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VINTAGE YAMAHA NS SERIES TAPE DECK PLAYER/RECORDER_______________________________________________________________________MADE IN JAPANIN GREAT WORKING CONDITION SOME MARKS ON TOP OF CASING/VIEW PICTURES OF COSMETIC CONDITION_______________________________________________________________________________COMES WITH POWER CORDCAN POST OR PICK UP IS AVAILABLECHECK OUT MY OTHER AUDIO ITEMS!Key SpecificationsType: Single-cassette, front-loading, 2-head stereo deck [1, 2]Noise Reduction: Dolby B and C [1]Tape Compatibility: Type I (Normal), Type II (CrO2/Chrome), and Type IV (Metal) [1]Motors: 2 motors (1 for reel, 1 for capstan) [1]Frequency Response:Type I: 40–15,000 Hz (±3 dB)Type II: 40–16,000 Hz (±3 dB)Type IV: 40–17,000 Hz (±3 dB) [1]Wow and Flutter: ±0.05% / 0.08% WRMS/DIN [1]Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 60 dB [1]Dimensions: 435 mm × 112 mm × 278 mm (W × H × D
New, comparable cassette decks are no longer a useful benchmark; this is a vintage market purchase. At USD 350, it sits well above the USD 231 median and below the USD 423 upper quartile, so the price is fair only if the specific model is desirable and properly tested—not a bargain.
The NS-series label is too broad to identify the deck confidently, though Yamaha’s better models can offer excellent transport engineering, clean recording/playback, and appealing Japanese build quality. A known model such as the TC-920B can command around this level when tested, but an untested or generic unit should sell for considerably less. Before buying, confirm the model number, transport operation, recording, channel balance, Dolby functions, and whether belts or idler tires have been serviced; at USD 350, working proof and a complete, clean example are essential.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
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.
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