
Akai X-355
Akai
Japan

Tape Deck Details
Number of Motors
3
Number of Heads
4
Head Configuration
Stereo
Wow & Flutter
0.08% RMS or at 7½ ips
Signal-to-Noise [dB]
45
Dimensions [mm]
426 x 457 x 318
Weight [kg]
28.5
Year built
1965–1968
Head Composition
Permalloy
Equalization
NAB
Frequency Response
30 Hz to 24 kHz at 7½ ips
Speed
3¾, 7½, 15
Max Reel [inch]
10.5
Tracks
1/4 Rec/PB
Price
User
Consumer
Additional Information
Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural quarter-track system with cross-field bias technology
Tape Speeds: 3¾, 7½, and 15 inches per second (IPS) with optional adapter for 15 IPS
Maximum Reel Size: Up to 10.5 inches, with optional outrigger adaptors for larger reels
Heads: 4 heads — erase, play, record, and separate cross-field bias head made of permalloy for superior fidelity
Motors: 3 motors — hysteresis synchronous capstan drive and two reel motors with eddy current braking
Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 24 kHz (±3 dB) at 7½ IPS
Wow and Flutter: 0.08% RMS or less at 7½ IPS
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 45 dB or better
Total Harmonic Distortion: Approximately 3%
Inputs: Microphone (0.5 mV), Line (100 mV) — mixable
Outputs: Line (0 to 1 V, 10 kΩ), headphone output
Output Power: 20 watts per channel driving built-in speakers (in models with amplifier)
Dimensions: 426 x 457 x 318 mm (16¾" x 18" x 12½")
Weight: Approximately 28.5 kg (62.7 lbs)
Construction: Solid-state electronics with modular amplifier cards, wood walnut case panels, and large push-button controls
Features: Auto-reverse play, remote control capability, mechanical tape counter, tape lifter, echo effects, sound-on-sound recording, and multiplex recording support
Period: Manufactured between 1965–1968 in Japan
Specialty: Known for the early use of cross-field recording technology to improve high-frequency recording quality and overall audio fidelity
The X-355 was a premium mid-60s reel-to-reel for audiophiles and semi-professional users. Its build was robust, and it stood out for its advanced recording technology and excellent sound reproduction for the era.