BETA
RADAR is in beta — expect errors. Accuracy and coverage improvements are shipping daily.
LIVE
Waiting for new listings…
0 other audiophiles online

Seller's Description

Yamaha TC-920 - Natural Sound Stereo Cassette Deck, manufactured in Japan circa 1978-1980.Technical specifications:- Type: 2-head, front-loading, 4-track 2-channel stereo cassette deck- Tape speed: 4.8 cm/s- Tape type compatibility: Normal, CrO2, Ferro-Chrome- Noise reduction: Dolby B- Frequency response: 30 Hz - 18,000 Hz (CrO2 tape, ±3 dB)- Signal-to-noise ratio: 69 dB (Dolby B)- Wow and flutter: 0.03%- Total harmonic distortion: 1.6%- Features: full logic transport control, MPX filter, subsonic filter, bias fine-tune, digital peak-reading meters, 3-digit mechanical tape counter- Inputs: line + microphone (2x jack)- Output: line, headphone jack- Power consumption: 27 W- Dimensions (W x H x D): 435 x 140 x 286 mm- Weight: 9 kgCondition:Unit in very good visual and technical condition. Fully functional, recently underwent a complete service.

Our Thoughts RADAR AI

Is US$716 a fair price for a used Yamaha TC-920 cassette deck, or is it too high? Based on 1062 recent comparable USD listings, the median asking price is US$233, with the 75th percentile at US$453, making this US$716 listing significantly overpriced—it sits well above the top quartile and is roughly three times the median. This is not a bargain; it’s an ambitious ask unless the deck is in pristine, original-owner condition with rare accessories or documented professional restoration beyond standard servicing.

The Yamaha TC-920 is a well-regarded vintage stereo cassette deck known for solid mechanical performance and clean audio reproduction, appealing to enthusiasts who value analog tape warmth. However, at this price point, buyers should verify the condition rigorously: check for worn belts, capstan corrosion, or misaligned heads, which are common in decks of this age. Unless the listing includes original boxes, manuals, or proof of recent full-service with parts replaced, the upside doesn’t justify the cost compared to the typical market.

Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.

About Yamaha

Yamaha stands as one of the world's most storied audio manufacturers, with roots extending far beyond consumer electronics. Founded in 1887 by Torakusu Yamaha in Hamamatsu, Japan, the company began as a reed organ manufacturer before expanding into pianos and eventually becoming a comprehensive musical instrument maker. This deep heritage in acoustics and materials science would prove foundational to its later audio ventures. The company operated under its original name, Nippon Gakki Co., Ltd., until 1987, when it was renamed Yamaha Corporation in honor of its centennial.

Yamaha's entry into high-fidelity audio proved transformative for the industry itself. In 1954, the company released the Yamaha Hi-Fi Player, widely recognized as the world's first audio component to bear the "Hi-Fi" designation in its name. The company subsequently built a comprehensive product portfolio spanning amplifiers—beginning with the acclaimed A-100 in 1960—speakers, turntables, and digital audio equipment. The NS-1000 speakers, introduced in 1974 with beryllium drivers, became iconic reference monitors. Yamaha also pioneered digital audio technology, shipping the world's first CD recorder in 1988.

Today, Yamaha occupies a distinctive position as a mid-to-high-end generalist rather than a niche specialist. The brand commands respect among both casual listeners and serious audiophiles, balancing accessibility with genuine engineering credibility. Its reputation rests on six decades of consistent innovation, proven reliability, and the unique advantage of applying musical instrument expertise to audio reproduction. Vintage Yamaha components remain highly sought by collectors, while current products maintain the brand's tradition of delivering performance and durability across multiple price tiers.

See all Yamaha listings on RADAR.

More Yamaha listings