Nakamichi 482Z Audiophile 3 Head Cassette Deck

If you are serious about the recording you are doing on tape, you need a 3 head cassette deck. Not only comes a 3 head deck with a dedicated head for recoring (in a 2 head deck the playback head does both), you can also hear the actual recording while its layed down on tape. The 482Z can switch between source signal (like a 2 head deck) and tape while in recording. Having it set on tape lets you immediately very the result. With the Bias fine adjustment you are now able to ‘dial in’ the particular type of tape you are using, ensuring the recording sounds best. It also give you the opportunity now to re-adjust the recording level. Often there is a difference between what you see in ‘source’ that how its actually recorded. That is due to fifferent tape formulas depending on manufacturer – even if you are always using the same type (e.g. Type I or II).

The 482Z is an improved version of the 482. The 482 only comes with Dolby B noise reduction. The Z also has Dolby C on board. The analog meters are replaced with digital LED vu meters.

This is, as you would expect, a very good sounding deck. The difference between any other deck and this will amaze you. Nakamichi knew what they did, the heads are like microscopes – picking up every nuance. No matter if you use pre-recorded tape withi low expectation on how they sound or self recorded one. The 482Z will make them shine. The heads are in ‘like new’ condition of this deck and the unit looks like to have received very little use in the past.

To get this deck operation in its original specification, the below service was carried out:

• Replacement of Capstan Belt
• Replacement of Logice Control Belt
• Replacement of Idler Tyre
• Lubrication of moving parts
• Cleaning of heads and capstan with chemical
• Demgagnetisation of heads
• Speed calibration
• Playback level calibration
• Record level calibration
• Full function test

Below is a test recording made with the 482Z and played back by it:

Specifications:

Type: 3-head, single compact cassette deck

Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo

Tape Speed: 4.8 cm/s

Heads: 1 x record, 1 x playback, 1 x erase

Tape Type: type I, CrO2, Metal

Noise Reduction: B, C

Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz  (Metal tape)

Signal to Noise Ratio: 69dB  (dolby C)

Wow and Flutter: 0.07%

Total Harmonic Distortion: 1.0%

Input: 50mV (line)

Output: 0.6V (line)

Dimensions: 450 x 135 x 289mm

Weight: 6.4kg

Year: 1979

Price: USD $950 (1981)