Akai GX-4000D (1978–1984)
A Japanese-made, 4-track stereo reel-to-reel recorder with GX ferrite heads, released in October 1978 as the final model in Akai’s 4000 series.
Overview
The Akai GX-4000D is a 4-track, 2-channel stereo/monaural reel-to-reel tape recorder manufactured in Japan by Akai Electric Company Ltd. Introduced in October 1978, it was the final version of the Akai 4000 series, following predecessors like the 4000DS and 4000DB. Designed for consumer high-fidelity use, it features a three-head system with independent record, playback, and erase heads, enabling off-tape monitoring. The deck supports ¼-inch tape at 7½ and 3¾ ips, with a maximum reel size of 7 inches. It was marketed as a mid high-fidelity component and mechanically resembles the earlier 4000DS model.
Specifications
| Tape Format | ¼ inch, 4-track, 2-channel, stereo/monaural |
| Tape Speeds | 7½ ips (19 cm/s), 3¾ ips (9.5 cm/s) |
| Heads | 3 (1 x GX record, 1 x GX playback, 1 x erase), Glass & Crystal Ferrite |
| Frequency Response | 30 Hz – 24 kHz ±3 dB at 7½ ips, 30 Hz – 16 kHz ±3 dB at 3¾ ips |
| Wow and Flutter | 0.08% WRMS at 7½ ips |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 60 dB (JIS) |
| Inputs | Microphone: 0.25 mV / 600 Ω, Line: 70 mV / 100 kΩ, DIN: 2 mV / 10 kΩ |
| Outputs | Line: 0.775 V (0 VU) / ≥50 kΩ, DIN: 0.3 V (0 VU), Headphone: 0–100 mV / 8 Ω |
| Power | AC 100V, 50/60 Hz, 36W |
| Dimensions | 440 x 315 x 230 mm |
| Weight | 13.2 kg |
| Equalization | NAB |
| Auto Reverse | No |
Design
The GX-4000D uses GX glass and crystal ferrite heads for low noise and durability, with a three-head configuration enabling off-tape monitoring. Transport is controlled by two large mechanical levers: left for play/record, right for fast forward/rewind. Tape speed is manually changed by removing a metal collar from the capstan—installed for 7½ ips, removed for 3¾ ips. It includes a Sound-on-Sound (SOS) function, independent line and microphone input circuits for mixing, and separate level controls for line and headphone outputs. The tape selector switch offers 'low noise' and 'wide range' settings, and a mechanical toothed wheel serves as the tape counter. The head cover is removable for maintenance, and the unit features a pause function and source/tape monitor switch. Originally silver, the black version is rare; the GX-4000DB variant replaces SOS with Dolby noise reduction and was not produced in black.
Context
The GX-4000D was a re-introduction of Akai’s 4000 series, launched in October 1978 when open-reel tape was past its peak but still popular. It succeeded models including the 4000DS, 4000DS MKII, 4000D PRO, and 4000DB, and marks the final variant in the 4000 series lineup.
Market
The Akai GX-4000D had an original price of ¥69,800 in 1978. The GX-4000DB variant, which substitutes the SOS function for Dolby noise reduction, exists but was not produced in black.
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