Akai V-201
The V-201 is a three-motor, four-head transport. It has a DC servo motor and solenoid-controlled pinch rollers. The erase head is a double-gap ferrite type and the play head is permalloy. Belts drive playback and reverse. A three-position bias switch handles different tape types. Frequency response is rated at 20Hz to 19kHz with metal tape, wow and flutter at 0.06% (WRMS), and signal-to-noise at 60dB with Dolby off. Power consumption is 180W idle, 230W maximum. Dimensions are 438 x 210 x 184mm, weight 7.9kg. The retail price was £439.99.
The azimuth adjustments sit on the door itself. The deck also has accessible panels for reaching the pinch rollers and capstans, a service-friendly layout uncommon on many contemporaries. It uses an electronic digit display instead of a mechanical counter. Owners report that the idler tire tends to turn to mush over time, which can cause transport issues. The nylon gears in the transport are known to crack, and the power supply capacitors are a failure point. A common mod among enthusiasts replaces the output transistors with Toshiba 2SA1306 and 2SC3298 units to reduce distortion. The V-201 is generally praised for its build quality and performance. One user called it "a beast" that gives no trouble when maintained.
Similar items on eBay
No exact Akai V-201 listings are live right now — these searches show current Akai and similar vintage audio gear on eBay:
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.