Technics RS 640US (1976–1977)
A top-loading stereo cassette deck with dual motors, HPF heads, and integrated Dolby noise reduction.
Overview
The Technics RS-640US is a top-loading stereo cassette deck produced from 1976 to 1977. It features a 2-head configuration with a hot-pressed ferrite (HPF) record/play head and a double-gap ferrite erase head, backed by a 10-year manufacturer guarantee on the heads. The deck includes Dolby B noise reduction, tape type selection for normal and chrome tapes, and a mechanical 3-digit tape counter. It supports mic and line inputs with mixing capability, line output, and a stereo headphone jack. The transport uses a single-capstan belt-drive system with a mechanical "piano" key layout and includes auto-stop, memory rewind, and an end-of-tape indicator light.
Specifications
| Product type | Stereo Cassette Deck (Top-Loading) |
| Production years | 1976–1977 |
| Original price | 69,800 ¥ (1976) |
| Motor | 1x DC Servo |
| Heads | 1x HPF rec/play, 1x double-gap Ferrite erase |
| Tape speed | 4.8 cm/s |
| Wow & flutter | 0.08% (WRMS) |
| Frequency response | 30 Hz – 14 kHz (±3 dB, Type I), 30 Hz – 16 kHz (±3 dB, Type II) |
| S/N ratio | 61 dB (above 5 kHz, with Dolby) |
| Inputs | MIC (0.3 mV / 600 Ω–20 kΩ), LINE (60 mV / 47 kΩ) |
| Outputs | LINE (0.42 V / 22 kΩ), headphones (65 mV / 8 Ω) |
| Power consumption | 8 W |
| Dimensions | 43.2 x 13 x 30.1 cm |
| Weight | 5.7 kg |
| Tape counter | Mechanical 3-digit |
| Remote control | Optional RP-9640 (3000 ¥) |
| Transport | Single-capstan, belt-drive, mechanical 'piano' key transport |
| Special features | Auto-stop, memory rewind, end-of-tape indicator, mic/line mixing, Dolby B NR, tape type selection |
Design
The RS-640US uses a top-loading design with a mechanical "piano" key transport system and features hot-pressed ferrite (HPF) heads, which Technics guaranteed for 10 years. It includes a visual end-of-tape indicator and supports both normal and chrome tape types with dedicated circuitry.
Context
The RS-640US was released during the transition from vertical open-reel decks to horizontal cassette decks in home audio, joining contemporaries like the Lenco, Sony, and Akai models in redefining the standard for home recording.
Market
Listings show the RS-640US selling for up to $800 in serviced condition, reflecting its collectibility. One listing notes a "new price" of $150, likely reflecting unrestored market value.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.