Boomboxes 1970–1979 – Iconic Early Portable Radio-Cassette Recorders | Boombox City - BOOMBOX CITY

AIWA TPR-920 (1977)

The AIWA TPR-920 was introduced in 1977. It features a 7.2 W (2 x 3.6W) IC amplifier that delivers the sound into two 12 cm full range loudspeakers. You can choose your favorite sound setting via separate bass and treble controls, loudness control and a 3 step Mono-Stereo-Wide Stereo switch. The TPR-920 also features dedicated Phono input and inbuilt stereo microphones. In order to further improve performance, the DM-511P external microphones and the SC-45 external loudspeakers were available as accessories just like a dedicated carrying case, the LC-920. The cassette section can handle normal and chrome tapes (with auto chrome tape selector) for a frequency response of 50-14000 Hz (chrome) and it uses an Ultra Hard Permalloy head. Recordings to a cassette can be made with the built-in ALC (automatic level control) or manually with separate L and R manual record level controls. Two multifunction level meters are used for L and R record level, battery level control and radio tuning level. Dimensions: 445x287x117 mm | Weight: 5.6 kg | Operation: Mains, External 9 V, 6xUM1 battery.

AIWA CS Series (1979)

The Aiwa CS Series was introduced in 1979. This series comprised the following models: CS80, CS70, CS60 and the smaller CS30. These were marketed as "portable Hi-Fi components" under the slogan, Basic Carry Compo. The top model of the series, the CS80, features a 7.4W (3.7W + 3.7W) (EIAJ/DC) amplifier powering a two-way loudspeaker system having a 16cm woofer and 52mm tweeter. The radio section is a two-band AM-FM Stereo analog tuner. The highlight of the CS80 model is the 9-track music search function of the cassette section. On the left side of the tuning scale is a digital indicator that shows the selected track. The cassette recorder is a one motor mechanism with FGH heads, mechanical "piano keys", manual recording level and two VU meters that can utilize normal and chrome tapes (40-12,500/14,000Hz Normal/Chrome). The CS70 and CS60 have smaller amplifier and speaker, the cassette recorder can handle only normal tape while the CS70 retains a more simplified music search system. Being promoted as a portable component with home hi-fi capabilities an almost endless array of add on components were available. These include among other the AA-16X battery operated amplifier, S-V22 TV multiplex tuner, AP-D22 and AP-D11 turntable, MT-22 timer, MIX-22 microphone mixer, SC-61, SC-E11 and SC-47 external loudspeakers, DM-511P microphones with mounting bracket. These components can be installed on racks such as the RK-24 or RK-23 but there are a few more unnamed models shown in the brochure. The "backpack carry system" shown in the main photo is also a factory accessory.

AKAI AJ-480 (1978)

AKAI Portables. For the Greatest Sound under the Sun. The AJ-480 from 1978 features a 2-Way 4-Speaker system with 12cm bass-mid and 5cm tweeter driven by a 2x2,5 watt amplifier (5,000mW of powerful stereo beauty). The amplifier section has bass, treble, balance, loudness and mono-stereo-wide control to shape the sound according to your preference. The cassette recorder is a simple stereo model that can handle normal and chrome tapes while recordings can be made from radio or the built-in condenser microphones. External loudspeakers or headphones can also be used with the AJ-480.

GRUNDIG C9000 (1978)

The Grundig C9000 from 1978 was the first STEREO portable radio-cassette recorder from this famous German manufacturer. The amplifier section featuring 2 IC power modules is specified 7W/ch Music power (if operated from mains) and 2W/ch Sinus (battery operated). The radio section has SW, LW, AM and FM Stereo but there are also 6 FM presets with small tuning knobs at the back of the unit. The cassette recorder section features a DC motor mechanism with electronic speed control, Long Life head with a frequency range of 90-12500 Hz, automatic record level control with VAT (variable fade in-out) function. The unit was available in black and later in silver color too. Dimensions: 460x260x110 mm | Weight: 5.8 kg | Operation: Mains, 12V ext., 6 batteries.

GRUNDIG RR 1040 (1979)

Introduced in 1979 the RR 1040 by Grundig in addition to a large, easily readable scale and an excellent signal strength meter adds a digital frequency display. Thus the Grundig RR 1040 makes radio station searching a real pleasure. Especially on shortwave, the directly readable reception frequency helps to find the desired station. In terms of ease of use, this Grundig model was superior to its Far Eastern competitor, as the FM station buttons allow for lightning-fast selection between six stations. The recorder also demonstrates the sophisticated design of the Grundig engineers. It enables smooth fade-in and fade-out during recording. The built-in broadband speakers don't perform miracles, but they do their job pleasantly and are never annoying. Specifications: Dimensions (mm): 507 W x 297 H x 126 D | Weight (with batteries): 7,5 kg | Original sale price in Germany 998 DM

HITACHI PERDISCO TRK-8080 (1977)

Main features of the TRK-8080: FM Stereo, AM radio - 2-way loudspeaker system with 16cm woofer and 4cm tweeter - 4W + 4W EIAJ/DC power amplifier with separate bass, treble and Loudness control - AFC circuit for FM section - Mono, Stereo and Stereo WIDE selector - Mechanical control cassette recorder with soft eject door - Automatic record level - Normal and Chrome tape compatible (50-12.000Hz) - CUE and REVIEW tape search system - Built-in microphone and twin antenna - Connector for external microphone, external tape player, external loudspeakers and headphones. Radio wave bands, cassette recorder and connectors have market dependent features. The EU model has FM/AM/LW and SW radio and the Japanese market cassette recorder has manual recording level setting. With the help of a series of external add-on components your TRK-8080 could be easily turned into the heart of your home entertainment system. These components are the LA-88 System Rack with extensible arms to accommodate the APS-88 loudspeakers. The HT-320 was the recommended turntable, HD-80 the headphone, BIM-88 was an external wide-angle microphone while the LT0501 Spot Light provided the illumination for the turntable. Dimensions: 489x272x131 mm | Weight: 7 kg | Operation: Mains, battery.

National Panasonic RS-4300 (1978)

The RS-4300 was introduced in 1978 by Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. under the National Panasonic brand name. Main features of this early Stereo unit are: FM Stereo, AM, LW, SW radio | Stereo-mono switch | FM Stereo indicator | 4 Speaker system featuring a 12cm woofer and a 3 cm tweeter per channel | Amplifier power rating 2x3,5W | Cassette recorder with Super-Permalloy-Head | Frequency range: Normal/Chrome 50-12,000/14,000 Hz | built-in condenser microphones | Separate bass and treble control | Dimensions: 408x224x109 mm | Weight: 5.3kg | Operation: Mains, battery (6 D cell)

National RQ-4370 (1978)

The National RQ-4370 was introduced by Matsushita Corporation in 1978. The main focus of this portable unit is the Ambience Sound: "A completely different experience in sound that begins where ordinary stereo ends. Ambience surrounds you with rich, full-dimensional sound that seems to come from everywhere. Not just from a left speaker and a right speaker, but from all around you". This Ambience sound however is not just limited to reproduction but also recording. For this purpose, the RP-3282E Ambience Stereo Condenser Microphone could be purchased as an accessory that can be mounted in a special socket that allows the rotation of this microphone. The cassette recorder section is a classic one motor mechanically controlled recorder that can handle Normal and Chrome tapes. (50-10.000 Hz Normal | 50-13.000 Hz Chrome). A multifunction Level/Tuning/Battery twin LED display is situated on the left side of the tuning scale. Power output is 6.6W delivered to a two-way loudspeaker system consisting of a 16cm woofer and 3cm tweeter.

National RX-5500 DiscoMAC (1979)

The National (Panasonic) RX-5500 is one of the most iconic portable stereo cassette recorders of the late 70s - early 1980s, combining true component-level performance with the convenience of a portable - "stereo with a handle." Marketed as National DiscoMAC in Japan while the export models were part of Panasonic's prestigious Platinum Series and promoted by the legendary band Earth, Wind & Fire. The RX-5500 was designed to deliver "Platinum Power" with exceptional sound quality, advanced recording capabilities, and premium construction. Despite its premium price, it quickly earned a reputation as one of the finest boomboxes of its era, offering features rarely found in portable audio systems. Its high-output amplifier drove a two-way speaker system with dedicated woofers and tweeters, while separate bass and treble controls allowed users to tailor the sound to their preferences. The cassette section featured Dolby Noise Reduction, a three-position tape selector for Normal, CrO₂ and FeCr tapes, Cue and Review, tape counter, locking pause control, soft air-damped cassette ejection, and built-in condenser microphones with microphone mixing for high-quality live recordings. Twin LED meters (2x7 LED) served as recording and playback level indicators while also functioning as radio signal strength and battery level meters. The advanced AM/FM tuner incorporated linear-scale tuning and a multi-stage LED tuning display for precise station selection, even on crowded FM bands. Additional features included a variable sound monitor for independent speaker and headphone volume adjustment, phono input, operation from AC power, batteries, car power with an optional adapter (RP-952), and compatibility with multiple international voltages, making it an ideal travel companion. By bringing hi-fi(-ish) performance into a portable package, the National (Panasonic) RX-5500 became one of the most advanced and desirable boomboxes of its generation. Specifications: Wow and Flutter: 0.09% (W.R.M.S) | Frequency Response: 40~12,000Hz (Normal) / 40~13,000Hz (CrO₂) / 40~13,000Hz (FeCr) | Speakers: (16cm + 3cm) × 2 | Practical Maximum Output: 5W + 5W 10W (EIAJ/DC) | Battery life: Approximately 12 hours | Power supply: AC100V (50V/60Hz), DC12V (8 x D-cell batteries), car battery 13.2V (using separately sold car adapter RD-957) | Dimensions: 478mm (W) x 293mm (H) x 163mm (D) | Weight: Approx. 7.5kg | Original sale price in Japan 69,800 yen | Original sale price in UK £280

PHILIPS AR-774 (1978)

The AR774 was the First (Compact, One Box) Stereo portable unit from Philips and it was introduced in 1978. Its tall silhouette is the result of the use of oval loudspeakers that are powered by a 2x4,5 W amplifier (Music power). A future Philips trademark, the adjustable Mono-Stereo-Spatial Stereo circuit is already featured on this model. The idea behind the Spatial Stereo is the fact that portable units have the speaker very close to each other so by widening the sound field one can achieve a better Stereo reproduction. The radio section feature FM Stereo, AM, LW and SW wavelengths. The cassette recorder is a basic model with electronically controlled motor, Long-Life head, Normal/Chrome tape compatible and it features automatic record level control. External turntable, tape-recorded, microphone and headphones can be used with the AR774. Dimensions:440x290x120 mm | Operation: Mains, battery (6 D cell).

SANYO MR-X900 | M9998K (1978)

A powerhouse with rich stereo sound! The MR-X900 (Japan) M9998K(International) features two powerful amplifiers with 9 watts each channel to drive the two-way speaker combination (16cm bass, 50mm tweeter). Enough power to provide music for even larger parties. The optional loudness setting ensures optimal sound, but the bass and treble controls also allow individual sound changes. A portable HiFi system to which a record player with a magnetic system can be connected. The high-quality cassette recorder, which is also equipped for Metal tapes, ensures that the quality of the speakers equally shine. Dolby noise reduction is also included. At the push of a button, the "AMSS automatic" automatically searches for the beginning of the next title or the previous one. Two large VU meters make cassette recording child's play, because the recording level is easy to control (optionally even automatically!). The same instruments also serve as a power indicator and as a tuning aid for precise station settings. You can record yourself using both the two built-in microphones and the external handheld microphones included in the delivery. This means you can even start or stop the cassette recorder during an interview! The radio part is prepared for reception of all wavebands. The device is automatically switched off after a certain time thanks to an automatic sleep function. The M 9998 is of course designed for both mains and battery operation. Dimensions (WxHxD): 655 x 245 145 mm | Weight: 9,7kg

SHARP GF-9090
GF-202ST The Searcher 7000 (1977)

SHARP GF-202ST (1977) - The Searcher 7000

Real sound from a large 16cm woofer, FM/FM STEREO/AM radio stereo cassette, this is The Searcher 7000 (GF-202ST) from Sharp. Search the song you want to hear with one touch. (One-touch start song) APSS (Auto Program Search System). The GF-202 features a 2-way speaker system with 16cm woofer and horn tweeter that reproduces realistic stereo sound. Powerful amplifier 7W (3.5W + 3.5W-EIAJ/DC) that produces dynamic sound. Matrix stereo that produces wide playback sound. Balance control system that allows you to adjust the volume of the left and right speakers. External speaker that you can enjoy when upgrading. ALC circuit automatically adjusts the recording level. Cue & review mechanism for convenient search with sound. Full auto-stop mechanism automatically turns off the power when the tape ends. Sleep switch so you can fall asleep while listening to a tape or radio. Ceramic filter for clear FM reception. Dimensions: Width 485 x Depth 115 x Height 324 (mm). Weight: 6.4kg (including batteries).

SHARP GF-9191
GF-303 The Searcher 303 (1978)

Perfection, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder (or the ear of the listener, for that matter). Which is why SHARP make a range of radio/cassette recorders to suit different people's needs...perfectly. In 1978, this GF9191 was the top of the line from Sharp. For full-scale sound reproduction the GF-9191 is incorporating a 2-way 4-speaker system capable of balanced stereophonic reproduction with large power output. The GF-9191 includes a 16cm woofer and quality 5cm tweeter for each side of the unit. It handles deep, powerful lows and crystal-clear highs with equal realism. The GF-9191 can supply tremendous power with minimal distortion thanks to the component-based ITL-OTL (Input and Output Transformerless) circuitry. The resulting wider frequency range and low distortion make this unit rival component systems in sound quality. Advertised as "The Searcher" the GF-9191 features Sharp's APSS Music Search System while for optimum recordings the cassette section features VU meters and manual record level setting, separately for left and right channel. For the Japanese market version, the GF-303, there were available a series of add-on components to transform your GF-303 in the heart of your home audio system. These components include the SY-303 rack, CP-1020 external loudspeakers, RP-1010 turntable and many more. For outdoor use the Searcher GF-303 carrying bag was available. Size: 516x115x271mm | Weight 7.2kg | AC and Battery operation.

SHARP GF-505 (1979)

The Sharp GF-505 was introduced to the Japanese market in 1979. A year later, with some slight modification (no speed and echo control on the front panel and added LW and SW radio section), the GF-9494 was introduced to the worldwide market. The GF-505 was available in two colors, black (GF-505SB) and silver (GF-505ST). Main features of the GF-505: FM Stereo, AM radio - 2-way loudspeaker system with 18cm woofer and 5cm tweeter - 2x6 W (EAIJ/DC-15V, 4ohm), separate bass, treble and loudness control. The cassette section features mechanically controlled cassette recorder with manual record level setting and VU level meters. It can handle Normal and Chrome tape with a frequency range of 50-12,000 Hz (Normal) and 50-15,000 Hz (Chrome) and wow and flutter figure of 0.09% (WRMS). The most interesting feature of the cassette player is the APSS (Automatic Program Search System) you can use to locate up to the 7th track on a cassette in both directions. (This system was called APLD - Auto Program Locate Device on the GF-9494). The GF-505 features a series of inputs and outputs for various add on components like the MC-55CL Stereo microphone, CP-303 external loudspeakers, RP-1010 turntable, AC power and car adapter, external roof aerial and also the MC-50CL wireless FM microphone. Dimensions: 556x136x310 mm | Weight: 8.9 kg | Operation: Mains, battery (10 D cell), car adapter.

SHARP GF-808/GF-555 (1979)
World First Dual Cassette Boombox

The Sharp GF-808/GF-555 is one of the most iconic portable stereo systems of the late 1970s early 1980s, combining innovative dual cassette technology (World First Dual Cassette "Boombox"), impressive sound quality, and advanced recording features in a single portable unit. Sold in several international versions including the original Japanese market GF-808 and the later international market GF-555E, GF-555X, and GF-555H, it became famous for introducing convenient tape-to-tape dubbing, continuous playback, and Sharp's revolutionary APLD (Auto Program Locate Device), allowing users to instantly locate any song on a cassette without manual searching. Unlike conventional portable cassette recorders of its era, the GF-555 incorporated two precision cassette transports, enabling effortless tape copying, seamless continuous playback for up to two hours, and sophisticated tape editing using dedicated pause and editor functions. Recording enthusiasts could also mix microphone and external audio sources, use adjustable recording levels or Automatic Level Control (ALC), monitor recordings in real time, and create smooth professional-style fade-ins and fade-outs using the built-in fader control. These features transformed the GF-555 into a remarkably capable portable recording studio. Audio performance was equally impressive. Depending on the version, the GF-808/GF-555 delivered up to 22 watts of dynamic stereo output through a pair of two-way speaker systems featuring large 16 cm woofers and 5 cm tweeters housed in specially designed double-baffle enclosures for enhanced bass response. Sharp's low-noise ITL-OTL amplifier circuitry produced clean, detailed sound with the power and clarity normally associated with home hi-fi systems rather than portable radios. The cassette mechanisms were engineered for excellent performance, offering low wow and flutter, separate Normal/CrO₂ tape selectors for each deck, one-touch recording, Full Auto Stop, and precision tape transport systems that ensured reliable playback and recording quality. Complementing its tape capabilities was a high-quality radio receiver featuring FM Stereo, MW, LW, SW, and, on selected versions, TV audio reception. PLL FM stereo circuitry, ceramic IF filters, FM muting, and fine-tuning controls provided stable reception and excellent audio performance across multiple frequency bands. A versatile multi-function LED display served as recording level meter, playback indicator, radio tuning aid, and battery condition monitor, while additional conveniences such as timer standby, sleep timer compatibility, automatic recording, and operation from AC power, batteries, or a 12-volt car supply made the GF-555 exceptionally versatile for both home and portable use. More than forty years after its introduction, the Sharp GF-555 remains one of the most collectible vintage boomboxes ever produced. Its combination of groundbreaking dual cassette technology, outstanding recording versatility, powerful stereo sound, distinctive styling, and renowned Japanese build quality has secured its place as one of the defining portable audio systems of the classic boombox era.

Technical Specifications

SHARP GF-9595 (1979)

The Sharp GF-9595 is a portable radio recorder with APLD (Auto Program Locate Device), synthesizer tuner, and quartz clock. It offers both mains and battery operation. 2 x 7/6 watts music/sine wave output. Built-in phono preamplifier. Two built-in 2-way speakers with 16 cm woofer and horn tweeter. Electronic PLL synthesizer tuner with LW, MW, FM/FM stereo. Other features include: DIN dubbing connection, LED level meter, Slider control for recording, full auto-stop, Switchable ALC (Automatic Level Control). Switchable LCD display for frequency/time and timer functions. Built-in quartz clock with programmable timer and snooze function. There is also a microprocessor-controlled automatic tuning and storage system with 15 station presets (5 x FM, 5 x MW, 5 x LW). Interference suppression, long-distance/local reception switch to adjust to transmitter distance. Further features include: High-quality playback through the Sharp "Super Noise Reduction System" with a 1.5 μm head gap and CrO2/normal tape selection (40-12.000/15.000 Hz normal/chrome). Specifications: Size (W/H/D) 542x285x135mm | Weight 8,4 kg | Original sale price Germany 1298 DM

SONY CFS-656 HotDog (1978)

The CFS-656 model was introduced by Sony in 1978. Whether they sold like HotDog or not I don't know but it is how they were advertised in Japan, the HotDog series. The CFS-656 features a front-loading cassette recorder (50-10,000/13,000 Hz Normal/FeCr tape) with mechanical keys and manual record level adjustment and needle type VU meters on the left front of the unit, right next to the AM-FM Stereo tuning scale. All the controls are situated on the top part where there is provision for an external microphone with mixing and echo function. The amplifier section is specified at 3.2W + 3.2W (EIAJ/DC) that are delivered to a two-way speaker system consisting of a 12cm woofer and a 3.3cm tweeter. On the side of the unit, we can find a pair of Line out jacks and a Phono line-in. As usual with Japanese market models a long series of accessories were available to transform your portable recorder into a home audio system. We will only mention a few such as the foldable SU-20 rack, PS-180 turntable, AN-66 FM antenna, SS-91 two-way loudspeakers, ECM-210M microphone set, DR-S3 headphones, DCC-130 car cigarette light adapter. Dimensions: 425x281x124mm | Weight: 5.5kg | Operation: Mains, 8 D size battery, car adapter.

SONY CFS-686 (1978)

The Sony CFS-686 was introduced in 1978 and it was part of a series known in Japan as "Stereo XYZ". The amplifier section has a 3.2W/ch (EIAJ/DC) power amplifier that is delivered to a loudspeaker system consisting of a 16 cm bass-mid and 4 cm tweeter per channel. The radio section has FM-Stereo and AM with manual tuning system. The cassette recorder section has a mechanically controlled drive system capable of handling Normal and Chrome/FeCr tapes (50-13000Hz). Recordings can be made with or without the use of the Dolby noise reduction circuit while recording level can be independently adjusted for left and right channels. Recording levels can be followed on a beautifully styled wide needle type VU meter section. Dimensions: 505x325x130 mm | Weight: 7.8 kg | Operation: Mains, 12V external, 8xD cells. A series of accessories were available such as external microphones, turntable, headphones, external speakers and more.

SONY CF-6600 (CF-590S) (1978)

The CF-6600 was part of the ZILBA'P series models introduced by Sony to the Japanese market in 1978. The international version of this model was the CF-590S. Promotional materials promised true stereo fidelity enhanced by wood cabinetry that gives the 4-speaker system (16-cm woofer, 5-cm tweeter) the same quality as free-standing speakers. There's also ample power (7.2 watts) and all the elaborate electronic extras that makes this Sony the most elaborate portable stereo of 1978. The Japanese market model (CF-6600) features AM-FM Stereo radio section while the international model (CF-590S) features a four-band radio, FM/MW/SW1/SW2. The cassette recorder is a one motor construction with hydraulic eject and compatibility for Normal and Fe-Cr tapes.

SONY CFS-D7 (1979)

The Sony CFS-D7 belongs to an interesting period in Sony’s portable audio history, when the humble radio cassette recorder was becoming far more sophisticated than its utilitarian origins suggested. Large, beautifully engineered and packed with features, the CFS-D7 reflects Sony’s philosophy of bringing genuine recording and tuning capability into a format that could still be taken on the road. (SIR-III = Logic Control cassette - Quartz Digital Tuner/Clock - Synchronized Operation with PS-7 turntable). The CFS-D7 was not designed as a disposable convenience product. Its substantial 7.2 kg chassis, two-way speaker system and unusually comprehensive recording facilities place it firmly among the more ambitious portable stereos of its generation. Sony's approach was characteristic of the period: instead of asking what features could be removed to make a portable recorder simpler, the CFS-D7 asks how much of a proper stereo recording system could realistically be fitted into one self-contained chassis. The front panel combines tuner controls, recording controls, cassette transport functions, level monitoring and a sophisticated digital display without abandoning the basic usability expected from a portable machine. This is portable audio with a distinctly hi-fi mindset. A Portable Radio With Serious Ambitions. The tuner section reveals just how much engineering Sony invested in the CFS-D7. The original specification describes an FM/AM receiver incorporating 1 LSI, 9 ICs, 3 FETs, 109 transistors and 43 diodes. Those numbers may seem excessive today, but they illustrate the design priorities of the period. FM reception was given particular attention, with precision tuning supported by a calibrated scale and an array of 11 LEDs. The Cassette Section: More Than Basic Recording. Sony treated the cassette mechanism as a genuine recording component. The CFS-D7 provides selectable bias and equalisation, individual recording-level controls and Dolby noise reduction. Those features place it considerably above the typical portable cassette recorder intended primarily for casual voice or music playback. The presence of 11-segment LED peak meters is particularly telling. Sony clearly expected the owner to pay attention to recording levels rather than simply press Record and hope for the best. Full-Logic Feather-Touch Operation. The transport is another example of Sony bringing component-deck thinking into the portable format. Cassette functions are controlled electronically through microswitches, providing the characteristic feather-touch operation. A Surprisingly Sophisticated Display. The LCD display is one of the CFS-D7's most charming period details. I*t does considerably more than show the tuned radio frequency. The quartz-controlled system incorporates a digital clock, programmable timer and calendar information, including the date and day. This is a wonderful example of the late-era Japanese approach to consumer electronics: once digital technology became affordable enough, manufacturers began combining functions that previously would have required several separate devices. Built for More Than Listening, Phono and Tape Inputs. The CFS-D7 was intended to participate in a wider audio system. The inclusion of phono and tape inputs meant that recordings could be made from external programme sources. That transforms the machine's role considerably. It could function as a portable playback system, radio receiver, cassette recorder and recording destination—all within the same enclosure. Two-Way Stereo Speakers. The speaker system is also more serious than the specification of a typical portable might suggest. Sony fitted separate 12 cm woofers and 5 cm tweeters, creating a genuine two-way arrangement rather than relying on a single full-range driver per channel. Specifications: Cassette frequency response: 50–13,000 Hz (Type II) | Signal-to-noise ratio: 45 dB | Wow and flutter: 0.09% WRMS | Noise reduction: Dolby | Cassette control: Full-logic feather-touch operation | Recording: Automatic / Individual slide-type level controls | Indicators: 11-segment LED peak meters | Tuner: FM/AM | Display: LCD digital frequency display, quartz clock, date and day indication | Timer: Programmable quartz timer | Inputs: Phono and tape | Speakers: Two-way stereo system | Woofer: 12 cm Tweeter: 5 cm | Transport: Full logic feather touch | Additional functions: Cue/review and automatic shut-off in all modes | Power: AC mains, 12V car operation or eight batteries | Dimensions: 498 × 274 × 146 mm | Weight: 7.2 kg

SUPERSCOPE by marantz CRS-5000 (1978)

The CRS-5000 uses a 3-head system with independent heads for playback and recording. This is the only 3-Head boombox known to exist. It also features Dolby noise reduction for hiss-free recordings, making clearer recordings possible. The power rating of the unit is rated at 5W+5W (EIAJ/DC). Other main features include: 2-way 4-speaker with 16cm woofer/4cm tweeter | Built-in timer standby mechanism that allows you to easily record your answering machine and standby recording by connecting a timer | Clear illuminated tuning dial | High-precision mechanism with wow/flutter 0.09% (WRMS) | Built-in loudness control | 3-position tape selector | Frequency characteristics Normal tape 40-14,000Hz Chrome tape 40-15,000Hz | External dimensions Width 48 x Height 248 x Depth 150 (mm) | Weight 8.5kg (including battery) | Input terminal External microphone (mini jack) x 2/Line input 2/Phono input | Output terminal external speaker (mini jack) | Power supply: mains, ext. DC 12V, 8 D batteries. Produced in Japan.

TOSHIBA ACTAS RT-8700S | BomBeat XI (1979)

The Toshiba Actas RT-8700S from 1979 (and the updated RT-8710S) are the international market versions of the Japan market BomBeat XI. This boombox is a single unit with four functions. With three different speaker mounting modes and a no-speaker mode for portable recording, the RT-8700S is super-flexible. If you want a compact radio cassette recorder, mount the speakers on top of the unit. If you want to use it as a table-top model, swing the speakers down on both sides of the radio cassette unit. For a component system the speakers can be separated from the center unit and placed wherever they suit you best. With the speakers removed, the handle can be fitted to the radio cassette unit so it can be used to make live outdoor recordings. Each of the quality speaker units has a 12cm woofer to produce rich lows and clear mid-range sound and a 5cm tweeter giving crisp, sharp highs. For convenience of operation, the controls are on the front panel arranged in functional groups. Other features included are: Stereo/Mono mode switch, Mike-mixing, Automatic-Level control, 3-way meter (Level/Battery/Tuning), Mechanical auto-stop, cue/review facility, sleep mechanism, external FM antenna terminals, stereo line-in/line-out jacks, external speaker terminals, jack for stereo headphones. Dimensions: 420x270x150 mm | Weight: 6.4 kg | Operation: Mains, 8 D size battery, car battery.

Victor (JVC) RC-727 (1977)

Hi-Fi Cassette Deck performance in a portable. There's a new angle to stereo enjoyment in the portable RC-727. Victor (JVC) designers have placed the four big speakers on carefully-calculated angles to widen the stereo perspective. The speakers include two bass-rich 12cm woofers and two 5cm tweeters for natural highs. Another bonus for better performance is the JVC-designed recording aid in the cassette section. It's the 5-LED Peak Level Indicator, letting you know at a glance as you record whether your recording levels are too low, too high or just right. The left and the right channel speaker systems use the finest high-power units. Each is a 2-way system, meaning that it contains both a woofer and a tweeter. The units themselves have light, firm cones, sturdy voice coils and powerful magnetic drive circuits. Total power in stereo is a big, clean 4 watts with negligible noise and distortion. The cassette recorder section lets you use popular ferric type cassettes or the more expensive chrome types and get best results each has to offer. The Stereo Wide control offers enhanced stereo presence results from the use of this circuit which boosts the midrange while decreasing distortion in the lows and highs. The RC-727 features independent bass and treble tone controls for tailored hi-fi sound, ALC (Automatic Level Control) for easy recording and manual recording level control for more elaborate recording techniques and two big meters for 3-way indication - broadcast signal strength, recording level and battery check. Dimensions: 446 x 260 x 124mm | Weight: 5.1 kg | Operation: Mains, 8xD cell, car.

Victor Stereo 636 (1978)

This system called "Bilbo" is built around the Victor Stereo 636 boombox. Has there ever been a stereo cassette that is so clear and precise? The STEREO 636 is not just a powerful stereo cassette, but a system upgrade stereo that creates a new musical space in your living room. It is the heart of a system that makes your life sound more beautiful and richer. The Bilbo system includes the high-performance small speaker RB-80 (10cm full-range speaker unit in bass-reflex cabinet), the ceramic type player RP-700 that allows you to easily enjoy playing records, and the functional wing-style system rack LK-1. It was a common practice in Japan to use your boombox as the center piece of a small home audio system. The Victor Stereo 636 has a total output power of 6W (3W+3W) EIAJ/DC. It has enough power to drive large-diameter speakers. In addition to the "sound quality-oriented design" that is the basic concept of "Sound Bilbo", a newly developed IC is used in the output circuit. Reliability and stability are greatly improved. It reproduces everything from delicate sounds such as piano solos to the powerful sounds of rock bass and drums. The 636 is equipped with a large 16cm diameter speaker. A large 80mm flywheel realizes stable tape running and High-performance Chronios head is used for the recording and playback head. The external Dynamic microphone MD-245LA is the perfect addition to this system. External dimensions (636 boombox): 264 x 470 x 123mm | Weight 6.0kg | Also available as JVC RC-636

Victor Biphonic 838 (JVC RC-838) (1978)

The 838 Biphonic model was introduced in 1978, first in Japan as Victor Biphonic-838 and worldwide as the JVC RC-838. One of its main features is the Biphonic processor, invented by JVC. This is a special processor that creates three-dimensional depth, spaciousness and pinpoint imaging from binaural recording but it also gives wide stereo effect to ordinary stereo recordings. The amplifier section is a 4W + 4W (EAIJ/DC) IC module that powers a 2-way speaker system consisting of a 16cm woofer and 5cm tweeter. The amplifier has bass and treble sliding controls, automatic loudness control and the RC-838 can also be used with external loudspeakers. The radio section has a tuning system with flywheel for smooth operation, quadrature type FM detection circuitry and PLL IC employed in the FM multiplex circuit to eliminate interchannel crosstalk. The radio has six-band section for FM/MW/SW1/SW2/SW3/SW4 (FM/AM for the Japanese market model). The cassette recorder section has a very low wow and flutter figure of only 0.07% (WRMS), it features Cronios (later Metaperm) head, automatic and manual recording level control with VU meters, separate bias and EQ selector for Normal/Chrome (later models with Metal tape capability). On the side panel there are sockets for external microphone, headphone, loudspeakers and line in/out. Various accessories were available that include the LK-1 audio rack (Bilbo 838), RB-80K or RB-90 external loudspeakers, JL-A15Q turntable. There were also special accessories such as the HM-200E Binaural headphone-mikes, MB-100 Binaural microphone, and special microphone holders that would clip where also a shoulder strap can be used. In popular culture the RC-838 was seen with rap artist LL Cool J. while the tweeter cover seems to resemble the front of a Star Wars Tie Fighter. Dimensions: 50.8x31.6x15.9 cm | Weight: 8.1kg | Operation: Mains, 8 D-cells.

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