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Akai GX-400D SS

Akai

Japan

Akai GX-400D SS

Tape Deck Details

Number of Motors

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Number of Heads

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Head Configuration

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Wow & Flutter

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Signal-to-Noise [dB]

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Dimensions [mm]

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Weight [kg]

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Year built

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Head Composition

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Equalization

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Frequency Response

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Speed

1⅞, 3¾, 7½, 15

Max Reel [inch]

10.5

Price

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Additional Information

The Akai GX-400D SS is a top-tier quadraphonic (4-channel) and 2-channel stereo reel-to-reel tape deck released in the mid-1970s, notable for its advanced tape handling, versatile recording/playback modes, and high-fidelity performance for both professional and advanced home use.


  • Track System: 4-track, supports both 4-channel (quadraphonic/surround) and 2-channel stereo recording/playback
    Easy switch between quad and stereo operation
    “Quadra-Sync” allows real-time monitoring of any track while recording on others

  • Tape Speeds: 1⅞, 3¾, 7½, and 15 ips (some markets may omit 1⅞ ips setting)

  • Reel Size: Up to 10.5 inches, accepting professional studio reels and long-play tapes

  • Heads: 4 (1 record, 1 playback, 2 erase), premium GX (Glass & Crystal) ferrite and permalloy composition for exceptional wear resistance and fidelity

  • Motors: Three-motor system: 1 AC servo capstan, 2 eddy-current reel motors—delivering stable tape movement and torque even with large reels

  • Frequency Response:
    20 Hz to 27 kHz at 15 ips (±3 dB, low noise tape)

  • Wow and Flutter:
    0.035% (15 ips, exceptional for any analog deck)
    0.05% (7½ ips)

  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 55 dB at +3 dB

  • Distortion: Less than 1% (low for both music and spoken word use)

  • Crosstalk: Better than 45 dB

  • Inputs:
    Line: 100 mV
    DIN: 10 mV
    Mic: 0.5 mV

  • Outputs:
    Line: 1.23 V
    DIN: 0.6 V
    1/4″ headphone jack (front panel)

  • Special Features:
    Auto-reverse in 2-channel mode
    Auto-repeat function in 4-channel mode
    “Quadra-Sync” instant monitoring
    Mode selector for fast switching between stereo and quad recording/playback
    Tape selector switch for low noise/normal tape types
    Built-in mixing (mic/line input), cueing, and easy tape end auto shut-off
    Dual capstan closed loop drive system for minimized tape slippage and improved tape tension

  • Construction: Solid state electronics, includes 95 transistors, 88 diodes, 4 ICs, silver or black finish with blue or standard VU meters

  • Dimensions: 457 × 590 × 240 mm, or approx. 18 × 23.3 × 9.5 inches

  • Weight: 31.2 kg (about 69 lbs)

  • Power: Universal voltage selection (100, 110-120, 220-240 V)

  • Era: Released 1974–1978 (Japan)

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