all of our decks will come with tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)


 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

 

 
    

         

          NEW LISTING 4/28/2023
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)

CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes)  warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
VINTAGE PIONEER REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
PIONEER RT-1020H
#...0563
4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL & 4-CHANNEL 'PRO' TAPES
STEREO / QUADRAPHONIC
3-HEAD / 3-MOTOR
2-SPEED
10.5" 'THE BIG ONE'S'
& 7" and / or
*SMALLER REEL SIZE
Circa 1974-75
MIJ

1/10/2024
SHIPPING TO BILL IN IDAHO


Original observations / conditions:
"Clean. Powers up (but AC cord loose due to cracked phenolic board in jack). No capstan motion (drive belt melted). TU reel spindle has issues and looks to be non-original. PR arm mechanism impeded by typical stiff lube.
Following partial restoration procedures we further found; Record levels low relative to what they should be. Lot's of 'hash' noise in playback and recording. Rear, Right sine wave has flattened bottom (distortion) on oscilloscope.   Levels randomly incorrect for PB or REC or Metering. Supply side bearing noisy on fast wind. Skids broken.
"

ü Our technician has EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü Internal fuses checked for continuity and correct values. No issues found, fortunately. We don't like seeing incorrect fuses having been installed in a unit as that could mean it had prior issues, or if a fuse value was 'increased' it could have allowed too much current through an 'ailing' circuit causing un-due / un-necessary damage.

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed and reassembled.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed and reassembled.

ü New AC input port installed as the original was cracked and not safe.

ü One of the reel spindles had been 're-built' or changed / modified when this came in to us. It had DIY tridents on one table from another spindle that didn't quite fit and barely functioned. We noticed there was a 'hair-line' crack on the reel table spindle that was not solid enough. We replaced the entire spindle / reel table with an OEM (original Pioneer) part (taken from one of my personal decks). Now spindles run 'true' with no excess vibration / wobble, lock on to the reels properly and don't 'hang up' on the reel.

ü The biggest issue with this deck as that pretty much all of the transistors on the Playback / EQ amp board, Record Amp board, and Bias boards had developed 'black leg' and was causing channels to intermittently cut out, and was causing noise and distortion in both recording and playback.    This was from the commonly problematic transistors (twenty-three in total); 2SA672, 2SC1213, & 2SC1344 as well as some electrolytic capacitors. Some of these took the effort of recording MANY tapes while monitoring to locate as being the issues, as well as extensive time with alternate heating and cooling of circuit boards with a heat gun and freeze spray. We then replaced with quality NTE replacements (not Chinese look-a-likes)    (this step took many hours to replace 25 or 30 transistors, and re-test / check every three transistors during the process).

ü Playback and Record Amp circuit boards had their solder joints reflowed. (this step took a lot of time)
Following all of the above work, we recorded entire 7" / 1800 foot tapes, on all of the EQ / Bias switch combinations over multiple days (monitoring at one of the benches while tech worked on other projects, listening for random noise). After changing the above mentioned transistors and finally a couple problematic caps, the deck recorded and played clean on all EQ / Bias positions consistently for days.


ü The original 'guide roller ball bearing' unit was being very noisy on fast wind (meant that it was worn out), so we sourced an NOS, Nachi built (most of what's available are cheap, Chinese made units, which we didn't want to use). It took a lot of leg work to find the correct bearing for this that wasn't just a cheap, look-a-like (the local supplier only had two left, and the rest were Chinese from now on, so I bought both of the good one's they had left).

ü pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed,

ü PR mechanism solenoid mounts adjusted

ü 'Shut-off' arm removed, disassembled, had bushing and axle cleaned and re-lubed.

ü Tape Lifter arms rotated to 'like new' section / area

ü Capstans / flywheels removed, bushings and axels cleaned and re-lubed w/ 80/90 wt.

ü Capstans burnished

ü Rubber pinch rollers have been cleaned and re-conditioned

ü Brand new MAIN drive belt installed (#42-540)

ü Brand new Counter belt installed (#046)

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes also (optimized for 10.5" reels, but works great for 7" as well*). .

ü Back tension adjusted on both reel motors (optimized for 10.5" reels, but works great for 7" as well*).

ü All three motors test perfectly. Following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" and 10.5" tapes

ü Internal and user potentiometers, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment.

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü BOTH direction Playback and Record Head alignment / azimuth was adjusted for peak performance with factory test tone tape and oscilloscope.

ü Speed measured @ 98.9% accurate (meaning that a 1000Hz tape plays back at 1011Hz.)

ü We adjusted the VU meters mechanically and electronically w/ factory test tone tapes, as well as the internal playback levels for both directions independently and record levels.

ü Deck has been fully calibrated as close to factory manual specs as practical, tested, and found to perform well in all categories

ü Internal Record levels adjusted with proper, factory alignment / test tapes

ü Internal EQ levels adjusted with proper, factory alignment / test tapes



ü Record Bias adjusted internally with Bias Level at 22.0VAC and Bias trap at <1.0VAC L&R, but then sonically optimized for Ampex GM 456 tape, Scotch 150 and Maxell XLII on the different positions for the 'User selectable' EQ and Bias selectors.

ü Following the above work and calibration, Recording tests performed with Ampex GM 456 / ATR MASTER Tapes (using output to adjust PB typically from .775 to 1V).
Here’s the results;
Ampex GM 456 @ 7.5ips. ANY EQ / Bias position, w/ 1kHz @ 0dB; L= 0dB L & R = 0dB
± ~ 0.3dB!!!
Bottom line is, this thing is a RECORDING MONSTER!


ü Floor noise measured at >-60dB w/ blank tape, L&R

ü Two OEM, 'skid' sourced and installed, as the originals had missing sections.

ü This Pioneer RT-1020H functions, plays, and records very well (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  
(Total time investment in refurb / testing ~ 38 hours).

Face is made of brushed stainless steel, aluminum and 'real walnut wood veneer' case is in great condition with only minor dings, scuffs, smudges, with some 'whitish' staining around the transport control bezel as well (see photos above). Nothing too distracting. Deck looks, works and sounds great! 

This one is from my personal collection that I finally had my tech do before he 'rides off into the sunset). It's "Ready to GO"! This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through with flying colors.

The deck tests great! Looks and sounds great too! We have completely gone through it. Will play 5", 7" & 10.5" reels (10.5" reels require optional NAB hub adaptors that we generally have available at their additional cost).
____________________________

Looks great & following above service, is "Ready-to-go"! The very sought after and rare, Pioneer RT-1020H Stereo Reel to Reel tape deck. Will play / record stereo 1/4" tapes on reels up to 10.5". This model is very unique for a couple reasons. One is that it will record and play at double, the standard 'consumer, 'High' speed', meaning that you can get top quality recordings from it. Also, as well as playing standard consumer 4-track / 2-channel tapes (as long as they're not the slow, 3.75ips speed), but also will play 4-channel "quadraphonic" tapes and ALSO 4-Track / 4-Channel "Pro-Multi-Track" tapes made from such decks as the Tascam 2340 or 3440! That means if you have some of those 'multi-track' tapes you need to transfer into a DAW, then here you go.

This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through and all functions test great! Looks and sounds great too! We have completely gone through it. 

From the original brochure: "Stability, Strength from the 5mm thick chassis board and die-cast framework" (same frame construction method as the RT-909)
(This deck series was the predecessor to the Pioneer RT-909, and the main difference in construction is that the RT-901 / RT-909 uses a "DC" powered motor. While that does allow the RT-901 and RT-909 to have a Pitch Control, DC motors tend to have a much shorter lifespan {as in about 10-20% of an AC motor}. That is evidenced by the number of calls we get to our parts department for replacement RT-909 capstan motors {which are pretty much 'un-obtainium'}).
The Pioneer RT-1020H is much rarer than it's sibling, the RT-1020L. The two are almost exactly the same, except the two speeds that the "H" model does is 7.5 ips and 15 ips, which allows better quality recording (see the 'Frequency Response' specs below). Now as this deck does the higher 'consumer' speed of 7.5ips and the pro-speed of 15ips, it does not run at the lesser quality, consumer speed of 3.75 ips. If you're a consumer or media transfer house and need to utilize tapes that were recorded at 3.75 ips, you could play them at 7.5ips into a computer, then use standard audio software to slow it down to half speed. The quality would vary depending on many factors, primarily the quality of the computer / software you were using.


Pioneer RT-1020H Features include:

-  4-Track 2 or 4 Channel playback and 2-Channel recording
- 3 Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels while recording
- Handles up to 10.5" reels!
- 3 Motors for trouble free performance (has a lot to do with it still being a viable piece of gear due to fewer rubber parts)
- Dual speeds at 7.5 ips / 19 cms and 15 ips / 39 cms
- Electronic, Solenoid assist, 'Touch' tape transport controls
- Separate & dual mic and line level controls
- Dual 1/4" front mounted mic inputs
- Source / Monitor selector
- Independent L & R record enable switches for doing "S-O-S / sound-on-sound"
- Left & Right output level controls
- Dual analog VU level meters that are selectable for either Front or Rear channels
- Triple position Tape Type / Bias selector
- Dual position Tape EQ selector
- Spring loaded tape hub spindles (no need for rubber reel retainers)
- End of tape shut off / Auto-Stop function
- Dual front mounted 1/4" Microphone inputs
- Variable output level controls for each channel 
- Analog Tape Counter
- RCA I/O's (1 Pair of Inputs and 2 pair of outputs for Front and Rear)

Pioneer RT-1020H Original Specifications as follows:

Heads: 3 (2-channel erase, 4-Channel play and 2-Channel Record)
Number of Motors: 1x 4/8 Pole Hysteresis Synchronous Capstan and 2x 6-pole, inner rotor induction Reel motors
Drive to Capstan: Belt to heavy, 100mm flywheel
Tape Speeds: 15 ips / 38cms and 7.5ips / 19cms
Wow and flutter: 0.04% WRMS @ 15ips & 0.08% WRMS @ 7.5ips
Signal to noise ratio: >55dB w/ Normal Bias Tape
Frequency response: w/ Normal Bias tape @15ips: 30Hz to 22kHz & 7-1/2 ips: 40Hz to 20kHz
Distortion: <1%
Crosstalk: >60dB
Channel separation: >50dB
Stereo Channel Separation: >50 dB @ 1k
Bias Frequency: 125kHz
Headphones level out: 40mV using 8 ohm cans
Line
Input level and Impedance: 50mV-25V / 100k Ohms
Microphone Input level and Impedance:
0.25mV-80mV @ 20k Ohms
Output Level: 316mV @ 0dB on VU meters
with a load impedance of 50k ohms
Fast Wind Time: ~ 110 secs. for 2400' & ~ 90 secs. for 1200'


As stated earlier we have EXTENSIVELY gone through it repairing circuitry, cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing everything. Plays and records well! We don't get as many decks capable of 10.5" reels as 7", and when we do have one refurbished, they don't hang around long.
Note from our Senior tech, "Designed to be serviceable...Well built internally".
Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf download of the Pioneer RT-1020H owners / operations manual and service manual if the purchaser so desires.
Cosmetically, there's only the minor issues mentioned above. The real, walnut wood veneer side panels are in fabulous condition (see photos above).
All of our restored / refurbished reel to reel decks come with a 7", plastic take-up reel, a 'known good' 7" tape for initial testing of playback, and a 7" tape you can record onto, all to assist you in becoming familiar with the operation / function of your new reel to reel tape deck.
Measures 17.25" wide x 17" tall x 9" (from tip of back feet-tip of hubs) deep and weighs 47 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
PIONEER RT-1020H
Cond. 8
.5++
1/10/2024
SHIPPING TO BILL IN IDAHO


(Reels and NAB hubs shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.)
However, all of our decks will come with tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)


 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

             

     

NEW LISTING 10/2/2023
(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes) warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED / WARRANTED 
SONY 1/4" REEL-TO-REEL STEREO TAPE DECK
 SONY TC-730 / TC730
 #...0693
4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL
3-SPEED / 3 HEAD
DIRECT DRIVE
 AUTO-REVERSE
 BUILT-IN AMP AND SPEAKERS!
5"* - 7" REEL CAPACITY

"WORLD AC POWER"

    Circa 1969-72

SOLD 10/3/2023
SHIPPING TO CRAIG IN NORTH CAROLINA


Original observations / conditions:
"Bent TU spindle. Sluggish on all transport functions, esp play either direction. Recording very intermittent on forward or reverse (found multiple switches related to head movement needed cleaning) (also found an additional 'reverse recording' switch while restoring / testing that needed further service). When it did record, it was on average -5-8dB. Left VU meter physically binding at times. Brakes 'iffy'. Counter not moving once transport gets going. Missing rear cabinet feet. Auto-Reverse intermittent (mostly not working correctly. Found to be 'idler wheel'). Pinch roller had excessive ("excessive" for our standards) 'flutter' even after typical reconditioning multiple times (eventually sourced a new one from Italy which solved the issue). Once initial restoration completed we found that the brakes were not sufficient at a couple spots in tape progress during fast forward to not 'dump tape' when loaded with our heaviest, dual metal reels. In doing that operation, we discovered that one of the input level pots had developed a 'bad feel' when rotated, and that the meter mounting pin cushions had deteriorated.

ü Our technician has gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü Internal fuses checked for continuity and correct values. No issues found, fortunately. We don't like seeing incorrect fuses having been installed in a unit as that could mean it had prior issues, or if a fuse value was 'increased' it could have allowed too much current through an 'ailing' circuit causing un-due / un-necessary damage. We also verified that the voltage selector was set to correct, 120VAC.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.  

ü Most transport subassemblies were disassembled down to the chassis, cleaned, re-lubed and reassembled. 

 


ü 'Pinch Roller swing arm' assembly disassembled, cleaned and lubed

ü Both spindle hubs disassembled, and spindles straightened

ü Capstan Drive motor (Sony UC-214G) inspected, cleaned and lubed   

ü Reel Drive motors (Sony UC-624G) inspected, cleaned and lubed

ü Knurled drive pulley cleaned of old rubber residue

ü FRESH, NEW Pinch roller sourced from Europe, then pre-conditioned, and lubed prior to re-install (after trying your standard reconditioning on the original pinch roller, and repeating a couple more times, we still weren't happy with the performance, so we ordered the new one)

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Also brake hubs have been cleaned & re-lubed

ü New brake pads installed and adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü Back tension adjusted on both reel tables.

ü Brand new, #034 & #040 'Tape Counter' belts installed

ü Internal felts re-secured as their old epoxy was failing

ü Take-Up hub brakes had extra spring added to compensate for fatigued original and brakes adjusted to work with dual metal reels

ü 'Tape Counter' cleaned & lubed to eliminate typical 'counter rattle' noise.

ü VU meters disassembled, locate pins and aluminum scales re-secured, covers re-installed and new pin cushions fab'd and installed.  



ü All transport functions now test perfectly, following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Right Input level pot replaced with a sourced, OEM unit due to deteriorated internal plastic   

ü Rear OEM feet / bumpers sourced from another Sony and installed

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment, with minimal wobble and no missing fins

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü 'Direction Change Stopper' wheel, resurfaced / rebuilt for correct tension arm operation as well as other internal tires replaced or reconditioned.



ü Heads cleaned and de-magnetized (as well as entire transport) and are in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Mic / Line control pots cleaned for static free performance

ü Deck has been fully calibrated to factory manual specs adjusting PB levels, Meter adjustments, Bias / Frequency adjustments and internal record levels, tested, with Nortronics, Panasonic, Sony, Soundcraft, STL, TEAC and BRL alignment / test tapes (see resulting record level listed below). Biased best for Ampex GM456 / ATR Reference tape and records on Maxell UD also very well. Tested on all tape types recording at -0dB (most manufactures test at -20dB). You won't always want to record at 0dB, but generally somewhere between -10 up to -3 works best with most decks.

ü Tape head azimuth adjusted out to 15k for record and playback heads.




ü Speed tested to 100% accuracy (1kHz = 1.000kHz +/- 1Hz!) (That's pretty awesome speed accuracy BTW)

ü Floor noise measured at >-60dB following above procedures

ü Following the above work and calibration, Recording tests performed with Ampex GM456 (again, same formulation as new ATR tape), Maxell UD (Gold / Black), Scotch 203 and Scotch 150 Tapes.
Here’s the results;
Ampex 456 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L= -2dB L & R =+0.5dB
Forward
Ampex 456
@ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L= -1dB L & R = 0dB Reverse
Maxell UDXL @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L= -3dB L & R = -1.5dB
Forward
Maxell UDXL @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L= -3dB L & R = -2dB Reverse
Scotch 203 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L= -7dB L & R = -1.5dB
Forward
Scotch 203 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L= -6dB L & R = -6dB
Reverse
Scotch 150 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L= -3dB L & R = -4dB
Forward
Scotch 150 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L= -1dB L & R = -7dB Reverse

Ok, that's how "1k" sounded, but how about MUSIC?
Ampex GM456 with Recorded program from "ddd" source extensively. Forward recording is very good quality. Reverse was Exceptional! Overall, with quality tape, the and deck sounds fantastic!

ü This SONY TC-730 functions, plays, and records very well (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~ 58++!!! hours. OUCH!!!).
____________________________


 GREAT performing Sony TC-730 1/4" Open Reel stereo tape deck with 3-Speeds, 6-HEADS, Auto-Reverse, and a built-in amp and speakers! Great for all-around Playback and recording of reels up to 7" in diameter. Also has all three consumer reel speeds as you will see listed below.

 
Sony TC-730 Reel to Reel Tape Recorder Features include:

- Built-in Amplifier and Speakers (also of course, works as a 'component')
-Triple speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms, 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms
 and extra long 1 7/8 ips / 4.75 cms
- 3-Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels
 / record quality while recording
- 6-Head function
- Triple-Mode Auto-Reverse
- Bi-Directional Recording
- Direct Drive (no flywheel belt to worry about)
- Solenoid assist, 'Touch Tape Transport' controls
- S.O.S. (Sound-On-Sound) capable
- 'Echo' effect function (can be used as a 'tape delay' for guitar or vocals)
- 5*" / 7" Reel Capacity (*compatible with standard
 4-Track / 2-Channel tape format)
- Separate L & R input level and microphone controls
- Auto-Stop
- Dual analog VU meters for monitoring Playback and Record levels
- "Sound-On-Sound" capable w/ independent L & R record engage switches
- Dual front mounted 1/4" mic input jacks
- 1/4" Stereo Headphone jack with dual output level selector
- Mechanical Tape counter
- Built-in Reel / Hub locks (no need for rubber reel retainers)
- RCA and DIN inputs and outputs
 
 Amplifier features:

- Separate Power switch
- Separate Bass and Treble Controls
- Balance and Volume controls
- 'Mode' for 'Stereo', L or R or L+R
- Internal or External speaker selector
- True WORLD AC POWER   allows unit to be operated on
 50 or 60 Hz AC and will select voltages from 110v, 120v, 220v and 240 volts AC input.

    
Original SONY TC-730 Specifications as follows:

  
Power Requirements: 120 watts, АС 100 V, 110 V, 125 V, 127V, 220 V, 240 V 50/60 Hz
Tape Speed: 7.5 ips / 19cms, 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms and extra long 1 7/8 ips / 4.75 cms electronically switched
Reels: 1/4" tape on 7 inches оr smaller
Recording Format: 4-track / 2-Channel stereophonic оr monophonic
Frequency Response w/ Sony SLH or equiv 'High Bias' Tape:

 20-30,000 Hz @ 7 1/2ips.
  20-20,000 Hz @ 3 3/4 ips.
Frequency Response w/ Standard Tape:
20-25,000 Hz @ 7 1/2ips
20-17,000 Hz @ 3 3/4 ips.
30- 9,000 Hz @ 1 7/8 ips.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: > 53 dB @ 7 1/2 ips. w/ standard Tape. 56dB w/ Sony SLH or equiv 'High Bias' Tape
Flutter and Wow: < 0.06% @ 7 1/2 ips.

                           < 0.1% @ 3 3/4 ips.
                          < 0.2% @ 1 7/8 ips.
Harmonic Distortion: < 1.2% @ 7 1/2 ips.
Bias Frequency: 160 kHz
Level Indication: Dual Analog VU Meters
Record: Calibrated to NAB standard reference level
Playback: Calibrated to 0dB line output level
Recording Time: With 1,800' tape
(4-track stereo)  (4-track mono) 7 1/2 ips  1 hr. 30 min. / 3 hr. & @ 3 3/4 ips. 3 hr. / 6 hr.
Inputs: Dual 1/4" Microphone Input Jacks and Auxiliary Jacks Sensitivity -22 dB (62mV) Impedance 100kΩ
Outputs: Line Output Jacks w/ Output level 0dB (0.775 V) & suitable load impedance >100 kΩ
Headphone Jack's Output level @ 1 & 2:

-36 dB (12.3mV) Impedance 8Ω
-28dB (30.8mV) Impedance 8Ω
DIN Record /Playback Connector: Output level 0dB (0.775V) Impedance 10kΩ & Input sensitivity -33dВ (17.4mV) w/ Impedance 10 kΩ
Amplifier output:  3.7 W x 2 w/ built-in speakers & 15 W x 2 w/ external speakers
Built-In Speakers: Dual 4" x 6" / 32Ω

 

 Again, following the above stated bench work / testing, our technician has 'Certified' this deck and it is an great performer sonically and mechanically. This deck has had EXTENSIVE restoration with the above mentioned 60'ish hours of tech time. It's pretty much had the clock rolled back 40 years on it. Restored, extensively tested / played, then re-benched after 'burn-in' to double check performance / adjustments. The only comment I would make regarding mechanical performance, is that the dual, recording switch paddles / buttons can be a bit 'fiddly' to engage or disengage sometimes. It helps to make sure that there is no slack in the tape (which is pretty much the case with all decks, but this deck requires zero slack, or the auto stop will engage). There's a bit of extra "hiss" and mild 60Hz "hum" from the internal amp, but we didn't pursue that too far as we realize that most folks will connect this to a stereo / sound system / computer, and those extra sounds are not present at the Line-Out jacks. Cosmetically there's a few minor battle scars and missing toggle tips previously mentioned, but nothing significant (see photos above).
 Looks great & Ready to go! Comes with a take-up reel. Again, GREAT for burning your tapes to CD or Hard Drive or for a 'media transfer business'. Also handy for archiving / researching / revisiting your tapes without having to have a system nearby as it has a built-in amp and speakers. The built-in amp and speakers actually sound great with separate bass and treble controls. The amp has ample power to driver external speakers as well pretty decently. We had a blast doing our final testing with this unit as it's actually 'FUN' to use. Can include a pdf 'e' copy of the Sony TC-730 Owners manual (very poor copy) and a copy of the Sony TC-730 service manual if the purchaser wishes. Includes our standard 30 Day limited warranty. Measures 21" wide x 9" deep x 19.5" tall and weighs 51 lbs unpacked.
SONY TC-730 REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
 Cond. 8 (due to compromised toggle switches and minor battle scars mentioned above)

SOLD 10/3/2023
SHIPPING TO CRAIG IN NORTH CAROLINA


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

 

 

 

              

   

         
NEW LISTING
1/11/2023

(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)

CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes)  warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
FOSTEX MULTI-8-TRACK REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
FOSTEX MODEL 80
7" x 1/4" / 15ips TAPE DECK
3-HEAD / 3-MOTOR
REEL TO REEL 

MIJ

for sale


ü Our technician has EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü AC mains selector and fuses checked and corrected as necessary

ü Internal fuses checked for continuity and correct values. No issues found, fortunately. We don't like seeing incorrect fuses having been installed in a unit as that could mean it had prior issues, or if a fuse value was 'increased' it could have allowed too much current through an 'ailing' circuit causing un-due / un-necessary damage.

ü pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Entire transport was cleaned and re-lubed

ü Entire transport and tape path de-magnetized

ü All tape path rollers cleaned

ü Pinch Roller 'lathe' re-surfaced, cleaned and re-conditioned w/ our shop standard, MG Chemicals Rubber Re-conditioner.

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brand new and CORRECT, #FR13.4 main drive belt installed

ü Both reel table belts reconditioned

ü Braking adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü Back tension adjusted on both reel motors.

ü All three motors test perfectly. Following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of tapes

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment

ü We also checked / adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Both internal speed pots adjusted to 99.9% accuracy (1000Hz=1001Hz) (with pitch control zero'd) (meaning that our 'verified' 1000Hz test tape now plays back at 1001Hz +/-1Hz).

(Tech note: >>All dB references in service manual are in dBV which requires our Fluke 8060A to be set to dBV...)

ü Playback / Record Head alignment / azimuth was already 'spot on', but we still did all of our checks for peak performance (max levels) with factory test tone tape and oscilloscope before electrical adjustments.

ü We adjusted all eight VU meters w/ factory test tone tapes, as well as the internal playback and record levels.

ü Deck has been fully calibrated to factory manual specs adjusting PB levels, Meter adjustments, Bias / Frequency adjustments (VC1& VC2), and internal record levels, tested, with Nortronics, Panasonic, Sony, Soundcraft, STL, TEAC and BRL alignment / test tapes (see resulting record level listed below). Biased best for Ampex GM456 / ATR Reference tape and records on Maxell UD also very well.



ü Record bias adjusted for Ampex 456 or ATR Magnetics Master Tape

ü Bias traps adjusted proper levels per service manual

ü Following the above work and calibration, Recording tests performed with Ampex GM 456 / ATR MASTER Tapes (using output to adjust PB typically from .775 to 1V).
Here’s the results;
Ampex GM 456 @ 15ips. w/ 1kHz @ 0dB = 0 to -2dB 1-8

ü Floor noise measured at -66dB following above procedures

ü This Fostex Model-80 functions, plays, and records perfectly (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  (Total time investment in refurb / testing 15 hours).

Face is made of beautiful Black anodized, brushed aluminum and case is in great condition. Deck looks NEW and NOW works great! 

Ready to GO! This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through with flying colors.

The deck tests great! Looks and sounds great too! Only issue remaining seems to be that 2-3 segments of the LED meters will randomly not light (it depends on what mode the deck is being used in at the time). The segments that are out in this photo, are sometimes lit, with other segments that might be out instead at that time.
We couldn't really determine a pattern about the symptom, and decided it wasn't worth expensive tech time to trace it down, only to ultimately add to it's final price. Cosmetically it looks fabulous with just some minor scuffing on the display plexi you can see if the angle of the light is just right (see photos above). As most multi-tracks, including this one, do not have 'on-board' input / output level controls, it should be used with a mixer or similar outboard gear. We have completely gone through it. Will play  7"reels.

Fostex Model-80 Features include:


- 3 Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels while recording
- Single, 15ips Tape Speed
- 3-Motors for trouble free performance (has a lot to do with it still being a viable piece of gear due to less rubber parts)
- Dolby-C noise reduction (global defeat switch on rear panel)
- LSI Full-Logic tape transport for "Touch" control
- De-featable ±10% Pitch control
- Electronically Assisted brakes for much easier handling of tape (reduces or eliminates tape stretch and / or breakage)
- Digital tape counter for "real time" or inches and also with 2 Memory points
- Dual Multi-Pin accessory ports on rear panel for time code / synchronization such as SMPTE or for Remote functions with remotes such as the Fostex 8031 or possibly the Fostex 8030 or 8316 (remote not included)
- Dual 1/4" remote ports on rear panel (remote(s) not included) one being for Punch IN/OUT using a Fostex 8051
- 8 Individual, 12-Segment Track LED VU level meters


Fostex Model-80 Specs from the owners manual as follows:

Head / Head-stack Format: 8-Track / 8-Channel
Motors: 1x Capstan Motor &  Reel Motors
Tape Speed:
15ips
Pitch Control: +/- 10%
Wow and Flutter: 0.06% Peak
Frequency Response: 40-18,000 Hz, +- 3 dB @ 15 ips
S/N ratio: 72dB weighted & 60dB un-weighted for 15ips @ +10dB @ 1k

Record Level Calibration: 0dB referenced to 320 nWb/m level of tape flux
THD: <1% @ 1kHz & 185 nWb/m level (we try and use tape capable of a way better "nWb/m" level, such as Ampex GM 456 or ATR)

Erasure
: >70dB @ 1kHz
Fast Wind Time: ~ 130 secs. for 1800'
Input level (line): -10dBV (0.3V) @ 30k Ohms, unbalanced
Output level (line): -10dBV (0.3V) @ 10k Ohms, unbalanced

As stated earlier we have spent 15 hours completely going through it cleaning heads and all else, lubing, adjusting, reconditioning pinch roller and / or replacing other rubber parts, demagnetizing heads and entire transport and testing everything. Tape speed has been 'internally' adjusted to 100% accuracy using a 1000 Hz test tape for the pitch control in it's 'centered' position. Plays and records well (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed CD material and CD test tones looking for correct head Azimuth, tape speed accuracy and making test recordings). Pinch rollers and heads all in GREAT condition!!! Face is made of beautiful, black anodized, brushed Aluminum and looks very nice. Very clean and looks near new. Unit looks GREAT! 

Great deck for revisiting your old, multi-track tapes, or if you have a media transfer business and need to transfer 8-Track / Multi-track tapes to a digital format. Certainly also great if you want to set up an actual 'analog' multi-track studio to record new music on.


Measures 14" wide (standard 14" 'Rack width' wide with optional rack ears installed) x 13.5" tall x 6.75" (from tip of back feet-tip of hubs) deep and weighs 29 lbs unpacked. Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf download of the Fostex Model-80 owners / operations / users manual and service manual if purchaser desires. Also comes with a pair of the thread-on, OEM, Fostex reel locks / clamps. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
Fostex Model-80
Cond. 8.5+

$1499.

There might be a rental possibility on this deck primarily for someone needing to 're-visit' their 1/4", 8-Track tapes for mix-down. Contact us if needed.


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.)
However, all of our decks will come with tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel)


 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

 



Looking for a more '$ERIOU$' Reel to Reel Tape deck. Check this link out...
 

Or,

if your pockets are 'even deeper', there is a NEW deck being built from the ground up....

Or,

if your pockets are "deeper than deep", Check out this NEW deck being built...
 

 





UPDATED LIST 6/19/2023
Reel to Reel Decks
Coming Soon
(or at least as time allows):

Concord 300 (tech has finished, awaiting final inspection / testing / sign-off / photos / text)
Sony TC-123 (Tech has finished, awaiting final inspection / testing / sign-off / photos / text)
Akai GX-285D (Current Bench project)
Akai GX-230 (Awaiting spot on the banch)
Akai 1730SS (Current Bench project)
Sony TC-730 (Tech has finished, awaiting photos / text)


(While we have many more decks in stock or will likely be arriving from our consignors and / or awaiting bench / tech time. MANY WON'T MAKE IT thru our stringent process)

 

 

 

 



Looking for a more '$ERIOU$' Reel to Reel Tape deck. Check this link out...

 

 

 

 



A few 'multi-tracks', 'half-tracks' and 'semi-pro' reel to reel decks.
Clockwise, starting at upper left; TEAC A-2340SX, TEAC 40-4, TEAC A-2340R, TEAC 32-2B
FOSTEX E-22, TEAC 38, TEAC A-3440, TEAC 40-4.


 



A few random notes about head / track format for 'consumer' / 'semi-pro' 1/4 & 1/2" reel to reel machines:

Most 'consumer' decks will utilize a "4-Track / 2-Channel" track / head format. That means the tape will have '2-sides' and generally be 'stereo'. With the exception of 'portable' decks, many decks made / sold from the early-mid 1960's and, most from the late 1960's thru the last models in the early 1990's will be this format. Most decks will feature two speeds; 3 3/4 ips and 7.5 ips. Some early decks (early 1960's to early 1970's) will also have a very slow speed of 1 7/8 ips. That speed was generally used when 'tape economy / conservation' was paramount, and generally was not acceptable for 'music quality' recording.

Early 'consumer' decks and most portables, including the small 3" / 'transistor / pocket' reel to reel decks utilized a 2-Track / 1-Channel format. This would include the earliest of decks 1950's thru early 1960's for 5" and 7" decks and the small 'transistor / pocket' decks from the 1960's thru the 1970's. The speeds on those could be anywhere from 1 7/8 ips thru 7.5 ips, depending on the unit / model. Tapes made on this type of 'tape deck / head / track format' will play on a '4-Track / 2-Channel' deck to a 'usable' degree for the most part (we've done it). You simply 'mute / turn-down / disconnect' one side or the other from the playback deck.

Sony made quite a few decks that were 4-Track / 1-Channel (TC-105, TC-105A, TC-123, models come to mind). Sony also made a few that were 4-Track / 1-Channel or 2-Channel (TC-200). Akai / Roberts made decks with similar formats as well.

Some tapes can 'cross pollinate' to a 'usable' degree from one deck to another. For instance, you can play a 2-Track / 1-Channel tape on a 4-Track / 2-Channel deck. You will simply need to 'mute' one channel as you will get one side going forward and one going in 'reverse' (think 'backward masking' sound). Technically you'll get the 'forward' playback sound form the 'left channel' and Side-B (the other side) going 'backward'. Simply 'mute' with your 'monitor switch' or your 'Balance' control on your pre-amp or ultimately if necessary, pull out the patch cable on that side to only hear or transfer the 'forward playback' signal. Yes, you will be missing some of the 'audio signal strength' (as the head is not 'covering' the full width of the original recorded track), but given the material that was typically recorded on early 'mono' recordings, it's typically a fair trade-off to the resources that will likely be necessary to acquiring a 'functioning' deck capable of the exact track format.


...I'll add more to this as time allows


*A note about Reverse / Auto-Reverse /: Reverse means that you can manual switch directions in play mode. You can generally do this at any point in the tapes travel.
Auto-Reverse usually means that a deck will automatically switch play directions at the end. This is usually triggered by special foil tape installed on the tapes for sensors on the machine to pick-up. Some machines also require longer foil tape than others. Also decks vary in the side the foil tape has to be installed on to function. If you tape does not have the foil installed or it's foil is too short, or it happens to be installed on the wrong side, Auto-Reverse may not function. Auto-Reverse may only be designed to work in one direction as well. Some decks, such as a few 'Sony's' were designed with their "E.S.P. Auto Reverse", which would change directions after a 'long enough section of 'silence' ' passed by...theoretically...




 

Reel to Reel Tape Running Time Versus Tape Length
ie; "How long does a xxx foot tape play?"

 

TIME IN MINUTES
 SIDE A  SIDE B
Speed ips 1 7/8 3.75 7.5 15 1 7/8 3.75 7.5 15
Tape
Length
               
600' 64 32 16 8 128 64 32 16
900' 90 45 22.5 11.25 180 90 45 22.5
1200' 120 60 30 15 240 120 60 30
1800' 180 90 45 22.5 360 180 90 45
2400' 240 120 60 30 480 240 120 60
3600' 360 180 90 45 720 360 180 90

 

 


 


LIMITED PERFORMANCE / AS-IS** / AS-FOUND** / RESTORATION PROJECT R2R DECKS BELOW:
 
              

            NEW LISTING 3/24/2023
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)

SERVICED / REFURBISHED BUT REMAINING ISSUE
*
PRO TEAC MULTI-TRACK REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
TASCAM SERIES
TEAC / TASCAM 34 4-TRACK TAPE DECK
4-TRACK / 4-CHANNEL STEREO /
/ MONO
3-HEAD / 2-SPEED (7.5 & 15IPS) / 3-MOTOR
10.5", 7" REELS AND / OR
**SMALLER
MULTITRACK 1/4" TAPE DECK
#....3844
MIJ
Circa 1982-85
for sale


ü Our technician has gone through this unit.

ü
 We have gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Heads inspected for excessive wear (obviously we do this 'early on' as 'excessive' wear will usually negate any further restoration work).

ü Capstan cleaned and burnished in drill press while removed

ü Pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed.

ü Pinch-roller mechanism pressure adjusted

ü Rubber pinch roller removed, re-surfaced, conditioned and re-installed with fresh lubricant.

ü Fresh / New 'Main' / Capstan belt (#42-860).

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes also (optimized for 7" & 10.5" tape.)

ü Back tension checked / adjusted on both reel motors.

ü All three motors test perfectly. Following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" & 10.5" tapes

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment w/ no 'run-out' at any speed.

ü Both spindle-locks hold tightly.

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with lots of performance left in them

ü *Removed individual board and burnished contacts on channel Circuit Boards and re-seated. Adjusted pin contacts for better connections, but are still having issues with channels coming and going intermittently. When we had the unit inverted with it's covers off, we were able to get all the channels to randomly play and record by manipulating the individual channel circuit boards. The scuttlebutt on the web is that this is due to *solder joint issues on the main board. We may try and address that in the future, but for now it's available *'As-Is'.

ü All meter lamps working and running 'cool'

ü Playback and Record Head alignment / azimuth was adjusted for peak performance with factory test tone tape and oscilloscope.

ü Internal Speed tested to 100% accuracy following refurb (meaning that our 'verified' 1000Hz accuracy using a 1000 Hz “STL” test tape.  (test tape now plays back at 1000Hz +/-1Hz and 2000Hz @ 15ips).

ü Floor noise measured at >-74dB w/ blank tape, L&R

ü Following refurb / service mechanicals tested for 'play torque' at beginning and end of largest size reels, as well as 'Fast wind torque' and 'braking tension' in both FF and REW, at beginning, middle and end of tapes. In other words, every combination of transport function was tested and passed.

  (Total time investment in refurb / testing 7.5 hours).

Mechanically, the deck tests great! Cosmetically it's also in great condition. Really not much cosmetically to talk about that the above photos don't show.

TASCAM 34 Features include:

- Multi-Track / 4-Track / 4-Channel Stereo / Mono head stack / tape format
- 3 Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels while recording
- 10.5" Max Reel Capacity (The BIG Reels!) (*but could play down to 3", however the torque and brakes are optimized for 10.5" reels) (when in "fast wind" mode, it is sometimes necessary to switch to "Large Reels" when utilizing 7" or smaller reels to keep tension arm from moving to 'auto-shut-off' position)
- Punch In / Punch Out Function via optional, 'momentary' foot switch
- 3 Motors (means less 'Rube Goldberg' mechanisms inside like many R2R's)
- IC logic tape transport for "Touch" control
- Dual speeds at 15ips / 38cms & 7.5 ips / 19cms
- Multi-Track / Sound-on-Sound / Sound-with-Sound / Duet recording capable
- Cue Lever with 'variable pressure' for lifting tape away from head in Fast Wind modes or for moving tape close enough to head to monitor fast wind progress
- Output selector for ‘Input’, ‘Sync’ or ‘Monitor’ (this feature will require an understanding of the 'user manual')
- Play / Pause control lets you manually ‘rock’ the reels back / forth while you listen to pinpoint an exact point for editing. (also if you’re the ‘DJ’ type, you can also use this feature to “scratch-n-sniff” just like on your records. Can you say, “Yipeeee!” ?... Oh sorry, I mean, “Yo Dog”)
- Reel Size selector for proper tape 'back tension' and braking.
- Analog VU level meter for each channel
- Fluorescent Tape Counter
- Spring loaded reel spindles (no need for 'rubber stoppers / reel clamps')
- RCA Line I/O's for all channels
- Accessory connectors for optional TEAC Remote control (not included, nor currently available from us)
- Multi-pin logic connector for external dbx unit (not included, nor currently available)


TASCAM 34 Original Specs / Specifications:

Track / Head / Head-stack Format: 3 heads, inline (4-track / 4-channel, stereo/monaural system)
Motors: 3X. Capstan motor: FG Servo DC. Reel motors:
Slotless DC
Reel Size: Acceptable 7” & 10.5" (3" & 5” reels may not ‘brake’ correctly as deck is optimized for 7”-10.5" reels)
Tape Speeds: 15 ips / 38cms & 7.5 ips / 19cms
Tape Speed accuracy: 0.8%
Frequency Response in ‘Sync’ mode:
40-22,000 Hz @ 15ips.
±3dB @ 0dB VU
40-16,000 Hz @ 7 1/2ips.
±3dB @ 0dB VU
Wow and Flutter (NAB & Unweighted): 0.07% @ 15ips & 0.09% @ 7.5ips (NAB)
S/N ratio: >68dB @ 15ips / Wtd or >60dB @ 15ips / Unwtd
Crosstalk; >50dB down adjacent track @ 1kHz
Erasure Depth; >65 dB @ 1kHz +10dB
THD: <0.8% @ 0VU & @ 1kHz. 3% @ +13VU & @ 1kHz
Bias Frequency; 150kHz
Line Input: -10dBV (0.3V) nominal & +18dBV (8.0V) max
/  Impedance 50kΩ
Record Level Calibration: 0 VU reference is 250 nWb/m tape flux level; adjustable LED’s preset to turn On at signal level of +10 VU.
Line Output: -10dB (0.3V) nominal & -+18dB (8.0V) nominal /  Impedance 1kΩ unbalanced
Fast Wind Time: Approx 90 Seconds for 10.5" reel / 2400'
Start Time (stop to full motion play): ~.08 sec to reach Wow and Flutter spec

As stated earlier we have EXTENSIVELY gone through it cleaning heads and all else, lubing, adjusting, reconditioning pinch rollers and other rubber parts, demagnetizing heads and entire transport and testing everything. Tape speed tested and resulted in 100% accuracy using a 1000 Hz “STL” test tape. Pinch rollers and heads all in GREAT condition!!!

All of our restored / refurbished reel to reel decks come with a 7", plastic take-up reel, a 'known good' 7" tape for initial testing of playback, and a 7" tape you can record onto, all to assist you in becoming familiar with the operation / function of your new reel to reel tape deck.
Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf download of the TASCAM 34 service manual. Measures  18.25" tall x 16.25" wide x 10.2" (from tip of back feet-tip of hubs) deep and weighs 44 lbs
unpacked. Due to channel intermittency issues*, being sold "As-Is". Again, mechanically the deck works great following the efforts our tech has expended on it. If time allows, we (I) may revisit the solder joints on the connectors / main board. The price will drastically increase following that work, assuming it pans out.
(Reels, tape and any NAB hubs shown in photos not included. All are sometimes available separately if you need them. We do ship our decks with a plastic take-up reel, a tape to 'practice record' on and a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback.) 
TASCAM 34 MULTI-TRACK / STEREO / MONO REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
Cond. 8.5
$689. AS-IS
 (C) R.R.

*Price will increase following any future work undertaken.


(Reels, tape and any NAB hubs shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)


 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

(Due to it's size and weight, it runs a bit more for shipping relative to other (consumer) reel to reel machines)

 

 

              

          NEW LISTING
5/1/2023

(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)

REFURBISHED FOR PLAYBACK

AKAI STEREO REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
MODEL X-360
4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL
4-SPEED*
3-HEAD / 3-MOTOR
MANUAL / AUTO-REVERSE
WITH BUILT IN PLAYBACK AMP AND STEREO SPEAKERS
REEL TO REEL R2R
1/4" STEREO TAPE DECK
Circa 1971-73
"
WORLD AC POWER" ™
for sale

Original observations / conditions: "Clean. Powers up. Deck was actually functioning well for Playback, meters, FF and REW and braking. Sonically decent on playback. Record levels were muffled. Take-Up spindle tight on some reels"

While we haven’t done our standard, full 25-30 hour restoration on this unit, (due to it’s weight it’s beyond what my tech wants to handle on the bench to the extent we do with most 25-40lb units), we have done the ‘high points’ and got it to an acceptable level for *‘Playback’ (*recording is ‘muffled’ on R&L and we didn’t pursue that).

ü Internal relays all are functioning.

ü Both Main Drive belt and rubber pinch roller have been reconditioned and Counter belt for trouble-free service.

ü Internal transport mechanisms cleaned of old grease & re-lubed, capstan burnished, heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Pinch Roller swing arm assembly working fine as well as the brake arms and tape tension arms.

ü Impedance roller bearing silent and has great momentum once tape travel stopped

ü Magnetic brakes checked / tested on fast wind modes also so it doesn't "dump tape" when stopped.

ü Capstan motor re-lubed.

ü Take-up Spindle filed to allow better fit for 'tight' reels

ü All user potentiometers and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment and run true with little to no wobble.

ü Tape Head azimuth adjusted with factory alignment tapes.

ü Playback Preamplifier adjusted to correct 1.228V.

ü PB frequency response measured VERY ‘flat’ out to 10kHz.

ü Both VU meters work great with even response.

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them and head alignment / azimuth has been checked and adjusted for peak performance.

ü Both level meters playback even.

ü Speed checked to 99.6% accuracy (meaning that a 1000Hz tape plays back at 1004Hz)!

(Total time investment in refurb / testing ~ 7 hours. Pinch roller and heads all in GREAT condition!!! Entire deck including brushed face, bezels, knobs and Real Mahogany Wood Veneer case in excellent condition!
We have extensively played this deck following the semi-restore, going through about a dozen tapes (mainly because it was the deck that happened to be on our demo bench, so I used it to audition a stack of tapes). It worked flawlessly.

____________________________

Great, restored, AKAI GX-360 Stereo Reel to Reel tape deck. Will play stereo 1/4" tape on reels up to 7". This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" for playback, here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through and tests functional for playback use!
Great deck for re-visiting your reel to reel tapes, or transferring them to computer hard drive. We did not test, nor service the ‘Comput-O-Matic” recording function.

Akai X-360 Features include:

- 4 tape speeds* at 7.5 ips / 19 cms, 3 3/4 ips / 9.5 cms and slow, 1 7/8 ips / 4.8 cms
- *4th speed can be 15ips (professional speed) when used with an optional speed sleeve and corresponding pinch roller that is not included.
- Manual Reverse Play Direction Switches
- Built-in Amplifier and Speakers with volume and tone controls (also has ‘RCA Line Out’s’ for connection to your stereo system or computer)
- 3-Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels / record quality while recording (again, a moot point, as we didn’t address the record issue)
- 3-Motors for trouble free performance (has a lot to do with it still being a viable piece of gear due to less rubber parts)
- X-Field Bias system (again, a moot point, as we didn’t address the record issue)
- 7" reel capacity
- "Soft-Touch", Solenoid assist tape transport controls
- Both RCA & DIN I/O’s
- Separate dual concentric Mic and Line level controls
- Dual 1/4" front mounted mic inputs
- Source / Monitor selector (again, a moot point, as we didn’t address the record issue)
- Dual analog, lit VU level meters
- Auto transport stop
- "Comput-O-Matic" automatically adjusts for optimum recording levels using in internally located, servo operated potentiometer (if feature is engaged) (again, a moot point, as we didn’t address the record issue, and we didn’t service that aspect)
- "Reverse-O-Matic" features allows you to pre-set auto-reverse segments if you choose
- Magnetic Brakes with tape mil selector for fine tuning for optimum braking performance in fast wind modes
- Auto power "Shut-Off" feature (selectable On / Off)
- "Sound-On-Sound" capable (again, a moot point, as we didn’t address the record issue)
- "Clean Heads" warning lamp
- Mechanical Tape Counter
- Headphone Level Control
- Spring loaded, HUB spindle locks (no need for those antiquated rubber stoppers to hold your reels on)
- Un-switched AC convenience outlet located on rear panel
- 11-Pin port for optional Remote control
-True WORLD AC POWER ™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC and will select voltages from 110v, 120v, 220v and 240 volts AC input.

Akai X-360 Original Specifications as follows:

Heads: X-Field Bias Head system. 4 (2/1-channel erase, 2/1-Channel play and 2/1-Channel Record)
Number of Motors: 1x 2/4/8 Pole Hysteresis Synchronous Capstan and 2x 6-pole, eddy current, outer rotor induction Reel motors
Drive to Capstan: Belt to flywheel
Tape Speeds: 15* ips,
7-1/2 ips 3.75 ips & 1 7/8 ips
Wow and flutter:
 <0.10% R.M.S. @ 7.5 ips
<0.13% R.M.S. @ 3.75 ips
<0.25% R.M.S. @ 1 7/8 ips

Signal to noise ratio: w/ Normal Bias Tape
>48dB @ 7.5 ips
>45dB @ 3.75 ips
>43dB @ 1 7/8 ips

Frequency response: w/ Normal Bias tape
@ 7-1/2 ips: 30Hz to 21kHz
@ 3.75 ips: 30Hz to 18kHz
@ 1 7/8 ips: 40Hz to 9kHz
Distortion:
within 1.7% @ 7.5 ips
within 3.0% @ 3.75 ips
within 3.0% @ 1 7/8 ips
Crosstalk: <-70dB Mono & <-43dB Stereo

Bias Frequency: 100kHz
Internal Speakers: 2x, 4" / 3W / 16 Ohms
Line
Input level and Impedance: >70mV / 166k Ohms
Microphone Input level:
>0.7mV
Output Level: @ 0dB on VU meters
with a load impedance of 50k ohms
1.23V (+4dBs ±1.5dB) @ 7.5 ips
1.03V (+2.5dBs ±1.5dB) @ 3.75 ips
0
.82V (+.5dBs ±1.5dB) @ 1 7/8 ips

Speed Deviation: within
± 0.5% @ 7.5 ips
within ± 1.0% @ 3.75 ips
within ± 1.0% @ 1 7/8 ips
Fast Wind Time: ~ 60 secs. for 1200'


As stated earlier we have completely gone through and is ready to use for
*"PLAYBACK" only. Cosmetically the deck is in excellent shape. Beautiful, Brushed Aluminum face plate in great condition. Real Mahogany Wood veneer case also in great condition. Performs and sounds great as well! Measures 16.5" wide x 18" tall x 10.5" deep and weighs 56 lbs unpacked. Includes our limited 30 day limited warranty. This one also includes the original box and packing! (Reels & tape shown in photos not included. All are usually available separately if you need them)
AKAI GX-360
Cond. 8.5
$689. Playback Only

(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.)
However, all of our decks will come with tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel)

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

 

    

          

       NEW LISTING 2/28/2020
 
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
VINTAGE SONY REEL TO REEL
ALL TUBE SONY TC-500A PORTABLE REEL TO REEL
#...1051
CIRCA MID 1960'S
MIJ
RESTORATION PROJECT / REFURB CANDIDATE / AS-IS

for sale

Fixer-Upper, All-Tube, Sony TC-500a Reel to Reel tape deck / player / recorder.
Another one we are clearing out in 'as-found' condition. We just likely aren't going to have time to restore them all so it's for sale 'as-is'.
 
What we know / observed:
- Clean inside and good condition out
- Powers-Up fine
- Motor Runs
- Has good Fast Forward and Re-Wind function at decent speed at most or all locations on a 7" reel
- Capstan turns
- Counter functions
- Tape plays / sounds decent
- Tape deck does record surprisingly well for an 'As-Found' deck (includes a tape we just recorded on it)
- Functions vertically or horizontally (will need reel clamps for 'vertical' use which aren't included)
- All Lights / Bulbs for 'Recording Indicator' and 'Meters' work
- Pinch roller appears serviceable
- Internal idler tires / wheels, have a few cracks on some, but are serviceable IMO (we certainly would have no issue reconditioning them with full faith)
- Heads appear to be in good condition (see above photos)
- Decent cosmetics (may be dusty / dirty etc.)
- Actually not too many electrolytic capacitors inside to change (we may have a 'change of heart' on this one and restore it before it sells because of that)
- No apparent missing parts
- Mostly original NEC tubes with a couple of American GE tubes
- Internal Tube Amp sounds decent from both L & R
- External Speakers both function well
- All I/O jacks works well

Sony TC-500A Features:

- All Tube Electronics
- Original Specified Tube Compliment; 2X 12AD7 (or 12AX7), 2x 6AU6, 2X 6AQ5, 1x 12BH7A, 1x 6CA4 (at least one "12AU7" has been installed in-place of the 12AD7)
- Point to Point wiring
- Built-In Stereo Tube Amplifier
- Can work as a PA system as well
- Mix Microphone input with Line Input signal (great for 'singing along' into recordings)
- Back-Lit, Analog, Level Meters

- Variable Output / Volume control
(one of the most important features on a deck in our opinion. Allows you to match volume level of other sources, allows adjustment for 'best' pre-amp input to avoid distortion, allows you to change the volume of the deck if you have it located remotely from the pre-amp / receiver as I do, and many other applications)
- Dual Mic / Line level controls
- Auto stop for play and fast wind functions

- "Inst Stop" to reduce backlash when in FF mode
- Analog Tape Counter
- Pause control

- Dual, 4.5" driver Speakers fold up onto case for a portable unit (about a 60 lb "portable unit")
- RCA and DIN I/O jacks
- Dual front mounted ¼" Microphone inputs
- External, 1/4" Speaker jacks
- External Line Fuse
- Dual AC convenience outlets

-True "WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC and will select voltages from 110v, 120v, 220v and 240 volts AC input.


SONY TC-500A Original Specifications:

 

Heads / Track system: Reel Heads; 4-track 2-channel / Stereo or 1-Channel heads for stereo or mono, Erase, Recording / Playback

Motors: One 'Hysteresis Synchronous
Transport Control Type: Direct linked Mechanical
Maximum Reel capacity: Up to 7"
Tape speeds: 3.75 ips & 7-1/2 ips
Wow & Flutter: Reel; >0.15% RMS @ 7.5 ips
Frequency response: Reel; 30Hz to 18,000Hz (3dB @ 7-1/2 ips)
 &
30Hz to 13,000 Hz @ 3-3/4 ips
Signal to Noise Ratio: > 50dB on R2R
Amplifier Output Level: 3 W

Bias Frequency: 80kHz


Great restoration projects if you have the skill sets. Would likely make a great, tube reel to reel / sound system. Comes with non-original AC power Cord.
Can include an 'e-copy / pdf' of the Sony TC-500A service manual if purchaser desires. Measures 18.5 x 16.5 x 12.5 folded up and weighs
55 lbs unpacked.

$529. As-Is, entire Unit*
 

~$1800-$2200. If Restored to our normal level depending on record quality and tech time ("theoretical" only, as we're not restoring it due to current tech time resource constraints).


(Reels and reel clamps / stoppers shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

 

 

    

       NEW LISTING 2/28/2020
 
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
VINTAGE SONY REEL TO REEL
ALL TUBE SONY TC-500A PORTABLE REEL TO REEL
#...2130
CIRCA MID 1960'S
MIJ
RESTORATION PROJECT / REFURB CANDIDATE / AS-IS

for sale

Fixer-Upper, All-Tube, Sony TC-500a Reel to Reel tape deck / player / recorder.
Another one we are clearing out in 'as-found' condition. We just likely aren't going to have time to restore them all so it's for sale 'as-is'.
 
What we know / observed:
- Clean inside and good condition out
- Powers-Up fine
- Motor Runs
- Has very little (inadequate) torque on Fast Forward and Re-Wind function likely due to 'glazed rubber idler tires'
- Capstan turns, but play will sometimes slow down, again likely due to glazed or worn rubber. Could be Start / run caps, but until the rubber is reconditioned or replaced, you would be 'guessing' (of course it doesn't hurt to proactively replace the 'start / run' caps)
- Counter functions
- Tape made sound from both channels
- Very dirty Record switches
- Tape deck does record a signal on Right channel, but low on left. May need a new tube in that circuit.
- Functions vertically or horizontally (will need reel clamps for 'vertical' use which aren't included)
- All Lights / Bulbs for 'Recording Indicator' and 'Meters' work
- Pinch roller appears serviceable
- Internal idler tires / wheels, have cracks. May be restorable, but may also need to be rebuilt / replaced with reconditioned ones (they're available out there)
- Decent cosmetics (may be dusty / dirty etc.)
- Actually not too many electrolytic capacitors inside to change (we may have a 'change of heart' on this one and restore it before it sells because of that)
- We removed the AC cord jack cup, so it will need a replacement or better yet, just change to a 'fixed' AC mains cord
- Missing the 'Sony' logo from head cover, the 'bright' from the speed change knob, and the set screws from the plastic head cover
- All original NEC tubes
- Internal Tube Amp sounds decent from both L & R
- External Speakers both function well
- All I/O jacks works well

Sony TC-500A Features:

- All Tube Electronics
- Original Specified Tube Compliment; 2X 12AD7 (or 12AX7), 2x 6AU6, 2X 6AQ5, 1x 12BH7A, 1x 6CA4
- Point to Point wiring
- Built-In Stereo Tube Amplifier
- Can work as a PA system as well
- Mix Microphone input with Line Input signal (great for 'singing along' into recordings)
- Back-Lit, Analog, Level Meters

- Variable Output / Volume control
(one of the most important features on a deck in our opinion. Allows you to match volume level of other sources, allows adjustment for 'best' pre-amp input to avoid distortion, allows you to change the volume of the deck if you have it located remotely from the pre-amp / receiver as I do, and many other applications)
- Dual Mic / Line level controls
- Auto stop for play and fast wind functions

- "Inst Stop" to reduce backlash when in FF mode
- Analog Tape Counter
- Pause control

- Dual, 4.5" driver Speakers fold up onto case for a portable unit (about a 60 lb "portable unit")
- RCA and DIN I/O jacks
- Dual front mounted ¼" Microphone inputs
- External, 1/4" Speaker jacks
- External Line Fuse
- Dual AC convenience outlets

-True "WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC and will select voltages from 110v, 120v, 220v and 240 volts AC input.


SONY TC-500A Original Specifications:

 

Heads / Track system: Reel Heads; 4-track 2-channel / Stereo or 1-Channel heads for stereo or mono, Erase, Recording / Playback

Motors: One 'Hysteresis Synchronous
Transport Control Type: Direct linked Mechanical
Maximum Reel capacity: Up to 7"
Tape speeds: 3.75 ips & 7-1/2 ips
Wow & Flutter: Reel; >0.15% RMS @ 7.5 ips
Frequency response: Reel; 30Hz to 18,000Hz (3dB @ 7-1/2 ips)
 &
30Hz to 13,000 Hz @ 3-3/4 ips
Signal to Noise Ratio: > 50dB on R2R
Amplifier Output Level: 3 W
Bias Frequency: 80kHz


Great restoration projects if you have the skill sets. Would likely make a great, tube reel to reel / sound system.
Can include an 'e-copy / pdf' of the Sony TC-500A service manual if purchaser desires. Measures 18.5 x 16.5 x 12.5 folded up and weighs
55 lbs unpacked.

$449. As-Is, entire Unit*
 

~$1800-$2200. If Restored to our normal level depending on record quality and tech time ("theoretical" only, as we're not restoring it due to current tech time resource constraints).


(Reels and reel clamps / stoppers shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

 

 

 

 


 

     *Ok, so here's the deal on our 'As-Is' / 'As-Found' / 'For Restoration' units. The prices are firm and are more based from their 'pre-processed parts value'.  We are offering these “As-Is” units simply because they’re below our threshold of time-vs-effort-ROI at the time of posting. Any less than our published price and we'll go ahead and process them as "parts" and remove from sale or re-slate for future restoration by us as time allows.  At these values / prices, no more photos or testing will be done by us.

     Most or all of the following applies to us as well, EVERYTIME we start the refurb / service process on a unit. While we may sometimes (usually) state what functions / condition we observed at the time of testing, it is in no way a declaration of warranty (meaning; “we may have missed some $%#*”).  The existing condition we observed and documented is also no guarantee of ultimate viability following further service efforts.  It is only offered 'As-Is', without our normal *warranty and we won't have the time resources to 'improve' it in anyway.  The existing condition we observed and documented is also not necessarily indicative of the entire cosmetic / operational condition associated with a unit (there’s probably issues we didn’t or couldn’t see at the time).

     Restoring / refurbishing 'vintage / used' units properly is typically not an 'easy' process and if you are 'not' a technician or will be disappointed if a unit does not come all the way through to fruition, then you should probably purchase a unit that has already been restored to 'working' condition.  If you are not a technician and do not understand the potential dangers of working with electronic / electrical units, then DO NOT ATTEMPT repair / restoration / further service or even open a unit up. The voltages inside these unit can kill you and it will hurt the entire time you are dying!!!  Units should probably not be ‘powered up’ or used until, at least, a cursory check by qualified personnel has been done.

     Parts to restore / refurbish / service or 'further improve' the unit may or may not be readily available (most parts can be sourced).  Parts / units may or may not respond positively to further repairs (you might blow something up). Units may or may not have original parts. They may have missing, damaged, modified, dangerous / outdated parts etc. (most will not). Units may have evidence of past ‘non-factory’, incorrect, uncompleted, shoddy or dangerous repairs (most will not).

     These units are NOT intended for someone looking for a 'working' unit or thinks you can simply 'install a new belt', spray in some contact cleaner or change a light bulb and have a working component.  It typically requires 4-18 hours to bring most units / vintage components back to a decent level of function and utility for the 'long haul'.

     The pack / ship will be the same as for our 'fully restored' components so the reduced price of the "As-Is" unit has NO BEARING on the cost to pack and ship (which is typically somewhere between $45-$85 but can vary up or down from that range). shipped to most of the lower 48 states. Extreme Southern, North Eastern, or North Western locales will be slightly more.

     Bottom line; If you’re not up for the challenge either due to ‘lacking skill sets’ or ‘lacking funds’ to hire the work done, and need a unit to be more than a ‘shelf display’, then I would pursue a unit / component that has already been PROPERLY restored / refurbished / service with a ‘clean bill of health’. This goes for most of the units that are for sale on on-line Auctions and Classified ads. Occasionally there will be a unit ‘up for auction’ or on a classified ad that really has been service properly, but they’re generally a ‘single digit percentage’ of what’s out there available for sale.

 


 

 

 

 

 



RECENTLY SOLD UNITS BELOW

 

                

             

NEW LISTING 1/5/2023
(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes)  warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED / WARRANTED
ROBERTS OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE PLAYER
ROBERTS MODEL 5000X
PLAYBACK ONLY

 1/4" 4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL STEREO or 1-CHANNEL MONO
3-HEADS
***, 3-MOTORS, 2-SPEEDS
25-22,000Hz Freq Response!!!
3" - 10.5" REEL CAPACITY (the BIG ones!)
SELF-CONTAINED (BUILT-IN AMP AND SPEAKERS)
FASTEST 'FAST WIND' WE'VE EVER SEEN!

OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
#...0678
Circa 1969-1970
MIJ
for sale
SOLD 2/15/2023
SHIPPING TO KEVIN IN COLORADO


Original observations / conditions:
"Actually runs fairly well, but NO brakes! Transport control paddles stiff and sluggish. Counter not working. Had playback sound fairly consistently from both L&R, unless head position selector manipulated. Recording too intermittent to draw any concise results. Typical 'deferred maintenance' like most 40 to 50 year old decks. Once face was removed, it was discovered that the brake pads had completely deteriorated and disappeared."

ü Our technician has EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was removed / disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed with synthetic lube and reassembled.

ü Pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed



ü Even though this unit was built by Akai, it doesn't utilize all the 'deposited metal' cam dogs that all the other Akai's from the late 60's thru the upper-mid 70's use, with one exception. It uses one for the 'head position' selector and it does have some small hairlines in it (as most all Akai and Robert decks do). It does still function, but we are shipping this deck with the selector handle removed. You can still use it and it does still function fine, but it may fail at some point in the future. Moving the head position is such a 'little used' feature that we chose to remove the knob to avoid the possibility of someone moving it in the future to one of the 'mono' positions, then having it break and not be able to get it back to the 'stereo' position.

ü Capstan removed (with motor), bushings and axel cleaned and re-lubed

ü Capstan burnished

ü Both spindle hubs disassembled and clutch discs inspected (in near new condition)



ü Drive motor removed, partially disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed.

ü Pinch roller removed, resurfaced / reconditioned on drill press, and had it's bushing lubed prior to re-install

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brake pads sourced from three other donor machines (in order to get the correct combination of sizes required for this model), cleaned / reconditioned

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes so that hub clutches could function properly. YES, like all of our decks, it's been fully tested on both 7" and 10.5", completely loaded tapes from full speed all the way to 'dead stop' going both directions, at all points of tape progress for fast wind starting and braking.

ü Utilizes and 'oil bath' start / run capacitors for the motors so no need to every worry about replacing them.



ü This is a 'Direct Drive' deck so no 'Main' drive / capstan belt' needed

ü Brand new, #050 'Tape Counter' belt installed

ü All transport functions now test perfectly, following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment, with minimal wobble / run-out and no missing fins

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Meter lamps good (as they're very 'cool running')

ü Heads cleaned and de-magnetized (as well as entire transport) and are in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Mic / Line / Tone control pots cleaned for static free performance

ü Deck has been calibrated as close to factory manual specs as you can on a 60 y.o. deck, adjusting PB levels, Meter adjustments for PLAYBACK ONLY.

ü Speed tested to 99.6% accuracy @ 7.5ips (1kHz = 996kHz)

VERY, VERY Fast wind tests as follows w/ 1800' tape: REW= ~55 sec

ü Flutter tests produced no audible issues.

ü We spent extensive time with the erase head / record head voltage oscillator board. We replaced or tested every component on it and even though we were getting the correct voltages at the correct frequencies, we could not get it to erase tapes, then it failed recording on blank tape, thus it's being offered as a Playback Only deck.

ü This Roberts 5000X plays very well. Great deck for archiving your existing tapes to another format.  (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~ 31+ hours).
____________________________

Looks GREAT & is "Ready-to-go"! Will play / record stereo 1/4" tapes on reels 2.5", 5" & 7" (brakes optimized for 7" reels). This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through  as a playback tape deck.
***So following it's initial restoration, we discovered an issue with 'erase' function. We spent a lot of time on it trying to deduce why it wasn't erasing. It would record VERY well with blank or bulk erased tape, but would not erase. In the process of troubleshooting the erase / bias circuit board we replaced a couple transistors with subs, which once assembled, not only did not address the lack of erase function, but then caused issues with record quality. At that point we decided to make it a 'Playback only' deck as that erase work had put us to double the time we had in the balance of it's restoration.
Deck does come in carrying case with latch-on lid.

Built-in amp and speakers make this a "stand alone" unit, yet can still be connected to your stereo system.  

A few other notes of interest regarding this deck;
It utilizes a 'direct drive' capstan, thus no belt to worry about. Also, the capstan motor (actually and "Akai Syncom" motor) is ginormous, relative to most others.



Lot's of torque. Thirdly, the motor is AC powered so way longer lasting than DC motors (as in about 10 times longer life). Also, the start / run capacitors in this unit are 'oil can' types, so should never wear out or get 'old' like most "Start / Run" capacitors.



Also, the 'built-in' amp and speakers actually sound pretty good. Having speakers built-in may have made your 'short list' of features to have on a reel to reel, but they're actually VERY handy once you use them.


Roberts 5000X Features include:

- 4-Track / 2-Channel or Mono-1 Channel Recording and Playback
- 3-Heads for instant monitoring of recording (***again, a bit of a moot point, as it's only being offered as a "Play" deck)
- Built-in stereo amp and dual 4x6 speakers
- 3 Motors
- Direct Drive Capstan

- Dual Speed transport, supporting 3 3/4 ips and 7 1/2 ips (no speed sleeve required)
- Dual front mounted ¼" Microphone inputs
- Analog Tape Counter
- Tape EQ selector for 3.75ips and 7.5ips
- Variable Output / Volume controls
- Tape-Track / Stereo selector
- Dual Mic / Line level controls
- Dual, lighted analog VU level meters
- Front mounted ¼” Stereo Headphone Jack
- Side-mounted 1/4" Phono jacks for input and output (comes with a 4-pack of gold finished 1/4" to RCA adaptor plugs)
- Bass Boost (Loudness) switch located on the side for internal amplifier

 - Dual ¼" External 8 Ohm speaker outputs
- Auto stop for play and fast wind functions


Roberts 5000X Specifications:
Motor:
Condenser started, Dual-speed, hysteresis-synchronous, capstan motor
Reel capacity:
Up to 10.5" reel
Heads (4):
One Erase Head, one Playback, one Record Head and one Bias head
Track system:
4-track 2-channel stereo or 1-Channel monaural system
Tape Speed:
3 3/4 ips and 7 1/2 ips  +/- 3%
Tape Speed Regulation: +/- 0.05% throughout tape length
Wow & Flutter: 
<0.12% RMS @ 7.5 ips, <0.18% RMS @ 3.75
Frequency Response:
@ 7 ½ IPS 25-22,000 Hz ± 3dB
30-17,000 Hz ± 3dB at 3 3/4 IPS
Erase Ratio:
>60 dB
Bias Oscillator Freq:
85kc-100kc
Bias Voltage: 30-50 Volts
Cross Talk:
>50dB stereo
S/N:
>50 dB @ 7.5 ips (and sounds way better as well)
Input Levels:
Mic - >0.5 mV
Line - >50 mV
Fast Wind Times: We tested it at a Scary Fast
~55 seconds using 1800 feet tape
Playback Times:
4 hrs stereo recording @ 7.5 IPS w/ 1200 ft. Tape
Built-in Amplifier output rating:
34 Watts peak output

As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing everything.
Deck also in good cosmetic condition. About the only issues worth mentioning is some finish chipping on the tape counter and a few scuffs around the 'Head position' selector knob. Also a couple of the plastic feet from the back panel cracked / broken so we removed all four of them (see above photos).
If you want to simply listen to your existing tapes, have a media transfer business, and / or need a deck to fast wind tapes VERY fast, then here you go.
Since this unit has a built-in amplifier, pre-amp controls, multiple inputs and built-in speakers, it can be used as a true "stand-alone" unit. The internal amplifier and built-in speakers actually sound great as well! Very surprising. Of course unit will still patch into any stereo / sound system normally.
Includes a pdf / 'e-copy' download of the Roberts 5000X (as well covering the Roberts 400X and 3190 series) Service / (limited users) manual. Measures 17" wide x 9" deep x 15.5" high and weighs 46 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
Roberts 5000X Reel to Reel Tape Deck
Cond. 8.5
$999.
SOLD 2/15/2023
SHIPPING TO KEVIN IN COLORADO


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 


 

 

           

NEW LISTING 12/6/2022

(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
 
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes) warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
SONY TC-530 / TC530
 4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL STEREO
 2-HEAD / 3-SPEED
 REEL TO REEL R2R
 3" - 7" REEL CAPACITY
 1/4" STEREO TAPE DECK
with Built-In AMP & SPEAKERS
#...0190
MIJ
  "
WORLD AC POWER" ™
 Circa 196
7-69
SOLD 1/10/2023
SHIPPING TO DAVID IN W.V.


ü Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

Original tech notes on 'pre-inspection';
"Fairly clean, and does have some normal function...main drive tire dried & cracked and will need to be replaced...dents in pinch roller...FF & REW partially function. Heads have nominal wear. Entire transport needs total overhaul...motor is quiet...main drive belt may be recent replacement...Right channel very low output and sometimes 'motor-boating' on PB...Left channel 'muffled'  due to pressure pad issues. Left meter ''mechanically' stuck. PB. speed; unable to determine as entire transport doesn't function well enough...Brakes not great. VERY noisy controls...leaf switches intermittent to non-functional...Rec pressure pad too flat...very little high frequency likely due to pressure pad issues (the pressure pad issue ended up being an inordinately difficult and time consuming issue to resolve)."

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and mechanical parts cleaned, re-lubed and reassembled.

ü Flywheels removed, cleaned and reinstalled.

ü Capstan burnished

ü Again, the entire transport assembly was painstakingly disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed.

ü 'Auto-Stop' mechanism disassembled and re-lubed with fresh 300,000 silicon damping fluid.

ü Also hub brakes have been cleaned, re-lubed, and adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü New Main AC / Line / Power cord included

ü Burnished leaf switches

ü VU meters replaced with meters and lens from two other TC-530 donor units to get one good set

ü VU meter illumination lamps / bulbs check fine.

ü Both spindles were completely disassembled, cleaned and had their bearings / bushings cleaned and re-lubed and are in perfect alignment and run 'true' (see above photos).

ü Heights adjusted on both reel tables.

ü All idler tires milled and 'reconditioned'

ü Main Drive reconditioned and counter belt (#044) replaced for trouble-free service.

ü Rubber pinch roller removed, cleaned & reconditioned, as well as all internal drive tires / wheels for positive grip.

ü Tape heads and entire transport cleaned and demagnetized.

ü Heads in great shape as well, and should have many hundreds of hours of performance left in them.

ü All Amplifier controls and input selectors cleaned extensively

ü AUX, Tuner and Phono inputs all tested fine on both channels following 'control cleaning'

ü Amplifier tested on both channels (not a 'power house' of volume, but fine for 'lower volume' needs. Will get as loud as you need it to once connected to your system).

ü Both speakers tested and frequency swept with no issues (internal and external, but again, won't get 'room filling' loud as they're simply to monitor playback).

ü Speaker wires, amp input jacks and plugs all in perfect condition

ü Head alignment / azimuth has been checked for peak performance on both play and record heads with factory STL 1k, 5k, 7.5k, 10k & 15k tones with oscilloscope.

ü Pressure pad fabricated and positioned correctly (this alone took about 6 hours and is VERY critical on these Sony decks for good playback and recording freq response)

ü Records well, but much lower on VU than input (about -12-15 dB). Sonically fine. Biased for Scotch 150 (very common to acquire) tape with the following results:
1kHz recorded @ 0dB resulted in PB @ -15dB (with minimal 'artifacts')

'Real World', DDD CD recorded at 0 = -12dB, however sounded actually quite nice. While this deck is a much better 'playback' unit than a 'record' unit, it actually makes quite passable and listenable recordings. If you didn't monitor the meters, you wouldn't know any difference
* We also had great results with Scotch 203 tape as well
Note: If you're going to be making 'new' recordings, you'll want to 'push' the levels well into the "red" to get a good PB level.

ü Floor noise measured at -54dBm w/ blank tape, L&R

ü Both PB output levels and VU meters playback internally adjusted for even response.




ü We really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).

ü Tape Speed tested to 99.98% accuracy utilizing 'factory' test tapes meaning that 1000 Hz tape plays back at 1002Hz +/-1Hz!

ü FF / REW and braking from top speed all good throughout the length of tape travel

ü Following electro/mechanical restoration, unit received a cosmetic cleaning / detailing.

ü (Total time investment in refurb / testing 20.5 hours).
Deck is now in overall, GREAT condition!!!
   ____________________________

 Great condition & "Ready-to-go", Solid State, Sony TC-530 R2R with built in amp and speakers. Built-in amp and speakers make this a "stand alone" unit, yet can still be connected to your stereo system. This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25 % of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through to test great! Looks and sounds great! We have completely gone through it. Will play 3", 5"and 7" reels.

Sony TC-530 Features include:
 

- Triple tape speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms, 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms and 1 7/8 ips / 4.8 cms
- Tape Pressure pad for PB / REC head (Sony's that have a pressure pad help ensure you have adequate pressure for playback levels, especially on the older tapes that are developing 'cyclical wrinkling / warping' that we're seeing more often)
- Independent L & R recording switches. Allows twice the record time when mono sound is adequate.
- DURABLE AC powered capstan motor (lasts decades longer than DC capstan motors of the 'later' models)
- Independent L or R playback switches. Great for playing those early "single track" tapes recorded in mono (this function works when using the built-in amplifier and does not affect the stereo Line-Outputs
- Built-in stereo amp and dual speakers featuring 3" x 6", Sony built, full-range drivers as well as 4" full range drivers built into case front speaker cabinets that form the front cover. (again, really good for simply 'monitoring' what's on the tape)
- Speakers detach to form the front of the case
- Built-in 8' speaker cables with storage in speakers
- Dual front mounted ¼" Microphone inputs
- Analog Tape Counter
- Lockable Pause control
- Variable Volume control for internal amplifier
- Separate Bass and Treble controls for built-in amplifier
- Balance control for internal amplifier
- Separate Left and Right Record level controls
- Dual Back-lit, analog VU level meters
 - 1/4" headphone jacks
- Top-mounted patch-bay loaded with I/O jacks including; Outputs are dual RCA line In / Outs, 1/4" speaker outputs
- Dual AC convenience outlets
- External AC fuse protection
-True "
WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC and will select voltages from 110v, 120v, 220v and 240 volts AC input.
 

 As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning, re-lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing everything. All rubber parts inspected, replaced and / or reconditioned. Records at approx -12-15dB and Plays well (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed CD material and CD test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy
(speed is correct to 100% @ 1kHz) and making test recordings. All fast wind and stop functions work perfectly at any point in the tape. Cosmetically overall in great condition. Pinch roller reconditioned and heads all in GREAT condition!!! Face and knobs all in great cosmetic condition as is the original case, hinges and latches. Both speakers detach from the top and form the top of the case when latched. Speaker cables store in lids. Since this unit has a built-in amplifier, pre-amp controls, multiple inputs and built-in speakers, it can be used as a true "stand-alone" unit. The internal amplifier and built-in speakers actually sound great as well! Very surprising. Of course unit will still patch into any stereo / sound system normally. Measures 15" tall x 20" wide x  x 10" deep (with speaker / covers installed) and weighs 40 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty. Also includes a pair of rubber hub stoppers! (Reels & tape shown in photos not included. All are usually available separately if you need them)
SONY TC-530
Cond. 8.5

SOLD 1/10/2023
SHIPPING TO DAVID IN W.V.


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

(Above text, in it's entirety, property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 


 

 

             

NEW LISTING 5/31/2023
(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes) warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED / WARRANTED
AKAI OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE RECORDER
AKAI MODEL GX-210D
 1/4" 4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL
 STEREO
3-HEAD / 2-SPEEDS
3" - 7" REEL CAPACITY
VERY HARD "GLASS X'TAL FERRITE" HEADS
AUTO-REVERSE*
OPEN REEL TO REEL
TAPE DECK
#...1096
Circa 1974-75
  "
WORLD AC POWER" ™
SOLD 5/31/2023
SHIPPING TO JOHN IN WISCONSIN


Original observations / conditions:
"Very dirty outside. Stiff PR arm. Playback un-even from L to R. One trident spindles broken and the other bent. Transport cam dogs in good shape. Typically dirty & intermittent pots / controls. 60Hz hum on 1 channel. Auto-Reverse mechanism for head movement sluggish (too sluggish to be usable and causing the afore mentioned "hum"). Right channel meter 'wigs out' upon initial power-up. Missing both transport control handles. Missing pinch roller. Voltage incorrectly set to 110VAC (should be 117 or 120 VAC).

ü Our technician has gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü Internal fuses checked for continuity and correct values. No issues found, fortunately. We don't like seeing incorrect fuses having been installed in a unit as that could mean it had prior issues, or if a fuse value was 'increased' it could have allowed too much current through an 'ailing' circuit causing un-due / un-necessary damage. We also set the voltage selector to correct, 120VAC.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Internal Transport 'cam dogs' on this deck are the 'later' versions and resistant to deterioration (MUCH UNLIKE most other Akai decks) (in fact, these are in perfect / NEW condition inside)

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was removed / disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed with synthetic lube and reassembled.



ü pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Flywheel thrust bracket removed, bearing surface cleaned and re-lubed, then reinstalled and adjusted.

ü Original, OEM spindle sourced to repair broken one

ü Both spindle hubs disassembled, and trident pins straightened

ü Drive motor inspected, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Knurled drive pulley cleaned of old rubber residue

ü OEM Pinch roller sourced, then resurfaced / reconditioned, and lubed prior to re-install

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brake pads cleaned / reconditioned

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü Back tension adjusted on both reel tables.

ü Brand new, MCM #42-860 'Main' drive / capstan belt installed

ü Brand new, #041 'Tape Counter' belt installed

ü 'Tape Counter' cleaned & lubed to eliminate typical 'counter rattle' noise.

ü All transport functions now test perfectly, following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Internal record switch contacts cleaned which fixed the 'wigged out' meter issue.

ü Auto-Reverse contacts for head 'shift' mechanism cleaned and lubed which fixed the "60-Hz Hum" issue.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment, with minimal wobble and no missing fins

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Meter lamps low amperage / cool running OEM

ü Heads cleaned and de-magnetized (as well as entire transport) and are in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Mic / Line control pots cleaned for static free performance

ü Deck has been fully calibrated to factory manual specs adjusting PB levels, Meter adjustments, Bias / Frequency adjustments and internal record levels, tested, with Nortronics, Panasonic, Sony, Soundcraft, STL, TEAC and BRL alignment / test tapes (see resulting record level listed below). Biased best for Ampex GM456 / ATR Reference tape and records on Maxell UD also very well. Tested on all tape types recording at -0dB (most manufactures test at -20dB). You won't always want to record at 0dB, but generally somewhere between -10 up to -3 works best with most decks.




ü Speed tested to .996% accuracy (1kHz = 1.004kHz)

ü Floor noise measured at >-54dB following above procedures

ü Following the above work and calibration, Recording tests performed with Ampex GM456 (again, same formulation as new ATR tape), Maxell UD (Gold / Black), Scotch 203 and Scotch 150 Tapes.
Here’s the results;
Ampex 456 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=0dB L & R =0dB
Maxell UDXL @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-2.5dB L & R = -2.5dB
Scotch 203 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-3dB L & R = -3dB
Scotch 150 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-0.5dB L & R = -1dB

Ok, that's how "1k" sounded, but how about MUSIC?
I would place this in the top dozen deck's we've finished in the past 25 years!!!
We then tested Ampex GM456 with Recorded program from "ddd" source extensively and deck sounds AMAZING!

ü This Akai GX-210D functions, plays, and records perfectly (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~ 15+ hours).
____________________________

Looks GREAT & is "Ready-to-go"! Will play / record stereo 1/4" tapes on reels 3, 5 & 7". This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through and all functions test great! Looks and sounds great too!

Akai GX-210D Features include:

- 4-Track / 2-Channel
- One-Micron Gap Head
- 3*, 5*", & 7" Reel Capacity (*compatible with standard 4-Track / 2-Channel tape format)
- 3 Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels while recording (enables us to get the 'record head' alignment VERY exact with oscilloscope)
- *Auto-Reverse / Manual-Reverse (You can manually change direction of play at anytime by selecting the arrow buttons on the head cover. "Auto-Reverse" requires Mylar sensing tape to be installed at the ends of the tape)
- VERY HARD, "Glass X'TAL Ferrite" Heads
- Dual speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms and 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms
- Separate & dual concentric mic and line level controls
- Source / Monitor selector (for instant monitoring of recording)
- Tape Type Selector for normal or extended range tape
- Auto-Stop / Auto-Pause Function (There is actually a very unique and SMART function that ALL units should have, but very few do. What this means is that if you're playing or recording, and the tape ends, the pinch roller will automatically pull away from the capstan. Leaving it up against the capstan runs the risk of putting a 'dent' in the rubber pinch roller. Left long enough, that dent may become permanent. Won't happen on this deck!)
- Mechanical 'Pause' Control
- Dual Analog level meters
- Spring-Loaded Spindle Locks on Reel Tables (no need for rubber stoppers / clamps)
- 4-Digit Analog tape counter
- Dual front mounted 1/4" Microphone inputs
- Front mounted 1/4" Headphone jack
-True "
WORLD AC POWER"™ allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC and will select voltages from 110v, 120v, 220v and 240 volts AC input.


Akai GX-210D Specifications:

Motor:
1x 4/8-pole induction 2-speed motor, hysteresis synchronous capstan motor.
2x eddy current, outer rotor reel drive motors

Reel capacity: Up to 7" reel
Heads (3):
One Erase Head, One Micron-Gap, GX Playback / One Micron-Gap GX, Record Head
Track system:
4-track 2-channel stereo system
Tape Speed:
3 ¾, and 7 ½ Inches Per Second +/- 0.8% (again, we tested this deck after our refurbishment at 1k=1004, which is 0.004%!)

Wow & Flutter: 
 <0.08% RMS (7.5 ips)
<0.12% RMS @ 3-3/4 ips
Frequency Response:
30-25,000 Hz ± 3dB at 7 ½ IPS (w/ extended range tape)
40-20,000 Hz ± 3dB at 3 ¾ IPS (w/ extended range tape)
30-23,000 Hz ± 3dB at 7 ½ IPS (w/ Normal tape)
40-18,000 Hz ± 3dB at 3 ¾ IPS (w/ Normal tape)

Erase Ratio:
>70 dB
Cross Talk:
>45 dB mono and >45dB stereo
Distortion:
<1.5% at 1kHz & 0 VU
S/N:
>50 dB @ 7.5 ips
Input Levels:
Mic - >0.3 mV @ 4.7k Ohms
Line - >60 mV @ 500k Ohms
Output Levels (Line Out):
1.23V utilizing a recorded level of '0' dB @ 250Hz
Output Levels (Headphone): 30mV @ 8 Ohms
Record Bias Freq:
102kHz +/- 5%
Fast Wind Times:
~75 seconds using 1200 feet tape
Recording / Playback Times:
4 hrs stereo recording @ 7.5 IPS w/ 1200 ft. Tape


As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing everything. Plays and records perfectly, AGAIN, records at essentially, +0dB (your results will depend on technique and exact tapes utilized).
Deck looks VERY good, and again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and sounds great!
Deck looks good with a few minor cosmetic issues; a few nicks / chips to the Formica, some light scratches on the top, black sheet metal and a few light scratches / striations around the reel table bezels and the head cover bezel (see photos above). Nothing too distracting. Overall, the deck looks near new unless you're looking the 'battle scars'. And again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and sounds great!
These are great machines from Akai, and this is one of the 50% of Akai's that have the 'later / improved' 'transport cam dogs' that resist disintegration (our tech noted that the transport cams in this unit are "like new").
Includes a pdf / 'e-copy' download of the Akai GX-210D Owners manual and if desired, a copy of the Akai GX-210D service manual. Measures 14.6" wide x 14.6" high x 8.9" deep and weighs 34 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
Akai GX-210D Reel to Reel Tape Deck
Cond. 8.5

SOLD 5/31/2023
SHIPPING TO JOHN IN WISCONSIN


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

 

 
    

               

NEW LISTING 11/17/2022
(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes)  warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
TEAC REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK

TEAC A-3300SX / A3300SX
#...7290
4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL STEREO / 1-CHANNEL MONO
3-HEAD / 2-SPEED / 3-MOTOR
10.5", 7" or 5" REELS
R2R 1/4" TAPE DECK

MIJ

SOLD 11/21/2022
SHIPPING TO BERNIE IN TEXAS


Original observations / conditions:
"Basic function intact and seems to be working surprising well for a a typically, un-maintained deck. PR mechanism sluggish. Supply side reel table spindle bent / tweaked. Right side / take-up have deformed tridents which impeded reel mounting. Line pot has bent shaft. Braking too abrupt. Worn tape path pin surfaces. Tape PB Speed slow / sluggish. Typically 'noisy' pots all around. Right channel 'rolled off' sonically. Recording 'fair' at best. PR glazed. Meter levels out of whack. Typical 'deferred maintenance' like most 40 to 50 year old decks."

ü Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü  We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed and reassembled

ü Entire transport and tape path de-magnetized

ü Remove and 'split' capstan motor. Cleaned and lubed bushings prior to re-assembly w/ 20W.

ü Tape Tension arms disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed, and their springs adjusted and had fresh 500,000 grade silicone lube gel applied

ü pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed, as well as Tape Lifters, rollers and E.O.T. assembly

ü
 PR mechanism solenoid mounts adjusted

ü Capstans / flywheels removed, bushings and axels cleaned and re-lubed and flywheels burnished

ü Capstan motor pulley burnished

ü Capstans burnished

ü Rubber pinch roller removed and re-conditioned

ü 
New main drive belt ordered and installed PRB FRX 14.5

ü Brand new counter belt, #046 installed

ü Replaced BOTH reel table / spindle assemblies with OEM parts from another donor unit we had

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes so that hub clutches could function properly. YES, like all of our decks, it's been fully tested on both 7" and 10.5", completely loaded tapes from full speed all the way to 'dead stop' going both directions, at all points of tape progress for fast wind starting and braking.

ü Back tension adjusted on both reel motors.

ü Tape path pins rotated to expose 'fresh' surfaces

ü All three motors test perfectly. Following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" & 10.5" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function (initially, of course, had typical static / noise which is to be expected in an 'un-serviced' deck after 35+ years).



ü We adjusted the VU meters mechanically and electronically w/ factory test tone tapes, as well as the internal playback levels for both directions independently and record levels.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment w/ no run-out



ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them

ü Playback and Record Head alignment / azimuth was adjusted for peak performance with factory test tone tape and oscilloscope.

ü Speed tested to 99.9% accuracy following refurb (meaning that our 'verified' 1000Hz test tape now plays back at 999Hz).

ü Bias levels and Bias traps adjusted to manual spec, then further 'by ear'

ü Internal Record levels adjusted* to record VERY WELL using Fluke8060A allowing proper "DBV" measurements! Biased for Ampex GM 456 studio tape with the following results w/ Output control ~"3:00 PM" and "Line" specified to ~"2:00 PM":
W/ Scotch 203 in the "#1 + #1" position
; 1kHz recorded @ 0dB @ 7.5 ips resulted in PB =~0dB L&R
W/ Ampex GM 456 in the "#1 + #1" position; 1kHz recorded @ 0dB @ 7.5 ips resulted in PB =~0dB L&R
W/
Ampex GM 456 in the "#1 + #1" position
; 1kHz recorded @ 0dB @ 3.75 ips resulted in PB =~-1.0dB L&R



ü Floor noise measured at >-74dB w/ blank tape, L&R

Face is beautiful, brushed, Stainless Steel and case is in great condition. Only cosmetic issues worth mentioning are the lightest of tiny striations on the stainless steel face plate (see photos above). Deck looks and works great! 

The TEAC A-3300SX Stereo Reel to Reel tape deck. Ready to GO! This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25 % of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through with flying colors. (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~
22.5 hours).

As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning heads and all else, lubing, adjusting, reconditioning pinch rollers and other rubber parts, demagnetizing heads and entire transport and testing everything.
Plays and records Exceptionally well (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed CD material and CD test tones looking for correct head Azimuth, tape speed accuracy and making test recordings).
Recording a DDD CD onto Ampex GM456 resulted in a tape that actually had more brilliance than what we heard from the original 'source' input. Very apparent in sounds such as from 'hi-hats'.
Pinch rollers and heads all in GREAT condition!!! Face is made of beautiful, brushed, stainless steel and looks great. Very clean and looks near new. Unit looks GREAT!

TEAC A-3300SX Features include:

- 4-Track / 2-Channel head stack / tape format
- 3 Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels while recording
- 10.5" Max Reel Capacity (The BIG Reels!)
- 3 Motors for trouble free performance (has a lot to do with it still being a viable piece of gear due to less rubber parts)
- IC logic tape transport for "Touch" control
- Dual speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms and 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms
- Separate dual mic and line level controls
- Source / Monitor selector
- Output level control
- Dual analog VU level meters
- Tape REC EQ Selector
- Dual position tape REC Bias type selector
- Dual front mounted 1/4" Microphone inputs
- Analog tape counter
- Spring loaded tape hub spindles (no need for rubber reel retainers)
- 12-Pin optional wired remote port on rear panel (TEAC RC-120 remote or TEAC RC-320 Timer Control, neither available nor included)


TEAC A-3300SX Specs / Specifications from the owners manual as follows:

Head / Head-stack Format: 3 heads (Playback, 4-track, 2-channel, stereo/monaural system
3-Motors: 1x Dual-Speed, Hysteresis Synchronous Capstan Motor & 2x Eddy Current Induction Reel Motors
Reel Size: 3", 5”, 7” & 10.5" (5” reels may not ‘brake’ correctly as deck is optimized for 7” reels)
Wow and Flutter: 0.06% @ 7.5 ips
S/N ratio: 58 dB @ 7.5ips
THD: 1.0% @  1kHz & 19cms
Crosstalk: >40dB @ 125Hz
Channel separation: >50dB @ 1kHz
Erasing coefficient:
>68dB @ 1kHz
2 VU-meters: dB (-20 to +3)
Line; 100mV /100kΩ
Output Level Reference / Maximum: Line; .3V / 10kΩ
Headphones; ~50mV / 8Ω, 1/4" / 6mm diam. jack
Fast Wind Time: 160 sec for 1800'

This is a GREAT looking deck and is mounted in the originally, optional, 'REAL WOOD VENEER' side panels.  Again, following above extensive tech work, it works well!!!

All of our restored / refurbished reel to reel decks come with a 7", plastic take-up reel, a 'known good' 7" tape for initial testing of playback, and a 7" tape you can record onto, all to assist you in becoming familiar with the operation / function of your new reel to reel tape deck.
Measures 17.3" wide x 17.3" tall x 8.5" (from tip of back feet-tip of hubs) deep and
weighs 45 lbs unpacked. Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf download of the TEAC TEAC A-3300SX owners / operations manual, service manual and original brochure if purchaser so desires. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
(Reels & tape shown in photos not included. All are sometimes available separately if you need them. We do ship our decks with a plastic take-up reel, a tape to 'practice record' on and a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback.) 
TEAC A-3300SX REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
Cond. 8.5+

SOLD 11/21/2022
SHIPPING TO BERNIE IN TEXAS

(C)
M.S.


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

    

              


NEW LISTING 11/17/2022

(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes)  warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED
TEAC REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
TEAC A-2340R
#...3947
4-TRACK / 2 or 4-CHANNEL STEREO / 4-TRACK / 1-CHANNEL MONO
STEREO OR QUADRAPHONIC
"SIMUL-TRACK" DOES 4 TRACK "HEADS-UP" RECORDING (meaning ALL four tracks at once)
3-HEAD / 2-SPEED / 3-MOTOR
AUTO-REVERSE
7" OR 5" REELS
REEL TO REEL 
1/4" TAPE DECK
VERY LOW HOUR HEADS!!!
"TOP TEN RECORDING PERFORMANCE"!!!

MIJ

SOLD 12/15/2022
SHIPPING TO JAMES IN MINNESOTA


Original observations / conditions:
"Basic function intact. PR mechanism sluggish. Heads in 'LIKE NEW' condition! Recording 'fair'. PR glazed. Mechanical 'squeak'. Meter levels out of whack. Typical 'deferred maintenance' like most 40 to 50 year old decks."

ü Our technician has EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü
 
We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed and reassembled including; Both Tape Lifters, Pinch Roller Pivot Arm, EOT Sensor Arm, Left Tape Tension arm mechanism, Capstan Motor (clean and re-lube), Capstan and flywheel shaft removed cleaned / re-lubed (pretty much every moving part)

ü Tape Tension arms disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed, and their springs adjusted




ü Typically 'sluggish' pinch-roller 'pivot' mechanism heated for removal, completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed



ü Capstan / flywheels removed, bushings and axels cleaned and re-lubed and flywheels burnished (TECH NOTE: "Bushing in 'Like New' condition. Appear to have very low hours on it")

ü Capstan burnished

 ü Rubber pinch roller removed and re-conditioned



ü New main drive belt ordered and installed PRB FRX 14.5



ü Brand new counter belt, #152 installed (FYI; requires removal of TU reel table trim, Top front Trim, and dismounting of Power Transformer)

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes at ALL points thru a tape. It's a fine line between having the brakes actuate with too much tension, 'abruptly' stopping the tape (risking stretching / breaking of tape) or too loose (allows tape to 'dump'). (VERY difficult to do on this series). Brakes optimized for 7" reels.

ü Re-lubed all 3 motors (all have 'oil tubes')

ü Lubed 'squeaky' counter belt tension roller

ü Back tension adjusted on both reel motors.

ü All three motors test perfectly. Following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function (initially, of course, had typical static / noise which is to be expected in an 'un-serviced' deck after 35+ years).

ü Cleaned all 'user' slide switches and control pots

ü Checked VU meter lamps / bulbs

ü Power supply checked / tested for proper "23VDC" output and for 'ripple' on O'Scope.

ü We adjusted all  four VU meters mechanically and electronically w/ factory test tone tapes, as well as the internal playback levels for both directions independently and record levels.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment w/ no run-out

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights for average reel flanges.

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them. (TECH NOTE: "Heads are in 'Like New' condition. Appear to have very low hours on them")

ü Playback and Record Head alignment / azimuth was adjusted for peak performance with factory test tone tape and oscilloscope.

ü Entire deck detailed inside and out cosmetically




ü Speed tested to 99.8% accuracy following refurb (meaning that our 'verified' 1000Hz test tape now plays back at 1002Hz).

ü Bias levels and Bias traps adjusted (L302 / C308 and L304 & C317)



ü Internal Record levels adjusted* to record VERY WELL using Fluke8060A allowing proper "DBV" measurements! Biased for Ampex GM 456 studio tape with the following results w/ Output control ~"2:30 PM":
W/ Ampex GM 456 in the "High" position; 1kHz recorded @ 0dB @ 7.5 ips resulted in PB =~0dB L&R
W/
Ampex GM 456 in the "High" position
; 1kHz recorded @ 0dB @ 3.75 ips resulted in PB =~-1.0dB L&R


* Adjusted BOTH layers of 'Record Amp' circuit board. Most folks trying to service these are not aware that there's a 'top' layer for tracks 1&3 and therefore at best, only get the 'rear channels' / tracks 2&4 adjusted.



ü 'Real World, DDD CD recorded @ zero dB w/ GM456 Sounded fabulous

ü 
Floor noise measured at >-54dB w/ blank tape, L&R

ü This Teac A-2340R functions, plays, and records VERY WELL (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).

This is another deck that came out in the top 10 of recording decks we've restored. DDD CD material recorded on Ampex GM456 actually sounded 'fuller' across the board!

Face is beautiful, brushed, Stainless Steel and case is in good condition.

The Teac A-2340R Stereo Reel to Reel tape deck. Ready to GO! This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25 % of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through with flying colors after about 26.5 hours of bench time.

The deck tests great! Looks and sounds great too! We have completely gone through it. Will play 5" & 7" reels (would play small 2-5" to 3" as well).

Teac A-2340R Features include:


- 4-Track / 4-Channel / Quadraphonic, 4-Track / 2-Channel Stereo OR 4-Track / 1-Channel, head stack / tape format
- "SIMUL-TRACK" DOES 4 TRACK "HEADS-UP" RECORDING (meaning ALL four tracks at once)
- 3 Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels while recording
- 3 Motors for trouble free performance (has a lot to do with it still being a viable piece of gear due to less rubber parts)
- DURABLE AC powered capstan motor (lasts decades longer than DC capstan motors of the 'later' models)
- Solenoid tape transport for "Touch" control
- Analog tape counter
- Auto-Reverse capable with 'sensing foil' installed (on correct side of tape)
- 'Pause' control
- Dual speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms and 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms
- Four Separate dual mic and line level controls
- Four 1/4" front mounted mic inputs
- Four Input & Four Output RCA connectors
- Four Source / Monitor selectors
- Four Output level controls
- QUAD analog VU level meters
- Dual / Front-Rear 1/4" front mounted headphone outputs (works w/ 'Quadraphonic' headphones as well)
- Four Dual position tape REC Bias type selector
- Spring loaded tape hub spindles (no need for rubber reel retainers)


As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning heads and all else, lubing, adjusting, reconditioning pinch rollers and other rubber parts, demagnetizing heads and entire transport and testing everything. Tape speed tested and resulted in 99.4% accuracy using a 1000 Hz test tape. Plays and records Exceptionally well (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed CD material and CD test tones looking for correct head Azimuth, tape speed accuracy and making test recordings). Pinch rollers and heads all in GREAT condition!!! Face is made of beautiful, brushed, stainless steel and looks great. Very clean and looks near new. Unit looks GREAT! 

Teac A-2340R Specs / Specifications from the owners manual as follows:

Head / Head-stack Track Format: 3 heads (4-track / 4-Channel, 4-Track / 2-channel or 4-Track / 1 Channel
Head / Head-stack Type: Ferrite Erase and 'Permalloy' PB and REC
Motors: 1x Dual-Speed, 4/8 Pole Hysteresis Synchronous Capstan Motor & 2x Eddy Current Induction Reel Motors
Reel Size: 5” & 7” (5” reels may not ‘brake’ correctly as deck is optimized for 7” reels)
Wow and Flutter: 0.12% @ 7.5 ips & 0.15% @ 3.75 ips
S/N ratio: >/=48dB @ 7.5ips &  >/=46dB @ 3.75 ips
THD: ~1% @  1kHz & 19cms
Crosstalk: </=35dB @ 100Hz
Channel separation: >/=45dB @ 1kHz
Erasing coefficient:
>/=60dB @ 7.5 ips
4 VU-meters: dB (-20 to +3)
Line; 100mV /100kΩ
Bias Frequency: 100kHz (±5kHz)
Output Level Reference / Maximum: Line; .3V / 10kΩ
Headphones; ~50mV / 8Ω, 1/4" / 6mm diam. jack
Fast Wind Time: 90 sec for 1200'

This is a GREAT looking deck and is mounted in the originally, optional, 'Real Wood veneer' side panels with no chips, dings, scuffs or really anything! Just some very light wear to the upper face plate panel (see photos above). The entire deck essentially looks great
Again, following above extensive tech work, it works fabulously too!!!
All of our restored / refurbished reel to reel decks come with a 7", plastic take-up reel, a 'known good' 7" tape for initial testing of playback, and a 7" tape you can record onto, all to assist you in becoming familiar with the operation / function of your new reel to reel tape deck.
Measures 17.3" wide x 18.75" tall x 8.5" (from tip of back feet-tip of hubs) deep and weighs 44 lbs unpacked. Comes with an 'e-copy' / pdf download of the TEAC A-2340R owners / operations manual & service manual. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
Teac A-2340R
Cond. 8.5+

SOLD 12/15/2022
SHIPPING TO JAMES IN MINNESOTA

(C)
M.S.


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)

 

 

 

           

           NEW LISTING 11/17/2022
(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes)  warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED / WARRANTED
AKAI OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE RECORDER
AKAI MODEL 1710
ALL TUBE ELECTRONICS
 1/4" 4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL STEREO or 1-CHANNEL MONO
2-SPEEDS
3" - 7" REEL CAPACITY
OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
#...9936
Circa mid 1960's (~1964-67)
MIJ

SOLD 12/20/2022
SHIPPING TO MICHAEL IN FLORIDA


Original observations / conditions:
"Stiff PR arm. Motor would not start unless 'helped' manually. Fast Wind reluctant to start depending on progress thru tape. Missing tubes. Rubber tire surfaces hardened. Supply reel tire intact, but had cracks / splits."

ü Our technician has EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Installed 'tested' replacement tubes (all were originally missing)

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was removed / disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed with synthetic lube and reassembled.

ü Entire transport and tape path de-magnetized

ü Pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Transport cams inspected and repaired where necessary

ü Capstan & flywheel removed, bushings and axel cleaned and re-lubed

ü Capstan burnished

ü Internal drive wheels / tires removed, and resurfaced

ü Both spindle hubs disassembled, both cracked rubber tires replaced (#324) and reconditioned. All four, original & worn-out, felt clutches replaced with special ordered, lambs skin and re-textured, bushings & axles re-lubed and re-assembled. Clutch springs re-tensioned / adjusted. This is necessary on Akai's to eliminate 'chatter' and 'Fast-Wind slowing / slipping' near end of "fast-wind" function on each side. Also speeds up Fast-Wind throughout the length of the tape. Also lubed w/ lite wt lube to reduce reel 'chatter / squeal'

ü Drive motor removed, partially disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed both front and rear bushings w/ 90 wt.

ü Fan fins straightened to reduce vibration.

ü Knurled drive pulley cleaned of old rubber residue

ü Pinch roller removed, resurfaced / reconditioned, and lubed prior to re-install

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brake pads rotated, cleaned / reconditioned

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü 500,000 Silicone gel added to adjust Back tension on both reel tables.

ü With the exception of the 'multi-element can' capacitor, ALL electrolytic capacitors (six) replaced with new (this much improved recording quality!)

ü Brand new, FR 13.4 'Main' drive / capstan belt installed

ü Brand new, #046 'Tape Counter' belt installed

ü All transport functions now test perfectly, following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Replaced tire on supply side hub with #324 due to cracks in the original

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment, with minimal wobble and no missing fins

ü Transport levers replaces with correct, OEM versions

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Meter lamps good (as they're very 'cool running')

ü Replaced 2x w/ tested 12AT7 tubes

ü Ordered, tested and installed 2x replacement 6DM8 tubes

ü Heads cleaned and de-magnetized (as well as entire transport) and are in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Mic / Line / Tone control pots cleaned for static free performance

ü Record switch was 'binding', so it was partially removed, cleaned and re-built and lubed with Super Lube. (this ended up consuming 6.5hrs to resolve)

ü Left channel and meter developed a 'no record' situation. Found Mic Input jacks had corroded contacts and needed to be burnished (line signal travels thru the 'switched' portion of the mic jacks).

ü So we've done a number of this model and all of them will exhibit 'low' meter response even following restoration (but the actual playback signal will be strong)

ü Deck has been calibrated as close to factory manual specs as you can on a 60 y.o. deck, adjusting PB levels, Meter adjustments, Bias / Frequency adjustments (VC1& VC2), and internal record levels, tested, with Nortronics, Panasonic, Sony, Soundcraft, STL, TEAC and BRL alignment / test tapes (see resulting record level listed below). Biased best for Ampex 456 tape but also records decently on most Scotch and Sony tapes from that period. Best performance when recording at ~+3dB, but some material / tape types may sound good somewhere between 0 down to -6. You'll need to experiment to find the sweet spot for the tape type and music tastes you have  (meters will still likely register about -4 to -6dB).

ü Speed tested to 98.62% accuracy @ 7.5ips (1kHz = 1014kHz)

Fast wind tests as follows w/ 1800' tape: FF= ~125 sec / REW= ~118 sec


ü Following the above work and calibration, Recording tests performed with Scotch Tapes.
Here’s the results;
Scotch 150 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-10dB L & R = -8dB
(better to record @ +3dB on meters)

Scotch 203 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-9dB L & R = -7.5dB (better to record @ +3dB on meters)

Ampex GM 456 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-5dB L & R = -5dB (better to record @ +3dB on meters)

We then tested Ampex 456 with Recorded program from "ddd" source extensively and deck performed well again, recording at about +3, resulted in decent sonics playing back at about -5dB

ü This Akai 1710 functions, plays, and records acceptably (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~ 36+ hours).
____________________________

Looks GREAT & is "Ready-to-go"! Will play / record stereo 1/4" tapes on reels 2.5", 5" & 7" (brakes optimized for 7" reels). This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through and all functions test great! Looks and sounds great too! Deck does come in carrying case with latch-on lid. And again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and plays well.

Akai 1710 Features include:

- ALL TUBE Electronics
- 4-Track / 2-Channel or Mono-1 Channel Recording and Playback
 - Triple Speed transport, supporting 1 7/8 ips, 3 3/4 ips and 7 1/2 ips (requires included speed sleeve)
 - Built-in stereo amp and dual 4x6 speakers
 - Dual front mounted ¼" Microphone inputs
 - Analog Tape Counter
 - Pause control
 - Variable Output / Volume & Tone controls
 - Tape-Track / Stereo selector
 - Dual Mic / Line level controls
 - Dual Back-lit, analog VU level meters (sets it apart from the Akai 1700)
 - Front mounted ¼” Stereo Headphone Jack
 - Rear-mounted RCA / DIN I/O’s
 - Dual ¼" External speaker outputs
 - Auto stop for play and fast wind functions
 - Auto Shut-Off of power selector when tape ends


Akai 1710 Specifications:
Motor:
Condenser started induction 2-speed, 1/100HP motor @ 1,740-3,480 RPM (utilizes speed / capstan sleeve to change speeds)
Reel capacity:
Up to 7" reel
Heads (2):
One Erase Head, four Micron-Gap Playback Record Head
Track system:
4-track 2-channel stereo or 1-Channel monaural system
Tape Speed:
1 7/8 ips, 3 3/4 ips and 7 1/2 ips  +/- 3%
Wow & Flutter: 
<0.2% RMS @ 7.5 ips, <0.3% RMS @ 3.75 ips & <0.45% RMS @ 1 7/8 ips
Frequency Response:
40-18,000 Hz @ 7 ½ IPS (80-12,000 Hz ± 3dB at 7 ½ IPS)
80-10,000 Hz ± 3dB at 3 3/4 IPS
80-4,000 Hz ± 3dB at 1 7/8 IPS
Erase Ratio:
>70 dB
Cross Talk:
>55 dB mono and >43dB stereo
Channel Separation:
>80 dB @ 1kHz +3VU
Distortion:
<4% at 1kHz & 0 VU
S/N:
>40 dB @ 7.5 ips
Input Levels:
Mic - >3 mV @ 30k Ohms
Line - >150 mV @ 130k Ohms
Output Levels (Line Out):
0.7V @ max volume utilizing a recorded tape level of '0' dB @ 250Hz
Fast Wind Times:
~120 seconds using 1200 feet tape
Recording / Playback Times:
4 hrs stereo recording @ 7.5 IPS w/ 1200 ft. Tape


As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing everything. Plays fine and records acceptably, AGAIN, record at essentially, +3dB for best playback results (your results will depend on technique and exact tapes utilized).
Deck looks VERY good, and again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and sounds great!
Comes with one of our 7.5ips speed sleeves and a pair of rubber reel clamps / stoppers.
Includes a pdf / 'e-copy' download of the Akai 1710 Owners manual and if desired, a copy of the Akai 1710 Service manual. Measures 13.5" wide x 8.5" deep x 13.5" high and weighs 34 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
Akai 1710 ALL TUBE Reel to Reel Tape Deck
Cond. 8.5++

SOLD 12/20/2022
SHIPPING TO MICHAEL IN FLORIDA


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 


 

 
 

   

 

NEW LISTING 4/16/2022
 (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes) warranty
VINTAGE, REFURBISHED, FULLY SERVICED
PIONEER REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK  
PIONEER RT-707 RT707
1/4" STEREO
4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL
2-SPEED / 3 HEAD
2.5" - 7" REEL CAPACITY
#...8879
Circa 1977-85

MIJ

SOLD 4/20/2022
SHIPPING TO DARREL IN OREGON


"Original condition; Rubber pinch roller had perished and bushing was binding, counter belt perished (melted), Playback speed would randomly and intermittently go super fast (almost 'fast wind' speed) and was noisy when doing that, both reel tables pushed in too far causing mis-alignment of tape and 'reel rub', left channel records low. Bias pots intermittent. EOT mechanism sluggish, as well as typical "40-year, no maintenance / 'as-found' condition"

Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit. We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü We read quite extensivly on the web that the 'run-away' capstan motor was caused by a loose or corroded Molex connector or circuit board pins. Moving it did definitely seem to affect it and seemed to fix the issue once cleaned and re-seated. HOWEVER, as we continued service on it, the problem would show back up. We would then re-clean and even re-tensioned the connectors in the plug. This then seemed to 'fix' the issue...NOT! My tech finally then removed the circuit board and with a jewelers lens noticed that there was a VERY bad solder joint on one of the pins. When the connector was moved you could see the completely un-soldered pin affecting the motor speed. He re-flowed that solder joint, and the rest of the connector joints. That finally rectified the issue.

ü Internal mechanisms, disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Brakes extensively adjusted on fast wind modes also (optimized for 7" reels).

ü Reel motor torque adjusted to correct force in grams. All three motors test perfectly.

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights. Both spindles in perfect alignment and run 'true'

ü We also installed a new counter belt for trouble-free service.

ü All External and Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Rubber pinch roller has been replaced with brand new

ü Counter belt replaced with brand new

ü Capstan / cleaned burnished

ü We adjusted the internal playback levels for standard 700Hz @ 0dB as well as the record levels and both VU meters mechanically and electronically w/ factory test tone tapes.

ü Headstacks have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Head-stack alignment / azimuth has been checked for peak performance with factory test tone tape out to 15khz and oscilloscope.

ü Heads have typical, normal wear and are all in fine condition with hundreds of hours left.

ü Both level meters adjusted for even playback level w/ factory test tone tape.

ü Both table spindles run 'true' with no run-out

ü Bias adjusted for Ampex GM-456 Grand Master tape (same as modern ATR formulation)

ü Recording tests performed with Ampex GM456 and Maxell UD (Gold / Black) Tapes and even Scotch 150.

Here’s the results;
GM 456 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = +0.75 dB L & +0.5 dB R in LH+LH positions with very little artifacts
GM 456 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = -1.0 dB L & -2.0 dB R in LH+LH positions with very little artifacts
GM 456 @ 7.5ips. Recorded program from "ddd" source was "AWSOME". Best in "LH + LH" position. Actually sounded a bit 'brighter' on the top-end.
Maxell UD @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ -10dB = 0 dB L&R in STD+STD positions with very little artifacts
Maxell UD @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ -10dB = 0 dB L&R in LH+LH positions with very little artifacts
Maxell UD @ 7.5ips. White Noise @ -10dB = -2.0 dB L & -2.0 dB R in LH+LH positions
Scotch 150 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = +1 dB L & -1 dB R in LH+LH positions
Scotch 150 @ 7.5ips. White Noise @ 0dB = -3 dB L & -3 dB R in LH+LH positions
Pretty good numbers for a 40 year old classic!


We really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy.  

- Both internal speed pots adjusted to 100% accuracy on either speed independently (with pitch control zero'd) meaning that our 1kHz tape plays back at 1000Hz +/-1Hz.

 (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~32.5 hours).

Original face panel is made of beautiful brushed aluminum, and is in great condition NO marks from ever being rack mounted.
Deck looks and works great!

____________________________

Looks GREAT & is "Ready-to-go"! The very sought after Pioneer RT-707 Stereo Reel to Reel tape deck. Will play / record stereo 1/4" tapes on reels up to 7". This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through and all functions test great! Looks and sounds great too! We have completely gone through it. 

Pioneer RT-707 Reel to Reel Features include:


- 3 Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels while recording
- 3 Motors for trouble free performance (has a lot to do with it still being a viable piece of gear due to less rubber parts)
- Variable pitch control
- Auto-Reverse (when using tape with "auto-reverse" sensing foil)
- Dual speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms and 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms
- Manual Reverse switches for changing direction with out flipping reels over 
- Repeat function
- Separate & dual mic and line level controls
- Dual 1/4" front mounted mic inputs
- Source / Monitor selector
- Independent L & R record enable switches for doing "sound-on-sound"
- Left & Right output level controls
- Dual vertical analog VU level meters
- Dual position tape Speed / EQ selector
- End of tape shut off function
- Dual front mounted 1/4" Microphone inputs
- Variable output level controls for each channel 
- RCA & DIN I/O's 


Pioneer RT-707 Reel to Reel Specifications as follows:

Track Format: 4-Track / 2-Channel stereo
Heads:
4 (record, erase, fwd-play, rev-play)
Motors: Direct-drive 3 motors  / FG Servo
Tape Speed: 3-3/4 and 7-1/2
Reel Size: Up to 7-1/2
Wow and flutter: Less than 0.05% WRMS (7-1/2 ips / 19cm/s)
Signal to noise ratio: >58dB
Frequency response:
7-1/2 ips = 20Hz to 28kHz.
& 3-3/4 ips = 20Hz to 20kHz.

Crosstalk: >50dB
Channel separation: >50dB
Input Impedance sensitivity / Impedance: 50mV / 100kΩ
Input Impedance sensitivity / Impedance: 0.25mV / 27kΩ
Pitch-control: +/- 6%
2 VU-meters: dB (+3 to -20)
Output Level at 0-VU: 450mV / 50k Ohms
Recording bias frequency: 125kHz.
Rewind Time w/ 1200’ Tape: ~100 sec


Following the above stated bench work / testing, our technician has 'Certified' this deck and it is an great performer sonically and mechanically. As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing everything. Plays and records perfectly. 707's are direct drive thus requiring no drive belt to wear out. The only belt to wear out or break is the counter belt and this one was replaced with a brand new one. (Since the 707 does not use the counter for "Auto-Stop" sensing, if you ever break the counter belt, the deck will still run fine, unlike some other high-end decks. Just FYI)
Thick & solid brushed aluminum face plate in great condition. Great deck for adding QUALITY reel to reel capability to your audio system (vintage or otherwise), or for archiving / transferring your tape collection to another format such as CD, or hard-drive. Unit includes  an 'e' pdf copy of Pioneer RT-707 owners / users manual. Measures 19" wide x 14.5" deep x 9.5" high and weighs 44 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
(Reels & tape shown in photos not included. All are usually available separately if you need them)
PIONEER RT-707 Reel to Reel Tape Deck
Cond. 8.5++++

SOLD 4/20/2022
SHIPPING TO DARREL IN OREGON

(tape shown in photos not included. We do ship our decks with a  a 'pre-recorded' tape for playback, made on this 'specific' deck, and a tape to 'practice record' on.) 

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

 

 

 



NEW LISTING 4/16/2022

(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes) warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED / WARRANTED
AKAI OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE RECORDER
AKAI MODEL 1710
ALL TUBE ELECTRONICS

 1/4" 4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL STEREO or 1-CHANNEL MONO
2-SPEEDS
3" - 7" REEL CAPACITY
OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
#...4794
Circa mid 1960's (~1964-67)
MIJ
SOLD 4/25/2022
SHIPPING TO DAVID IN MINNESOTA


Original observations / conditions:
"Very dirty outside. Stiff PR arm. No tubes installed, so we had to install some tested tubes prior to further testing. Playback un-even from L to R with odd, 'delayed' sound from Left channel. Left channel also had very high 'hum' in it's audio. Left channel also not erasing tape. FF transport cam had visible cracks. Typically dirty & intermittent pots / controls. Power switch stuck in 'On' position. Noisy capstan motor. Fast Wind reluctant to start depending on progress thru tape.Once started would 'spill' tape in either 'fast' direction. Brakes pretty much 'non-functional'. Upon further inspection, 'middle flipper' transport cam had hair-line cracks visible with jewelers loop, and O-Ring on supply spindle had multiple cracks (but still holding together). Take-up reel has obnoxious squeal when braking from fast wind. Pulley surfaces had rubber build-up causing a bit of flutter in sound as well"

ü Our technician has EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Installed 'tested' replacement tubes (all were originally missing)

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was removed / disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed with synthetic lube and reassembled.

ü pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Transport cams flowed and built-up with liquid steel epoxy to likely add decades to their service life.

ü Capstan & flywheel removed, bushings and axel cleaned and re-lubed

ü Capstan burnished

ü Internal drive wheels / tires removed, and resurfaced

ü Both spindle hubs disassembled, both cracked rubber tires replaced (#324) and reconditioned. All four, original & worn-out, felt clutches replaced with special ordered, lambs skin and re-textured, bushings & axles re-lubed and re-assembled. This is necessary on Akai's to eliminate 'chatter' and 'Fast-Wind slowing / slipping' near end of "fast-wind" function on each side. Also speeds up Fast-Wind throughout the length of the tape. Also lubed w/ heavy wt lube to eliminate reel 'chatter'

ü Drive motor inspected, partially disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Knurled drive pulley cleaned of old rubber residue

ü Pinch roller removed, resurfaced / reconditioned, and lubed prior to re-install

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Reversed, internal head connections corrected.

ü Brake pads cleaned / reconditioned

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü 500,000 Silicone gel added to adjust Back tension on both reel tables.

ü With the exception of the 'multi-element can' capacitor, ALL electrolytic capacitors replaced with new.

ü Brand new, FR 13.4 'Main' drive / capstan belt installed

ü Brand new, #046 'Tape Counter' belt installed

ü All transport functions now test perfectly, following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment, with minimal wobble and no missing fins

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Meter lamps good (as they're very 'cool running')

ü Heads cleaned and de-magnetized (as well as entire transport) and are in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Mic / Line / Tone control pots cleaned for static free performance

ü Poor erase traced to bias coil core backed out too much (actually almost ready to all out) and was mounted so close-in that it could intermittently touch one of the head signal, RCA cable tips.

ü So we've done a number of this model and all of them will exhibit 'low' meter response even following restoration (but the actual playback signal will be strong)

ü Deck has been calibrated as close to factory manual specs as you can on a 60 y.o. deck, adjusting PB levels, Meter adjustments, Bias / Frequency adjustments (VC1& VC2), and internal record levels, tested, with Nortronics, Panasonic, Sony, Soundcraft, STL, TEAC and BRL alignment / test tapes (see resulting record level listed below). Biased best for Scotch 150 tape but also records decently on most Scotch and Sony tapes from that period. Best performance when recording at +3dB (meters will still likely register about -6-8dB).

ü Speed tested to 98.7% accuracy (1kHz = 1.013kHz)

ü Flutter with one of our 'new' speed sleeves tested at 0.15% (two originals tested at over double that @ 0.37%)

ü Following the above work and calibration, Recording tests performed with Scotch Tapes.
Here’s the results;
Scotch 150 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-8dB L & R = -8dB (best to record @ +3dB on meters)
(
Ampex GM 456 did not perform as well as the Scotch tapes {but they came out over a decade later})

We then tested Scotch 150 with Recorded program from "ddd" source extensively and deck performed well again, recording at about +3, resulted in decent sonics playing back at about -8dB

ü This Akai 1710 functions, plays, and records acceptably (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~ 30+ hours).
____________________________

Looks GREAT & is "Ready-to-go"! Will play / record stereo 1/4" tapes on reels 2.5", 5" & 7" (brakes optimized for 7" reels). This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through and all functions test great! Looks and sounds great too! Deck looks great as does it's carrying case and lid. And again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and plays well.

Akai 1710 Features include:

- ALL TUBE Electronics
- 4-Track / 2-Channel or Mono-1 Channel Recording and Playback

 - Triple Speed transport, supporting 1 7/8 ips, 3 3/4 ips and 7 1/2 ips (requires included speed sleeve)
 - Built-in stereo amp and dual 4x6 speakers
 - Dual front mounted ¼" Microphone inputs
 - Analog Tape Counter
 - Pause control
 - Variable Output / Volume & Tone controls
 - Tape-Track / Stereo selector
 - Dual Mic / Line level controls
 - Dual Back-lit, analog VU level meters (sets it apart from the Akai 1700)
 - Front mounted ¼” Stereo Headphone Jack
 - Rear-mounted RCA / DIN I/O’s
 - Dual ¼" External speaker outputs
 - Auto stop for play and fast wind functions
 - Auto Shut-Off of power selector when tape ends


Akai 1710 Specifications:
Motor:
Condenser started induction 2-speed, 1/100HP motor @ 1,740-3,480 RPM (utilizes speed / capstan sleeve to change speeds)
Reel capacity:
Up to 7" reel
Heads (2):
One Erase Head, four Micron-Gap Playback Record Head
Track system: 4-track 2-channel stereo or 1-Channel monaural system
Tape Speed:
1 7/8 ips, 3 3/4 ips and 7 1/2 ips  +/- 3%
Wow & Flutter: 
<0.2% RMS @ 7.5 ips, <0.3% RMS @ 3.75 ips & <0.45% RMS @ 1 7/8 ips
Frequency Response:
40-18,000 Hz @ 7 ½ IPS (80-12,000 Hz ± 3dB at 7 ½ IPS)
80-10,000 Hz ± 3dB at 3 3/4 IPS
80-4,000 Hz ± 3dB at 1 7/8 IPS
Erase Ratio:
>70 dB
Cross Talk:
>55 dB mono and >43dB stereo
Channel Separation:
>80 dB @ 1kHz +3VU
Distortion:
<4% at 1kHz & 0 VU
S/N:
>40 dB @ 7.5 ips
Input Levels:
Mic - >3 mV @ 30k Ohms
Line - >150 mV @ 130k Ohms
Output Levels (Line Out):
0.7V @ max volume utilizing a recorded tape level of '0' dB @ 250Hz
Fast Wind Times:
~120 seconds using 1200 feet tape
Recording / Playback Times:
4 hrs stereo recording @ 7.5 IPS w/ 1200 ft. Tape


As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing everything. Plays and records acceptably, AGAIN, record at essentially, +3dB for best playback results (your results will depend on technique and exact tapes utilized).
Deck looks VERY good, and again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and sounds great!
Comes with one of our 7.5ips speed sleeves.
Includes a pdf / 'e-copy' download of the Akai 1710 Owners manual and if desired, a copy of the Akai 1710 Service manual. Measures 13.5" wide x 8.5" deep x 13.5" high and weighs 34 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
Akai 1710 ALL TUBE Reel to Reel Tape Deck
Cond. 8.5++

SOLD 4/25/2022
SHIPPING TO DAVID IN MINNESOTA


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 


 

 

 

 

              

NEW LISTING 6/25/2022

(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes) warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED / WARRANTED
AKAI OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE RECORDER
AKAI MODEL 1710
ALL TUBE ELECTRONICS

 1/4" 4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL STEREO or 1-CHANNEL MONO
2-SPEEDS
3" - 7" REEL CAPACITY
OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
#...9554
Circa mid 1960's (~1964-67)
MIJ
SOLD 7/13/2022
SHIPPING TO JAMES IN ARIZONA


Original observations / conditions:
"Very dirty outside. 2 small holes in one of the speaker grills (GSW's!). Stiff PR arm. Motor would not start unless 'helped' manually. Playback only from Left channel. Left channel also had very high 'hum' in it's audio. Left channel also not erasing tape. FF transport cam had visible cracks once we removed the face. Typically dirty & intermittent pots / controls. Fast Wind reluctant to start depending on progress thru tape. Once started would 'spill' tape in either 'fast' direction. Once we removed from the case, we discovered that one of the the holes in the grill was also in the speaker due to 22g GSW! Yes, really! The other hit the steel chassis and only left a dent on the steel inside. Bullet that went thru the speaker also took out one of the 12AT7 tubes (Great bit of history, and wish we knew the story, but could make up a myriad of scenarios I suppose). Brakes pretty much 'non-functional'. Upon further inspection w/ front panel removed, 'middle flipper' transport cam had hair-line cracks visible with jewelers loop. Pulley surfaces had rubber build-up causing a bit of flutter in sound as well. Supply reel tire intact, but had cracks / splits."

ü Our technician has EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Installed 'tested' replacement tubes (all were originally missing)

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was removed / disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed with synthetic lube and reassembled.

ü Pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Transport cams flowed and built-up with liquid steel epoxy to likely add decades to their service life.

ü FF cam replaced with rebuilt unit.

ü Capstan & flywheel removed, bushings and axel cleaned and re-lubed

ü Capstan burnished

ü Internal drive wheels / tires removed, and resurfaced

ü Both spindle hubs disassembled, both cracked rubber tires replaced (#324) and reconditioned. All four, original & worn-out, felt clutches replaced with special ordered, lambs skin and re-textured, bushings & axles re-lubed and re-assembled. This is necessary on Akai's to eliminate 'chatter' and 'Fast-Wind slowing / slipping' near end of "fast-wind" function on each side. Also speeds up Fast-Wind throughout the length of the tape. Also lubed w/ heavy wt lube to eliminate reel 'chatter'

ü Drive motor inspected, partially disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Knurled drive pulley cleaned of old rubber residue

ü Pinch roller removed, resurfaced / reconditioned, and lubed prior to re-install

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brake pads cleaned / reconditioned

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü 500,000 Silicone gel added to adjust Back tension on both reel tables.

ü With the exception of the 'multi-element can' capacitor, ALL electrolytic capacitors (six) replaced with new (this much improved recording quality!)

ü Brand new, FR 13.4 'Main' drive / capstan belt installed

ü Brand new, #046 'Tape Counter' belt installed

ü All transport functions now test perfectly, following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Replaced tire on supply side hub with #324 due to cracks in the original

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment, with minimal wobble and no missing fins

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Meter lamps good (as they're very 'cool running')

ü Replaced Dual Diode Rectifier with OEM part from donor unit

ü Heads cleaned and de-magnetized (as well as entire transport) and are in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Mic / Line / Tone control pots cleaned for static free performance

ü Replaced GSWV left speaker / driver with OEM part from donor unit.

ü So we've done a number of this model and all of them will exhibit 'low' meter response even following restoration (but the actual playback signal will be strong)

ü Deck has been calibrated as close to factory manual specs as you can on a 60 y.o. deck, adjusting PB levels, Meter adjustments, Bias / Frequency adjustments (VC1& VC2), and internal record levels, tested, with Nortronics, Panasonic, Sony, Soundcraft, STL, TEAC and BRL alignment / test tapes (see resulting record level listed below). Biased best for Scotch 150 tape but also records decently on most Scotch and Sony tapes from that period. Best performance when recording at +3dB, but some material / tape types may sound good somewhere between +3 down to -6. You'll need to experiment to find the sweet spot for the tape type and music tastes you have  (meters will still likely register about -6-8dB).

ü Speed tested to 99.9% accuracy!!! (1kHz = 999kHz)

ü Flutter with one of our 'new' speed sleeves tested at 0.15% (two originals tested at over double that @ 0.37%)

ü Following the above work and calibration, Recording tests performed with Scotch Tapes.
Here’s the results;
Scotch 150 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-6dB L & R = -6dB (best to record @ +3dB on meters)
(
Ampex GM 456 actually did not perform as well as the Scotch tapes {but they came out over a decade later})

We then tested Scotch 150 with Recorded program from "ddd" source extensively and deck performed well again, recording at about +3, resulted in decent sonics playing back at about -8dB

ü This Akai 1710 functions, plays, and records acceptably (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~ 23.5+ hours).
____________________________

Looks GREAT & is "Ready-to-go"! Will play / record stereo 1/4" tapes on reels 2.5", 5" & 7" (brakes optimized for 7" reels). This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through and all functions test great! Looks and sounds great too! Deck does come in carrying case with latch-on lid. And again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and plays well.

Akai 1710 Features include:

- ALL TUBE Electronics
- 4-Track / 2-Channel or Mono-1 Channel Recording and Playback

 - Triple Speed transport, supporting 1 7/8 ips, 3 3/4 ips and 7 1/2 ips (requires included speed sleeve)
 - Built-in stereo amp and dual 4x6 speakers
 - Dual front mounted ¼" Microphone inputs
 - Analog Tape Counter
 - Pause control
 - Variable Output / Volume & Tone controls
 - Tape-Track / Stereo selector
 - Dual Mic / Line level controls
 - Dual Back-lit, analog VU level meters (sets it apart from the Akai 1700)
 - Front mounted ¼” Stereo Headphone Jack
 - Rear-mounted RCA / DIN I/O’s
 - Dual ¼" External speaker outputs
 - Auto stop for play and fast wind functions
 - Auto Shut-Off of power selector when tape ends


Akai 1710 Specifications:
Motor:
Condenser started induction 2-speed, 1/100HP motor @ 1,740-3,480 RPM (utilizes speed / capstan sleeve to change speeds)
Reel capacity:
Up to 7" reel
Heads (2):
One Erase Head, four Micron-Gap Playback Record Head
Track system: 4-track 2-channel stereo or 1-Channel monaural system
Tape Speed:
1 7/8 ips, 3 3/4 ips and 7 1/2 ips  +/- 3%
Wow & Flutter: 
<0.2% RMS @ 7.5 ips, <0.3% RMS @ 3.75 ips & <0.45% RMS @ 1 7/8 ips
Frequency Response:
40-18,000 Hz @ 7 ½ IPS (80-12,000 Hz ± 3dB at 7 ½ IPS)
80-10,000 Hz ± 3dB at 3 3/4 IPS
80-4,000 Hz ± 3dB at 1 7/8 IPS
Erase Ratio:
>70 dB
Cross Talk:
>55 dB mono and >43dB stereo
Channel Separation:
>80 dB @ 1kHz +3VU
Distortion:
<4% at 1kHz & 0 VU
S/N:
>40 dB @ 7.5 ips
Input Levels:
Mic - >3 mV @ 30k Ohms
Line - >150 mV @ 130k Ohms
Output Levels (Line Out):
0.7V @ max volume utilizing a recorded tape level of '0' dB @ 250Hz
Fast Wind Times:
~120 seconds using 1200 feet tape
Recording / Playback Times:
4 hrs stereo recording @ 7.5 IPS w/ 1200 ft. Tape


As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing everything. Plays and records acceptably, AGAIN, record at essentially, +3dB for best playback results (your results will depend on technique and exact tapes utilized).
Deck looks VERY good (just has hole in left speaker grill. see photos above), and again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and sounds great!
Comes with one of our 7.5ips speed sleeves and a pair of rubber reel clamps / stoppers.
Includes a pdf / 'e-copy' download of the Akai 1710 Owners manual and if desired, a copy of the Akai 1710 Service manual. Measures 13.5" wide x 8.5" deep x 13.5" high and weighs 34 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
Akai 1710 ALL TUBE Reel to Reel Tape Deck
Cond. 8.5++

SOLD 7/13/2022
SHIPPING TO JAMES IN ARIZONA


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 


 

 
    

NEW LISTING 12/17/2021
   (Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes) warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED / WARRANTED
VINTAGE TEAC REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
TEAC A-1230
(essentially same deck as TEAC A-4010 series, but in a different, simpler case, without the need for umbilical cables)
3-HEAD / 3-MOTOR
2-SPEEDS
4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL
STEREO or 4-CHANNEL MONO
1/4" REEL TO REEL TAPE RECORDER
NON-SMOKER, ONE OWNER!!!
#...6884
Circa ~1971
SOLD 1/6/2022
SHIPPING TO RON IN LOUISIANA


Notes: This was a 'one owner' deck, purchased at the Navy exchange. He always kept it under it's original, TEAC vinyl cover. Also, and just as importantly, he was not a smoker. This unit is probably THE CLEANEST unit inside we've ever serviced.
Other tech notes;
"Cleanest deck ever encountered. All 'Basic' functions worked pretty well 'out of the gate'. First TEAC of this series, we didn't have to 'heat' the PR arm assembly to remove it."

ü Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü We have completely gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed and reassembled

ü Tape Tension arms disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed, and their springs adjusted and had fresh 300,000 grade silicone lube gel applied

ü pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed,

ü PR mechanism solenoid mounts adjusted

ü Capstans / flywheels removed, bushings and axels cleaned and re-lubed and flywheels burnished

ü Capstan motor pulley burnished

ü Capstan cleaned and burnished

ü All 3 motors lubed

ü Rubber pinch roller removed and re-conditioned

ü Pinch roller pressure checked / adjusted

ü New MAIN drive belt sourced and installed (#42-3005)

ü Brand new counter belt installed (#042)

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brake bands inspected

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes also (optimized for 7" reels.)

ü Back tension adjusted on both reel motors.

ü Transport re-assembled w/ synthetic grease and with 20WT oil on capstan

ü All three motors test perfectly. Following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" reels.

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function (initially, of course, had typical static / noise which is to be expected in an 'un-serviced' deck after 45+ years).

ü RCA I/O jacks cleaned / burnished

ü EOT / Auto-Stop mechanism had magnet re-attached, and spring tension re-adjusted for more consistent tape motion without prematurely going into 'Auto-Stop' mode

ü External / User adjustable pots, switches and controls cleaned on the playback / record amp and tested for noise-free function

ü We adjusted the VU meters mechanically and electronically w/ factory test tone tapes, as well as the internal playback levels for both directions independently and record levels.

ü We adjusted the output amp with proper TEAC YTT-1003 test tape, 'Minimum Input', 'Specified Input', 'Record Level' and Hi and Lo 'Bias' all to spec. (Lo Bias adjusted to recommended Scotch 150 and then further adjusted Hi 'Bias' for Ampex GM-456 {same as new ATR Tape})

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment.

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü New Meter and Record lamps / bulbs installed

ü Heads in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them

ü Playback and Record Head alignment / azimuth was adjusted for peak performance with factory test tone tape and oscilloscope.

ü Speed tested to 99.4% accuracy following refurb (meaning that our 'verified' 1000Hz test tape now plays back at 1006Hz +/- 1Hz).
 
ü Adjusted to record VERY WELL. Biased for *Ampex GM 456 studio tape with the following results:
1kHz recorded @ 0dB resulted in PB @ L= 0dB & R= 0dB w/ Output at about .775 / 2:30.
White Noise recorded @ 0dB resulted in PB @ L= 0 dB & R= 0dB
Also, White Noise recorded with virtually NO ARTIFACTS. That almost NEVER happens!!!

'Real World', DDD CD recorded at 0 = ~ 0dB
* We also had great results with Maxell UD XL (Gold Box) tape as well

ü WoW & Flutter are minimal, especially at 'higher' speed.

ü Floor noise measured at >-54dB w/ blank tape, L&R

ü This TEAC A-1230 functions, plays, and records VERY WELL (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~12.5 hours).

Face is beautiful, brushed, Stainless Steel and case is in great condition. Deck looks NEW and works great! 

ü Real wood veneer side panels, had a fresh coat of lemon oil.

Following mechanical / electronic refurb, entire unit was cosmetically detailed inside and out. Face is made of beautiful brushed Stainless Steel and is dent free and in great condition. Cabinet covered in real Walnut wood veneer, is in great condition and just had a fresh coat of lemon oil. Deck looks and sound great! 
   ____________________________
   
Looks great & "Ready-to-go"  TEAC A-1230 Stereo Reel to Reel tape deck.  Will play & Record stereo 1/4" tapes on reels up to 7". This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" then here you go. Only about 30-40% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through. Playback & transport functions test great and records well! Looks and sounds great too!

TEAC A-1230 Features include:
  

- Up to 7" reel capacity (while you could go down as far as 3" in diameter, the torque and braking on this deck has been optimized for 7"reels)
- 3 Heads for superb recording performance
- 3 Motors for trouble free performance (has a lot to do with it still being a viable piece of gear due to less rubber parts)
- Sound-On-Sound (allows pseudo 'Multi-Tracking' with some practice. Manual covers this extensively and necessarily)
- "Soft Touch" tape transport for control
- Dual front mounted 1/4" Microphone inputs
- Dual speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms and 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms (
.5%)
- Separate Concentric mic and line level controls
- Dual 1/4" front mounted mic inputs
- Source / Monitor selector for instantly monitoring record quality
- Left & Right output level controls
- Record / Tape Type / Bias Selector for Normal or High
- Dual analog VU level meters


TEAC A-1230 Specifications as follows (same specs as TEAC A-4010 series):
   

Heads / Track system: X4 Heads / 4-track 2-channel stereo heads for stereo or mono, recording, forward playback, reverse playback & erase heads
Motor: 3x: One, Dual-speed hysteresis Synchronous for capstan and two 6-pole, eddy current, outer-rotor for reel hub drive
Transport Control Type: Electronic-solenoid / Touch control: Fast Forward, Rewind, Play
Output Level: 0.3V, Max Load Impedance: 10K Ohms or more
Maximum Reel capacity: 7" (5" and 3" as well) ( brakes and motor torque optimized for 7" reels)
Tape speeds: 19cm/s (7-1/2 ips) and (3.75 ips)
9.5 cm/s (3-3/4 ips) (±.5%)
Fast Wind speed:
~90 secs for 1200 feet (7" reel)
Wow & Flutter: 0.08% at 7-1/2 ips and 0.1% RMS at 3-3/4 ips
Frequency response: 30Hz to 22,000Hz (40-18kHz ± 3dB @ 7-1/2 ips)
 &
30Hz to 16,000 Hz (40-12kHz ± 3dB @ 3-3/4 ips)
Signal to Noise Ratio: > 55dB @ 7.5 ips (7 dB better than the A-1200U)
Stereo Channel Separation: 60dB @ 1kHz channel to channel
Crosstalk rejection: 50dB @ 1kHz channel to channel
40dB @ 100 Hz track to track
Input Level (Line): 10mV min @ >50k Ohms


This is probably among the best 2 or maybe 3, TOP performing reel to reels we've EVER had (and I'm lumping in one particular Pioneer RT-909 @ $3499, and an Otari MX-5050B-II @ $3200.00).
This is only the second TEAC A-1230 we have had that has made it through restoration in 24 years. Great machine for playback / archiving your tapes to CD or Hard Drive or, with the above recording results, for recording new tapes. This is a beautiful deck. Entire deck is in near new cosmetic condition with really, nothing out of the ordinary worth mentioning. Performs incredibly well following refurbishing. Face plates,  knobs and all cosmetics fabulous! Measures 17" wide x 15.5" tall x 10" (from tip of back feet-tip of hubs) deep and weighs 41 lbs unpacked. Includes a set of 'fresh' spindle stoppers / reel clamps. Does also come with the removable AC / Power cord. Includes an e-copy / pdf download of the TEAC A-1230 Owners Manual and the Service Manual if you wish as well. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.

 (Reels & tape shown in photos not included. All are sometimes available separately depending on stock levels.) 

TEAC A-1230 REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
Cond.
9
SOLD 1/6/2022
SHIPPING TO RON IN LOUISIANA



(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)


 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 

 
 

 

 

         

              NEW LISTING 12/17/2021
(click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)
CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes) warranty
RESTORED / REFURBISHED / FULLY SERVICED / WARRANTED
AKAI OPEN REEL TO REEL TAPE RECORDER
AKAI MODEL GX-4000D
 1/4" 4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL
 STEREO
3-HEAD / 2-SPEEDS
3" - 7" REEL CAPACITY
VERY HARD "GLASS X'TAL FERRITE" HEADS
OPEN REEL TO REEL
TAPE DECK
#...9379
Circa 1975-78

SOLD 1/28/2022
SHIPPING TO BRIAN IN WISCONSIN


Original observations / conditions:
"Very dirty outside. Stiff PR arm. Playback un-even from L to R. Head cover pins 'splayed'. Missing left idler wheel mechanism. Transport cam dogs in good shape. Typically dirty & intermittent pots / controls. Fast Wind reluctant to start depending on progress thru tape."

ü Our technician has EXTENSIVELY gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Transport 'cam dogs' on this deck are the 'later' versions and resistant to deterioration (MUCH UNLIKE most other Akai decks)

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was removed / disassembled, cleaned, re-lubed with synthetic lube and reassembled.



ü pinch-roller mechanism completely disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Capstan & flywheel removed, bushings and axel cleaned and re-lubed

ü Flywheel repositioned on capstan axle as it had moved and was allowing adjusting nut to touch flywheel before the ball bearing did.

ü Flywheel thrust bracket removed, bearing surface cleaned and re-lubed, then reinstalled and adjusted.

ü Capstan burnished

ü Internal drive wheels / tires removed, and resurfaced

ü Both spindle hubs disassembled, rubber tires cleaned and reconditioned, clutches cleaned and re-textured, bushings & axles re-lubed and re-assembled. This is necessary on Akai's to eliminate 'chatter' and 'Fast-Wind slowing' near end of "fast-wind" function on each side. Also speeds up Fast-Wind throughout the length of the tape. Also lubed w/ heavy wt lube to eliminate reel 'chatter'

ü Drive motor inspected, cleaned and re-lubed

ü Knurled drive pulley cleaned of old rubber residue

ü Pinch roller removed, resurfaced / reconditioned, and lubed prior to re-install

ü Heads have been cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Brake pads cleaned / reconditioned

ü Brakes adjusted on fast wind modes also.

ü Back tension adjusted on both reel tables.

ü Brand new, FR 13.4 'Main' drive / capstan belt installed

ü Brand new, #048 'Tape Counter' belt installed

ü 'Tape Counter' disassembled and cleaned to eliminate typical 'counter rattle' noise.

ü All transport functions now test perfectly, following above adjustments, Reel Start and Stop tested at beginning, middle and end of 7" tapes

ü Internal pots, switches and controls cleaned and tested for noise-free function.

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment, with minimal wobble and no missing fins

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights.

ü Meter lamps replaced with new #25-500

ü Heads cleaned and de-magnetized (as well as entire transport) and are in great shape as well, with many years of performance left in them.

ü Mic / Line control pots cleaned for static free performance

ü Deck has been fully calibrated to factory manual specs adjusting PB levels, Meter adjustments, Bias / Frequency adjustments (VC1& VC2), and internal record levels, tested, with Nortronics, Panasonic, Sony, Soundcraft, STL, TEAC and BRL alignment / test tapes (see resulting record level listed below). Biased best for Ampex GM456 / ATR Reference tape and records on Maxell UD also very well. Best performance when recording at -3dB (most manufactures test at -20dB).

ü Speed tested to .995% accuracy (1kHz = 1.005kHz)

ü Floor noise measured at >-74dBu following above procedures

ü Following the above work and calibration, Recording tests performed with Ampex GM456 (again, same formulation as new ATR tape) and Maxell UD (Gold / Black) Tapes.
Here’s the results;
Maxell UDXL @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-4dB L & R = -1.0dB (best to record @ -3dB on 'Source')
Maxell UDXL @ 7.5ips. White Noise @ 0dB = = L=-3dB L & R = -0.5dB  (engaging "EQ" adds +5dB L&R)

GM 456 @ 7.5ips. 1kHz @ 0dB = L=-2dB L & R = +1.5dB (best to record @ -3dB on 'Source')
GM 456 @ 7.5ips. White Noise @ 0dB = = L=-2dB L & R = -0.5dB  (engaging "EQ" adds +5dB L&R)

We then tested Ampex GM456 with Recorded program from "ddd" source extensively and deck performed well.
I know that a 'copy' CANNOT sound better than the source, but I swear that repeated recordings seemed to be "fuller" sounding than the 'source' material.

ü This Akai GX-4000D functions, plays, and records perfectly (and we really put them through the paces, testing both with well mixed, recently recorded CD material and CD recorded / factory test tones looking for correct head Azimuth and speed accuracy).  (Total time investment in refurb / testing ~ 15+ hours).
____________________________

Looks GREAT & is "Ready-to-go"! Will play / record stereo 1/4" tapes on reels 3, 5 & 7". This is one of the few reel to reel decks we get in that make it to our finished page. Great performer. If you're looking for a reel to reel deck to "actually use" here you go. Only about 25% of the used Reel decks out there can be "practically" restored to working order. This one made it through and all functions test great! Looks and sounds great too! Deck looks good with a few minor cosmetic issue; A bit of discoloration to the face metal if the light is angled just right, a minor dent in the face panel about 'mid-deck', a bit of dry cracking on one of the rubber reel trims, and the back edges of the side panel, wood grain, vinyl is peeling a bit (see photos above). Nothing too distracting. And again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and sounds great!

Akai GX-4000D Features include:

- 4-Track / 2-Channel
- One-Micron Gap Head
- 3*, 5*", & 7" Reel Capacity (*compatible with standard 4-Track / 2-Channel tape format)
- 3 Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels while recording (enables us to get the 'record head' alignment VERY exact with oscilliscope)
- VERY HARD, "Glass X'TAL Ferrite" Heads
- Dual speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms and 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms
- Separate & dual concentric mic and line level controls
- Source / Monitor selector (for instant monitoring of recording)
- "Sound-on-Sound" for layering multiple tracks. From the owners manual, "For transfer of previously recorded material from one track to another accumulating as many individual recordings on a single track as is desired".
- Track Selector for Stereo / 2-Channel, or Mono / 4 Channels
- Independent L & R record enable switches for doing "sound-on-sound (S.O.S.)"
- Tape EQ Selector
- Tape Type Selector
- Auto-Stop Function
- Mechanical 'Pause' Control
- Left & Right output level controls
- Dual Analog level meters
- Spring-Loaded Spindle Locks on Reel Tables (no need for rubber stoppers / clamps)
- 4-Digit Analog tape counter
- Dual front mounted 1/4" Microphone inputs
- Front mounted 1/4" Headphone jack


Akai GX-4000D Specifications:
Motor:
4-pole induction 1-speed motor @ 1800 RPM (utilizes speed / capstan sleeve to change speeds)
Reel capacity:
Up to 7" reel
Heads (3):
One Erase Head, One Micron-Gap, GX Playback / One Micron-Gap GX, Record Head
Track system:
4-track 2-channel stereo / monaural system
Tape Speed:
3 ¾, and 7 ½ Inches Per Second +/- 2% (again, we tested this deck after our refurbishment at 1k=1004, which is 0.004%!)
Wow & Flutter: 
 <0.08% RMS (7.5 ips) (way better than the MK-II which is "0.15%!!!)
<0.12% RMS @ 3-3/4 ips
Frequency Response:
30-24,000 Hz ± 3dB at 7 ½ IPS (w/ extended range tape) (1kHz better than the MK-II !!!)
30-16,000 Hz ± 3dB at 3 ¾ IPS (w/ extended range tape)
Erase Ratio:
>70 dB
Cross Talk:
>70 dB mono and >50dB stereo
Distortion:
<1% at 1kHz & 0 VU
S/N:
>60 dB @ 7.5 ips (4dB better than the MK-II !!!)
Input Levels:
Mic - >0.25 mV @ 600 Ohms (50% less required than the MK-II !!!)
Line - >70 mV @ 200k Ohms
Output Levels (Line Out):
0.775V utilizing a recorded level of '0' dB @ 250Hz
Output Levels (Headphone): 100mV @ 8 Ohms
Record Bias Freq:
100kHz +/- 5%
Fast Wind Times:
~200 seconds using 1200 feet tape
Recording / Playback Times:
4 hrs stereo recording @ 7.5 IPS w/ 1200 ft. Tape


As stated earlier we have completely gone through it cleaning, lubing, adjusting, demagnetizing and testing everything. Plays and records perfectly, AGAIN, records at essentially, +3dB (your results will depend on technique and exact tapes utilized).
Deck looks VERY good, and again, following the extensive refurbishment listed above, the deck works and sounds great!
These are great machines from Akai, and this is one of the 50% of Akai's that have the 'later / improved' 'transport cam dogs' that resist disintegration (our tech noted that the transport cams in this unit are "like new"). Comes with one of our 7.5ips speed sleeves.
Includes a pdf / 'e-copy' download of the Akai GX-4000D Owners manual and Brochure, and if desired, a copy of the Akai GX-4000D Service manual. Measures 16" wide x 7.75" deep x 13.5" high and weighs 25 lbs unpacked. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty.
Akai GX-4000D Reel to Reel Tape Deck
Cond. 8.5
++

SOLD 1/28/2022
SHIPPING TO BRIAN IN WISCONSIN


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order.
However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a plastic, 7" 'take-up' reel, and RCA patch cables for connection to your system)

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 


 

 

 

 

     

NEW LISTING 1/7/2022
(Click on above thumbnails to enlarge photos)

CheckMarkSmall_web.jpg (792 bytes) warranty

FULLY SERVICED / REFURBISHED / RESTORED
VINTAGE SONY 1/4" REEL-TO-REEL STEREO TAPE DECK
SONY TC-355 / TC355
 #...4004
4-TRACK / 2-CHANNEL STEREO OR 4-CHANNEL MONO
3-SPEED / 3 HEAD
5"
* - 7" REEL CAPACITY
Circa 1967-70

(Does not have adjustable AC power for overseas operation. Only for North American use)

MIJ
SOLD 1/11/2022
SHIPPING TO KAUSHIK IN CALIFORNIA


Original observations / conditions:
"Surprisingly 'clean' inside and out. Stiff PR arm so had to be manipulated manually to test basics of deck. Once pushed up by hand, speed was at 941Hz (vs 1kHz). Playback had decently strong and even levels. Fast wind sluggish / iffy. Fast Wind reluctant to start depending on progress thru tape. Typically dirty & intermittent pots / controls."


Our technician has completely gone through and 'Certified' this unit.

 
ü We have completely and extensively gone through the mechanicals and electronics of this unit.

ü Entire transport was disassembled down to the chassis, and every mechanical part was cleaned of "varnished" lubes, re-lubed and reassembled. Again, the entire transport assembly was painstakingly disassembled, cleaned and re-lubed as well as the always at issue, 'Pinch Roller swing arm' 'plunge' assembly

ü New 'Main Drive' belt replaced for trouble-free service.

ü All three internal drive tires / wheels removed, reconditioned on drill press and solvent cleaned for positive grip

ü Capstan / flywheel removed, cleaned and burnished. Axle / bushing cleaned and re-lubed

ü Both reel hubs / clutches removed, disassembled, cleaned and adjusted. Bearing / bushing surfaces re-lubed.

ü All hub brake pads have been replaced w/ new suede leather, and their bearings re-lubed and adjusted on fast wind modes.

ü To eliminate 'loose pack' on tape reels, we added 300,000 Silicone Gel / Lube to both hub axle bearings. Now reels pack properly on both Fast Wind and PB

ü Motor re-lubed at both front and rear ports

ü Internal power supply adjusted to proper +25VDC. Checked for 'ripple' with Oscilloscope .

ü All Internal & External pots, controls, & switches (including the linear 'record' switches) cleaned and tested for noise-free function ("Tape / Source" cleaned multiple times).

ü Both spindles in perfect alignment.

ü We also adjusted the reel table heights for no "reel rub".

ü Pinch roller reconditioned / re-surfaced.

ü Auto-Stop mechanism tested for proper 'drop' time

ü VU meter illumination and 'Record Indicator" lamps tested as working fine.

ü Internal 'Bias', 'Record-Level' and 'Play Back Level' micro-pot levels adjusted (bottom side of lower circuit board).

ü Heads were cleaned and de-magnetized as well as the entire transport.

ü Tape pressure pad mechanism adjusted properly for 'just enough' tension on all heads.

ü Head alignment / azimuth has been checked for peak performance with factory test tone / alignment tapes and oscilloscope on both Playback and Recording.

ü Both level meters adjusted for even playback level w/ 700Hz STL factory test tone tape.

ü Floor noise tested to >54dB w/ fresh, blank tape on PB.

ü Plays and Records GREAT w/ 0dB / 1kHz in = 0dB / 1kHz out on Ampex 456GM tape, however, in 'real world' testing, we found that it actually performed great on standard, Scotch "150" tape (also allowed 0dB on both Pink Noise & 1Khz). DDD 'Real World' CD recording sounded GREAT with very little high frequency loss!

ü Speed checked to 99.4% accuracy (meaning that a 1kHz test tape PB @ 1006Hz).

ü During the above procedures, entire unit was detailed inside and out

ü Again, Reconditioned Pinch roller and Heads all in GREAT condition.

  
(Total time investment in refurb / testing 21+ hours).

Cosmetically in great condition!
  ____________________________
    
GREAT performing Sony TC-355 1/4" Open Reel stereo tape deck with 3-Speeds! Great for all-around Playback and recording of reels up to 7" in diameter. Also has all three consumer reel speeds as you will see listed below. Great for burning your tapes to CD or Hard Drive or for a 'media transfer business'.

SONY TC-355 Features include:
   
 
- Triple speeds at 7.5 ips / 19cms, 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms and extra long 1 7/8 ips / 4.75 cms
- 3-Heads for instant monitoring of tape levels / record quality while recording
- 5*" / 7" Reel Capacity (*compatible with standard 4-Track / 2-Channel tape format)
- 4-Track / 2-Channel Stereo operation, or 4-Track / 4-Channel 'MONO' operation (meaning it will also play tapes recorded in the early 1960's!)
- Separate L & R input level controls
- Auto-Stop
- Dual analog VU meters for monitoring Playback and Record levels
- "Sound-On-Sound" capable w/ independent L & R record engage switches (Switch / level control located on top of unit in case recess)
- Built-in Sony "Noise Suppression" circuit
- Dual front mounted 1/8" mic input jacks
- 1/4" Stereo Headphone jack
- Mechanical Tape counter
- Pause "Inst-Stop" lever
- RCA and DIN inputs and outputs
-True
WORLD AC POWER   allows unit to be operated on 50 or 60 Hz AC and will select voltages from 110v, 120v, 220v and 240 volts AC input. HOWEVER, "50Hz" use (Europe / Asia / Australia) would require the 'correct' main motor drive pulley (which would be VERY difficult to obtain at this point).
    
Original SONY TC-355 Specifications as follows:
  
Power Requirements:
30 watts, АС 100 V, 110 V, 117 V, 125 V, 220 V, 240 V 50/60 Hz       
Tape Speed: 7.5 ips / 19cms, 3 3/4ips / 9.5 cms and extra long 1 7/8 ips / 4.75 cms mechanically switched with single lever, with automatic switching for equalization changes       
Reels: 1/4" tape on 7 inches оr smaller
Recording Format: 4-track stereophonic оr monophonic
Frequency Response: 20-25,000 Hz @ 7 1/2ips.
                                   30-17,000 Hz @ 3 3/4 ips.
                                   30- 9,000 Hz @ 1 7/8 ips.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: > 52 dB @ 7 1/2 ips.
Flutter and Wow: < 0.15% @ 7 1/2 ips.
                           < 0.30-50% @ 3 3/4 ips.
Harmonic Distortion: < 1.6% @ 7 1/2 ips.
Level Indication: Dual Analog VU Meters
Record: Calibrated to NAB standard reference level
Playback: Calibrated to 0dB line output level
Recording Time: With 1,800' tape
(4-track stereo)  (4-track mono) 7 1/2 ips  1 hr. 30 min.                  / 3 hr. & @ 3 3/4 ips. 3 hr. / 6 hr.
Inputs: Dual 1/8" Microphone Input Jacks w/ Sensitivity -72dВ (0.19mV) & Impedance 600Ω
Auxiliary Jacks w/ Sensitivity -22 dB (0.06 V) Impedance 560 kΩ
Outputs: Line Output Jacks w/ Output level 0dB (0.775 V) & suitable load impedance >100 kΩ.
Headphone Jack's Output level -28 dB (0.031 V) Impedance 8Ω
DIN Record /Playback Connector: Output level 0dB (0.775V) Impedance 10kΩ & Input sensitivity -40dВ (7.75mV) w/ Impedance 10 kΩ
Heads:  РР30-2902А, RP30-2902, EF18-2902H2
 
 
Again this is an great performer sonically and especially mechanically. This deck has had extensive restoration. It's pretty much had the clock rolled back 40 years on it. Heads are in surprisingly great shape with great 'Hi-Freq' response. Looks great & Ready to go! Can be used standing vertically or laying on it's back horizontally. Comes with one pair of rubber reel retainers and a take-up reel. Includes a pdf download 'e-copy' of the Sony TC-355 owners manual and the service manual if the purchaser wishes. Includes our standard 30 day limited warranty. Measures 15.25" wide x 7" deep x 14" tall and weighs 24 lbs unpacked.
 (Reels & tape shown in photos not included. All are sometimes available separately depending on stock levels.) 

SONY TC-355 REEL TO REEL TAPE DECK
Cond. 8.5
+
SOLD 1/11/2022
SHIPPING TO KAUSHIK IN CALIFORNIA


(Reels shown in photos are not included, but we sometimes / occasionally have them for sale. Inquire at time of order. However, all of our decks will come with 2x tapes for testing 'Playback' and 'Recording' as well as a 7" 'take-up' reel. This deck will come with a TDK 'Audua' tape that we have recorded on for playback tests, that you may further record on if you desire)
 

 
 (Above text property of www.oaktreevintage.com / Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC. See 'Copyright Information' page for details)
 


 

 


 

 



We've moved most of the "SOLD / ARCHIVED" items to their own page.
Click ........HERE.



 


CLICK HERE FOR OUR REEL TO REEL TAPE & ACCESSORIES
 
 
 __________________________________________________________________________________________________________



 

 
 



 


 


**
"(actual as measured)" refers to original test results done by Hirsch-Houck Laboratories upon test release of product when new. Current "aged" specifications / performance may of course vary from that.

 



 


On a side note: While we deal in many Open Reel / 'Reel to Reel' Tape machines, have recently seen folks making references to 'Real to Real' & 'Reel to Real' tape recorders / decks...
We think this might be referring to some sort of 'cloning machine' or 'replicator' such as shown aboard Star Treks' Enterprise ship in the 'Next Generation' and 'Voyager' series.
...Just throw'in it out there.

 


 

 

LINKS TO OUR 'HI-FI' DEPARTMENTS

Amps and
Pre-Amps

Receivers

Cassette
Decks

Tuners

Turntables

8-Track Decks

CD Players

Reel-Reel
Decks

EQs and Signal
Processors

Speakers

Betamax and
VHS VCRs

Turntable Cartridges

Tube Audio

Ne'cessories

Speaker Parts

Record Players

Vintage Radios

Vintage
Walkmans

Headphones

Stereo Parts


Wondering where the "tone" you remember went?....


 

.... Surround yourself with Silver and find it again!



POLICIES, SPECIFICATIONS, AVAILABILITY, INFORMATION
AND PRICING SUBJECT TO CHANGE  AT ANYTIME  AND
WITHOUT PRIOR
NOTICE
and changes may not be posted to web immediately
.
 

20-30% restock fee / service charge applies to all returns for refund depending on item specifics & / or individual distributor / drop shipper policies.
See our "
Warranties / Returns" page via the link below for more details.

$20. Minimum Orders

Visa Credit Card Logo                 American Express Credit Card Logo                Mastercard Credit Card Logo              Discover Credit Card Logo

   *HOME PAGE*   |   CONTACT & ORDERING  PARTS CONTACT  |  FAQ'S  I   SELLING-TRADING-CONSIGNING    |   CONDITION RATINGS   |   ORDERING / POLICIES   |   WARRANTIES / RETURNS   |   SHIPPING    |   HOLD / SOLD   |  RESTORATION PROCEDURES  I  LINKS   |  CLIENT LIST  |

Copyright © 1997-2023 Oak Tree Enterprises, LLC
COPYRIGHT INFORMATION