
Akai M10
Akai
Japan

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 ipsWow 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.