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Akai X-100D

Akai

Japan

Akai X-100D

Tape Deck Details

Number of Motors

2

Number of Heads

3

Head Configuration

Full-track-mono

Wow & Flutter

0.15% at 7½ ips

Signal-to-Noise [dB]

45

Dimensions [mm]

343 x 343 x 230

Weight [kg]

13.5

Year built

1965 - 1968

Head Composition

Permalloy

Equalization

NAB

Frequency Response

30 Hz to 23 kHz at 7½

Speed

1⅞, 3¾, 7½

Max Reel [inch]

7

Tracks

1/4 Rec/PB+1/2PB

Price

User

Consumer

Additional Information

  • Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural system with quarter-track stereo recording.

  • Tape Speeds: Supports 3 speeds — 1⅞, 3¾, and 7½ inches per second (IPS).

  • Maximum Reel Size: 7 inches.

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

  • Motor: 2-speed hysteresis synchronous motor.

  • Equalization: NAB standard with a 3-position equalizer switch.

  • Frequency Response:
    7½ IPS: 30 Hz to 23 kHz (±3 dB),
    3¾ IPS: 30 Hz to 15 kHz (±3 dB),
    1⅞ IPS: 30 Hz to 9 kHz (±3 dB).

  • Wow and Flutter: Less than 0.15% at 7½ IPS, 0.25% at 3¾ IPS, 0.35% at 1⅞ IPS.

  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Better than 45 dB.

  • Total Harmonic Distortion: Approximately 3%.

  • Inputs: Separate level controls for line (50 mV) and microphone (0.5 mV).

  • Outputs: 1.23 V line output.

  • Semiconductors: Equipped with 11 silicon transistors and 2 diodes.

  • Dimensions: 343 x 343 x 230 mm (13½” x 13½” x 9”).

  • Weight: Approximately 13.5 kg (30 lbs).

  • Additional Features:
    Auto stop/shut off switch.
    Three-digit mechanical tape counter.
    Separate left and right mixable line/mic level controls.
    Optional capstan sleeve and pinch roller for 15 IPS speed compatibility.

  • Build: No built-in amplifiers or speakers; solid-state electronics with cross-field head technology for superior sound quality.

The X-100D was one of Akai’s early mid-high fidelity consumer quarter-track stereo tape decks released between 1965-1968, well-regarded for its cross-field bias head design providing enhanced recording quality especially in high frequencies.

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