Technics RS M65 (1979–1980)
A compact, direct-drive cassette deck from Technics, released in the United States as part of their Professional 'Flat Series' HiFi Rack System.
Overview
The Technics RS-M65 is a 2-head, single compact cassette deck, made by Technics and released in the United States. It was produced from 1979 to 1980 and belongs to the Professional 'Flat Series' HiFi Rack System lineup. It is compact and portable, with a black or silver faceplate. The transport is FG Servo Controlled Direct-Drive with two motors. It has Dolby B noise reduction and takes Normal, FeCr, and CrO2 tapes.
Specifications
| Track system | 4-track, 2-channel stereo |
| Tape speed | 4.8 cm/s (1-7/8 ips) |
| Wow and Flutter | 0.035% (WRMS) |
| Frequency Response Normal | 20–16,000 Hz |
| Frequency Response FeCr | 20–18,000 Hz |
| Frequency Response CrO2 | 20–18,000 Hz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 59 dB (A weighted) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio with Dolby B | 69 dB |
| Input sensitivity | 60 mV (line), 0.25 mV (mic) |
| Noise Reduction | Dolby B |
| Drive system | FG Servo Controlled Direct-Drive |
| Motor count | 2 MOTOR |
| Head type | SX Head |
Design
The RS M65 has an SX Head and a direct-drive mechanism in a compact, portable body. It came with either a black or silver faceplate. It is part of Technics' Professional 'Flat Series' HiFi Rack System, which points to a design built around integration and precision.
Context
The RS M65 came out in 1979, a year after the Technics M 75 and M 85. It was positioned to compete with open-reel decks on performance, with low wow and flutter and extended frequency response across multiple tape types.
Market
One owner reported buying an RS M65 as a repair unit for $5. All functions worked well, tape counter included, despite its age. A common maintenance issue is a worn pinch roller that needs replacing. Service and parts manuals are available for restoration.
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