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Akai M10

Akai

Japan

Akai M10

Tape Deck Details

Number of Motors

3

Number of Heads

3

Head Configuration

Stereo

Wow & Flutter

0.08% at 7½ ips

Signal-to-Noise [dB]

50

Dimensions [mm]

350 x 474 x 242

Weight [kg]

22

Year built

1960s - 1970s

Head Composition

Permalloy

Equalization

NNAB

Frequency Response

30 Hz to 26 kH at 7½ ips

Speed

1⅞, 3¾, 7½

Max Reel [inch]

10.5

Tracks

1/4 Rec/PB

Price

User

Consumer

Additional Information

  • Track system: 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural system

  • Heads: 3 heads — 1 record/playback, 1 erase, and 1 cross-field bias head for improved high-frequency fidelity, all permalloy

  • Motors: 3 motors — 2 reel drive motors and 1 3-speed hysteresis capstan motor

  • Tape Speeds: Three speeds — 1 7/8, 3 3/4, and 7 1/2 inches per second

  • Maximum Reel Size: 10.5 inches

  • Frequency Response:
    30 Hz to 26 kHz ±3 dB at 7½ ips,
    30 Hz to 19 kHz ±3 dB at 3¾ ips,
    30 Hz to 9 kHz ±3 dB at 1 7/8 ips

  • Wow and Flutter: 0.08% at 7½ ips, less than 0.12% at 3¾ ips, less than 0.2% at 1 7/8 ips

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

  • Total Harmonic Distortion: About 2% at 1 kHz, 0 VU

  • Outputs: 1.23 V line output, 0.4 V DIN, headphone output 8 ohms

  • Inputs: Microphone 0.5 mV, Line 50 mV, DIN 5 mV (low), 50 mV (high)

  • Built-in Amplifiers: 8 watts RMS per channel driving two 4" x 6" internal speakers

  • Additional features: Auto reverse for playback (manual reel switching for recording), cross-field bias recording for superior fidelity with older tapes, input mixing for line and mic sources, stereo headphone socket, electric speed change, and demo tape included with purchase

  • Dimensions: Approximately 350 x 474 x 242 mm (13¾ x 18¾ x 9½ inches)

  • Weight: About 22 kg (48.4 lbs)

  • Power: Switched between 100-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz

  • Manufacture: Japan, late 1960s to early 1970s era

The Akai M10 was the last of the "M" series started with the M6, notable for its cross-field bias technology using a separate bias head, which improved recording quality particularly on older tape formulations. It’s a versatile and robust unit favored among vintage reel-to-reel enthusiasts.

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