Akai 250D
Akai
Japan
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
Number of Heads
Head Configuration
Wow & Flutter
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
Dimensions [mm]
Weight [kg]
Year built
Head Composition
Equalization
Frequency Response
Speed
1⅞, 3¾, 7½
Max Reel [inch]
Tracks
1/4 Rec/PB
Price
Additional Information
The Akai 250D is a mid-to-high fidelity consumer reel-to-reel tape deck made in Japan and released around 1971 to 1975. It is known for its solid-state electronics and NAB equalization. Here is a detailed technical overview:
Core Specifications
Track Format: 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural system
Tape Speeds: 1 7/8, 3 3/4, and 7 1/2 inches per second
Motors: Three motors including a three-speed servo-controlled outer rotor motor with direct capstan drive
Auto Reverse: Yes, automatic continuous reverse for tape direction
Heads: 4 heads (erase, record, and playback heads)
Frequency Response: Approximately 35 Hz to 23 kHz at 7 1/2 IPS, 35 Hz to 18 kHz at 3 3/4 IPS, and 40 Hz to 9 kHz at 1 7/8 IPS
Wow and Flutter: Less than 0.08% at 7 1/2 IPS, 0.12% at 3 3/4 IPS, and 20% at 1 7/8 IPS
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Better than 50 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion: Around 2%
Inputs: Microphone (more than 0.5 mV), Line (more than 50 mV), DIN inputs (high and low levels)
Outputs: RCA line outputs
Controls: Features an automatic tape lifter, reel retainers, automatic stop/shut off, pause control with lock, and supports remote control with the RC-16 unit
Dimensions: Approximately 14 x 14 x 8.9 inches (358 x 358 x 227 mm)
Weight: About 17 kg (37.5 lbs)
Voltage: 110-120V AC
Additional Features
Servo controlled motor for stable tape speed and smoother transport functions
Relay-controlled transport with shut off function
Separate line/mic record controls allow input mixing
Remote control capability with optional RC-16 remote unit
Summary
The Akai 250D is a rare and somewhat obscure reel-to-reel deck from the early 1970s that bridges the era of the crossfield head and glass-crystal head designs. It offers high fidelity tape speeds with a notable auto-reverse capability and servo-controlled motor. While not highly rated in sound quality and reliability compared to higher-end professional decks, it is a solid vintage consumer tape deck with useful features for stereo/monaural recording and playback.