Aiwa TP-801
Aiwa
Japan
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
1
Number of Heads
2
Head Configuration
Full-track-mono
Wow & Flutter
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
Dimensions [mm]
400 × 200 × 300
Weight [kg]
10
Year built
1965 - 1968
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
Frequency Response
Speed
3¾, 7½
Max Reel [inch]
7
Tracks
1/2 Rec/PB
Price
User
Consumer
Additional Information
The Aiwa TP-801 is a mid-1960s portable open-reel tape recorder notable for its hybrid tube-transistor design and larger reel capacity, aimed at consumer home recording rather than professional studio use.
Positioning and Era
Released 1965–1968, this table-top/portable mono unit from Aiwa Co. Ltd. (Tokyo) targeted speech, lectures, and casual music, bridging early tube tech with emerging solid-state trends.
Transport and Tape Format
Reel size: Up to 7 inches (or 5¾" practical limit).
Drive system: Capstan drive with pinch roller.
Speeds: Two: 3¾ ips and 7½ ips.
Track format: Half-track mono (1/2 rec/playback, full-track mono heads).
Heads: 2 permalloy heads (erase + record/playback).
Electronics and Performance
Circuitry: Tube-based (3 valves: 12AX7A AF amp, 6BM8 AF/output/oscillator, 6R-E13 level indicator); low/high inputs, tone control, tape counter.
Power: AC mains (likely 110–240V variants) with possible battery option.
Speaker: Internal 4″ × 6″ elliptical permanent-magnet dynamic driver.
Outputs: RCA line out, external speaker jack, earphone.
Performance: Sound quality ~5/10, reliability ~5/10 per user data; respectable for voice at higher speed.
Controls and I/O
Transport buttons for play, record, rewind, stop, fast-forward.
Mic input jacks (low/high sensitivity), remote possible.
Manual record level via valve meter.
Construction and Dimensions
Portable table-model with mixed materials (metal frame, plastic accents); exact size ~350–400 × 150–200 × 300 mm (W×H×D), ~8–10 kg.
Use and Restoration Notes
Versatile for vintage mono tapes; excels at 7½ ips post-service. Common fixes: tube testing/replacement, rubber idlers/pinch rollers, electrolytic recap, head demagnetize/clean. A charming hybrid-era portable for collectors.