Agreed... I would love to have a Revox...
Any specific difference in sound with the glass head? I found the following info on another site.. Interesting stuff.. "lifetime warranty"?!?!
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History :
Akai 4000DS Mk2 machines where manufactured circa 1976-1978 and they recorded and played back giving excellent results (due to the 1 micron gap heads).
The Mk 2 models were the successor to the 4000DS (circa 1972-1976) which in its turn was a successor to the famous 4000D (circa 1970-1972) with several improvements. These machines proved to be reliable workhorses like their forebearers, this was due to the simple but rugged construction which gave a build quality beyond its competitors in the same price range.
The last "4000" model produced by Akai was the GX - 4000D. This machine incorporated glass/crystal ferrite recording heads that resulted in a better frequency response and boasted a lifetime guarantee!
Indeed, these machines from Akai are still noted for their reliability and endurance which has made them something of a legend, they are still going strong after 30 years plus.....how many modern machines will be able to boast that?
...Have tested the basic features such as play, fast forward, and rewind which seem to be working. I am not expert enough to know about the more technical features of the machine. The small screw-on metal cap that allows you to change speed is present. The VU meters both work and light up. There are a few minor marks and scratches on the wooden parts or the metal front (which could do with a good wipe).
Serial Number : S-90102-02084
Included with the tape recorder :
Two reels (one full, one empty),
One Original Spool Retainer,
Wall Plug,
Phono Lead,
Photocopy of 43 page Service Manual for 4000DS / 4000DS-Mk2.
A few other empty plastic tape reels
I believe the Original Technical Specification was :
Track Format: 4 track, 2 channel stereo/mono
Reel Size: up to 7’’ spools
Tape Speeds: 7.1/2 and 3.3/4 ips
Wow and Flutter: less than 0.15% RMS at 7 1/2, less than 0.2% RMS at 3 3/4
Signal-to-noise ratio: better than 50dB
Erase Ratio: better than 70dB
Bias Frequency: 100 kHz
Cross-Talk: better than 70dB (mono), better than 50 dB (stereo)
*No Reserve*
Heads: (3) 1 micron gap playback head, 1micron gap recording head, 1 erase head
Fast forward and rewind time: 150 seconds using a 1200 ft. tape
Motors: 1 4-pole induction motor
Power requirement: 220-240V, 50Hz
Aprox Dimensions: 40 x 30 x 15 cms
This item is very heavy - as a result, the P&P charges will total £17.50 within UK. Free Local pickup is available, from Ashwell, near Baldock, Hertfordshire, or Stevenage, Hertfordshire.
*No Reserve*