Aiwa TP-712
Aiwa
Japan
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
1
Number of Heads
2
Head Configuration
Dual-track-mono
Wow & Flutter
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
Dimensions [mm]
Weight [kg]
6
Year built
1966–1968
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
Frequency Response
Speed
1⅞, 3¾
Max Reel [inch]
5
Tracks
1/2 Rec/PB
Price
User
Consumer
Additional Information
The Aiwa TP-712 is a portable, solid-state open-reel tape recorder from 1966–1968, blending consumer portability with basic recording features for speech, lectures, and light music use.
Positioning and Era
Late-1960s Japanese "lunchbox" design emphasizing battery operation and mains flexibility, aimed at mobile users rather than studio professionals.
Transport and Tape Format
Reel size: Up to 5-inch diameter reels.
Drive system: Capstan drive with pinch roller for stable speed.
Speeds: Two selectable: 1⅞ ips (4.75 cm/s) and 3¾ ips (9.5 cm/s).
Track format: Dual-track (2-track mono, half-track configuration).
Heads: 2-head setup (erase + record/playback), with "electronic erase head" noted for clean overwrites.
Electronics and Performance
Circuitry: 7-transistor solid-state amplifier; automatic volume control (AVC) for recording, plus manual level set via meter (doubles as battery indicator).
Power: 4 × 1.5V D-cell batteries (6V DC) or AC mains (110-120V / 220-240V versions).
Frequency response: Modest voice/light music range (optimized at 3¾ ips); typical wow/flutter for portable capstan-drive era.
Controls, I/O, and Features
Transport: Play, Record, Rewind, Stop, Fast Forward (belt-driven).
Inputs/Outputs: Mic input, remote jack, earphone/aux line out.
Other: Tone control, VU meter, resettable tape counter.
Acoustic Section
Speaker: Permanent magnet dynamic (PDyn) moving-coil driver for nearfield monitoring.
Volume control present; external amp recommended for better fidelity.
Construction and Dimensions
Portable set (>8 inches), plastic case (no Bakelite), ~4-6 kg with batteries; carrying handle/lid.
Use and Restoration Notes
Charming for vintage voice/music recovery; performs well post-service at higher speed. Common issues: cloth take-up belt degradation, head relapping needed for oxide buildup, capstan rubber hardening, electrolytic recap. Simple mechanics suit collectors.