Akai 44s

The Akai 44S is a reel-to-reel tape recorder known as a "Convert-A-Deck," meaning it can be used as either a tape recorder or just a tape deck with a simple setting change. It is a 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural system with the following technical features:

• Heads: 1 record head, 1 playback head, 1 erase head

• Tape Speeds: Supports 3 3/4 and 7 1/2 inches per second (ips)

• Reel Size: Up to 7 inches

• Frequency Response: Approximately 30 Hz to 22 kHz (at 7 1/2 ips)

• Wow and Flutter: Around 0.15% at 7 1/2 ips

• Signal to Noise Ratio: Around 50 dB

• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): About 1.5%

• Crosstalk: 50 dB

• Inputs: Microphone (0.4 mV), Line (60 mV)

• Outputs: Line output (1.23 V), Headphone jack

• Motor: One 4-pole induction motor

• Controls: Instant dual monitoring, pause control, automatic shutoff, output level control, VU meters

• Size: Approximately 16.3" x 7.65" x 14"

• Weight: ~30.2 lbs

The Akai 44S was designed for consumer to semi-professional use, offering a versatile tape deck with convenient user features like the pause control and automatic shutoff. Its performance in terms of frequency response and signal-to-noise ratio is good for its class, though wow and flutter is a bit higher than higher-end professional units.

This deck stands out for being a convertible system, allowing simple changes between tape recorder and tape deck functions. It has the typical 3-head configuration for versatile recording and playback options.

Overall, the Akai 44S is a solid, vintage-style reel-to-reel tape deck for enthusiasts and collectors looking for classic analog tape operation with user-friendly features and respectable sound quality for its era.