The AKAI X-2000SD: 3-in-1 special machine.

The AKAI X-2000SD, produced in Japan between 1969 and 1972, is a versatile 3-in-1 audio device. It is a stereo tape recorder for reels, 8-track tape cartridges, and compact cassettes.

It was a fantastic solution for that time. Many enthusiasts still used reel-to-reel magnetic tape, but Philips compact cassettes appeared on the market. As for the 8-track cartridges, there were still many users, especially in the USA. How do you keep your music library in one format? This AKAI machine was the answer.



The tape reel section features 4-track stereo/mono technology, utilizing a synchronous motor and crossfield head system. It offers three tape speeds: 4.8 cm/sec, 9.5 cm/sec, and 19 cm/sec, with a frequency response of 30 to 20,000 Hz (±3 dB at 19 cm/sec). The signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 50 dB, and the wow and flutter are less than 0.09% RMS.

Tape cartridge section. employs 8-track continuous-operation stereo technology with a 9.5 cm/sec tape speed. It provides a frequency response of 30 to 18,000 Hz (±3 dB), a signal-to-noise ratio better than 45 dB, and a wow and flutter of less than 0.02% RMS.

Utilizing 4-track compact cassette stereo technology, the compact cassette section operates at a 4.8 cm/sec tape speed. It offers a frequency response of 30 to 16,000 Hz (±3 dB), a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 45 dB, and a wow and flutter of less than 0.22% RMS.

The built-in amplifier delivers 12 watts per channel and can be used with the two built-in internal or external speakers.

The dimensions of the device are 260×350×465 mm, with a weight of 22.4 kg. The RRP in Germany was DM 2,304.00, which is approximately 5,030.00 euros today.

 

Whow, never seen, such a 3-in-one- device. Especially there weren`t such a lot of 8-track-cassette-recorders for home, i mean. The main use was for car audio, right ?