Nakamichi ZX-9

The Nakamichi ZX-9 is a high-end three-head cassette deck from 1982 and belongs to the absolute top of the classic Nakamichi line. The model was developed as an improved version of the ZX-7 and focused primarily on maximum recording quality, accurate calibration, and a highly stable tape transport. The ZX-9 features a discrete 3-head construction, allowing simultaneous recording, playback, and direct control of the recording (off-tape monitoring). Thanks to the manual adjustment of bias, recording level, and azimuth, the recorder can be optimally adjusted to different types of cassette tapes. The precision transport uses a dual capstan system with a direct-drive capstan motor, designed to keep wow & flutter (speed variations) extremely low. The ZX-9 supports normal ferro, chrome, and metal tapes and features Dolby B and Dolby C noise reduction.

Type: 3-head stereo cassette deck Year of manufacture: 1982 - 1985 Track system: 4-track, 2-channel stereo Tape speed: 4.76 cm/s Heads: 1 x record, 1 x playback, 1 x erase Transport: Dual capstan, direct drive Tape support: Type I, CrO2, Metal Noise reduction: Dolby B, Dolby C Frequency range: 20 Hz - 21 kHz (Metal tape) Signal/noise ratio: up to 72 dB (Dolby C) Wow & Flutter: approximately 0.045% Total harmonic distortion: 0.8% Input: 50 mV (line) Output: 1 V (line) Dimensions (W x H x D): 450 x 135 x 300 mm Weight: 9.5 kg