A high-end stereo cassette deck with automatic azimuth correction and advanced noise reduction systems
Overview
It stands out for its advanced engineering, including Marantz Auto Azimuth Control (MAAC), which actively corrects head alignment during playback for optimal high-frequency response. The deck supports three noise reduction systems—dbx, Dolby C, and Dolby B—and features automatic calibration of bias, level, and equalization via a built-in microcomputer. It was equipped with a digital monitor and built around a high-precision double chassis mechanism for stability and accuracy.
Specifications
| Type | Digital monitor and cassette deck |
| Truck type | 4-track 2-channel stereo |
| Recording system | AC bias system |
| Heads | 1 Recording Head, Playhead x1, Erase Head x1 |
| Motor | Capstan DD motor x1, Reel motor x1 |
| Wow and flutter | 0.025%(WRMS) ± 0.05% W · Peak (EIAJ) |
| Frequency characteristic | 20 Hz ~ 20 kHz ± 3 dB (Metal Tape) |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 55 dB (EIAJ / peak recording level audibility correction), 85dB(dbx on), 75dB(Dolby C on), 65dB(Dolby B on) |
| Input Sensitivity / Impedance | Line : 70mV/50k Ω, Microphone : 0.3mV/600 Ω |
| Output Level / Impedance | Line : 0.7V/2k Ω, Headphone : 0.6mW/8 Ω |
| Power | 100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz |
| Power consumption | 35W |
| Maximum external dimensions | Width 416x Height 130x Depth 310 mm |
| Weight | 7.5kg |
Design
The SD930 features Marantz Auto Azimuth Control (MAAC), using a 4-slit head, piezoelectric actuator, and dedicated IC to correct azimuth misalignment in 3/100 seconds. A Compu-Bias system automatically sets optimal bias, level, and equalizer settings across 32 steps in about 10 seconds. The deck uses a 204-pole, 102-pulse direct-drive capstan motor and a double chassis structure for mechanical precision. It includes dbx, Dolby C, and Dolby B noise reduction, with dbx offering over 30 dB of noise reduction across the full audio range. Additional features include Quick Music Sensor for track searching, repeat playback, Auto Slack Take-up, and a timer standby switch.
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