Aiwa DX-1500 (1986)
A front-loading CD player from 1986 with automatic drawer closure and 16-track programming.
Overview
The Aiwa DX-1500 is a digital compact disc player released in 1986. Marketed for its simplicity, it features "hassle-free playback" — just drop in a CD and press play, and the front-loading drawer closes automatically to begin playback. It was advertised in the November 1986 issue of High-Fidelity magazine with an original price of $239.95. A brochure exists for the model, emphasizing its user-friendly design and sound quality.
Specifications
| Disc format | CD |
| Frequency response | 2 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Dynamic range | 90 dB |
| Track programming | 16-track |
| DAC chip | CX20017 |
| Laser pickup | KSS-121A |
Design
The DX-1500 uses a front-loading drawer that closes automatically when the play button is pressed, enabling immediate playback. It was promoted as a "stunningly simple" system, designed for ease of use without compromising audio performance.
Context
The Aiwa DX-1500 appeared in a November 1986 price listing in High-Fidelity magazine, placing its availability in the 1985–1986 model year. It was part of Aiwa’s early wave of consumer CD players aimed at delivering accessible digital audio.
Market
A 1986 Aiwa magazine ad for the DX-1500 is available as a collectible listing, and a tested, working unit has been listed on eBay with 12 people watching. One user on Audiokarma forums noted, "it sounds great," indicating continued user appreciation.
eBay Listings
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