terry2@ihlpm.UUCP (t. nelson) (03/16/85)
In reference to the discussion about Nakamichi cassette decks and
their alignment and equalization...
I have been using a LX-5 for the last two years. As with all of my
other audio equipment, I also purchased the service manual. There is
nothing unusual about Nakamichis' mechanical alignment procedures
except that they are very thorough and, for a complete alignment,
require Nakamichi designed alignment gauges (i.e. Tilt Check Gauge,
Stroke Check Gauge, etc.). There is also nothing unusual about
the electrical alignment except that there is a playback adjustment
for very high frequencies used to compensate for possible "gap loss
of the playback head". This adjustment is referred to in the
service manual as a "Peaking Adjustment for high frequency response"
and the adjustments minimum and maximum effect is 0 to +4 db at 25kHz.
(No, 25 kHz is not a misprint!)
As to the equalization controversy, Nakamichi has published two
documents that thoroughly explain their strict adherence to
Phillips and IEC standards:
1. Nakamichi Technical Bulletin 2
2. Nakamichi Cassette Equalization: The Standard View
I obtained these documents directly from Nakamichi shortly after
I purchased my LX-5 and I assume they are still available today.
If not, I can provide copies to those genuinely interested (assuming
the response is not overwhelming).
Oh, and yes I highly recommend Nakamichi decks. Their performance
is simply superb.
Terry Nelson
AT&T Bell Laboratories
Room IH-4E319
Naperville-Wheaton Rd.
Naperville, Illinois 60566
312-979-4512
******** The comments expressed above are those of the author and not
AT&T Bell Laboratories ******