Aiwa TP-713
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]
300 × 80 × 250
Weight [kg]
5
Year built
1967-1968
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-713 is a portable open-reel tape recorder from Aiwa's late-1960s TP-7xx series, similar to the TP-712 but with minor refinements for consumer portability and basic home/dictation use.
Positioning and Era
Introduced around 1967-1968 as a compact "lunchbox" unit, battery/mains powered, targeting mobile recording of speech, lectures, and casual music rather than professional hi-fi.
Transport and Tape Format
Reel size: Up to 5-inch reels.
Drive system: Capstan drive with pinch roller for consistent speed.
Speeds: Dual-speed: 1⅞ ips and 3¾ ips.
Track format: 2-track mono (half-track configuration).
Heads: 2-head layout (erase + combined record/playback).
Electronics and Performance
Fully transistorized (7-9 transistors typical for series).
Power: 4 × D-cell batteries (6V DC) or AC mains adapter (110-240V variants).
Modest frequency response for voice/light music at higher speed; wow/flutter adequate for portables (~0.2%).
Controls, I/O, and Features
Transport: Play, Record, Rewind, Stop, Fast Forward.
Inputs/Outputs: Mic input, remote jack, earphone/aux line out.
Level meter (also battery check), possible AVC and basic tone control.
Acoustic Section
Built-in oval dynamic speaker (~2.5-4 inches) for monitoring.
Volume knob; external amplification recommended for fidelity.
Construction and Dimensions
Suitcase-style plastic/metal case with handle; ~300 × 80 × 250 mm, 4-5 kg.
Simple, durable build for travel.
Use and Restoration Notes
Suited for vintage voice/music playback; reliable post-service at 3¾ ips. Watch for belt wear, rubber tire degradation, capacitor aging, and head cleaning—common in Aiwa portables. Collector-friendly mechanics.