JVC TD-V1010 Cassette deck, capstan motor repair and full test.

[@brianwood5220]

Thanks Dave. A round the world look at the JVC TD-V1010. It sure is a lovely piece of workmanship.

[@ngtflyer]

JVC's Digifine 1010 were no-holds-barred engineering marvels. The matching amplifier is a beast that even today is hard to beat, spec wise, discounting the aged DAC. I miss the days of these companies really pushing the envelope.

[@victorcoss2600]

What's the model of the matching amplifier?

[@roetsj]

JVC made some high quality tapedecks,a joy to watch and listen to.

[@tacofortgens3471]

JunkVeryCheap

[@roetsj]

@@tacofortgens3471 a passion for trolling I assume?

[@ebow7964]

I had a Nakamichi deck in the 90s it was an amazing seperate ,direct drive motor super quiet very smooth transport operation Wish i still had it😢

[@ryanjofre]

Which model .....lol....they made allot??

[@andre_deboer]

Looks like the holy grail of tape decks. Congratulations

[@12voltvids]

It "aint" a Nak, but I wouldn't want a NAK. I had to fix them under warranty and I cursed at every one of them.

[@andre_deboer]

@@12voltvids how about the revox B215?

[@johnb5519]

That is certainly not an average deck. There are so many pieces of equipment you have highlighted, that I never even knew existed.

[@technixbul]

Now that is the real power of cassettes, when you hear it once you can't unhear it. To me JVC always do simple and quality stuff. You see, a proper quality decks does not output noise and audio losses. ;)

[@ford1546]

Nakamichi dragon adjusts the sound head automatically and it is important to get good sound quality. If the sound head is incorrectly adjusted in relation to the cassette, you will never get good sound. What is most important build quality or sound quality? unfortunately you do not get both since nakamichi has a patent on some things

[@Synthematix]

@@ford1546 I don’t care what gimmicks the dragon has, this jvc is a better machine

[@tacofortgens3471]

​@@ford1546 i put this deck against any naka deck

[@alexispieltin9379]

Interesting cassette deck! Many of these 3 heads 2 capstans mechanisms share the same problems over the years, bad leaky caps on the servo motor. I serviced 2 SONY TCK750ES with similar but different IC, with 4 caps to replace... When you mention Nakamichi Dragon, it's by the way a reference for other machines, but the CR7e was perhaps the ultimate machine in Nakamichi catalogue, and it's tape head support is really impressive. It's only a single direction play and record, but it's characteristics are impressive! However, some serious contenders are also very sought after machines: I can name first contender Akaï GX95 (but with glass heads some dispose), Pioneer CT 959 with honeycomb copper chassis, some Sony ES decks, latest models including Dolby S, and this JVC model. Some Technics and Aiwa decks are also interesting, but less high end reference. Another cheaper but still interesting model is Denon DRM 800A. All these models share the 3 heads dual capstan transport mechanism. I must also mention rarest Nakamichi RSB 505e, one of the only 3 heads autoreverse model not turning the heads but cassette, it's little but with same principle system 2 heads 202, and other REVOX or Studer machines you need a special training to use all functions. Cassette decks are back as the ultimate and simplest recording analog HiFi equipment, and these 30 years plus reference models are still very interesting. Many are easy to maintain, and this one with the upside down access is one of these premium models technicians love to maintain, generally for a good cleaning and belts change. I guess you have thanked this very good friend for offering you a pretty interesting piece in a collection. Something different of the Sony you bought with interesting conditions. By the way, your CDP 555ES has the famous TDA1541A inside! Sony complete 555 ES serie was probably one of the best ever issued...

[@12voltvids]

555es doesn't use a 1541, it has 4dac a Sony cx--- i forget off hand but it was considered superior to the 1541.

[@alexispieltin9379]

@@12voltvids You're right, Sony is very confusing about these models! There is effectively at least three version, ESA, ESJ and ESD version. Depending of destination countries and production dates, A and J included a specific SONY DAC CXD2562Q, A version has a CXD2560M digital filter and J version a CXD2567M digital filter. Both use a KSS272A laser mechanism. But ESD (mine) has the famous TDA 1541 as IC 401 on the main board, digital filter IC 307 is CXD 1088 Q and a specific BU1-C mechanism. As I know CDP 555 ESD was sold in the US as CDP 705 ESD, it's quite challenging to say who has specific machine. I can't say if a model if really superior, as characteristics say SONY technology seems better (S/N ratio and dynamic), but audiophiles tend to prefer TDA 1541 machines. Later 557 ESD model used two famous PCM64P Burr Brown DAC and digital filters CXD1188: it was said the first 8x 18bits oversampling commercial machine... I've also seen that kind of problem with cassette decks, some US models were branded ES series and never sold in Europe.

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

J.V.C made really good hi end products back in my day !

[@pliedtka]

A friend of mine had this one. Beautiful machine, but without the bottom particle board. I learned that it got stolen from him 🥴. The speed is very stable. I run the frequency response and it was within 0.5 dB from 50 to 18kHz on TypeII, and to 19kHz on Metal at -20dB level. -3dB points are 20-20k and 22k on Metal. I had the TD-V541, very similar mechanically that followed, actually 1050 was the replacement. They shared the mechanism, but 541 had Permalloy heads that didn't last. I bought mine in USA. Other than Permalloy heads that wore out, it was horrible in Dolby C, Dolby B was very nice. I don't know if it wasn't caused by 1332 Sony Dolby chips introduced around 1990. Also my 541 stereo image was much narrower than 1010 - I did side by side comparison. This one has older Dolby chip used by almost everyone. Playback head amp has Differential J-fet at the input, followed by Op-amp with EQ included in the NF leg. The Direct Input bypasses Balance pot. If you noticed the Record Level pot is sealed conductive plastic Alps. The 0dB level on mine was set at 250nWb, earlier decks used 160nWb for 0VU, something around 1.6dB below 200nWb Dolby calibration level. My 541 max peak would be in +12 or +10dB, but I never recorded above +6dB on as it compressed sound too much. Now, if it's a Nak Dragon slayer, no it is not. Nakamichi Dragon sounds much better than the TD-V 1010, as it should at twice the price of JVC, but 1010 it comes close.

[@ryanjofre]

The Harman Kardon CD491 slays them all!!!!

[@jimkoll1870]

In 1986 I paid $460 for an awesome Aiwa deck that sounded spectacular, and had .2 second auto-reverse, and I believe one of the first instances of Dolby HX Pro on the market? I'm not sure. Anyway; your JVC is a whole different animal! It would've been way out of my price range back then, as well! My Aiwa was stolen in 1993, and my insurance allowed me to buy a Kenwood KXW8050 double deck from Circuit City in October of that year. I still have it, and replaced the belts. The B-deck stopped auto-reversing about a year ago, and quit playing altogether more recently! It will only FF and RW. The A deck still works fine. The deck requires a speed calibration at least once a year-it's very temperamental! LOL! That said; it makes splendid, CD-quality recordings, and has been a work horse for many years now!

[@stephendevore3902]

Built by the Stereo Gods With the finest materials and it still looks New. I had a Sharp Dual portable tape deck. This was one of the few that had Chrome and Metal Recording . I was a teenager in the early 1980s and played the hell out of it. All Metal construction with minimal plastic . For a general user it cost about $289 at Kelly and Cohen in our mall in 1984.Best Video yet.I will watch it again Now we can see why these players were top the line in sound and quality over most other decks of it time and even future water down construction . Safe to say this is the Rolls-Royce of tape deck at a time where building something with class matters . Everything is more efficient in general but truly lacks style and imagination. 🙂 Almost 54 and ironic im considered the young one🤣 Who New???.

[@12voltvids]

I have to agree this is one of the finest cassettes decks ever made by any company. They sell for a small fortune today. This one retailed in Canada when new for 1299.95 which was a ton of cash back then.

[@kevinhickman50]

Very nice deck. Haven't seen that one before. Thanks for sharing.

[@BekBob]

I have a 3 head JVC in storage.I'll pull it out this weekend and check the model.

[@victorcoss2600]

Nice video! This deck is one that's been on my wishlist to get.

[@12voltvids]

Mine too, and now I have one.

[@mausermann7918]

Seperate circuit boards and a lot of copper shielding - you know its gonna be good.

[@zulumax1]

Direct drive capstan with belt drive to the second capstan, similar to my Pioneer CT-F1250. The Dragon has both capstans driven by their own motors and is also quartz locked, although it is not advertised as being such. I checked the RCA full track test 3000 Hz test tape I have on my Dragon and it was 3003 Hz, still factory set as far as I know. Dragon not my favorite deck to record on and no HX pro. Using a Denon DRM-740 with HX pro and a infrared remote and auto tape selection to record. Early production 740 was made in Japan, later production was made in China and suffered in sound quality. Many great decks made in the late 90's that even used Dolby S and DBX.

[@mauanderuk]

Lovely deck never been a fan of JVC but every now and again a really good product.

[@wd3574]

Agree. Not a fan of their lower end "for the masses" stuff compared to other brands of the day, but this deck seems to be an exception.

[@mauanderuk]

@@wd3574 Imagine telling someone I sold my Dragon Nac oh what did you buy oh a JVC....

[@38911bytefree]

@@wd3574 I have used a KD-X1 for years (Sames KD-X2 or TD-X101W). it is a mix feeling If you opened it up, you will feel REALLY dissapointed, even when its was the entry level deck. But, as simple as it looks, NEVER noticed W&F "incidents" which I tend to notice in many other decks I have used. The second point is reliability and stability. I got this deck because a friend of mine had one thet bought it new in 88 and didnt service until 2000. And it was used DAILY. I have tons os tapes recorded by him over 5 year period and the only thing I noticed at the end was a small speed change. But W&F ... ZERO (at least to my ears). So, mecha can be a suprise sometimes, it could look cheap and still so far better then a tank contruction on the 70s Mecha is not the typical YANION / TAMSHIN. It is soft touch mecha, but flywheel is minimal. On the book this deck is 0.2% W&F. Not the best, enough to me. I dont care about good channels trashing decks like this, they never daily used it and dont understand their point. They buy an used Civic with the 1.5 and aks for Accord V6 figures. Of course your civic will be also crap.

[@davidgriffin79]

13:16 Maybe the tape, or may be the alignment but the sound starts to sound a bit muffled at 14:20 (the drums give it away). Dynamics are definitely compressed; things certainly have moved on.

[@MarcosAlmeidaNet]

Agree. And some minor dropout.

[@12voltvids]

Very old, very worn and chewed up tape.

[@tacofortgens3471]

​@MarcosAlmeidaNetits called old worn tape

[@QUADBOYification]

That's great to watch as always. I wonder this being a Servo Controlled Direct Motor Drive machine how you would adjust tape speed "if you wanted"? Million reasons for it, basically put more on if speed is lower or adjust it if slow. Can it be done, it's easy with belt driven decks but i don't see any pots in my deck? Where is it. Do we need to reprogram EPROMS to do it? --#-- There is also that issue with RF signals now a days. Back in the 80's and 90's no such signals. My deck has a tendency to stop in the middle of a session regardless if i am recording or just playing a tape. My JVC TD-V562 sits on a shelf above a 32" TV. Sometimes it happens when i put down my plugged in headphone. How scary is that? I Noticed that there is no video about adjusting a Direct Drive Motors Speed anywhere on KZbin or the Internet what so ever. It seems a "Non existing" problem. It is one of those "Chicken or the egg" issues that is simply solved with buying another Direct Drive Deck that has no issues. Haha, okay i get it, happy Christmas.

[@12voltvids]

I thought there was a speed control on that top board. The small one on the front over the mechanism. Either that or on the larger control board behind the mech. Been awhile since i was into this one.

[@tough213]

as always a great job done by 12voltvids never a bad job just top notch always be safe and careful

[@zx8401ztv]

Wow! they really pushed the boat out on that design, no expense spared at all. That phased motor with it's stable resonator is way above every other tape deck. The pcbs just shout top quality. Perfect grounding with copper is amazing, never seen that on any other device. Love the play and record heads, instant recording quality check, shame all tape decks didnt have that. I had to laugh at your mate telling you that you had changed the cap a loooooong time ago in the shop :-D All it needs is a gentle case clean.

[@12voltvids]

When you have been fixing electronics as long as I have they all start looking the same.

[@zulumax1]

Ever run across a TEAC esoteric series PC-10 field recorder? Portable unit with direct drive capstan motor, runs D cell batteries or separate power supply. Mechanical tape drive assemblies are heavy gauge steel. Probably the forerunner of the Marantz and Sony units.

[@12voltvids]

Nope but i do have a portable teac DAT with XLR inputs. Now that's a field recorder. About the same size as tcd5 but uses a special split vintage battery.

[@shaunrichards744]

Well done JVC a superb cassette deck incredible sound quality. And thank you sir for showing and maintaining this excellent deck. Cheers 🍻

[@kevinatkab5219]

Thanks and one other question: are there any schematics of the motor circuit? So far, what I find it is only shown as a block diagram. Tt looks like Nakamichi may have used the same motor.

[@12voltvids]

Not that I know of. They sold it as an assembly not to be repaired.

[@WooferCooker]

The dragon may be a spaghetti mess of wires and plastic inside, but I still find it superior simply due to the fact it has dual direct drive capstans and a auto azimuth head for recording and playback AND it’s auto reverse. Let’s not even get into the on board calibration functions and such. A great video nonetheless.

[@12voltvids]

The problem with dual direct drive capstan is if the speed is a little off on one you end up with a tape that is longer after you play it. Closed loop belt drive for leading capstan prevents this from happening.

[@SDsailor7]

I found out that cassette decks are a pain in the butt to work on due to the small components and lack of space seems to me that reel to reel has more space to work on. That is a really nice JVC you got there. Cheers

[@jeffadams5510]

WOW-highs are strong with this one!!!!

[@ricfair9919]

WOW three minutes in already like the design, copper shields.. Very clean and beautiful design. I know you will put the unit to good use! A better use of particle board for once.

[@12voltvids]

Figured as much.

[@nickfrench7372]

Love the copper shielding on that machine too,,along with that heavy bottom cover. How many cassette decks do u have in your collection now?

[@Mister-Salieri]

20:33 you just answered for something that I was wondering for a quite while now. I had no idea what was the use of that.

[@kevinatkab5219]

Have you ever replaced the drive gears on the rewind and cam motors? if so, will they just pull off or is some kind of puller tool required?

[@12voltvids]

Never replaced them. But then again i never use this deck nor any cassette decks for that matter.

[@kl6990]

I have the V542 Tape and i have the same Problem. I changed the 2 Caps but the Speed is still too fast. What about the blue Ceramic Resonator on the Board? He holds actually the Motor at 990khz.But its today impossible to find a Replacement.

[@Watcher3223]

I used to own a TD-V711, which looks very similar to this thing but black with wood sides. I regret selling it. I have a Sony TC-K707ES. Sounds good, especially with Dolby S, but it's not built nearly as well.

[@HD7100]

Your machine plays excellently. You did not say what happens when that capacitor goes bad. I have a Teac V90R. I replaced belts on it some years back but now I hear a fast light flutter in the audio most noticeable on the higher frequencies. My thought is that it is a capacitor issue in the servo circuit.

[@12voltvids]

When the cap goes bad the speed is way off. No torque so it slows down when you start playing.

[@HD7100]

@@12voltvids Thank you. My Teac V90R is much older than this deck. I think the flutter might be from an aging electrolytic in the power supply.

[@12voltvids]

@@HD7100 that won't do it. The wrong belt will though.

[@HD7100]

@@12voltvids That would be the capstan belt. I replaced all the belts some time back. The flutter is even, fast and only noticeable on the higher notes of -say- piano music. To me it sounds like noise in the motor power. I could put a scope on it but i have other things on my bench right now and so the machine has a low priority. BTW- Do you work on Kenwood linear tracking turntables?

[@12voltvids]

@@HD7100 pinch roller also contributes to flutter. To tight belt causes it. The nature of the flywheel effect should minimize flutter. Motor speed fluctuations would cause more wow than flutter. Worn pinch roller or too much take up torque will cause more flutter as well the incorrect belt. Most of the belts we see these days are the incorrect belt. They are either too thin, too thick too narrow ect. For the last 5 years every belt i have purchased has been a compromise which has resulted in excessive flutter.

[@stragulus]

The mechanical deck assembly looks *very* similar to a JVC V541 I had.

[@thomasraden]

I have a Technics RS-B965 that chew tapes, especially thin ones. I ended up removing the left supply pinch roller to make it work as I dont find a tape torque tool on the net.

[@Astralify]

Do you still have that supply roller assembly? I can buy it off you if you don't need it. Someone removed it from my RS-B965 as well, probably for the same reason - chewing tapes. Would like to try and make my mechanism work in it's full capacity, which is hard because a lot of 965s have their supply pinch rollers removed, and I can't find these things anywhere.

[@38911bytefree]

You cant change the pinch roller ?. I guees being a Dual Capstan ,you need to change both. I have seen some tapes that are torque meters, but I think they are just for the reels.

[@thomasraden]

@@38911bytefree There are pinch roller kits to buy on ebay for this model. You get both rollers, and the flywheel belt. There is also a modification of a zener diode to change the torque on the takeup.

[@thomasraden]

@@Astralify I stil keep the supply pinchroller assembly, and had plans to buy a pinchroller kit for it on ebay. If I were you I would consider buying a deck for parts on ebay and just tell them to ship the complete tape mechanics.

[@Synthematix]

Yes I’ve heard one of these decks on a chrome tape and it does indeed beat any nakamichi

[@12voltvids]

Yes it was called the dragon Slayer.

[@gokerbg]

All musics is always perfect.... Thanks...

[@danmackintosh6325]

Was that a deliberate "chasing the dragon" pun at the beginning there? lol

[@12voltvids]

It's no secret that the Dragon turned heads initially, but the other companies were quick to counter and come up with decks with even higher performance than the old dragon. This JVC in their advertising literature used to even call it the "dragon slayer"

[@stpworld]

I have an older imported victor cassette deck and it works very well in Japan JVC even has the rca dogs logo on the front its kind of neat I get comments on it cause people notice the victor logo. There are a few cool models that never came to the USA I have a nakamichi to just got it fixed.

[@Nathriel]

I have an imported JVC TD-V721 I bought when I lived in Japan. Except for a tad difference in decals, it is identical to this one. Picked it up as "Junk - Not Working" at a Wattman shop for

[@stpworld]

@@Nathriel Maybe I dont remember as it is downstairs i dont use my stuff as much right now while im sore but I still love it. I have victor vcrs to there some of my best ones. I got alot from Japan auction center great place. I bought a mini disc from there once and it was promised it could play back and the seller even gaurenteed it in his auction and then it didnt work. They banned him from the site and gave me a full refund.

[@stpworld]

@@Nathriel For some models of tape decks people are 3d printing gears a 3d printed gear saved my panasonic DF 55 and we might have the same model is yours a 3 head unit? WIth the deck on the left side?

[@tkrichek]

Hello Dave. I have this model, but have never been able to use it because the playback speed is too fast. I read down in the comments and see if there was anything that could help me, but could not find anything. From the comments, it seems like the cap you replaced would cause slower speed. I am really wanting to use this deck. Do you have any ideas for me? Thanks for your time.

[@12voltvids]

There is a speed adjustment control on it. The 2 surface caps do need replacing for sure but after that you can easily adjust the speed. There is a pot on the power supply board if I remember. It's not on the motor board itself.

[@tkrichek]

@@12voltvids Thank you so much for the response. I will give that a go. I have some CDs that I want to record to cassette and really want to use this deck for that.

[@typhoontim125]

Sounds like very little wow & flutter!! Excellent

[@nickfrench7372]

That,s an awesome machine u have got there,,,the sound is nice and crisp clear in stereo,,,as I have a 2 speaker stereo phone to play back youtube and mp3 music,,,, which does sound loud and clear too.

[@JacGoudsmit]

This looks and sounds like a really great deck but I do hear a little flutter in the high notes in the song around the 26 minute mark. Maybe that's because of the old tape? Or is it because the second capstan (which is supposed to keep the tape taut) is slipping and causing vibration?

[@12voltvids]

Damaged tape.

[@kevinatkab5219]

Do those 2 caps on the motor board always result in runaway speed. or could they also cause loss of torque? I have one that runs very slow and the motor is very easy to stop with just finger pressure on the capstan.

[@12voltvids]

Yes they can cause loss of torque too.

[@GKONPANA]

It was one of the best Cassette decks ever But I don't remember if it was an auto calibration deck can you tell me Because I don't see calibration button on the front panel

[@12voltvids]

Manual bias setup.

[@kevinatkab5219]

a new question: this deck I have has a strange tone in the background during playback. sounds about 400 hz or so audible during quiet passages. Any Idea what that might be? Motor drive noise?

[@12voltvids]

This model or a different one?

[@kevinatkab5219]

when the service shop re assembled the deck, they did not put the ground wire to the cassette drive sub chassis. this left the entire chassis floating, and as a result motor current was getting into the head cables. causing a continuous tone. the tone would change frequency if you put drag on the capstan. looking at your video and the service manual revealed the wrongly placed ground wire. thanks for the closeups.

[@12voltvids]

@@kevinatkab5219 that happens. Lots of small shops had unqualified self trained techs. I started out that way in high school. I never intended to go down the service road, i actually wanted to be a cameraman for the local news. That's what i went to college for, but i got an opportunity at Sony and they put me through their factory training program which was a few months and then out i went to the shop for the next 9 months till the project was done. Then I was given the opertinity to stay with Sony if I was willing to relocate from Vancouver to Winnipeg. I said he'll will freeze over before i go there so i left and landed at an independent shop that had a few of those salf trained types that didn't know what they were doing. Over the next 10 years i attended every possible training seminar. Probably attended 50 or more covering a variety of topics. Usually 2 or 3 a year. Went to Sony, Panasonic, JVC, Toshiba and rca training courses. Last one I took was lcd projection TV fall of 2002, and that was the only virtual course I took sitting at my computer at home using something relatively new to the area at the time. ADSL. The internet we had at the shop was pathetic, so slow it was unusable. It was a cable connection but it stopped out at 640kb and my ADSL was 2.5mb.

[@cseresznyessandor237]

hi there! i bought one and cnaged the 2 capacitors put in a measure tape 3khz and measured 3001 hz. adjusted the azimuth .everyting would be all right,but the deck does not recognised the tape one.I checked everything but in the switchboard circit missing 2 resistors r 728 and r 729 and one thing that could be perhaps the 120 mikro sec swith .I was not capable identify in sevice manual.PLEASE help me in this matter,YOURS sincerely Sándor

[@ryan9599]

I have the tdv 621 excellent line of decks.

[@38911bytefree]

Nice JVC !!!!. I would have expected the deck on the rigth side of the module (typical JVC). THey really made good stuff even at the bottom with the KD-X1(I have used it a LOT) and at the top with this one, the DD9 and the one you are showing. Even at mid 90s they managed to put good stuff and in the 80s, their cheapo deck using tosin caps. And, probably bieased here, dont know why, tested against other decks, and JVC sound ..... "warmer".

[@fadhlematrook1248]

oh my god...its incredible cassette device form jvc ....i like it. its first time it here...yes its nice collection.

[@thedragonb]

Hello, I have a JVC 3 head Cassette deck TD-V541. It's been sitting in my basement and today I fired it up and the speed is way off. It play's too fast. Could you tell me where you find the adjustment screw (Potentiometer control) to adjust the speed? I couldn't find it anywhere on this Direct Drive cassette deck.

[@12voltvids]

Hi get the manual on hifi engine and you will find it. I don't know off the top of my head.

[@guitareveryone]

Have you ever worked on a JVC TW-54 Double cassette deck with pitch control? I bought one many years ago to transfer some old cassettes to digital but have not used it much since. I was never a big fan of JVC products because I’ve had lots of problems with some of their receivers, camcorders and VCRs but this deck had a pitch control which is what I needed at the time. However that high end JVC deck you have looks really well built.

[@38911bytefree]

But this era was the decay and death of the tape decks. Even the 3 head Technics (BX606 ? dont recall now) was a POS ....

[@zulumax1]

Never seen a deck with a discrete HX Pro enable/defeat switch. On HX Pro decks without this feature is HX Pro only active while Dolby B or C is enabled, or is HX Pro on all the time weather Dolby noise reduction is on or off?

[@12voltvids]

Typically it is ON regardless what form of noise reduction you use.

[@zulumax1]

@@12voltvids Thank you for responding, I always wondered about that. In that case I don't see any advantage of having a switch to turn it off. Dolby HX Pro is a wonderful way to increase high frequency dynamics in cassette tapes only during the recording process by modulating the bias. Have you ever explained how HX Pro works in one of your videos?

[@12voltvids]

@@zulumax1 Some people feel that HXpro makes the sound too bright. It can also affect the way dolby works, and some people just prefer the way tapes sounded without it. So they made it switchable.

[@joeygonzo]

I owned the TDV6. Loved it.

[@GeorgeGeorge-xj2bc]

It was something like common practice this era to give extra weight to hi-fi units cheap or expensive.A cheap deck once that came for repair had inside the top cover glued a flat metal piece and the machine was giving the impression of something very complicated but when removed inside was empty and very light.And probably was the local reseller that made the modification to sell it in higher price.

[@12voltvids]

The weight is added to reduce the effects of vibrations from loud music creating microphonics

[@SDsailor7]

@@12voltvids Can you give a layman's explanation of how bias works i have an Akai cassette deck model GX-M50 that has a nob to set the bias with numbers and positive and negative symbols but i dont understand what bias does or means. Maybe do a video on bias? Thank you

[@12voltvids]

@@SDsailor7 Video on bias. Stand by, perhaps tomorrow when I am in the studio.

[@SDsailor7]

@@12voltvids Yes but for dummies please :-)

[@LuxmanPD272]

@@12voltvids It was called solid base and was fitted to the higher end models sold for the Japanese market.

[@svenschwingel8632]

CD Direct inputs on a tape deck usually bypassed the balance control, sometimes even the rec level potentiometer 🤔

[@12voltvids]

Right as it is calibrated to the output of a cd player.

[@svenschwingel8632]

@@12voltvids unless your CD player only puts out 1.2V at 0dB like my old Kenwood DP-4020 did. Usually, it's 2 Volts - still, you'd be unable to properly level a recording to the type of tape used. A TDK SA-X took more level than a Maxell XL-II with both being Type II cobalt-doped ferrics so CD Direct on tapedeck was always a bit useless. Kinda like the 90's flashy motorized loading that nobody really needed.

[@GerardPinzone]

I understand how you use the scope to check the speed, but how do you know the recording was made on a deck with accurate speed?

[@12voltvids]

I had a factory reference tape i used to calibrate my technics rsm275 which I used to record that 440 tape as soon as i certified the speed.

[@GeorgeGeorge-xj2bc]

If the tape is recorded in other deck than yours only by hearing can understand any pitch and speed differences.If the playback is 100% correct and the recorder deck 100% out of speed if the cassete is played in the false deck it will be heard as perfect.Only if played in another deck the problem will be heard.Once there was a special cassette stroboscope made by Konig for perfect speed alignement.

[@jaceknasalski1422]

@@12voltvids SONY recommends a 3 kHz test tone (rather than 440 Hz) for tape speed adjustment.

[@12voltvids]

@@jaceknasalski1422 My reference tape is 3khz. I use 440 only because 440 can be used with cheap guitar tuner.

[@lizj4101]

Dad has one of these but the sound plays too fast, what is the problem and do we fix it?

[@12voltvids]

Change the capacitors on the motor board (i did one on this one, the other one was done before) and calibrate the speed. There is a speed adjust.

[@andynoon2584]

A great deck could you get any closer to CD quality. I'd like to get old direct drive tape deck but they seam difficult to get and expensive. I did try a 3 head direct drive Technics deck in the late 80s, but found when I recorded a bass heavy track, even at the correct record level the sound was distorted. I ended up with a NAD in the end. That packed up in about 2010 I think.

[@12voltvids]

I have an old 3 head technics around and a tea 850. I also have a technics rsm275 direct drive 2 head.

[@andynoon2584]

@@12voltvids I can't remember the model number of the one I tried, but wasn't very impressed with how it recorded. But the sound quality was very good though.

[@SDsailor7]

At what level is the recommended level? Thank you

[@andynoon2584]

@@SDsailor7 I am not expert on this, but to me it is a bit of trial and error. It also depends on what type of tape you use and the quality of the tape deck. I usually go for +3, but have recorded higher if the tape and deck don't distort. Too low a volume and you will hear the tape hiss. Do some practice recordings to get to know how your tapes sound at different recording levels. Before you record a full tape do a practice recording of what you want to record, try different levels and play it back so you can get an idea of how it will sound. Sure someone else can give better advice.

[@SDsailor7]

@@andynoon2584 Good advice Andy. What i have read is that you should keep the needles/pointers from going into the red area so i have adjusted the level knobs to not get into that area. And i noticed that if adjust the level to low the needles don't move towards the middle area and i have to raise the receiver volume when i play back the tape i recorded. So like you say its a trial and error thing. I have used type one and type two tapes sony and maxell brands. And i have noticed that if i use the dolby function the sound comes out dull meaning the highs/treble is lost to some degree.

[@MetalGreggNY75]

Did JVC make this deck in a dual deck version?

[@12voltvids]

Not that I am aware. This was a very expensive deck. Sold for 1400 new.

[@MetalGreggNY75]

@@12voltvids I agree....$1400 is not cheap especially back then.

[@12voltvids]

@@MetalGreggNY75 they go for about 2200 today. I'd take that.

[@MetalGreggNY75]

@@12voltvids granted I know they would be more expensive today.

[@Sans_Solo_]

Nakamichi 680 series serviced with new belts, lubrications, and full recap sounds way more involving then a Dragon. Have compared both

[@Sans_Solo_]

Also have the lesser JVC model Td-v711 deck.... fully recapped and new belt - sounds amazing

[@12voltvids]

@@Sans_Solo_ I laugh when I read comments about nakamichi. They were never that great of cassette deck. They were ok but nothing to write home about other than the price. The tdv1010 beats all the naks by a country mile in every respect.

[@Sans_Solo_]

Dave I know you dislike Nakamichi decks but the 680 series are actually very easy to work on....when I finished my work on mine I can send you a video of the 680 playing...I expect it to sound like this one here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHLGeph_mtyMsM0

[@12voltvids]

@@Sans_Solo_ I don't dislike them. Not at all. I used to fix them as a warranty depot. They are just not all that some will claim they are. They are in line with other decks on the high end of the scale but by no means superior to them.

[@Sans_Solo_]

@@12voltvids Fair enough But I will be comparing a JVC TD-V711 to a Nakamichi 680....both decks will be fully recapped, lubed, new belts by me.....I will listen to hear who wins...!

[@Astralify]

Now that's an amazing machine. Wish I could find one that doesn't cost a kidney.

[@12voltvids]

If I was hard up for cash i would sell, but that's not case so it goes into my gently used equipment rack.

[@duncan-rmi]

TD-V661 here, which cost me £40. it sits in amongst revoxes & nakamichis, & is my reference deck. that's right.

[@pliedtka]

They are very nice machines. All DD motor JVC decks last forever. Goldmund, the Swiss turntable manufacturer that bought the manufacturing rights from a French man used JVC DD for their TT.

[@38911bytefree]

A bargain for the level of the machine.

[@Ted_E_Bear]

Great video

[@thommythesinger]

Got one of this 1010, but the display doesent light up, does anyone knows what to do?

[@RobertRobert-lq1cm]

Same problem here. Did you manage to fix it? And if so, what did you do?

[@FoulOwl2112]

Teeny Turner....lol Thank's l needed a chuckle today.

[@12voltvids]

That's what it is called. The name is stamped on the side of it. I laughed the first time I saw it.

[@geirendre]

I guess the term "Overengineered" fits this beast. And the price back then probably reflected that too.

[@38911bytefree]

At that time there was people asking for more complexity and better specs. And many brand tried their flagships.

[@12voltvids]

800us 1299 Canadian.

[@drdolby1585]

I think i have seen just ONE cassette deck wich even had digital input. Not sure but think that was some Technics.

[@roasthunter]

They don't make them like that anymore. I had a TD-V531 and while well made it was more basic that this, no heavy wood slabes or big copper shielding. Had bottom access panel which was nice. Same green caps and you can see made by the same company very similar looking machine.

[@DaXande135]

Wow, such a nice deck for free!? There you definetely had much luck!

[@SSSwilliams]

That's pretty sweet 👌

[@jeremytravis360]

It was a Dragon Slayer. I used to sell Nakamichi decks. JVC & Sony returned with avengeance. And took the market back.

[@12voltvids]

Nakamichi were over rated. Just don't tell that to a nakamichi fanboy. Same as tesla. They are crap, but owners don't want to hear it from others because they are living the nightmare.

[@jeremytravis360]

@@12voltvids I know. I did stock Nakamichi when they first came out. I only used in the shop connected to a Linn Turntable so staff could record tapes for their walkman's. We did sell a lot, but I waited and bought myself a nice Sony deck with Direct drive quartz locked motors closed loop capstan system and 3 heads. I also had Dolby S

[@markanderson350]

Why is the video blurry?

[@12voltvids]

You need glasses.

[@markanderson350]

@@12voltvids The commercials are clear though. Its a hazy look to my eyes, phone and PC

[@12voltvids]

@@markanderson350 Razor sharp on my Samsung s9

[@markanderson350]

@@12voltvids my internet may not allow a high resolution. Maybe you are set too high?

[@12voltvids]

@@markanderson350 I am uploading 30 megabit 1080 60fps video. The best you can get for 1080. Next one up is 4k.

[@pogolarge7481]

Hello, beautiful cassette deck, on sony brand, which is similar to this jvc, thanks.

[@PedjoGT]

I have few times 1010 and it is beast...best of JVC period...Deck is rare item but in EU it is easier to find them...on my channel i have one recorded few months ago

[@mikeyaudio167]

I have one to Like it very much

[@Godzilla941]

Lot cleaner in there than in a Dragon. Re-capping through all that rainbow spaghetti and fragile wire-wrapped connections across multiple boards = less like electronics, more like surgery. ;-p The major thing with cassettes was to get good sound out of them you needed a LOT of mechanical precision and somewhat complicated electronics...which went against the consumer electronics flow of fast, cheap, and easy. Thus, we all remember them typically sounding like ass.

[@12voltvids]

Cassettes will AMPLIFY even the slightest imperfections

[@robsonsoave1805]

Show 👏👏👏

[@gaelfrenchy]

probably more reliable than the dragon...but the dragon had the azimuth feature which is good to read cassettes recorded from an another deck....

[@12voltvids]

The dragon had many problems. I fixed a ton of them, and today if someone wanted me to fix one they would have to offer me a big stack of bills or I would turn them away. I would probably turn them away anyway as they are a royal PITA to work on. I hated Nak, and was pissed off when the shop owner decided to take on the line in the late 80s for a few years as I had to deal with the warranty work, and none of them made it through the warranty period without needing service. I cant count how many power transformers that popped the internal thermal fuse. Hundreds.

[@larsholst6216]

You call this a service?

[@12voltvids]

Yup, nothing wrong with it. All the caps are fine. The sound is excellent nothing more to do to it.

[@JacobFrey]

That's what I was thinking. The record level control sounds dirty. Clearly heard @23:18.

[@12voltvids]

@@JacobFrey It's not dirty. Trust me, you didn't hear noise coming from that control.

[@larsholst6216]

@@12voltvids I call this an incompetent DIY repair WITHOUT service.

[@12voltvids]

@@larsholst6216 Please tell me what to service on a functional deck. Don't say change all the caps as that is what amateurs do with absolutely no knowledge of how something works so they just change every part that might go bad. Capacitors don't go bad unless they are run to extremes. Switching power supplies for example due to the high ripple current, and ramp capacitors in vertical sweep circuits. Old tube amps had paper caps fail due to the acid in old paper. Modern caps, and by modern i mean mid 70s on don't fail unless they are run beyond their extreme. There were some bad caps, namely surface mounted caps made in the 80s that were incorrectly manufactured. This unit used 2 such cape on the direct drive motor and they have both been replaced. Considering how well this deck performs and how good it sounds shows that there are no other problems with it at this time. Even the drive belt for the left capstan is still in good condition. No signs of wear. Some "fools" bring an old piece of gear in and tell the tech to recap it and they do. 9 times out of 10 this is unnecessary and the replacement caps may not sound as good as the originals. It is a waste of time and money in most cases unless the device has those defective caps that were bad the day they were installed. Ask any engineer if they will change all the caps in a product on spec and all of them will tell you the same thing. They troubleshoot and replace the failed parts

[@VintageAudioTech]

Not a fan of the way you repaired the direct drive board. Should have used SMD as it is original and more clean looking

[@12voltvids]

Do i really give a shit how it looks? No. Don't have any shit smd caps and am not about to order 1 or 2. This is far more reliable and nobody with a life cares what components replaced looks like.

[@VintageAudioTech]

@@12voltvidsand that’s your opinion, grumpy 😁. I’ve seen a lot of the half-ass repairs you do and I can’t help but laugh

[@12voltvids]

@@VintageAudioTech that's a fact. Smd caps are the most unreliable components ever made. This is my deck and i really don't give a rats ass how pretty it looks inside. I want something that lasts. My customers don't give a shit how pretty the repair looks inside they want it working and they want it done cheap. They won't pay a premium to buy expensive parts and they won't pay to have parts that might fail 3 years from now replaced. Only really gullible consumers fall for that line.

[@VintageAudioTech]

@@12voltvids you’ve got a lot of anger you need to sort out.. Get some help, man

[@EddieJazzFan]

But can this "Dragon Slayer" slay Nakamichi's own Dragon Slayer, the CR-7A?

[@CasioGreg]

Nakamichi achieved without HXPro what many other companies "chasing" them could not with the exception of Dyneq. I believe for the most part that Yamaha produced decks that perform quite well and can double the NAAC with the Playtrim.. Like NAD. Everyone has a dragon killer claim....However.. The only dragon killer or slayer is the 1000ZXL.

[@12voltvids]

HX pro was developed by Bang & Olufsen. Nakamichi probably didn't want to license it. For those that don't know what HX pro is, to simplify it, when making a recording an ultrasonic bias signal is mixed with the audio. This is what the bias control changes, the level of bias. When you are recording high frequency signals at high levels, the high frequency sound components mix with the bias signal, and will over saturate the tape resulting in high frequency distortion. HX pro modulates the bias signal reducing is when loud high frequency sounds are recorded to prevent over saturating the tape. Even the cheapest of recorders can sound really good when HX pro headroom extension (thats what the HX stands for) is used, and a great deck, well they sound fantastic. As close as you can get to reel to reel sound. It can be used with dolby B, C, S and DBX. Personally I perfer no dolby at all, just a machine that can drive the shit out of a tape and not distort.

[@CasioGreg]

@@12voltvids there's no evidence that Nakamichi didnt want to license it. What is fact is that Nakamichi achieved great frequency response without HXPro.

[@12voltvids]

@@CasioGregit's physics. At high levels the high frequency information will mix with bias which reduces the recorded signal. It doesn't effect high frequency at lower levels. The solution is to reduce the bias. HX pro is B&O's system that was adopted by most manufactures. Manufactured were not under obligation to use it. Unlike Dolby which was a compander and required to be used on playback had pro Ras record only. All high end recorders modulate the bias or the high frequency will roll off. They just did it differently.

[@CasioGreg]

@@12voltvids In the end, Nakamichi did it without HxPro.

[@12voltvids]

@@CasioGreg No they didn't. They just didn't use the words HX pro on it. They still used bias modulation. It's like what JVC did when they launched VHS. Sony devoloped the color under system used in all video cassette decks. The frequency chosen and used on 3/4" umatic and the 1/2" system that Sony was developing with JVC and Panasonic was 688khz. This evolved into the beta threading system because Sony felt the m loading system of the day was far too mechanical and the u loading system was proven in the industrial umatic machines. What did JVC do. They stole Sony's design. Since they had worked on the M loading system with Sony and Panasonic, Sony did have patents, namely around specifications drum size tape speed, recording techniques ext. JVC made the drum smaller and changed the color under frequency to 629 khz. Just enough to make it not i fringing on Sony's patents. Nakamichi did the exact same thing. The auto azimuth was also a Philips invention. They tweaked it just enough so they wouldn't get sued. They couldn't call it HX pro so they came up with their own name, and modified it slightly. Since, unlike Dolby where the companding has to be done at specific frequencies and levels this is a record only scheme, it is open to modification. Make it every operation an octive higher or lower and Walla, your own system that accomplishes the same thing and doesn't infringe. If they didn't reduce the bias during high frequency high energy recording they would never have achieved the performence they did. You can see it on a scope. Put a scope of the output transformer feeding into the record circuit and feed in a high frequency tone and watch the amplitude of the bias go down as the audio level increases.

[@TheStuffMade]

Very nice tape deck, clearly a lot of thought and engineering went into designing it. However I think there are very few reasons to own a tape deck these days. You either own one because you just like cassette decks and the technology or you have a large collection of cassettes you still enjoy listening to, I guess it's both for me. But from a pure audio quality standpoint you'll get much better quality using a low end PC with a cheap sound card for record and play back.

[@ivanjozefjak3923]

I have cheap intel i5 with expensive audio card Omega Claro Halo. I don't use MP3 but flac files and tape them on quality high end decks like this one or AKAI GX-95. I also own one like this but Japanese version TD-V721 with nicer 2 tone display. This thing rocks. Be prepared to be blown away by the sound. This is not your average Alexa or iPod sound. You will discover that your favorite song has whole bunch of tones you never heard before. Why many of these machines sell for the same price as when they were new? (not adjusted for inflation)

[@TheStuffMade]

@@ivanjozefjak3923 I own a few high end tape decks myself, I mostly use them to play back my old tape collection plus it's fun to play around with them and I find the technology interesting. However, when you record and play back from tape, all you do is add color to the sound as the tape deck will add distortion, compression of the dynamic range, changes in frequency response, wow and flutter plus some noise/hiss.

[@tinicum54]

Song sounds like a cross between Dixie Dregs and Chick Corea.

[@12voltvids]

Would you believe jack waldenmaier. That's the name of the composer. Musicbakery.com is his site. Royalty free content that is miles above the competition. The guy is actually a classical composers and has some some intense sympohnies. On his site it says "real instruments" hires famous studio musicians to record his music.

[@randolphblack2554]

I have used nothing but JVC cassette decks. I will not purchase anything else. I much prefer the Super ANRS compared to Dolby C. I have never checked out decks with Dolby S or dbx but that would have been an interesting deck with just Dolby S and dbx!

[@TheVCRKing]

What's up Dave?

[@ford1546]

If you play pre-recorded cassettes, the nakamichi dragon gives the best sound! Remember that they have a patent on an adjustable head and that gives them a huge advantage! Nakamichi do not have the best drivetrain. Nakamichi should have better since they are so expensive!

[@svenschwingel8632]

Later Naks used Sankyo mechanisms. But the DRAGON still holds the record for the lowest W&F 😉

[@WooferCooker]

Sven Schwingel the dragon uses naks classic mech

[@12voltvids]

Price is not everything. When nak was in business I was a warranty service center for them. They weren't that good. Really. Changed plenty of transformers.

[@38911bytefree]

Which seriously limits the hability to share recording with other persons of take your tape to another setup. The idea is pretty clever, but it is not practical at all. It like buying an specific format or an apple product LOL

[@ford1546]

@@12voltvids Yes I know. Good sound quality but expensive and not always so well built.

[@chiweiko5200]

you need to clean dirty record switch

[@12voltvids]

What dirty record switch.

[@chiweiko5200]

Listen to the sound between 23:18-23:22 when adjusting the input level knob, sorry for my bad English

[@12voltvids]

@@chiweiko5200 Hearing things.

[@JacobFrey]

@@12voltvids He's referring to the input level control. It's definitely dirty. Listen to it again.

[@12voltvids]

@@JacobFrey It's not dirty. That noise was added in post to throw people off and it did. Easter egg added for fun. There is another one in the other JVC tape deck i put up the other day but so far noone has heard or seen it.

[@PeterMilanovski]

And I thought that I was a hoarder LoL.

[@12voltvids]

I don't keep this stuff. I have a couple of select pieces i keep. The rest goes to people that are easy to seperate from their cash. Sold 2 turntables yesterday for a big profit. Turntables i got for free at that.

[@PeterMilanovski]

@@12voltvids the free kind are the best kink! But damnit! I thought that I have found someone else as crazy as I am LoL.. never mind, the search continues.....

[@roberthorwat6747]

Just checked ebay uk. One available from Holland GBP 735.00 (CAN$1260.00) delivered to UK, the other from Germany GBP 650.00 (CAN$1110.00) delivered to UK. I am TEMPTED..!

[@12voltvids]

There is one that was 1390 eu

[@larsholst6216]

Dragon slayer? No Around 6-9 decks is above the Dragon but this JVC is not one of them. Not even discrete heads. Not even discrete components in the signal path. Not even belt drive for decoupling the motor and eliminate cogging. No way. But congratulation with your free deck. Real decks of today will cost you £3000 or more.

[@grahamessen736]

Nice looking deck. Dragon slayer? BS. the only thing that comes close to a Dragon is another Nakamichi. Awia XKS9000? Tandberg? Dragon is still the best playback deck ever IMHO.

[@12voltvids]

That's your opinion. I know a few people that have nakamichi dragons and was never that impressed with them. Especially having to fix the bloody things. They were good, but no better than the high end decks offered by other manufactures including this one. The auto azimuth was a bell and whistle that didn't work as often as it did.

[@grahamessen736]

@@12voltvids And just how many Nakamichi decks have you heard? Not what your mates say. Nakamichi made the best heads for cassette period. even the lower range decks clearly sounded better than some of the competitors top range models. This is not a discussion I am stating facts.

[@12voltvids]

@@grahamessen736 Well considering that I worked at a warranty service center i would have to say i heard hundreds of them. Listening with headphones. They sounded good, but I wasn't blown away. The high end technics and Sony ES decks of the day sounded every bit as good. I did warranty work for nakamichi from 1989 through to 94. They were one of the few companies i actually liked doing warranty work for because i could bill them whatever I wanted. Sony and Panasonic had flat rates they paid, so more often than not I would lose my shirt on them.

[@MX-S]

​​@@grahamessen736Right, I thought the consensus is that Nakamichi had the best HEADS capable of recording & playback hotter than all others. They were definitely bettered in other aspects.

[@grahamessen736]

Back in the day Mr Nakamichi met with Willie Studer. An agreement was reached that Nackamichi would not manufacture Reel to Reel decks and Studer would only manufacture cassette decks for the broadcasting sector. These two knew who the competition was.

[@stevenmann9769]

The Dragon was a statement piece but not the top machines they made. The ZX 9 was arguably better.

[@12voltvids]

The only thing the Dragon had going for it was the gimmick auto azimuth that was not that reliable. Little plastic gears that would break. Cassette came a long way since the barely voice capable philips recorder through to a deck like this. Still a far cry from the digital formats though.

[@stevenmann9769]

@@12voltvids Indeed, I have an LX 3 myself and find its relative simplicity v's performance to be very good. Also, very reliable. Keep up the good work!

[@jaceknasalski1422]

It looks like a very high quality deck. You can switch off HX PRO, which is very rare. But I don't think it's superior to Nakamichi Dragon. Dragon has automatic azimuth adjustment, it can play tapes recorded on any deck with optimum quality.

[@12voltvids]

The auto azimuth on nakamichi was a gimmick that didn't work as often as it did. I worked on a few dragons over the years. If you had a slightly worn tape the auto azimuth would hunt like the auto tracking on VHS which made it useless. Why do you think nobody else did it.

[@jaceknasalski1422]

@@12voltvids nothing is perfect. Digital tracking on Panasonic NV-J35 (VHS) works fine. Head azimuth adjustment is a problem on every tape system - both audio and video. The best solution is not to use tapes at all. Now it's possible.

[@12voltvids]

Agreed. Tape :(

[@NJRoadfan]

@@12voltvids Even Nakamichi abandoned NAAC. Many consider the CR-7 the a better playback deck because of its manual azimuth adjustment dial.

[@GREENTICKETRO]

Really?i dont care about this feature.Sonically ,some tape decks are better than overrated Nak dragon,ZX 7,ZX 9,CR7A etc....after that Nakamichi they are not looking very nice,the same colour....just Rx series are interesting flipping over the tape.....is not enough to sound amazing,at least for me must to be a beauty!

[@maxfactor4209]

nice deck but poor cosmetics and condition.

[@binagarten4667]

JVC worst machines I have bought! Thier Customer Service is shite too at least here in London!

[@12voltvids]

I agree 💯% about JVC for most of their crap. Junk very cheap is what i called them. This deck is the exception. It was a very high end very well built machine that outperformed nakamichi. There were a few on this level and the rest junk.