Nakamichi 680ZX - Legendary Performer & Iconic Deck

Nakamichi had several models in this 6xx range, starting from 660ZX and ending with famous 682ZX. Produced at the end of 70’s, these models were pretty expensive with price tag range from $995 to 1,800.00.

All of them use the famous second generation Nakamichi transport and other same or similar parts. But Nakamichi 680ZX was unique in many ways. Starting from the design point this one looks unordinary: just take a short look and you will feel that we are talking about serious recording machine. Transport buttons are metal with engraved symbols, almost indestructible. Other commands are well made: Dolby B (no C here), tape/source switch and others which usually need cleaning after many years of use. Tiny plastic covers on these switches tend to loose their grip because glue is getting to old, so be careful not to loose them. Cassette compartment is lightened with nice green bulb and shines gently in the dark, producing feeling like not many non-Nakamichi decks can.

This model, the Nakamichi 680ZX is specific in the way it has two running speeds: standard 4.76 cm/s and the other which is half of it, around 2.4 cm/s or 15/16 ips. By using slow speed you are able to record high frequencies up 15 kHz, which is pretty darn good. We actually measured top end around 16 kHz on normal and chrome tapes using one of mine 680ZXs (-3 dB, ref. point 1 kHz, -20 dB signal).

Nakamichi 680ZX also has RAMM – Random Access Music Memory which is complicated name for track search, in case you want to move, say, three tracks forward or reverse. It also supports cue and review during which the used can hear output sounds in high or low speed mode, which is more used by professionals.

Nakamichi 680ZX has manual level calibration system. It is based on 400 Hz oscillator an 6 trimmers accessible from the front panel. The actual goal is to get VU/Peak meters get to the mark point for both channels. There are additional six trimmers designed for half speed level calibration. It is important to say that this calibration is not just a straightforward task: when activated it requires several seconds to adjust recording head in respect to playback head. Nakamichi claimed that this is very important because many so called sandwich heads have not been perfectly aligned during the manufacturing process.

Guess we can go on with more tech talk but honestly, you are here reading this so you know all well and good what an incredible machine the 690ZX is. This one has been fully serviced by our analog recording expert and is a superstar performer. No trailer queen, its got the super cool patina of a working deck. Pics tell the visual story... This guy has recorded its share oof irreplaceable music from its era and is all set up to do the sam for its next owner - a 70's superstar in every way!

Specs:

Type: 3-head, single compact cassette deck

Track System: 4-track, 2-channel stereo

Tape Speed: 4.75, 2.37 cm/s

Heads: 1 x record, 1 x playback, 1 x erase

Tape Type: type I, CrO2, Metal

Noise Reduction: B

Frequency Response: 20Hz to 22kHz  (Metal tape)

Signal to Noise Ratio: 66dB  (dolby B)

Wow and Flutter: 0.04%

Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.8%

Input: 50mV (line)

Output: 1V (line)

Dimensions: 482 x 143 x 340mm

Weight: 9kg

Accessories: optional remote control

Note: auto azimuth alignment

Price: USD $1550 (1981)

Come to the Andover shop for a look or purchase with confidence via this site.

Nakamichi, 680ZX Analog Recording Masterpiece: $1,598 plus sales tax and shipping when applicable.