TEAC X-3 MKII

The TEAC X3 MKII is a 4-track, 2-channel reel-to-reel tape deck made in Japan around 1981–1983. It features three heads (erase, record, playback), and a three-motor drive system consisting of two DC motors and one servo-driven capstan motor. It supports tape speeds of 9.5 cm/s (3.75 IPS) and 19 cm/s (7.5 IPS) with wow and flutter below 0.04% at 19 cm/s and below 0.06% at 9.5 cm/s.

The maximum reel size supported is 18 cm (7 inches). The deck has a frequency response from 30 Hz up to 34 kHz at 19 cm/s and up to 24 kHz at 9.5 cm/s. Its signal-to-noise ratio is about 63–65 dB, with distortion under 0.8% at 1 kHz at 0 dB level. Crosstalk attenuation reaches 50 dB and cancellation attenuation is 75 dB at 19 cm/s.

Controls include logic transport control, speed fine control, record mute, and timer operation. It offers dual line and microphone inputs, with line level at 60 mV/50 kΩ input impedance and microphone input at 0.25 mV/10 kΩ. Outputs include stereo line outputs and an 8 Ω headphone jack. The machine weighs about 14 kg and measures 432 x 364 x 262 mm. It supports remote control via a cable remote RC-90 and consumes about 85 W of power.

Notable professional features include dual-capstan drive for tape stability, compatibility with EE-band tape types (extended frequency response), and robust logic control for reliable operation.

In summary, the TEAC X3 MKII is a solid, semi-professional/studio reel-to-reel tape deck with precise speed control, excellent audio performance, and professional feature set appropriate for high-quality analog recording and playback.