Cassette deck Technics RS-AZ7
It would seem that in the analog magnetic recording since the mid 80's there was no wind, long ago invented. So rare case return technological developments record primarily digital back to analog. Thus, the thin-film magnetic head resistive (IWG), produced by Panasonic, what distinguishes them from the usual inductive MG? Immediately, we note that in principle the IWG can only be reproducing, and therefore, the deck with these heads have to be with a through channel for playback. Playback is performed by changing the resistance of the conductor due to the magnetic flux of the magnetic tape. Therefore, the frequency characteristic obtained by linear and requires no special correction in the playback amplifier, that reduces the level of noise and interference (according firm approximately 2-3 dB). Through the application of thin films as sensitive material (like hardware digital format DCC) improved efficiency at higher frequencies operating range. All analog tape at the lowest frequencies observed so-called snake - AFC nonlinearity caused by the finite size of the core playhead. In this case, no core, no gap in it, and therefore, there is no snake. As they say, a trifle, but nice. Apparently, the future analog magnetic recording apparatus, at least in High- grade apparatus for magneto - resistive heads.
So, apologized to readers for the abundance of technical details (in this case not do without them), continue acquaintance with the actual device. Its design is based on the latest popular scheme with the central location of the tape drive, which allows to optimize the layout of the machine. Unfortunately, this is not true of the controls - control keys noise reduction, tape counter, mode memory left on the opposite side of that, in our opinion, it is not logical and convenient. Here is the key auto optimizer recording mode, randomly clicking on which you run the risk of burn test signals to your favorite cassette. Lack of trip-lock optimizer calls to mind the infamous Murphy's Law. I would not want to him right you have experienced!
At the device there is a mode of direct playback! - (Play Direct) - in this case, the linear output comes directly from the preamplifier of the magnetic head, bypassing the suppressor circuit bias and block noise reduction Dolby. This mode should be used when dubbing from tape to tape.
As for the rest, the device is equipped with a set of eyeballs service functions, traditional its price category. This muffler and Dolby B and C, Dynamic bias Dolby HX Pro, linear tape counter, fully automatic optimizer tract records used under the tape and even motorized drive cassette. The remote control supplied does not include: You can use the remote from the amplifier firm Technics.
Selective measurements confirmed the statement by high values, and subjective listening showed somewhat greater transparency sound compared to conventional tape playback heads. This is particularly evident on bass, where a sound picture was felt clearer, and rendered.
And finally, a short warning possible owners. Magnetic - resistive heads but absolutely contraindicated strong magnetic fields. Amateur demagnetize their devices (using different kinds of chokes or special demagnetizing cassette) in this case risk irrevocably ruin the playback heads. Warning it is written right at the end of the cassette. Alas, in English. Do not forget about this.
