Akai Stereo Deluxe
Akai
Japan
Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
1
Number of Heads
2
Head Configuration
Wow & Flutter
0.08 at 7½ ips
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
Dimensions [mm]
Weight [kg]
Year built
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
Frequency Response
60 - 15kHz at 7½ ips
Speed
3¾, 7½
Max Reel [inch]
7
Tracks
1/4 Rec/PB
Price
User
Consumer
Additional Information
The Akai Stereo Deluxe reel to reel tape deck is a vintage tube-based model from the late 1950s or early 1960s, featuring:
Track System: 2-track stereo or mono, with a design optimized for high fidelity audio.
Drive System: All-tube design using various vacuum tubes (e.g., 6AU6, 6BQ5, 6AR5, 6X4, and 12AD7), with a single motor for tape transport.
Speed: 3¾ and 7½ ips (inches per second), changeable by switching the drive capstan.
Power: Built-in tube amplifier with approximately 3W output power.
Reel Size: Supports 7-inch reels.
Construction: Wooden case for aesthetic and acoustic properties.
Notable Features: It includes manual controls for speed and tape management, and was among Akai's early high-fidelity stereo systems.
This model was one of the first all-tube stereo reel-to-reel recorders, designed for audiophiles wanting warm, tube-driven sound. It embodies vintage design principles with high-quality components, and it was popular in the late 1950s to early 1960s era for home audio enthusiasts.