Akai 1722W

The Akai 1722W is a compact, solid-state stereo reel-to-reel tape deck produced in Japan from about 1976 to 1978, known for reliable operation and good sound for consumer hi-fi use.

Technical Overview

• Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural recording and playback

• Tape Speeds: 3 speeds – 1 7/8, 3 3/4, and 7 1/2 inches per second (IPS)

• Heads: 2: one permalloy stereo record/playback head and one ferrite erase head

• Reel Size: Up to 7-inch reels (18 cm max diameter)

• Frequency Response:
  30 Hz to 21 kHz (±3 dB) at 7 1/2 IPS
  40 Hz to 15 kHz (±3 dB) at 3 3/4 IPS
  40 Hz to 12 kHz (±3 dB) at 1 7/8 IPS

• Wow and Flutter: 0.14% at 7 1/2 IPS; 0.18% at 3 3/4 IPS

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Better than 50 dB

• Total Harmonic Distortion: Less than 2% (1 kHz at 0 VU)

• Crosstalk: 45 dB (stereo), 60 dB (mono)

• Inputs: Microphone (0.5 mV, 100 kΩ), Line (150 mV, 330 kΩ), DIN (15 mV)

• Outputs: Line (1.23 V), DIN (1 V), Headphones (100 mV @ 8 Ω)

• Amplifier Power: 2 × 2 W (8 Ω)

• Speakers: 2 × 10 × 15 cm oval (L/R)

• Equalization: NAB (switchable related to tape speed)

• Additional Features:
  Tape selector switch for low-noise/wide-range tape
  Pause control and automatic shutoff
  Mixable mic/line inputs
  S.O.S (Sound-on-Sound) switch for multiplayback
  Horizontal/vertical operation

• Power Consumption: 50 W

• Dimensions: 358 × 360 × 248 mm (W × H × D)

• Weight: 13.2 kg

• Finish: Wood cabinet ("W" variant)

Summary

The Akai 1722W is a mid-high-fidelity, solid-state reel-to-reel tape recorder with respectable frequency response, low wow and flutter, and robust construction. It is equipped with mixable inputs, built-in speakers, and versatile tape speed options, making it suitable for both stereo and mono home recording. Its reliability and user-friendly design continue to make it popular with vintage audio enthusiasts.