The Akai GX-221 is a stereo tape recorder designed for high-fidelity audio recording and playback, featuring a 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural system. This model is also applicable to the GX-221D stereo tape deck.
Function Description:
The GX-221 allows for recording and playback of audio on magnetic tape at various speeds. It supports both stereo and monaural recording, with a 4-track system that enables multiple recordings on a single tape. The device is equipped with Glass & Crystal Ferrite Recording and Playback Heads, which are designed to provide a wide frequency response and excellent signal-to-noise ratio. It also includes features for automatic and manual reverse playback, sound-on-sound recording, and tape dubbing.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural system.
- Reel Capacity: Up to 7" reel.
- Tape Speed: 7-1/2, 3-3/4, and 1-7/8 ips (±0.7%).
- Wow & Flutter:
- Less than 0.08% RMS at 7-1/2 ips.
- Less than 0.12% RMS at 3-3/4 ips.
- Less than 0.20% RMS at 1-7/8 ips.
- Equalization: Correct equalization for playback of tapes recorded to NAB curve.
- Frequency Response:
- Using Akai SRT Tape: 30 Hz to 25,000 Hz (±3 dB) at 7-1/2 ips; 30 Hz to 20,000 Hz (±3 dB) at 3-3/4 ips; 30 Hz to 10,000 Hz (±3 dB) at 1-7/8 ips.
- Using regular tape: 30 Hz to 23,000 Hz (±3 dB) at 7-1/2 ips; 30 Hz to 19,000 Hz (±3dB) at 3-3/4 ips; 30 Hz to 9,000 Hz (±3 dB) at 1-7/8 ips.
- Distortion: Less than 1.5% (1000 Hz "0" VU).
- Output Power: 30 W total music power (15 W/15 W) at 8 Ω (GX-221 only); 20 W continuous power (10 W/10 W) at 8 Ω (GX-221 only).
- Signal to Noise Ratio: Better than 50 dB.
- Erase Ratio: Better than 70 dB.
- Cross-Talk: Better than 65 dB (monaural); Better than 50 dB (stereo).
- Bias Frequency: 100 kHz.
- Heads: (3): 4-track GX recording and playback heads, 4-track erase head.
- Motors: (3): One hysteresis synchronous 3-speed motor for capstan drive and two 6-pole eddy-current outer rotor motors for supply and take-up reel drive.
- Fast Forward & Rewind Time: 60/75 sec. using a 1200 ft. tape at 60/50 Hz.
- Recording Capacity: 4 hours stereo recording using a 1200 ft tape at 1-7/8 ips.
- Output Jacks: Line (2): 1.23 V ("0" VU)/100 Ω (Required load impedance: more than 20 KΩ); Phone (1): 30 to 40 mV/8 Ω; Speaker (2): 15 W/8Ω each (GX-221 only).
- Input Jack: Microphone (2): 0.2 mV/10 KΩ; Line (2): 50 mV/150 KΩ.
- Din Jack: 0.4 V/50 mV (High)/2 mV (Low).
- Speaker: Two built-in 4" speakers.
- Semi-Conductors: Transistors: 26 (GX-221D: 24); Diodes: 15 (GX-221D: 14).
- Integrated Circuits: Linear IC: 2; Power IC: 2 (GX-221 only).
- Power Requirements: 100 V to 240 V A.C., 50/60 Hz.
- Power Consumption: 135 W (GX-221D: 90 W).
- Dimensions: 440(W) x 425(H) x 220(D) mm (17.4 x 16.7 x 8.7").
- Weight: 22.5 kg (49.5 lbs.) (GX-221D: 20.2 kg/44.4 lbs.).
Usage Features:
- Voltage & Cycle Conversion: Equipped with a universal voltage selector for worldwide operation (100V to 240V AC, 50/60Hz). Users must confirm and adjust settings according to their area's power source. CEE, CSA, and UL models are pre-set and do not require adjustment.
- Tape Speed Selection: Three speeds are available (7-1/2, 3-3/4, and 1-7/8 ips), selected via the Tape Speed Selector. The Equalizer Switch must be set to correspond with the chosen tape speed for proper equalization.
- Fast Forward & Rewind: A dedicated lever allows for rapid tape transport.
- Automatic Stop & Shut-Off: The unit can automatically stop reel movement at the end of the tape (STOP position) or cut off power to the entire unit (SHUT-OFF position).
- Pause Control: Temporarily suspends tape movement during recording or playback, useful for editing.
- Sound Monitoring: Stereo headphones (8 Ω impedance) can be connected for private listening. The Monitor Switch allows switching between program source and recorded tape.
- Tape Selector Switch: Depress this switch when using Akai SRT (Super Range) Tape or other low noise tapes to optimize recording equalization and frequency response.
- DIN Jack: Provides a single-cord inter-connection with external amplifiers, eliminating the need for multiple separate connections. A High/Low Input Switch adjusts for different amplifier output levels.
- 4-Track Recording/Playback System: Supports both stereo and monaural operation. Track Selector Switches allow easy selection of desired tracks. For stereo, tracks 1 & 3 are used for the first recording/playback, and tracks 2 & 4 for the second (after reversing the machine or inverting reels). For monaural, the sequence is 1-4-3-2, requiring reel inversion for tracks 4 and 2.
- Automatic & Manual Reverse Playback: Sensing foil can be affixed to the tape at desired points for continuous playback in both directions. Manual reverse is also available via front panel buttons.
- Recording Options:
- Microphone Recording: Two microphone jacks are provided. Recording levels are adjusted via the Recording Level Controls while observing the VU Meters.
- External Amplifier Recording: Connects to the tape outputs of an external amplifier.
- Turntable Recording: Crystal or ceramic pick-ups can connect directly; magnetic cartridges require an external amplifier.
- Tape Dubbing: Connects to the output jacks of another tape recorder.
- Sound-On-Sound Recording: Allows accumulating multiple individual recordings on a single track, useful for language study or musical compilations.
Maintenance Features:
- Pinch Wheel & Capstan Cleaning: Regular cleaning with Akai cleaning fluid or alcohol is recommended to prevent foreign matter accumulation, which can deteriorate sound quality and cause irregular tape transport.
- Head Demagnetizing: Periodic demagnetizing with a bulk demagnetizer is recommended to prevent drop-outs and noise in recordings. Power must be off during this procedure.
- Tape Erasing: Signals are automatically erased when a new recording is made. For quick and complete erasure, a bulk tape eraser is recommended.
- Head Cleaning: While GX Heads usually require no cleaning, if old or splicing tape is used, cleaning with a cotton swab stick soaked in Akai cleaning fluid or alcohol is recommended.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides a list of common issues (loss of sensitivity, irregular tape transport) and their potential causes (wrong tape side, incorrect voltage, magnetized heads, dust, bent reel, improper tape loading).
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