Bang & Olufsen BeoCombi 1700 Cassette Deck (1978)

The Bang & Olufsen BeoCombi 1700 is a cassette deck introduced in 1978 as part of B&O's 1700 series. It was made for audiophiles and design-conscious buyers alike. It has the Danish brand's minimalist looks, mechanical precision and high-fidelity sound, plus an advanced transport system and a fit with B&O's modular audio systems. It remains sought after among vintage audio enthusiasts.

Key Features

Dolby B Noise Reduction – Reduces tape hiss for cleaner playback
3-Motor Transport System – Ensures precise tape handling and consistent speed control
Solenoid-Controlled Mechanisms – Provides smooth, reliable operation with minimal mechanical wear
Automatic Tape Type Detection – Optimizes bias and equalization for Type I, II, and IV tapes
Soft-Touch Button Controls – Elegant, low-profile interface with tactile feedback
B&O System Integration – Designed to integrate seamlessly with BeoCenter and BeoVision systems of the era

Specifications

Specification	Detail
Model	BeoCombi 1700
Brand	Bang & Olufsen
Year of Release	1978
Production Period	1978–1981
Format	Compact Cassette
Recording Speed	4.76 cm/s (standard)
Noise Reduction	Dolby B
Tape Type Detection	Automatic (Type I, II, IV)
Transport Mechanism	3-motor, solenoid actuated
Wow and Flutter	< 0.07% (measured)
Frequency Response	30 Hz – 18 kHz (with Dolby)
Total Harmonic Distortion	< 1.5%
Input/Output Level	Line-level (RCA)
Power Requirements	Integrated into BeoSystem (no standalone power supply)
Dimensions	420 × 120 × 290 mm (W×H×D)
Weight	8.5 kg

Historical Context

The BeoCombi 1700 was a flagship component in Bang & Olufsen's 1700 series, a line of high-end audio equipment launched in the late 1970s. The series was modular. You could combine turntables, amplifiers and cassette decks into one furniture-grade audio system. The 1700 cassette deck stood out for its engineering, including a 3-motor transport and intelligent tape sensing - features typically found in professional or ultra-premium consumer decks.

B&O's design in this era blended Scandinavian minimalism with cutting-edge technology. The 1700 has a brushed aluminum faceplate, hidden mechanics and soft-touch controls. It also integrates with BeoVision televisions and BeoCenter systems, which put it at the forefront of home entertainment.

Sound Signature

The BeoCombi 1700 delivers a clean, accurate, and balanced sound profile typical of high-end B&O equipment. Its low wow and flutter (<0.07%) ensure stable pitch and timing, while the wide frequency response captures both deep bass and extended highs. With Dolby B engaged, tape hiss is significantly reduced, enhancing the listening experience on standard and chrome tapes. The deck’s precision transport and high-quality playback head contribute to its reputation for faithful audio reproduction.

Common Issues and Maintenance Tips

The BeoCombi 1700 is now over four decades old, and several age-related issues are common:

Belt Degradation: Rubber belts can dry out and crack. Replacement with high-quality silicone belts is recommended.
Capacitor Aging: Electrolytic capacitors in power and signal paths may need replacement to restore performance and prevent damage.
Solenoid Wear: The solenoid-driven transport can become sluggish or fail. Cleaning and lubrication of mechanical linkages often help.
Auto-Stop Malfunction: Sensors and microswitches may fail; inspection and cleaning are advised.
Head Alignment and Wear: The playback head should be checked for alignment and demagnetized periodically for optimal performance.

Maintenance Recommendations:

Clean tape heads and pinch rollers regularly with isopropyl alcohol.
Demagnetize the tape path using a non-contact demagnetizer every 50–100 hours of use.
Store in a dry, dust-free environment to prevent oxidation and contamination.
Have the unit professionally serviced if transport functions are erratic or sound quality degrades.

Collectibility and Market Value

The BeoCombi 1700 holds a collectibility rating of 7/10. Its design, its association with the 1700 series and B&O's legacy all add to its appeal. Units in working condition with original finishes command higher prices, especially when part of a complete BeoSystem setup.

Market Value: $100–$300 USD, depending on condition, functionality, and completeness
Rarity: Moderate – not extremely rare, but well-preserved examples are increasingly scarce
Restoration Potential: High – many parts are still available through specialist vendors or donor units

Conclusion

The Bang & Olufsen BeoCombi 1700 is a cassette deck from the 1970s that combines sound quality, mechanical sophistication and a distinctive design. With proper care and maintenance, it still plays.

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